Combining great Japanese cuisine and live music, Yoshi's Oakland has quickly become one of the world's most respected venues for jazz, rock, blues and more. What started as a small sushi bar has blossomed into an award-winning live performance venue with a state-of-the-art sound system and design, occupying 17,000 square feet in the heart of Oakland's Jack London Square. Yoshi's Oakland has hosted such legendary jazz greats as Betty Carter, Max Roach, Dizzy Gillespie, Joe Williams, Diana Krall, Branford Marsalis, McCoy Tyner, Harry Connick Jr., Oscar Peterson and hundreds of others, and has also expanded its focus to present a variety of musical genres -- and even popular comedians.

Steve Silver's Beach Blanket Babylon is the world's longest-running musical revue. Since 1974, this San Francisco institution has followed Snow White on a musical comedy quest around the world, where she runs into satirically portrayed pop culture and political celebrities, an impressive array of gigantic hats and one show-stopping musical number after another. Because the show is constantly updated with new costumes, hats and characters, it rewards repeat visits. Among the familiar faces you might see spoofed at this Club Fugazi production: Lady Gaga, Barack and Michelle Obama, Kate Middleton and Adele. Now running for more than 40 years, Beach Blanket Babylon remains one of San Francisco's wildest evenings of live entertainment.

A hilarious and heartwarming portrait of love in a nontraditional family, La Cage aux Folles has been one of Broadway's biggest hits for more than 30 years, earning nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Revival. This boisterous and vibrant musical comedy invites you into the lives of Georges and his lover Albin, who moonlights as Zaza at the couple's popular St. Tropez drag nightclub. Problems arise when Georges' 25-year-old son comes home with his fiancée ... and her conservative parents. Watch as the flamboyant couple's family dynamic gets hilariously turned upside down. Written by Harvey Fierstein, the musical features beloved Jerry Herman tunes like "The Best of Times Is Now" and "I Am What I Am." Get in on the wig-flying fun as La Cage aux Folles celebrates love, romance and being true to who you really are at San Francisco Playhouse.

HAiR celebrates peace and love, taking you back to 1960s New York as young hippies try to make sense of their lives in the shadow of the Vietnam War. As the "tribe" -- a group of politically active bohemian youths -- fight against conscription, Claude has to decide whether to resist the draft as his friends have done, or succumb to the pressures of his parents and conservative America. HAiR is filled with unforgettable songs, like "Aquarius," "Let the Sun Shine In" and "Good Morning, Starshine," which all became anthems of the anti-war movement. Filled with unbridled energy and infectious songs, this stunning production at the Great Star Theater in San Francisco provides an electrifying look back into '60s hippie counterculture.

RocketBoat is a high-speed, 30-minute thrill ride on San Francisco Bay. Roaring past the beautiful San Francisco skyline, RocketBoat screams down to Bay Bridge and near AT&T Park, where you'll thrill to the high-speed twists and turns, propelled by the boat's 2800-horsepower engines. A classic rock 'n' roll soundtrack adds to the fun. If you want to get wet, sit toward the back. You'll stay a bit drier if you sit in the middle or the front of the vessel. Wet or dry, this ride is fast and fun.

Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and along the San Francisco Bay's historic waterfront on Blue & Gold Fleet's Bay Cruise Adventure. This fully narrated one-hour tour features information and history on city landmarks and plenty of opportunities for taking pictures of the unobstructed views of the San Francisco skyline. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available, so you can experience the sights and sounds from out on deck or take it all in from the warmth and comfort of an interior seat -- either experience makes for a truly great San Francisco adventure.

It's no secret that San Francisco has become one of the top culinary destinations in the world, thanks to world-class chefs, artisan food and drink producers and a lively wine and cocktail scene. The Golden Gate Restaurant Association is gathering the best of the best at Fort Mason Center for a food and beverage tasting extravaganza, featuring top chefs like George Chen, Matt Davidson, Raj Dixit and many more, with food samples from more than 30 top restaurants plus wine, beer, and cocktails. Taste your way through a taco knockdown and mingle with the personalities that make the Bay Area a world-class dining destination. Check out cooking demonstrations, learn in classes taught by renowned tastemakers, take part in fun activities like lawn games in the Backyard Bites zone. Please see the full event description for details of each day's tasting events.

Is there anything as painfully funny as an old photo of you and your loved ones? From awkward phases to bad haircuts to questionable poses, there's no shortage of ways your past self can embarrass you. Now, Endgames improv troupe Chivalry Club is here to twist the knife with its new show ThrowBackThursday. Putting a fun spin on audience suggestion-based improv, Chivalry Club asks you to email them a photo from your past. If your picture is chosen, the talented group of improvisers will turn your embarrassing memory into a hilarious improvised scene at the show! Catch all the fun at San Francisco's Stage Werx.

Russian River Adventures' inflatable canoe trips offer a refreshing alternative to exploring gorgeous Sonoma County by car. Whether you're a couple looking for a relaxing getaway, a family or a group of friends looking for a fun activity, paddling along in Russian River Adventures' bright blue inflatable canoes is just the ticket. During this nine-mile full-day excursion, you'll navigate through gentle currents for four to six hours while enjoying the best that nature has to offer. If you're so inclined, you can even stop for a picnic or cool off in a refreshing swimming hole. Every member of the family is sure to have a blast on these self-guided tours... even the family dog! Check the event description below for more details.

One of Broadway's biggest and most compelling hits in recent years, Next to Normal nabbed three Tonys and a Pulitzer for its heartbreaking, humorous and unflinchingly authentic look at a seemingly normal modern family struggling with the effects of bipolar disorder. Featuring original songs by Tom Kitt (American Idiot), including "Just Another Day," "You Don't Know" and "Superboy and the Invisible Girl," this emotional powerhouse of a musical addresses grief, suburban life and even ethics in modern psychiatry. The New York Times called it "much more than a feel-good musical; it is a feel-everything musical." Now, this arresting new production of Next to Normal comes to the Fox Theatre in Redwood City from Broadway by the Bay.

Ma Rainey, Bonnie Raitt, Memphis Minnie -- some of the remarkable women who wrote and popularized the blues are well-known, others are not. But the voices of all these women are vibrant, challenging, inspirational and dynamic, and Blues is a Woman lifts them up. Presented by Pamela Rose and San Francisco's Custom Made Theatre, this show transports you all the way back to the beginning of the blues, merging storytelling, rare film footage and a live concert from Rose (lead vocals) and other highly-regarded Bay Area musicians often seen at venues like SF Jazz, Yoshi's and Freight & Salvage: Tammy Hall (piano), Ruth Davies (bass), Kristen Strom (saxophone), Daria Johnson (drums) and Pat Wilder (guitar). Don't miss the electrifying Blues is a Woman, which brings to life the colorful history of the women who made the blues America's music.

The hair is big, the shoulder pads are bigger and the drama is blown totally out of proportion in D'Arcy Drollinger's Bitch Slap. An outrageous sendup of classic '80s soap operas and telenovelas, the story centers around Diana Midnight, the head of a fashion empire who struggles to maintain power and control over her most prized possession: the patent for shoulder pads. Don't miss all the high-camp hijinks -- adultery, blackmail, shocking confessions, evil twins and, of course, amnesia -- when Bitch Slap comes to San Francisco's Oasis.

From the top-quality live musical guests to its exceptional Southern cuisine, Biscuits & Blues is the perfect San Francisco spot to enjoy a night of down-home entertainment nearly every night of the week. Located in the heart of the theater district, this intimate venue hosts the best regional and national blues and jazz acts in a comfortable, close-up setting that's open to all ages. Voted America's No. 1 blues nightclub by The Blues Foundation and the Bay Area Blues Society, it's also known for serving up some of the best fried chicken in the entire region, not to mention California wines, microbrews and specialty cocktails.

Blue & Gold Fleet's Escape From the Rock Cruise is an exciting 90-minute excursion that takes you around the perimeter of Alcatraz to view the island from every angle. As the ship sails, passengers are treated to a presentation complete with sound effects and chilling tales of inmates Al Capone and Billy Cook, not to mention Clyde Johnson's daring escape attempt. This historical yet entertaining boat trip does not stop at the island of Alcatraz itself, but it does evoke the days when this iconic maximum-security prison was the most feared institution in the American penal system.

Behind a secret door near the intersection of North Beach and Chinatown lies a dimly lit subterranean realm teeming with colorful characters and overlapping storylines. This is The Speakeasy, an interactive theatrical experience that will transport you to a 1920s San Francisco watering hole full of bootleggers, bouncers, war veterans and barflies. As you wander throughout the multi-room environment, sipping cocktails, playing casino games, or simply observing, you'll stumble across all manner of conversations and interactions as a complex narrative web unfolds. Never the same thing twice, The Speakeasy is a meta-theatrical event you'll want to see again and again.

Cheer on San Francisco's first pro soccer team at their beautiful home in Golden Gate Park, as the Deltas take on Canada's FC Edmonton. You couldn't ask for a better place to take in a soccer game than the green, sun-dappled field at Kezar Stadium, which is within walking distance of the Haight and features a squad of local food trucks offering their specialties at every match-up. Edmonton reached the semifinals in the North American Soccer League playoffs last year, so they're sure to make for exciting opponents as the Deltas look to make their first year a success.

Enjoy a two-hour tour of San Francisco Bay, highlighted by romantic sunset views, live guitar music and a light appetizer buffet including sandwiches, fruit and cheese. You'll view the city's stunning skyline featuring Coit Tower and the Transamerica Pyramid, along with historic landmarks and the natural beauty of the Bay Area. This scenic cruise sails by Alcatraz and Angel Island National Park, under the Golden Gate Bridge and along the gorgeous Tiburon, Belvedere and Sausalito shores. One drink is included (alcoholic or nonalcoholic), and more drinks and snacks are available for purchase at the full on-board bar.

Wind down your weekend with a Hornblower yacht cruise across the scenic San Francisco Bay. You'll get picture postcard views of iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, the Bay Bridge and, occasionally, McCovey Cove. This two-hour Social Sundays cruise features a full cash bar where you can pick up anything from a mule to a mojito to a martini. There'll also be small bites available for purchase. Plus, a DJ will be onboard spinning the perfect Top 40 soundtrack to your cocktail-sipping, good life-living afternoon.

For a relaxing afternoon on the water, hop aboard the Privateer, a truly traditional sailboat, for a semi-private 90-minute cruise of the bay, complete with included beer and wine. This double-masted, teak-decked, bronze-fitted beauty holds no more than 28 passengers, so you'll get plenty of personal attention from the skilled and friendly crew as the Privateer glides over to Alcatraz and Angel Island, passes by charming and picturesque Sausalito, parallels the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge and sails past the famous San Francisco skyline on its way back to the pier.

L.A. jazz legend-in-the-making Kamasi Washington has had a sax in hand since the age of 13. He's traveled the world blowing mind-expanding, genre-blurring notes alongside luminaries from both the jazz and hip-hop worlds, with some R&B sessions in between. The tenor saxophonist was in a high school band with buzz-worthy bassist Thundercat and toured with Snoop Dogg and Raphael Saadiq while still in college. He's recorded with such jazz legends as McCoy Tyner, Freddie Hubbard, Kenny Burrell and Quincy Jones. He's also earned hip-hop fans thanks to his work on Kendrick Lamar's past two acclaimed albums. Watch the virtuoso launch into one of his epic big band live shows when he headlines at Saratoga's Mountain Winery ahead of his forthcoming Harmony of Difference EP and upcoming fall tour.

Master magician and mentalist Jay Alexander is the new headliner at the Marrakech Magic Theater with his Mind Tricks show, a triple entertainment experience of comedy, magic and mentalism. Alexander's shows have been praised by everyone from Robin Williams and U2's Bono to Monty Python's John Cleese and the Rolling Stones' Ron Wood. Your evening begins in the Oasis Lounge where you will see world class sleight-of-hand, and a wonderful assortment of drinks and Moroccan appetizers are available for purchase prior to the show. You will then be escorted into an intimate showroom for Jay Alexander's unforgettable performance of magic, psychology and human lie detection that will lift your spirits and have you gasping in amazement.

Prog-rock pioneers YES have been exploring amazing sounds since the late 1960s and the group is still going strong today. This incarnation of the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, featuring Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin & Rick Wakeman has been touring extensively, with plans for a live album on the way. Expect to hear hits like "Roundabout," "I've Seen All Good People" and "Starship Troopers," among others at the scenic Mountain Winery.

As the summer draws to a close, savor every last bit of it with a classic theater in the park experience, perfect for night time picnicking and relaxation. For this round, Actors Ensemble of Berkeley presents one the earliest farces in the history of English theater, The Knight of the Burning Pestle, which goes off the rails from the get-go when an actor hiding in the audience breaks through the fourth wall and demands a better play than the one he paid to see. In Francis Beaumont's 1607 comedy, this interrupting merchant even has an apprentice he wants to see in the production. Spread out over five acts, the resulting play within a play parodies just about everything it touches. The name of the play itself is a metaphor for male desire and syphilis, and that's just the beginning of the bawdy humor and sexual innuendo. Sure to delight with its overlapping storylines and outrageous joke, see if you can figure out who in the audience at the John Hinkle Park Amphitheatre is the merchant before the show begins.

With well over 500 songs to his credit, singer-songwriter Paul Anka has given us such gems as "Put Your Head on My Shoulder," "My Way" and the unforgettable theme song from The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. From "Lonely Boy" to "Puppy Love" to "She's a Lady," pop music wouldn't be the same without the acclaimed Canadian songwriter's imprint. Now's your chance to see the man behind hits made famous by Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Tom Jones and more. His North American concert tour brings him to San Jose's City National Civic, where he'll dive into his treasure trove of timeless classics.

Celebrate the impressive San Francisco Bay Bridge and its history -- which spans over 75 years -- by embarking on this 90-minute cruise that sails under both the Golden Gate and the Bay Bridges and passes by Alcatraz Island. Discover San Francisco history and landmarks via narrated headset audio in 16 available languages, which includes information about the city's natural history, architecture, Native American culture, and, of course, the building of the famous bridges. It's a stunning and informative way to experience the breathtaking views of the downtown skyline and its historic waterfront.

A Night at the Palace is a sleek, immersive speakeasy experience, combining classic elements of roaring twenties party that only Gatsby could be proud of. Ditch the drama of the underground nightclub and head on over to The Speakeasy in San Francisco for a jam-packed evening of sizzling cabaret, comedy routines and more. This joint will be buzzing with casino tables and crafty cocktails, plus live swinging musical numbers that are sure to be the cat's meow. Come decked out in your most dapper flapper dresses and bowties for a roaring good time.

Few music venues in the world are as iconic as the Blue Note Jazz Club in Greenwich Village. Everyone from Dizzy Gillespie and Sarah Vaughan to Chick Corea and Diana Krall have graced its stage. Now, this legendary venue is coming west. Located downstairs at the Napa Valley Opera House, the Blue Note Napa brings you that same blend of jazz greats and hot young stars on the scene, while adding a little wine country flavor to the mix. With gourmet farm to table cuisine and, of course, terrific local wines, the Blue Note Napa puts a fresh spin on the jazz club experience while keeping the focus on what matters most: the music.

BATS Improv -- named the Bay Area's Best Theater Company by the San Francisco Chronicle, Best Comedy Troupe by SF Weekly and Best First Date Spot by the San Francisco Bay Guardian -- presents a variety show full of comedy fun, including head-to-head improv battles, long-form murder mysteries, musicals and more. Located at Bayfront Theater in the Marina District, every BATS show is one of a kind, using audience suggestions for a unique mix of improv comedy and theater that's never the same show twice.

Whether you want to kick off a fabulous date night or wrap up an enjoyable afternoon, this two-hour sunset sail is just the ticket. Step aboard the gorgeous traditional vessel called the Privateer to take in the sights at the most bewitching time of day. You'll sail past Alcatraz, hug the coast at Sausalito and experience the full grandeur of the Golden Gate Bridge. Sip two servings of your choice of included beer, wine, soda or water as Privateer cruises along the spectacular San Francisco cityscape, while the sun sets and the lights of the city come to twinkling life.

Smooth jazz-pop superstar Koz has released multiple chart-topping albums and several successful crossover singles, including "You Make Me Smile," the theme song to General Hospital and his stirring rendition of "White Christmas," along with other seasonal favorites. Hear the nine-time Grammy nominee live when he takes the stage at Saratoga's Lillian Fontaine Garden Theatre, along with Larry Graham, the original bassist for Sly and the Family Stone. As a teenager in the San Fernando Valley, Koz initially began playing the saxophone as a way to help him gain entry into his big brother's band. Since then he's gone on to play with such artists as Burt Bacharach, Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Celine Dion, Shelby Lynne, Kenny Loggins, U2, Michael McDonald, Luther Vandross and Rod Stewart -- and he was also a special guest on Barry Manilow's One Last Time Tour. Graham is a pioneer of the slap-thumb method of bass playing and was inducted into the Rock Hall of Fame with Sly and the Family Stone in 1993. He's recorded five solo albums and has had several hits on the R&B charts, including his biggest crossover hit, "One in a Million You."

This Red and White Fleet Cruise launched in 1939 as part of the Golden Gate International Exposition, and it's still entertaining visitors and locals alike more than 70 years later. After departing from historic Fisherman's Wharf, the ship sails along San Francisco's breathtaking waterfront, past the city's Maritime National Park, under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and around notorious Alcatraz Island, cruising by many other exciting sights as well on the one-hour voyage. Take advantage of the personal-headphone audio, available in 16 languages, to learn more about San Francisco's history and world-famous landmarks, while enjoying a full onboard bar with drinks, snacks and more.

Raise your glass and enjoy a romantic sunset on the water with magnificent views of San Francisco, highlighted by a delicious seasonal dinner prepared fresh on board by Hornblower's chefs. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want a different sort of night out, the sight of San Francisco's spectacular skyline as you sail past Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge will make the evening special. The elegant four-course, sit-down meal includes appetizers, salad, choice of entree, plus coffee, tea and dessert. Spend the rest of the cruise relaxing and dancing to live music. There's a cash bar on board as well, serving signature cocktails and other libations.

Brian Copeland returns to The Marsh with his hit show Not a Genuine Black Man. The longest-running solo show in San Francisco history, Not a Genuine Black Man is a hilarious and poignant autobiographical story about Copeland's childhood. In 1971, San Leandro was named one of the most racist suburbs in America. Congressional hearings were held. The next year, 8-year-old Copeland and his African-American family moved in. Not a Genuine Black Man is a hilarious and insightful look at Bay Area history, and at the ways in which our upbringings make us who we are.

The Kipling Hotel: True Misadventures of the Electric Pink '80s picks up where Don Reed's lauded hit East 14th leaves off in the '70s. As the awkward son of an Oakland pimp who is struggling to work his way through college, Reed attempts to make a living as a stripper and a gigolo, but ends up with the not-so-glamorous job as a live-in waiter at a retirement hotel. It wasn't all bad, though. While serving breakfast to the elderly, various drifters and drug addicts, Reed mined comedy gold for this new solo show at The Marsh Berkeley. A longtime warm-up comedian for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Reed's immersive and hysterical stories about his Oakland upbringing earned him the Performance of the Year award from NPR's storytelling show Snap Judgment.

For much of his career, Alfred Hitchcock was inspired by San Francisco. Now, Left Coast Theatre Company is going to repay the favor with "Twisted Hitchcock," an evening of hilarious and irreverent one-act plays. The suspense, the glamour ... the mommy issues: These parodies of three of Hitchcock's masterpieces all have an LGBTQ bent. "Master Bates" is set in the infamous and creepy Bates Motel. "The Trouble With Mary" wonders was it an accident or murder (and where did she get those fab shoes?!). And in "Birdsploitation," five birds decide to queer up the system and go off-script. Don't miss this rambunctious night of zippy one-acts at Shelton Theater.

Celebrated political satirist Will Durst has performed for three elected presidents (if you count Al Gore ... which Durst does) and appeared as a commentator on CNN, NPR and C-SPAN. Now, he's headed to The Marsh in San Francisco with The Durst Case Scenario, his new comedic exploration of a changing America during the "Time of Trump." Hailed as "[q]uite possibly the best political comedian working in the country today" by none other than The New York Times, Will Durst's latest stage show is a rollicking feast of satire that's timely and as irreverent as the president's latest 4 a.m. tweet.

Actors Mona and Terry are on an ambitious quest to tour their play, Great Moments in Human Achievement, across the country ... by bicycle. But as they pedal across the nation reenacting history's high points, finding a place to do their laundry proves just as challenging as their unruly audiences. When the day is done, can our heroes manage a great moment of their own? An exuberant comedy about all the potholes on the road to sheer brilliance, The Making of a Great Moment pedals its way onto the Z Below stage in San Francisco.

Strap in for a wild ride through other dimensions with San Francisco's mind-blowing 7D Experience at Pier 39. Step into the 20-seat theater, but don't spend too much time marveling at the movie screen -- sit down, buckle up and get ready to experience the thrills of a 3D movie, a rocking roller coaster and the excitement of a state-of-the-art laser blasting game ... all at once. With this Laser Maze Challenge and DarkRide Combo Ticket, you'll also get the opportunity to put your agility, speed and action movie skills to the test as you navigate your way through a web of criss-crossing laser beams. There are multiple dark rides to be enjoyed -- featuring everything from zombies to werewolves to Mad Max-style mayhem and more -- so the 7D Experience is bound to have you coming back for even more fun.

Experience both laughter and chills as Charles Addams' weird and wonderful characters creep their way into Half Moon Bay's Coastal Repertory Theatre for The Addams Family Musical. In this fiendishly delightful award-winning musical comedy, Wednesday Addams -- now a grown-up princess of darkness -- has fallen for a normal boy from a respectable family and has invited him and his parents to the family mansion for a meet-and-greet gone gothic. Sit back and savor the horrific hospitality of Gomez, Morticia, Pugsley, Grandma, Lurch and everyone's favorite weirdo, Uncle Fester, as the special occasion brings out the best -- and worst -- in everyone involved.

Weekends are for relaxing and rejuvenating, and San Francisco Sailing Company offers the perfect way to do that. Climb aboard a sailboat for a two-hour cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge. Along the way, enjoy two complimentary drinks, such as champagne, mimosas, beer, white wine or soda. You'll depart from Pier 39 at 10:00am, when sailing is the smoothest and warmest. Along the way to Golden Gate Bridge, you'll cruise past Fisherman's Wharf, Aquatic Park, Fort Mason, the Marina District, Crissy Field and Fort Point. You'll be right under the Golden Gate Bridge for the 11:00am champagne toast. The return journey through the central bay and around Alcatraz Island will offer magnificent views of the cityfront, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, Angel Island, Alcatraz, Oakland and the Bay Bridge.

A fresh, sophisticated spin on Brothers Grimm fairy tales, Into the Woods interweaves several classic fairy tales into one epic story that shows what happens when magic becomes strikingly real. Unable to bear children, a baker and his wife complete a number of tasks for a witch who promises to grant their wish if they're successful. During their journey, they encounter Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, Cinderella and Jack and the Beanstalk. All the storybook characters discover that wishes often come with a steep price, and things don't always end happily ever after. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, the original Broadway run won critical praise and numerous awards and the cast recording took home a Grammy. Come see this production when it enchants and astounds at Pacifica Spindrift Players Theatre.

Check out the trails of the unbelievably scenic Muir Woods during Extranomical Tours' morning expedition to this beautiful national monument. The tour begins as you're picked up in San Francisco, followed by a photo stop at the Golden Gate Bridge. You'll then be transported to the Muir Woods, where you'll spend a morning surrounded by giant coastal redwood trees and nature in its finest form. Enjoy the view of the forest's canopy, surrounded by Coastal Redwood Sequoia trees, and stroll along the mostly flat valley floor along Redwood Creek, or get an aerobic workout climbing the paths up the valley slopes to gaze at the tops of some of the tallest trees in the world. This semi-customizable tour offers the option of a stop at the Golden Gate Bridge or the quaint Mediterranean-style village of Sausalito. In addition, at the end of the tour, guests can choose to return to San Francisco from Sausalito by ferry.

Come see the Punch Line's weekly SF Comedy Showcase, held every Sunday for over 30 years. San Francisco has a rich and vibrant comedy scene, and this weekly show has launched the careers of such comedians as Patton Oswalt, Margaret Cho and Arj Barker, as well as the current flock of rising stars such as W. Kamau Bell and Moshe Kasher. Laugh at a lineup of the Bay Area's top stand-up comics, many of whom have appeared on late-night television, Comedy Central and other esteemed television outlets.

Out with the old, in with the Neo-Future! Called "a hotbed of energy and creativity" by the San Francisco Chronicle, the San Francisco Neo-Futurists are blazing a trail to the future of theater. Their spirit of artistic adventurousness had them named the Bay Area's Best Theater Company in the San Francisco Bay Guardian's 2016 Readers Poll. Now the Neo-Futurists present their latest daring, genre-defying work (or should we say works?), The Infinite Wrench. Presented at SAFEhouse Arts, The Infinite Wrench is comprised of a series of two-minute plays designed to shift the conventions of live performance with the irrepressible, the honest, the WTF and the new.

Scott Thompson first graced the airwaves as a member of the famed comedy group Kids in the Hall, where he played one of the show's most famous characters: the sardonic, openly gay barfly Buddy Cole. In addition to roles on The Larry Sanders Show, Reno 911! and Hannibal, Thompson has reprised his role as Buddy Cole in his one-man stage show and as a special correspondent on The Colbert Report. Don't miss Thompson when he comes to Punch Line Comedy Club in San Francisco for an evening of stand-up.

Ever watched the fiery salsa dance numbers in Dancing With the Stars or Dirty Dancing and thought, "I wish I could dance like that!"? Well now you can get in on all the Latin-flavored fun with Dance Fridays, a fun 'n' social evening featuring dance lessons for beginners followed by a lively dance party where you can practice all your new moves. A live band keeps the energy flowing as you learn to salsa and bachata from your experienced teachers, with no partner or previous experience required.

Sweetwater Music Hall holds a special place in California music history. For over 40 years, this Bay Area treasure's played host to artists like Carlos Santana, Elvis Costello, Sammy Hagar, Bonnie Raitt and members of the Grateful Dead. In fact, it was the Grateful Dead's Bob Weir who helped reopen the club in 2012 with an all-new, state-of-the-art sound system and a revived sense of purpose to support local musicians. Today, Sweetwater Music Hall is a thriving 300-person venue that hosts everyone from rising local talent to the biggest national roots, folk and rock stars, with concerts virtually every night of the week (and an organic restaurant that's perfect for date night).

Long known as the wildest man in rock 'n' roll, Keith Moon catapulted to super-stardom as the drummer for the iconic English rock band The Who. In this two-hour show, which includes 10 The Who songs played with a live band, actor-musician Mick Berry tells Moon's life story, from his early days, successes and excesses to his tragic downfall. Experience this rockin' spectacle at Marin Theatre Company in Mill Valley.

It's time to take this week's sensational news stories and put them to good use: comedy. At SF Tonight, you'll be provided with newspapers, magazines and scissors, or you can bring your favorite stories from the week's news -- hard-hitting journalism (is there still such a thing?) or the latest popular thread on Facebook -- and the talented improvisers at EndGames Improv will turn those stories into a one-of-a-kind show that may not exactly be educational, but will definitely be entertaining. You might even be surprised by a special guest. So don't let the news get you down. Spend your Saturday night with the cast of SF Tonight at Stage Werx in San Francisco.

Artistic director Carolina Lugo, her daughter Carolé Acuña and their talented company of singers and musicians bring the sultry and sensuous flamenco dance to vibrant life. Their show combines the pulsating sounds of footwork, song, castanets, syncopated hand clapping and guitar for a riveting display of this true Spanish art form. This award-winning ensemble has been providing Bay Area audiences with passionate performances for more than 20 years, bringing artists from Spain and abroad to appear with them. Peña Pachamama is known for its Latin American, Bolivian, vegan and raw food tapas and other dishes, plus wine, beer and specialty cocktails for purchase.

Whether you're a tourist or longtime resident, seeing San Francisco by sea is nothing short of spectacular, and there's no better way to experience it than aboard a Hornblower cruise of the bay. This two-hour excursion takes you past Alcatraz Island and under the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, for stunning views of the city skyline and more. You'll also enjoy a lunch buffet served on board, with soda, juice, coffee and tea included. Wine, beer and cocktails will be available for purchase as well.

Spend a crisp weekend morning out on the waters of the scenic San Francisco Bay getting buzzed while devouring an epic meal of breakfast tacos and other hearty favorites. Hornblower Cruises and Events has a raging two-hour cruise planned for guests that'll be fueled by Bloody Marys, mimosas and a brunch buffet to complete the festivities. A live DJ provides the hottest Top 40's jams while you simply sit back and relax with a drink in hand. The cruise takes you through iconic sites like Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the Coit Tower, and other beverages will be available on board for purchase.

Nominated for three Tony awards, including Best Play, and Winner of the New York Drama Circle Award for Best Play, August Wilson's Radio Golf charts the friendship of two men, one of whom is trying to become Pittsburgh's first black mayor. The aspiring mayor wants to revitalize his childhood neighborhood, but will gentrification ruin the area? Radio Golf is the last play in Wilson's 10-play Pittsburgh Cycle chronicling the experiences of African Americans in the 20th century. See Radio Golf at PianoFight in San Francisco.

It's the startling discovery the NFL didn't want to admit: Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative disease found in people who have suffered repeated blows to the head, was linked to the premature deaths of several retired football players in 2000. The first doctor to identify CTE, Dr. Bennet Omalu, found his research dismissed by the NFL for years, but now, its impact is widely accepted. His work has led to new concussion and injury treatment protocols throughout the sports world, ultimately providing safer and healthier futures for amateur and professional athletes alike. As seen in the film Concussion (starring Will Smith), Omalu's story of triumph in the face of harsh odds is one of inspiration. If you have a child who plays sports, if you play sports yourself or watch professional sports for entertainment, you'll want to know the truth about concussions in sports and how to prevent them from Dr. Omalu. Hear the medical pioneer's powerful story when he comes to the Commonwealth Club of CA in San Francisco.

Charge your camera battery and get ready to experience San Francisco's most picturesque spots on Extranomical's San Francisco Parks & Coast Tour. Your local guide will lead you through the Presidio, Golden Gate Park and the lively Mission and Castro districts, filling you in on their fascinating history along the way. You'll take in the best view of the Golden Gate Bridge, visit the heart of the hippie movement, and explore Golden Gate Park's many museums, gardens and lakes. The tour will also include views of iconic landmarks, like city hall, the War Memorial Opera House, Asian Art Museum and Pioneer Monument.

A tribe of the best and brightest young Bay Area musical theatre artists bring to life the story of Hair -- the musical tale of friends Claude and Berger, their roommate Sheila and the group of hippies with whom they rebel against the Vietnam War -- through the show's unforgettable score of songs. This concert presentation of the music of Hair at San Francisco's Feinstein's at the Nikko features songs like "Aquarius," Manchester England," Easy to be Hard," "Black Boys, White Boys," "Let the Sunshine In" and many more, as well as stories about the era of the liberating late-'60s in which the story is set, and an exploration of the legacy of this enduring musical.

For more than a decade, the performers of Red Hots Burlesque have been bumping and grinding their way across the best stages in New York and San Francisco. Now the United States' longest-running queer burlesque show's moving their popular Friday night extravaganza to the Stud, San Francisco's oldest gay bar! Voted San Francisco's hottest happy hour by SF Weekly, Red Hots features burlesque's signature striptease numbers, along with comedy, drag, live music, death-defying aerials, acrobatics and more. This all-inclusive troupe boasts talent from every gender, size, cultural background and performance style, and with a rotating roster of international performers, you're guaranteed to see an all-new show each and every time.

Come prove stereotypes about cannabis users wrong and celebrate legalization at the annual 420 Games. During this jam-packed day of outdoor fun, you can get some exercise, sample beers, groove to music, crack up to live comedians and more. The Games kick off with a trip through 4.20 miles of scenic Golden Gate Park, where you can walk, jog, skate or bike. You'll then meet up with your fellow revelers at The Music Concourse Bandshell, where you can sample Lagunitas beers while enjoying the entertainment, educational speakers and exhibitors.

Discover the next big video game at the Summary Play: San Francisco Game Expo! Over 70 game developers from the Bay Area will be unveiling their latest creations for iOS, Android, Windows and beyond at The Google Launchpad. You'll get to take the new games for a test-drive, meet the developers and give them your feedback, which could help them shape the ultimate release. Keep yourself charged up with pizza onsite, then head over to SPiN for the after-party.

Craft beer and comedy merge harmoniously in the Beer Basement at Ales Unlimited, where The Setup draws some of the funniest local and nationally touring stand-ups in the business. The space is small and cozy but the hops and the laughs are big, with performers hailing from such comedic institutions as Comedy Bang Bang, San Francisco Sketchfest and The Comedy Store. So order a drink from Ales Unlimited's world-class selection of microbrews, wines and specialty cocktails, then head downstairs for a truly underground experience in the heart of the Tenderloin.

Discover the unique Barbary Coast, an exciting area that's evolved into a food lover's paradise. On this three-hour walking tour from Sidewalk Food Tours, you'll enjoy food and drink samples from six of the neighborhood's authentic mom-and-pop restaurants and ethnic eateries. Explore a world-famous delicatessen that's presented a salami to the pope, nosh on pizza or rosemary focaccia from a 100-year-old bakery, nibble on decadent handmade truffles and more. Between tastings, your knowledgeable guide will give you an insider's look into how the foods are made at these eateries along with information about this historical neighborhood. All food and beverage tastings are included with the tour. Please see the full event description for a list of tasting locations.

Check out the best of Napa and Sonoma counties on a full-day, semi-private tour of the Northern California wine country. With small groups and the ability to request and choose from several different destination options, this semi-customizable tour offers visits to four to six wineries, with a wide variety of experiences and tastings. Knowledgeable and friendly guides make for a relaxed and educational excursion through one of the most scenic regions in the entire country and will help put together a great day of sightseeing and sampling.

You may, in fact, leave your heart in San Francisco after this guided tour of the city's many downtown treasures, which include The Embarcadero, Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, Nob Hill and much more. Ride along in comfort as your experienced guide provides history and context as you travel from the Zephyr Hotel in Fisherman's Wharf to North Beach, Lombard Street, Union Square, the Transamerica Building and the Financial District. From there, this 2.5-hour excursion hits the Marina, the Presidio and then wraps up at a little-known spot that provides the absolute best views of the Golden Gate Bridge for your picture-taking pleasure.

You're the one in control of the characters' love lives in Swipe Right, an improvised show about online dating in San Francisco. As the improvisers encounter metaphorical forks in the road, the audience will vote to help choose their fate, hopefully putting the characters on the path to love. Regardless of the final outcome -- marriage? kids? a drink in the face? -- laughs are part of this new show at Un-Scripted Theater Company.

San Francisco's world famous Chinatown holds a wealth of exquisite flavors, but without insider knowledge it can be difficult to find those culinary secrets. Your Sidewalk Food Tours guide will lead you through the streets and alleys of Chinatown, where you will enjoy five flavorful tastings, satisfying your appetite for the exotic. You'll try Cantonese pork buns, President Obama's favorite San Francisco dim sum, Chef Han's authentic Szechuan cuisine, savory Peking duck and egg tarts cooked to a smooth flan-like perfection with a flakey crust. At the end of the tour, you'll know all of the best spots to eat and can return to enjoy Chinatown's food with confidence. Vegetarian substitutions can be arranged with advance notice.

With their successful blend of improvised comedy and song continuing to entertain the semi-masses on a weekly basis, the Secret Improv Society's popular theatrical shows are not so clandestine anymore. A bunch of San Francisco's best improvisers, comedians and musicians often come out to play with the sharp-witted regular cast, too. It all results in a fast-paced, high-energy revue, featuring plenty of audience input and interaction. Volunteers can even join the fun onstage. No two shows are ever identical, so repeat visits to this Shelton Theater laugh fest are strongly suggested.

This crazy journey we call life can be pretty fun, so long as we laugh and get laid along the way. So says Mama Tits, the big-voiced Seattle drag star whose 90-minute jazz, blues and comedy show Sweet Like Candy aims to do nothing less than take you on a voyage of self-discovery, sharing colorful tales of perseverance, strength and love along the way. Blessed with buttery-smooth singing chops, Mama Tits' renditions of jazz and blues standards merge with commanding stage presence and storytelling ability in a funny, sexy, powerful solo show at Oasis in San Francisco.

Take a tour through San Francisco's history with one of its most colorful characters. Emperor Norton was a prominent businessman who lost it all on a bad investment. He responded to his failure by declaring himself "Emperor of the United States and Protector of Mexico." Rather than dismissing him, San Francisco embraced him, treating him as royalty and accepting his self-created currency. Tour guide Joseph Amster incorporates his journalistic and acting talents to provide a one-of-a-kind tour, taking on the persona of Emperor Norton and introducing you to the history of the city's most unique and interesting sites through the eyes of this larger-than-life unofficial city mascot.

He's opened for Dave Chappelle, Tracy Morgan, the Wayans Brothers and Hannibal Buress -- and now Oakland's own Stroy Moyd and his #HellaFunny crew host this hilarious new weekly showcase at Bar Fluxus in Downtown San Francisco. Run by the same folks behind Madrone Art Bar, Bar Fluxus is a new, ridiculously colorful cocktail bar filled with cool art. Downtown Comedy Night features sets by some of the funniest rising comedy stars in the Bay Area and beyond, with hilarious headliners you may recognize from SF Sketchfest, Punchline, Cobbs, Viceland, NBC, ABC and beyond.

The USS Hornet Aircraft Carrier Museum, Yelp and California Beer Society have put together Battlestar Classic II, a fundraiser benefitting the museum's exhibits and programs. For one day, the majestic flight deck gets transformed into a Beer Deck as more than 20 different beer bombers (aka breweries) pour their best draught selections. While you enjoy your ice-cold brew in the sunshine with stunning views of the bay, order up some fresh bites from the food court and listen to live music. Also happening on deck is the Cornhole Tourney, with 64 teams battling it out to become Top Gun and take home top prize in advanced and amateur brackets. When you're not competing or watching the Cornhole, explore the carrier and learn about her amazing contributions to American history. It's a day of fun that will support a national treasure.

Long home to an electric comedy scene, the Bay Area has spawned some of the biggest names in stand-up, from Margaret Cho to Patton Oswalt, and it continues to breed the next generation of hilarious stars, like Vahé Hove and Chris Schiappacasse. Every Friday, get a sneak peek of who is up-and-coming in San Francisco's comedy scene, when a fresh line-up of San Francisco's best comics -- including many who have been seen performing on HBO, NBC, Comedy Central and more -- take the stage at the beautiful Variety Preview Theater in downtown San Francisco's iconic Hobart Building. Once there, splurge on food and drinks for a good cause. Proceeds from the sales go to Variety Children's Charity of Northern California.

Enjoy food and drink samples from five of the Mission District's most exciting taquerias, mom-and-pop shops and restaurants on this food lover's walking tour from Sidewalk Food Tours. Sample award-winning pizza, taste the area's renowned Mexican food -- even skip the line at a bakery whose owners won the coveted James Beard Award for Outstanding Pastry Chef in 2008. Between tastings, your knowledgeable guide will tell intriguing stories about 17th century Spanish missionaries, the lively punk scene of the 1970s and more. All food and beverage tastings are included with the tour. Please see the full event description for a list of tasting locations.

Put Broadway star Levi Kreis behind a piano and mic and he transforms into an unstoppable, electrifying force of musical and storytelling talent. A true beast on the keys, with soul-stirring pipes to boot, it's no wonder that the former gospel artist won the Tony Award for his unforgettable portrayal of Jerry Lee Lewis (otherwise known as "rock 'n' roll's first great wild man") in Million Dollar Quartet. Now Kreis is hitting the road for his newest cabaret show, Broadway At The Keys. Catch this magnetic performer in action as his fingers furiously thrill the ivories -- and if the power of music compels him, you might just see him pound the keys with his feet -- all while singing Broadway favorites and sharing personal Southern anecdotes at Sunset Temple Events Center in San Diego.

Central Valley comedy collective Deaf Puppies serves up an eclectic mixture of stand-up, sketch and writing. This hilarious group of self-proclaimed idiots delights in pushing the comedic line of good taste, dipping their toes over the line whenever they get the chance. The dynamic ensemble has found a way to mine their different diverse backgrounds for material and that's made them one of the strongest comedy teams currently touring. Catch the troupe's Deaf Puppies Comedy Takeover when it hits the Punch Line Comedy Club in San Francisco.

It's easy to get tripped up while planning your walk down the aisle, but the San Francisco Wedding Fair at the Parc 55 Hotel makes it a whole lot easier by gathering more than 60 of the Bay Area's top vendors together under one convenient roof. Brides and grooms are both welcome, and you'll have the chance to win great prizes, including a $10,000 dream wedding package and Vegas getaways. You'll also enjoy fashion shows, a designer gown sale, live music, wine, dinner and dessert tastings and much more, while discovering the latest trends in decor and design from florists, photographers, planners, hair and makeup designers and other top event pros.

Thrill to a one-of-a-kind dinner and stage show with Dan Chan, Master Magician. Weaving feats of mentalism, perception and improv comedy with sleight-of-hand showmanship and jaw-dropping illusions, Chan has performed for tech titans and international billionaires. You can catch his latest show at K-Elements BBQ, where his astonishing feats of deception, including hacking into your iPhone and other smartphone tricks, will no doubt astound you. Enjoy a multi-course meal with your ticket, as you behold a showman who Buzzfeed called "Silicon Valley's Favorite Magician ... able to fool the most skeptical of audiences." VIP guests will be treated to an extended, even closer-up show by Dan.

Faster-paced and more frenetic than other styles of improv, DASH is a "flash free-form" improv comedy show. The latest from San Francisco's Un-Scripted Theater Co., DASH mixes games and scenes into a seamless, spontaneous and continuously morphing spectacle of excitement and laughs. Over the course of this hourlong show, the cast incorporates audience ideas and suggestions throughout -- from the ridiculous to the hilarious. Anything can (and probably will) happen at DASH, but all things comedy and chaos are pretty safe bets.

The San Francisco Food Safari offers you the chance to explore the city's neighborhoods in-depth and discover the best cuisine each area has to offer. This 2.5-hour tour focuses on the North Beach neighborhood, where Chef Joseph will offer his knowledge and insights on the top places to eat as well as the history and culture of the area. You'll have the chance to purchase whatever you'd like throughout this shopping tour, which takes you to Mara's Italian Pastries, Liguria Bakery, Molinari Deli and beyond. Each tour ends with a picnic lunch made up of the delicious treats you've purchased along the way. Chef Joseph began his culinary career at San Francisco's legendary Salmagundi. He was also the food critic at the Orange County and Long Beach Blade and IN Los Angeles magazines, has written food articles for magazines, worked as a caterer, taught cooking classes and is working on a book titled Created in California: The Golden State's Gifts to Gastronomy.

From Ellen Degeneres and Robin Williams to Dana Carvey and Margaret Cho, some of the greatest stand-up comics of all time first cut their teeth on the stages of San Francisco. Now #HellaFunny Sundays is carrying on the tradition with a weekly stand-up showcase at Neck of the Woods. Come laugh (and enjoy the no-drink minimum!) with some of the city's funniest local headlining comedians, including fresh-faced comics who've been featured on Viceland, Comedy Central and HBO.

The Society of Single Professionals presents their Sausalito Singles Mixer by the Bay, a fun and easy way to meet new single friends and enjoy spectacular views of San Francisco and the Bay. They will have their fun mixer game, and complimentary appetizers will be served during the first hour. Dress to impress, adults of all ages are welcome.

Since 2012, the national non-profit Girls Who Code has taught computing skills and inspired more than 40,000 girls across the U.S., in an effort to close the gender gap in technology. Hear how founder Reshma Saujani is changing the face of tech, one girl at a time. She'll discuss her movement for a more equal and better future at this Jewish Community Center of San Francisco lecture, designed to inspire newbies, young pros and the adults raising them.

San Francisco's world-famous Mission District has a reputation for offering fantastic Mexican food, but on this San Francisco Food Safari, you'll discover there are many more culinary delights to be found. During this 2.5-hour journey, you'll visit pop-up restaurants, delis and markets to learn why the Mission has emerged as the Bay Area's most intriguing culinary scene. You'll have the chance to purchase whatever you'd like throughout this shopping tour, which takes you to Dianda's, home of the Italian Rum Cake, Mission Chinese Food, a legend in the San Francisco street food scene, and many more local culinary gems. Bring your appetite and stroll through the San Francisco streets for a chance to buy your choice of culinary treats. Along the way, learn fun facts to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of the area.

Take a tour through San Francisco's waterfront history alongside one of its most colorful characters. Emperor Norton was a prominent businessman who lost everything on a bad investment. Instead of throwing in the towel, he responded to his failure by declaring himself "Emperor of the United States and Protector of Mexico." San Francisco embraced this quirky character, treating him as royalty and even accepting his self-created currency. Tour guide Joseph Amster incorporates his journalistic and acting talents to provide a one-of-a-kind tour in which he takes on the persona of Emperor Norton and introduces you to the history of the city's most unique and interesting sites through the eyes of this larger-than-life unofficial mascot. Over the course of just under three hours, you'll cover about two miles along the waterfront, from the historic Ferry Building to The Cannery.

In its premiere production, San Francisco's Teatro Mistral reimagines Verdi's passion-filled opera Il Trovatore as an East-West folktale, featuring an ethnically diverse cast. Watch the Count di Luna and poor troubadour Manrico compete for the true love of Leonora, even as a great secret looms over all their heads. The melodrama unfolds onstage at Clarion Music Performing Arts Center, in the heart of Chinatown, where you'll be seated in a cozy salon, mere inches from the powerful operatic performance.

Her Excellency Audrey P. Marks, the Jamaican entrepreneur and ambassador to the U.S., is set to speak at this Berkeley-area gala celebrating the 55th anniversary of the island nation's independence. The emcee is Carlos Watson Jr. of Ozy.com, the innovative online magazine, and DJs TNT and Young Fyre will be providing the dance beats at HS Lordship's restaurant, where you'll also enjoy an included dinner of half-roast spring chicken with rosemary mushroom bordelaise served with rice pilaf and a medley of fresh vegetables, along with berry sorbet for dessert.