San Francisco — The 17th annual Outside Lands music and arts festival exploded into action on Friday, August 8, 2025, transforming Golden Gate Park into a vibrant hub of sound, style, and culture. The much-anticipated event opened its gates to tens of thousands of fans eager for a weekend that promised not just music, but a full immersion into San Francisco’s eclectic festival spirit. From the moment the first chords rang out, the park’s rolling meadows and tree-lined pathways became the backdrop for one of the most diverse and electrifying lineups of the summer.
Headliners and rising stars alike set the tone for the festival’s opening day. Doja Cat delivered a dazzling performance, blending chart-topping hits like “Woman” and “Paint the Town Red” with fresh, unreleased tracks including “Jealous Type” and “Boss Bitch.” Dressed in a striking zebra-striped catsuit with platinum-blonde hair, she brought an undeniable theatricality to the stage. Midway through her set, she surprised fans by announcing an intimate after-show at Oasis, one of San Francisco’s iconic queer venues, as a heartfelt tribute before its closure.
Earlier in the evening, Doechii captivated the crowd with an explosive 45-minute set that was as visually bold as it was musically dynamic. Her high-energy stage presence and unfiltered charisma drew an audience so large that it rivaled even the main headliner’s turnout. Other notable acts throughout the day included the melodic indie stylings of Still Woozy, the dreamy pop of Marina, and genre-bending performances by John Summit, Vansire, Mannequin Pussy, Almost Monday, Inji, Destroy Boys, and NewDad.
For those unable to attend in person, Amazon Music provided a livestream on Prime Video and Twitch, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Eastern each day. This allowed fans across the country—and beyond—to be part of the festival’s opening night, offering a front-row experience to performances and behind-the-scenes moments.
The festival also made a concerted effort to embrace sustainability and ease of access. With an estimated 75,000 attendees, city officials and event organizers encouraged public transit use and reduced vehicle access in the park. Muni expanded service on major lines like N Judah and 5R Fulton, while designated bike parking, scooter-share stations, and ride-share zones ensured smooth transportation to and from the event. Road closures around the park kept the area pedestrian-friendly, emphasizing safety and environmental mindfulness.
Outside Lands has long been celebrated for blending big-name acts with local culture, and this year was no exception. Beyond the music, the festival offered immersive art installations, a diverse range of food and beverage vendors, and a commitment to showcasing the city’s creative energy. The atmosphere was one of community and discovery, with first-time attendees and long-time regulars alike reveling in the shared experience.
As the sun set over the park and the city lights began to glow, the energy remained electric, carrying into the night and setting the stage for two more days of performances. With such a powerful start, the 2025 edition of Outside Lands reaffirmed its place as a cornerstone of San Francisco’s cultural calendar and a highlight of the global festival circuit.
