Serious ans only, pls--Folsom Street Fair: hints for friends visiting, 1st time? Anybody been there?

Question

Straight (but not narrow) kinky M&F couple visiting Folsom Street Fair/Leatherfest in couple weeks; plane, hotel room booked. Have already hit Google for major links on Folsom SF/Leatherfest and on SF tourism, also found couple restaurant links. Now refining the search--HELP!!!

Any suggestions on best enjoying this event? Site info indicates lots of crowding & public transit best; other special tips or "you HAVE to catch this show during FSF!"

Also looking for reasonably priced eating places for use during the Fair---geographic area is South of Market District, between 7th and 12th Streets. Any recommendations?

I'd like for them to have the best time possible and do NOT know the city, so any insider information would be great. Thanks!

Answer 1

There are lots of places to eat near the fair - I would NOT suggest eating at the fair itself, unless you are dressed in a way that you do not want to leave the fair and be seen in public. I have contracted food poisoning more than once at this event. Besides, it's all mainly carnival food - corn dogs, chicken on sticks, hot dogs, etc.

There's a good German restaurant at 9th and Mission plus lots of other food choices around. I suggest you eat before the fair as the food prices there are also $$. Ask the hotel for other choices.

YES YES take public transit. Parking will be impossible. If you need to take off any clothing, bring a small backpack to store it in - plus some water and sunscreen.

It will be crowded. Unfortunately, some inconsiderate folks also bring their dogs, so be aware if you are allergic; it's a terrible place for dogs, they get stepped on right and left.

Oh - and bring your camera. :o)

Stay away from the stages if possible. The acts are mainly loud vs. good. You can't hear anything if you get without half a block.

Have fun!
I've been to a dozen or so, plus this year's event is on my birthday! (No spanks, please)

Answer 2

I have gone many times.Sadly this year I am in Rome and cant make it.You will have a great time. And see such wonderful crazy things!!!Prepare to be amazed and a little bit shocked.To make it even more fun for yourselves dress for the event.Leather is definitely in! Corsets are even better.
There will be many,many great food and drink vendors at the fair.All the pub's and restaurants will be opened.With food choices ranging from Asian,North and South American to European..Have a GREAT Time !!!! I envy you..:)

Answer 3

Don't know, I've never had the pleasure of going. I've only been to Halstead Market days in Chicago. If I were you, I'd start at one end and walk all the way to the other, turn around and come back stopping to enjoy the things that interested you on your way through the first time.