The Fillmore: San Francisco's Rock 'n' Roll Temple

The Fillmore, located at 1805 Geary Boulevard in San Francisco, stands as a monument to rock history and a thriving contemporary music venue. Constructed in 1912, the building initially served as the Majestic Hall and Academy of Dancing, hosting social gatherings and masquerade balls. Over the years, it transformed into the Ambassador Dance Hall and even a roller skating rink before Charles Sullivan, a prominent African-American businessman, renamed it The Fillmore Auditorium in 1954 and began booking bands, notably being the first to welcome Black attendees. The Fillmore's golden era arrived in the 1960s when Bill Graham took over as a concert promoter. Under his guidance, the venue became the epicenter of the burgeoning San Francisco music scene, launching the careers of iconic bands such as the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, and Santana. The Fillmore wasn't just a concert hall; it was a cultural hub, embodying the spirit of the Beat and Hippie movements. Its ornate chandeliers, psychedelic posters, and the tradition of offering free apples to concertgoers contributed to its unique and welcoming atmosphere. After a period of closure in the 1970s, The Fillmore reopened in 1994 and has since reclaimed its status as a premier live music venue. Operated by Live Nation since 2007, it hosts a diverse range of artists and events, continuing to contribute to San Francisco's vibrant cultural landscape. With a capacity of 1,315 guests for standard shows, The Fillmore offers an intimate setting to experience both established and emerging talent.