Archive for January 2026

We’re excited to announce the San Rafael Vacant to Vibrant Window Initiative!  This is a new arts program transforming vacant storefront windows into rotating art displays by local and regional artists. The initiative brings creativity, color, and foot traffic to downtown while supporting the local arts community. The program is managed by Irene Bee Kain, with…

We’re saying goodbye to Stateroom Brewery as it closes its doors on 4th Street, HUGE thank you for the great times and community spirit!!! In its place, we’re excited to welcome Hidden Splendor, a new brewery from Bay Area craft beer legend Dave McLean (founder of Magnolia Brewing and more). Read more below about the…

We’re excited to welcome Village Sewing to Downtown San Rafael! Now open at 1139 4th Street, this beautiful new fabric and sewing shop brings fabrics, sewing machines, classes, and expert sewing machine repair (all brands, new and old) to the heart of our district! Stop by to browse, get inspired, or sign up for an…

As part of the Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements Project, the City’s Department of Public Works worked closely with the San Rafael Fire and Police Departments to ensure continued emergency vehicle access. The approved design maintains reliable access to West End Street and Marquard Avenue while improving traffic safety and operations. Features such as…

The BID is excited to share our new Downtown San Rafael Film History page!  this page is a celebration of the city’s incredible role in film from the silent era to Hollywood classics and beyond! Learn how San Rafael became a movie-making pioneer with early studios and iconic locations like Fourth Street (featured in American…

HAPPY 2026! Make 2026 a year to grow your business in new ways and stay current. We developed new content to help you advance your AI skills, expand your marketing and meet microlenders that are ready to say yes to funding. More workshops will be added soon. Check our website and future blasts. www.marinsbdc.org/events All…

The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District is excited to celebrate the success of this year’s Elf Hunt, which had over 300 participants exploring downtown in search of 31 holiday elves! Congratulations to the six lucky winners whose completed maps were selected – they each received a festive gift basket filled with toys and gift…