Generated by All in One SEO Pro v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://downtownsanrafael.org/blog/) - [$5k and $10k Grant Opportunities for Small Businesses & Restaurants](https://downtownsanrafael.org/grants-june-2026/) - $5,000 Restaurant & Caterer Grant The Restaurants Care Resilience Fund is offering $5,000 grants to independent California restaurants and commercial caterers. Funds can be used for kitchen equipment, technology upgrades, employee training, and unexpected hardships. Eligible businesses must be California-based, have 1-5 locations, annual revenue under $3 million per location, and be a commercial customer - [Join the Streets to Creeks Litter Reduction Campaign](https://downtownsanrafael.org/streets-to-creeks/) - CALLING ALL COMMUNITY PARTNERS! San Rafael, in partnership with Streets to Creeks, is launching a campaign from Aug 1-Nov 1, 2026 to reduce litter in your area. We are looking for businesses and community groups, like yours, to join us! WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO? Not much! We will install temporary, street-side graphics (see - [Downtown San Rafael Market 2018](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-san-rafael-market-2018/) - Downtown San Rafael Market 2018Thursday Evenings, April, 26 - September 13, 2018 from 6-9 PM During the market season every Thursday evening San Rafael Downtown becomes a market that is also a festival with fresh produce, delicious foods, tasty pastries, local artisans with talented musicians. Downtown Market Website - [Share Your Voice: Downtown Business Survey](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-business-survey-chamber-2026/) - The San Rafael Chamber has launched a survey to gather feedback from businesses in the Downtown Business Improvement District. The survey is designed to better understand current business conditions, challenges, priorities, and opportunities so local organizations can align their efforts to support a vibrant and economically healthy downtown. The City, Chamber, and Downtown San Rafael - [San Rafael Arts District Celebration, July 10](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dsrad-public-art-celebration-july-10/) - Join us for an evening of art, storytelling, delicious food, and good vibes in the Downtown San Rafael Arts District! Start the evening at the iconic Smith Rafael Film Center for an insightful discussion with three muralists who created site-specific public artworks for the 2026 Public Art Program. The artist talk begins at 5pm on - [City Proposes New Downtown Maintenance Team](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dpw-new-downtown-team/) - The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District is excited to share news from the City of San Rafael's proposed 2026-27 budget that will help beautify Downtown! Following the dissolution of the Downtown Streets Team program, the Department of Public Works has requested funding for two new full-time Parks Maintenance Worker positions dedicated to downtown maintenance - [Pacific Sun Best of Marin VOTE 2026](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pac-sun-vote-2026/) - The votes are in, now it's time to choose Marin's favorites! 🏆 Pacific Sun's "Best of Marin" final voting is open now through June 14. Support your favorite Downtown San Rafael restaurants, shops, services, arts venues, and local businesses by casting your vote today. Winners will be announced August 12 in Pacific Sun's biggest issue - [New in Town! Chonmage Ramen, same spot, new owner!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chonmage-ramen-new-owner/) - After the original owners retired, San Rafael resident Peigang "Bobby" Chen took over the longtime ramen shop on Courthouse Square in 2025. A former customer and certified Ramen Sommelier through Japan's International Noodle Sommelier Association, Chen refined the broths to create deeper balance and umami while keeping the dishes light and approachable. Classics like Tonkatsu - [Pickleball Organized and Body Kinetics Health Club to Open Indoor Pickleball-Led Sports & Wellness Facility in Downtown San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pickleball-news-2026/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 1, 2026 Pickleball Organized and Body Kinetics Health Club to Open Indoor Pickleball-Led Sports & Wellness Facility in Downtown San Rafael Pickleball Organized LLC, one of the leading pickleball organizations in Marin County and the greater Bay Area, has partnered with Body Kinetics Health Club to open a new indoor, pickleball-led - [City Map of Current Major Development Projects](https://downtownsanrafael.org/city-planning-project-map-2026/) - The City of San Rafael's Major Planning Projects page is a great resource to explore upcoming housing, commercial, and redevelopment projects currently under review throughout the city. According their map, a new application for a Downtown project has been received: 4th St Market Hall Project The City of San Rafael has received a filed California Senate Bill - [PacSun Article- Resurrecting a Roadster: The Car that Started May Madness Comes Home to San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pacsun-roadster-may-madness/) - The Pacific Sun recently featured the incredible story behind this year's 36th Annual May Madness Car Show & Parade, including the long-awaited return of Greg Borrelli's original 1932 Ford Roadster, the car that helped inspire the beloved San Rafael tradition more than 35 years ago! The roadster belonged to Greg Borrelli, founder of May Madness, - [KTVU Spotlight on our 2nd Friday Artwalk](https://downtownsanrafael.org/ktvu-spotlight-may/) - Downtown San Rafael was recently featured live on KTVU FOX 2 highlighting the growing energy of our Downtown Arts District during the monthly Art Works Downtown 2nd Friday Art Walk! The segment showcased local galleries, artist studios, and the vibrant creative community helping revitalize Downtown San Rafael. The feature also spotlighted our 36th Annual May - [Ribbon Cutting for “Touch the Sky” Sculpture at Community Center, May 6](https://downtownsanrafael.org/touch-sky-ribbon/) - The City of San Rafael and the Downtown San Rafael Arts District invite you to celebrate the unveiling of Touch The Sky, a sculpture by Martin Taylor and the first of five installations in the Public Art Program 2026. Come help us welcome this inspiring work to downtown San Rafael and recognize the community spirit - [Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District launches Utility Box Art Project - 2026 "Heart of Marin" - CALL TO ARTISTS](https://downtownsanrafael.org/utility-box-program-2026/) - Utility Box Painting Program returns to San Rafael! The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) is proud to launch a permanent Utility Box Art Program, transforming our Downtown Traffic boxes into public art! What:The BID Utility Box Art Program invites local artists to design and paint utility boxes throughout Downtown San Rafael. This program creates - [Downtown San Rafael Arts District Grant Opportunity - ArtBurst 2026 Grant](https://downtownsanrafael.org/artburst-dsrad-grant/) - Are you an arts organization ready to make a meaningful impact in Downtown San Rafael through a creative, community-driven project? The Downtown San Rafael Arts District (Arts District) invites non-profits, visual and performing artists, designers, and cultural creators of all disciplines to apply for ArtBurst 2026 grant funding to support innovative, inclusive, and culturally resonant - [“Touch the Sky” Sculpture Unveiled at Community Center](https://downtownsanrafael.org/touch-sky-mural-april-8/) - The City of San Rafael and the Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD) proudly unveiled Touch the Sky, a new public art sculpture installed at the San Rafael Community Center on April 8th! Created by artist Martin Taylor, the steel figure features a dynamic form with silver accents, designed to capture a sense of motion, light, and - [Metta Yoga Completes Mural in Downtown!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/metta-mural-complete/) - Metta Yoga is excited to announce the completion of a new mural at its studio on Fourth Street and Cijos Street in Downtown San Rafael. Supported by a matching grant from the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (through the Downtown San Rafael Arts District and the California Arts Council), Metta teamed up with - [Check Out the 2026 Street Sweeping Schedule](https://downtownsanrafael.org/street-sweep/) - San Rafael's Department of Public Works keeps San Rafael looking its best with it's street sweeping schedule. The City's annual street sweeping program runs April through October, helping remove dirt, debris, and pollutants to keep our streets clean and safe. In Downtown San Rafael, sweeping takes place every Friday, so be sure to plan ahead and - [Spring Swing Open House – Perform for Golf, 1328 4th Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/perform-golf-spring-swing/) - Celebrate spring with Perform for Golf at their Spring Swing Open House on Friday, April 17 from 5-8 PM at their San Rafael location (1328 4th Street)! This family-friendly event is open to all and packed with fun, enjoy putting competitions, simulator challenges, quick swing sessions with coaches, raffle prizes, and more. Light bites and - [Grand Reopening Celebration – Madge & Me Hats, April 11, 2026,1570 4th Street](https://downtownsanrafael.org/reopening-madge/) - Join Madge & Me Hats as they celebrate their new West End location with a special reopening party on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 4-6 PM at 1570 4th Street! Come tip your hat to one of Downtown's most stylish shops and check out the fabulous new hats in town, perfect for spring and beyond! - [AIM's San Rafael Summer Market Starts in May](https://downtownsanrafael.org/summer-market-2026/) - Sell at the San Rafael Farmers Market Have a unique product or locally made food concept? The Agricultural Institute of Marin is now accepting select vendor applications for its Downtown San Rafael seasonal market. From artisans and food purveyors to entertainers, AIM markets prioritize high-quality, locally produced goods that enhance the market experience. With thousands - [Upcoming Marin SBDC Trainings - April & May 2026](https://downtownsanrafael.org/april-sbdc-2026/) - The SBDC provides virtual and in-person training and workshops designed for business development on various key topics. Did we mention these trainings are free? APRIL WORKSHOPS: ALL LUNCHTIME SESSIONS | NO COST & VIA ZOOM SCALING SALES WITH GOOGLE ADS WED APR 8 | 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Learn how to use Google Ads - [Paul Navazio Appointed Acting City Manager](https://downtownsanrafael.org/acting-city-manager-2026/) - This month, the San Rafael City Council appointed Paul Navazio as Acting City Manager. Paul has served as the City's Finance Director since July 2023 and brings more than 30 years of experience in public finance and municipal management, including previous roles as City Manager of Woodland and Assistant City Manager and Finance Director for - [San Rafael denies appeals against 17-story apartment tower - 700 Irwin](https://downtownsanrafael.org/700-irwin-ij/) - Marin IJ: The San Rafael City Council recently denied appeals against a proposed 17-story mixed-use apartment tower at 700 Irwin Street, clearing a key step for the project to move forward. The development would include about 200 housing units, commercial space, and affordable housing components near the canal and downtown. READ FULL IJ ARTICLE HERE - [Welcoming Meesa Method Body Works & Thai Massage, 1407 4th Street, to our Downtown!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-meesa-method/) - ABOUT MEESA METHOD Adnan Meesa was immersed in the art and science of Thai massage from childhood in Thailand. Growing up surrounded by the rich traditions of Thai bodywork, Adnan developed an intuitive understanding of the body's energy pathways and muscular systems long before entering formal training. This early immersion laid the foundation for a - [The Work of Tom Harrison, Tackling Graffiti in Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/tackling-graffiti-2026/) - Take a stroll through Downtown San Rafael and you're likely to spot local Tom Harrison quietly taking care of eyesores that many people pass right by: graffiti & stickers. Tom has been volunteering to help our Downtown since 2015, first helping with litter cleanup. In 2023, he took on a new "hobby" - removing graffiti - [The Metta Yoga Mural & Mea Wolf in Action!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/metta-mae-progress/) - About Mae Wolf & Metta Yoga's Blue Wall Transformation: Mae Wolf is a muralist, oil painter, and multidisciplinary creative based out of San Rafael. Upon moving here to pursue her masters in art therapy at Dominican, she was immediately drawn to Metta's blue wall as a canvas for a large scale work of art. Through - [Welcoming Madge & Me Hats, 1570 4th Street, to our Downtown!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-madge/) - Message from Laurie: Madge & Me is a maker and purveyor of hats, headwear and accessories for women and men. Laurie Berliner, is the owner and milliner. Madge is her Cardigan Welsh corgi companion. We sell custom and ready to wear, everyday and special event hats, headwear, and handcrafted silk flowers made in the shop, - [City Council Will Consider Appeals to Two Housing Development Projects](https://downtownsanrafael.org/city-housing-feb-news/) - The City of San Rafael will be considering appeals to two recent housing development approvals at its February 17, 2026 City Council meeting. These appeals stem from the Planning Commission's decisions on proposed residential development projects citywide, including significant projects like housing at 700 Irwin Street and other sites. An appeal is an opportunity for - [Marin County Moves Toward More Business-Friendly Food Program](https://downtownsanrafael.org/county-health-news-2026/) - Good news for food businesses in Downtown San Rafael: Marin County is reviewing improvements to its Environmental Health food program designed to reduce red tape and improve customer service. The proposed updates include streamlining routine submittals, speeding up permits, simplifying change-of-ownership permits, and offering more guidance and resources to help businesses succeed from day one. - [A New Game Changer for Downtown: The Twelfth is coming this summer!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/the-twelfth-feb-news/) - Big news for Downtown San Rafael! The Twelfth, Marin's first women's sports bar, just announced they've officially signed a lease and are coming to Downtown San Rafael! Co-founders Isa and Sol shared that they found their dream home right here in downtown, making Marin's home for women's sports one step closer to reality. Opening summer - [Black History Month at the Rafael: Celebrating Black Creativity Through Cinema](https://downtownsanrafael.org/black-history-month-2026/) - This February, CAFILM invites you to join us each Saturday for a special series celebrating the power, legacy, and living spirit of Black cinema. Opening with Raoul Peck's I Am Not Your Negro and followed by landmark works including Bill Duke's The Killing Floor (MVFF08), Finally Got the News! by Stewart Bird, Peter Gessner, René Lichtman and John Louis, Jr., then - [DSRAD 2026 Public Art Program - Approved by City Council!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dsrad-public-art-council/) - Great news for Downtown! The San Rafael City Council has officially approved five new public art installations for 2026, a program of the Downtown San Rafael Arts District. This project is coordinated by Local Edition Creative, and is funded by a generous grant from the California Arts Council. Downtown San Rafael is one of only - [Curves in Downtown is Celebrating 20 Years of Helping Women Stay Strong and Healthy!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/curves-20th/) - Curves San Rafael is celebrating 20 years of being a Curves franchise. "It has been an incredible and fulfilling journey, not always easy, yet rewarding! The opportunity to help women work toward and achieve their individual health goals is truly special" says Pat Sorber, Owner of Curves. The Club relocated to 4th Street after being - [New Program: Vacant to Vibrant Windows in San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/new-vacant-to-vibrant/) - 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 - [Congratulations to our 2025 Elf Hunt Winners!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/elf-hunt-winners-2025/) - 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 - [Change on 4th Street: Farewell Stateroom & Welcome Hidden Splendor!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/hidden-splendor-change/) - 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 - [Welcome Village Sewing to our Downtown - 1139 4th Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-village-sewing/) - 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 - [Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements Project Update](https://downtownsanrafael.org/second-fourth-update-12-25/) - 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 - [Discover Downtown San Rafael’s Cinematic Legacy!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/film-history-news/) - 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 - [Upcoming Marin SBDC Trainings - February & March 2026](https://downtownsanrafael.org/feb-sbdc-2026/) - 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 - [Marin IJ Article: San Rafael inks deal with chamber for business support](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chamber-city-deal-2025/) - The City of San Rafael recently approved a renewed agreement with the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce to continue managing and supporting the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID). Under this one-year agreement, the Chamber will receive $140,000. The City's $140,000 agreement with the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce (including approximately $65,000 from BID assessments) - [San Rafael Chamber: Detailed Updates on San Rafael Housing Projects](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chamber-housing-updates/) - The San Rafael Chamber has released new updates on major housing projects across the city, highlighting progress on developments from Irwin Street to Northgate, Merrydale, Civic Center Drive, and more. Many of these projects are moving through demolition, construction, or City review processes, with several receiving Chamber endorsement. Together, these developments represent hundreds of new - [Welcome DeeKora to our Downtown - 1405 4th Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-deekora/) - Welcome, Deekora! We're excited to announce that Deekora, a decor and event-planning company, is now part of the downtown San Rafael scene. Whether you're planning a party, a wedding, or just want to explore their creative gallery, Deekora is ready to inspire with beautiful styling and thoughtful event design. Visit them to see what they've - [Spotlight Article on Humbowl in the Marin Dish!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/humbowl-spotlight/) - Humbowl gets the spotlight! The local fast-casual eatery Humbowl, that clever mash-up of "humble" and "bowl", was featured in a recent piece by The Marin Dish. They call Humbowl the healthy newcomer winning over both vegetarians and carnivores alike with fast, flavorful, nutritious bowls built from whole ingredients in downtown San Rafael. Check out the - [Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements Project Updated Timeline](https://downtownsanrafael.org/second-fourth-updated-timeline/) - The Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements Project has made updates to the website regarding the anticipated timeline of the Project: The Project timeline has been pushed back approximately 3 months. Timeline Final Design November/December 2025 Construction Bid Opens for Project December 2025/January 2026 Construction Bid Closes for Project January/February 2026 Project Awarded to Contractor - [$20,000 Small Business Grants Available](https://downtownsanrafael.org/amex-grant/) - American Express and Main Street America have launched the new Amex Shop Small Grants Program, offering 250 grants of $20,000 to small businesses nationwide. An initial $5 million will fund the program, with additional contributions added every time an Amex Card Member shops at a qualifying small business on Small Business Saturday, November 29, 2025. - [KTVU Spotlighted Apartment Proposals in San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/ktvu-apartment-segment/) - KTVU segment: "Could San Rafael Become a New High-Rise Headquarters?" Bay Area news outlet KTVU recently aired a segment looking at planned high-rise developments in San Rafael, CA - exploring whether the city is ready to handle a residential/office-tower boom, and what that could mean for traffic, community character, and growth. Big thanks to KTVU - [Welcome Freewheel Brewery to our Downtown - 924 B Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-freewheel/) - We're excited to welcome Freewheel Brewing to our Downtown! Their brand-new San Rafael taproom officially opens Friday, November 14th. Join them for their Grand Opening Celebration from 4:00pm - 10:00pm at 924 B St. Enjoy fresh beer, good times, and delicious food provided by their neighborhood partners. Stop by, raise a glass, and help us - [Welcome Perform For Golf to our Downtown - 1328 4th Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-perform-golf/) - We're thrilled to welcome Perform for Golf, now open in Downtown San Rafael at 1328 4th Street. This cutting-edge performance training studio helps golfers of all levels "Play Longer, Hit Farther, Golf Longer." They officially opened their doors in San Rafael late fall and we're excited to have them join our downtown business community. Please - [Welcome Back Glaze & Confused to new space in Downtown - 1321 4th Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-glaze/) - Glaze & Confused is back in Downtown San Rafael with a brand-new location at 1321 4th Street, opened their doors on November 1, 2025! They offer pottery lessons for all ages, including wheel throwing and hand-building, plus private group events and custom creations upon request. Their shelves are stocked with beautiful, made-in-house ceramic pieces, and - [Welcome Fratm Pizzeria to our Downtown - 901 4th Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-fratm/) - We're happy to announce that FRATM pizzeria opened the doors on Thursday October 30th!! Join them at 901 4th Street San Rafael for authentic Neapolitan pizza and Southern Italian small plates. "Fratm" isa Neapolitan word for "my brother". Brought to you by Angelo Sannino, co-founder of the award-winning Doppio Zero Restaurant Group, a staple in - [Downtown San Rafael Adopt-A-Planter Pilot Program](https://downtownsanrafael.org/planter-program-2025/) - Beautifying Downtown One Corner at a Time! The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) is excited to launch a new Adopt-A-Planter program to help improve our downtown intersections. For years, our corner planters have provided much-needed greenery, but many have overgrown trees or limited water sources that make beautification a challenge. So, we're starting - [View San Rafael Public Art Installation Proposals here!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/public-art-survey-live/) - The Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD) and the City of San Rafael has launched a new Public Art Program to enhance Downtown vitality and celebrate our city's cultural identity. This exciting program will bring five new public art installations - including murals, mosaics, and sculptures- to highly visible locations throughout Downtown in Spring/Summer 2026. - [Farewell and Gratitude to Downtown Streets Team](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-streets-farewell/) - After more than 12 years of serving our unhoused neighbors in Marin, Downtown Streets Team (DST) Marin will conclude its local programs on Friday, October 24. Unfortunately, the current financial and political environment has greatly impacted their ability to sustain programs across the organization. Since launching in 2013, DST Marin has helped 249 individuals find - [BID Annual Report 2025 and 2026 Plan Draft - feedback welcome](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bid-annual-report-2025-feedback/) - The BID Annual Report for 2025 and Plan for 2026 will be presented to the City Council in December - It will highlight the prior year's activities of the BID and the projected activities for the next year. Please review and let us know hat you would like to see the BID focus on in - [Parking Perk Reminders in Downtown!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/parking-reminders/) - Did you know that the City provides some great, low-cost parking options downtown that make it easy for your customers (and you!) to park stress-free? Here's a quick guide: Monthly Parking Passes Full-time visitors = $73 Free weekend parking in the A & C Street Garages (all day Saturday & Sunday) First hour free in - [Hollywood's biggest names in San Rafael, thanks to the 48th Annual Mill Valley Film Festival & CAFILM!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mvff-2025-photos/) - Lights, cameras, San Rafael! Over the past week, our downtown streets turned into a red-carpet runway as Hollywood's biggest names descended for the 48th Annual Mill Valley Film Festival. From intimate meet-and-greets to surprise walk-bys, here's a peek at who showed up in our backyard: Joel Edgerton, Zoey Deutch, Rose Byrne (more info) Spike Lee - [Help Keep Downtown Looking Its Best - report issues here!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/report-issues-here/) - If you see an issue downtown - like trash, graffiti, broken meters, potholes, or trip hazards - don't wait for someone else to report it! The City of San Rafael uses SeeClickFix, an easy online tool where you can report problems directly to the right department. Report an issue here: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/seeclickfix/ Or we added it - [In Case You Missed It: Sip & Bite Ribbon Cutting!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sip-bit-ribbon/) - The Chamber is excited to share the highlights from the Sip & Bite Café Ribbon Cutting - a joyful celebration filled with community spirit, smiles, and great food! Watch the video here: Sip & Bite Ribbon Cutting - [Your Voice Matters: San Rafael Public Art Installations](https://downtownsanrafael.org/public-art-survey/) - The Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD) and the City of San Rafael has launched a new Public Art Program to enhance Downtown vitality and celebrate our city's cultural identity. This exciting program will bring five new public art installations - including murals, mosaics, and sculptures- to highly visible locations throughout Downtown in Spring/Summer 2026. - [KTVU picked up our Downtown Clean and Green event with live interview by BID Board Member!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/clean-ktvu-news/) - KTVU featured our Clean & Green Day in a live news segment highlighting how the San Rafael Downtown Business Improvement District marked Earth Day with a community cleanup. BID Board Member Tobi Lessem spoke about the lasting impact this beautification effort has on our downtown and the people who love it! Great job Tobi!!!! WATCH - [Thank you to our volunteers that helped Phase 2 of the Downtown Mulching Project on 7/11](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase-2-2025-2/) - A big thank you to Tobi Lessem from Bodywise Massage, Adam Dawson from Mike's Bikes, and all the wonderful volunteers who joined us on July 11th for Phase 2 of our annual BID mulching project. The before and after photos speak for themselves and help makes our Downtown shine! Your hard work is helping to - [Map of Current Major Development Projects](https://downtownsanrafael.org/city-planning-project-map/) - The Major Planning Projects portal highlights significant development proposals currently under review in San Rafael. The City's role is to evaluate each proposal for consistency with local, regional, and state regulations while ensuring opportunities for public input throughout the process. Projects listed here are in the review pipeline and are not approved unless otherwise noted. Explore projects on the - [New E-Bike Rules in San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/city-e-bike-rules/) - The Marin IJ reports that San Rafael's City Council has approved new e-bike safety regulations. Riders must now be 16 or older to use throttle-powered (Class 2) e-bikes, helmets are required for all riders, and younger riders should stick to pedal-assist (Class 1) e-bikes or traditional bikes. Read the full story in the Marin IJ: - [Movies in the Park Returns to Gerstle Park on September 26th!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/movies-in-park-2025/) - San Rafael Library and Recreation is excited to announce the return of Movies in the Park! The series kicks off on Friday, September 12, and movies will continue every other Friday through October 24. Each film begins at sunset and is free for all ages. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, family, and friends, and enjoy - [Fall workshops announced! Free SBDC Workshops in September](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sept-sbdc-2025/) - Streamline Social Media with Meta Business SuiteLearn to schedule posts, track analytics, and manage Instagram/Facebook in one place.Thu, Sept 18 | 12-1:30 PM Turn Your Content into VideosUse AI to quickly transform text and images into dynamic video content.Thu, Sept 25 | 12-1:30 PM Closing the Deal: From Networking to SalesPractical strategies for building authentic - [The 48th Mill Valley Film Festival is Here!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mvff-2025/) - The program for MVFF48 (October 2-12) is now live! Join CAFILM for 11 days of world-class cinema, with screenings at the Smith Rafael Film Center (San Rafael), Sequoia Cinema (Mill Valley), the Lark Theater (Larkspur), and BAMPFA (Berkeley). This year's highlights include a Tribute to Spike Lee, featuring a special clips & conversation event with - [Calling All Downtown Businesses: Connect with Local Talent at the “LEVEL UP” Employment Expo!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chamber-employment-expo/) - The San Rafael Chamber is hosting the LEVEL UP Employment Expo on September 25, 2025. This event connects local businesses with job seekers and offers a chance to share open positions and build visibility in the community. Businesses can apply to participate as employers or attend to network. LEARN MORE HERE - [Emergency Go Bag Crossword Hunt this September! - City of San Rafael Fire Department](https://downtownsanrafael.org/srfire-go-bag-hunt-sept-2025/) - Emergency Go Bag Crossword Game! September is National Preparedness Month! For the entire month of September, the San Rafael Fire Department is hosting a fun Emergency Go Bag Crossword Game in Downtown San Rafael! Explore downtown businesses, solve the crossword puzzle, and learn about some of the items you might pack in an emergency go - [Pac Sun Story: Into the Fold: Bookagami Transforms Pages into Sculpture](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pac-sun-bookagami-story/) - San Rafael artist Adrienne Biggs is turning rescued books into art in her "Bookagami" practice, folding and transforming discarded volumes into whimsical, sculptural pieces that breathe new life into forgotten pages. Her show Black, White and Read All Over is now on view at Marelli Bros., with free public demonstrations and a hands-on workshop coming - [Keeping Downtown Clean: Thanks to Tom Harrison with BID Support](https://downtownsanrafael.org/tackling-graffiti-2025/) - When you stroll through downtown San Rafael, you may notice fewer eyesores like graffiti and stickers compared to most other cities. That's thanks to the tireless work of Tom Harrison. Since 2015, Tom has volunteered countless hours to help the City with litter abatement, and in 2022 he added a new "hobby": removing graffiti and - [West End Fridays Kicks Off This Week!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/west-end-aug-15/) - Get ready to celebrate! The West End Fridays Block Party kicks off THIS Friday, August 15, from 6 pm-9 pm, on 4th Street between F and G. It will run for 8 Fridays from August 15 through October 10. Brought to you by Pint Size Lounge, it's your go-to for music, food, and community flair! VIEW FULL - [2nd Annual Dancing Under the Lights – What a Night!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dancing-under-the-lights-news-2025/) - This month's 2nd Annual Dancing Under the Lights brought thousands of people to Downtown San Rafael to dance, eat, sip, shop, and celebrate our vibrant city. The Tivoli lights sparkled, the music filled the air, and the community came together for an unforgettable evening. Check out the incredible moments captured by photographer Bruce Forrester: View - [DSRAD Steering Committee Application Now Open](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dsrad-committee-app-open-2025/) - The Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD) Steering Committee application and related materials are now open! The application period is August 1 - 29, 2025. The Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD) collaborates with local arts leaders, businesses, city officials, and community members to create a vibrant and engaging environment that promotes well-being, equity, and inclusivity - [Join the Emergency Go Bag Crossword Hunt! - City of San Rafael Fire Department](https://downtownsanrafael.org/srfire-go-bag-hunt-2025/) - Join the Emergency Go Bag Crossword Hunt! This September, for National Preparedness Month, SR Fire is inviting 15 local businesses in the downtown area to take part in a community-wide Emergency Go Bag Crossword Hunt. They will give you one crossword clue to post in your store. This can be near your register or on - [Correction: Streetary Permit Potential Fee Updates](https://downtownsanrafael.org/city-streetaries-update-2025/) - CCORRECTION: 7.15.25 The City Council may consider updating the fee structure for Streetary permits at an August or September City Council meeting. (Not "have considered" like in the previous post.) Key changes may include: Application Fee reduced from $2,047 per space to $1,758 One-time Removal Deposit eliminated (previously $2,000) New Annual Fee of $310 for - [City is Updating Special Events Permitting Process](https://downtownsanrafael.org/city-event-process/) - Planning a Special Event in San Rafael? Starting this July, the City's Special Events Permit Program will be managed by the Community and Economic Development Department (CED) - previously handled by the San Rafael Police Department. If you're organizing a parade, festival, farmers market, athletic event, or block party that takes place in the public - [Welcoming Sip & Bite to Downtown San Rafael, 1109 4th Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-sip-bite/) - Couple opens cafe in San Rafael - Marin IJ Article By Leanne Battelle | ij.lbattelle@gmail.com | IJ correspondent PUBLISHED: July 1, 2025 at 5:45 PM PDT Sip & Bite Cafe has been quietly operating in downtown San Rafael since May and will celebrate its grand opening on July 12. Owned by Point Richmond husband-and-wife-team Ruchir "Rich" Dave and Samantha - [Ribbon Cutting/Grand Opening Celebrations: HOT ITALIAN & HUMBOWL](https://downtownsanrafael.org/ribbon-cuttings-july-aug-2025/) - Join us in welcoming two exciting new restaurants to our vibrant downtown community! Come show your support, enjoy some great food, and help us celebrate the growing energy in Downtown San Rafael. HOT ITALIAN - Grand Opening & Ribbon CuttingThursday, July 24, 20255:00 PM - 6:00 PM909 Lincoln Ave https://www.hotitalian.net/ Celebrate the arrival of HOT - [Join Phase 2 of the BID Downtown Mulching Project - Friday, July 11](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase-2-2025/) - Join the BID for Phase 2 of the BID Downtown Mulching Project 2025! Date: Friday, July 11, 2025 Time: 10:00a-12:30p Meeting Location: E Street & 4th Street Intersection Beautify Our Downtown Together What's Happening: Phase 2 of the BID's Mulching Project is here, and we need your help to make it a success! We'll be - [Immigration Enforcement Response Training for Employers, Chamber Morning Program 7/15](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chamber-morning-program-immigration/) - Date: 07/15/2025 Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Location: San Rafael Chamber Conference Room, 817 Mission Ave. Employers across all industries-nonprofit and for-profit alike-face complex and sometimes unclear responsibilities when it comes to compliance with immigration requirements. Making sure employees know their rights, have access to resources, and aren't exposed to unnecessary risks helps build - [You're Invited: 1st Annual BID History Walking Tour, Thursday July 24th 6-7pm ~ Explore the Hidden History of Downtown San Rafael!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/1st-annual-bid-walking-tour/) - Join the Business Improvement District and the Marin History Museum for a fascinating one-hour walking tour led by Marcie Miller, Volunteer Director of Education at the Marin History Museum. Discover the stories behind the old Courthouse, the many theaters that once lined Fourth Street (up to 9 movie houses in the early 1900s!), and historic - [DSRAD 2026 Public Art Program - CALL FOR ARTISTS](https://downtownsanrafael.org/call-for-artists-local-edition-creative/) - The Downtown San Rafael Arts District is excited to announce a call for artists for five public art opportunities in the Downtown San Rafael Arts District for installation in 2026. Artists and artist teams are invited to apply, including mural opportunities for California-based artists and sculpture opportunities for all US-based artists. Applications are coordinated through - [Federation of San Rafael Neighborhoods Interview with BID Director, Sarah Tipple](https://downtownsanrafael.org/fed-sr-neighborhoods-sarah-tipple/) - "The Federation Steering Committee LOVED your presentation on May 8th. The video is posted HERE. We are grateful for your enthusiastic contributions to the vitality of San Rafael's business community and for the BID's tremendous website with a wealth of programming and information." - President of the Federation of San Rafael Neighborhoods - [Public Hearing Notice for Streetaries Outdoor Eating Areas Ordinance, 9/13/22](https://downtownsanrafael.org/public-hearing-notice-streetaries/) - San Rafael Planning Commission Public Hearing Notice for Streetaries Outdoor Eating Areas Ordinance Review a draft ordinance adding and amending multiple sections of the San Rafael Municipal Code, relating to outdoor eating areas. The proposed ordinance would regulate and permit outdoor eating areas - known as "Streetaries" - within parking spaces within the public right of - [May Madness 30th Annual Classic Car Show and Parade 2018](https://downtownsanrafael.org/may-madness-30th-annual-classic-car-show-and-parade/) - May Madness returned to Downtown San Rafael for its 30th year! When: Saturday, May 12, from 12 noon to 6pm / Elks Club Dance with Pride & Joy Band, 6-11pm Where: Fourth Street San Rafael / Elks Lodge Hundreds of fans came to check out classic and kustom cars, electric bikes and cars, and a - [San Rafael Summer Market Returns with a Fresh New Vibe on Select Friday Nights](https://downtownsanrafael.org/summer-market-news-copy/) - CLICK HERE FOR EVENT WEBSITE Second Friday of the month June 13, July 11, August 8 5-9pm Downtown San Rafael 4th Street between Lootens Place and A Street, including the San Rafael City Plaza San Rafael, CA, June 2, 2025 - The beloved Downtown San Rafael Summer Market is back for 2025 with a fresh - [Public Rally Notification in Downtown San Rafael, THIS Saturday, June 14](https://downtownsanrafael.org/public-rally-notification/) - Event Notification - For Awareness Only Please note that a peaceful public rally is scheduled to take place this Saturday, June 14, from 12:00-1:30 PM in Downtown San Rafael at the San Rafael Plaza (1000 4th Street). The event, titled "Marin Rally: NO KINGS, NO OLIGARCHS," is organized independently and may draw a large public - [San Rafael Business Pulse Survey: Chamber Advocacy & Economic Vitality](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chamber-business-survey-2025/) - The San Rafael Chamber of Commerce is conducting this survey to better understand the experiences, priorities, and needs of our local business community. Your feedback will directly inform the Chamber's advocacy efforts with city leaders, help shape our programming, and guide our focus on economic vitality initiatives that matter most to you. The Chamber is - [Pride Flag Raised at City Hall to Kick Off LGBTQ+ Pride Month](https://downtownsanrafael.org/lgbtq-flag-rising/) - On Monday, June 2, the San Rafael City Council and staff gathered at City Hall to raise the Pride Flag and officially kick off LGBTQ+ Pride Month. The event featured remarks from Mayor Kate Colin and Rev. Dr. Janie Spahr, a longtime advocate, former SF Pride Parade Grand Marshal, and co-founder of Marin's LGBTQ+ Community - [City Cracking Down on Unpermitted Food Vending](https://downtownsanrafael.org/unpermitted-food-vending/) - The City of San Rafael is ramping up enforcement of unpermitted food vending to address public health and safety concerns. The City is working closely with County of Marin Environmental Health Services, the agency responsible for licensing and regulating food vendors throughout Marin. Unpermitted food vending operates outside health and safety regulations and creates an - [City Unveils 2025-2028 Strategic Plan - Focused on Economic Vitality](https://downtownsanrafael.org/city-2025-2028-plan/) - At this week's City Council meeting, San Rafael introduced its draft 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, a roadmap for City priorities, programs, and funding over the next three years. A key focus of the plan is Economic Development & Neighborhood Vitality, alongside goals in housing, mobility, sustainability, public safety, and equity. The plan outlines over 100 specific - [Planning Commission Approves 210 New Apartments Downtown - 930 Irwin Street](https://downtownsanrafael.org/930-irwin-approved/) - On May 13, the San Rafael Planning Commission approved a proposal for a new 8-story, 210-unit apartment building at 930 Irwin Street (corner of 4th & Irwin). The project by Mill Creek Residential will replace three commercial buildings and include 18 affordable units, a rooftop terrace, pool, coworking space, and parking for 222 cars and - [Welcoming The Hot Italian to Downtown San Rafael, 909 Lincoln Ave!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-hot-italian/) - Hot Italian is a vibrant pizzeria, celebrated for its Italian roots, artisanal pizzas, and lively atmosphere. Located at 909 Lincoln Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901, it offers a variety of wood-fired pizzas, panini's, and gelato all made in-house with fresh ingredients. The restaurant's modern design features seating inside and outside on their sunny back patio space with a living wall. Whether - [Pacific Sun Best of Marin VOTE 2025](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pac-sun-vote-2025/) - For more than 60 years, the Pacific Sun has been Marin's hype machine-spotlighting the tastemakers, scene-stealers, do-gooders and divine oddballs who make this place what it is. And now? It's your turn to return the favor. This year's Best of Marin is rolling out in two acts: You already selected our top nominees. Now it's time to - [City of San Rafael's Bike/Pedestrian Plan Update](https://downtownsanrafael.org/city-bike-update/) - The City of San Rafael is updating its Citywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan which was last revised in 2018. This plan will outline priorities for improving walking and biking in San Rafael over the next 5-10 years. Get involved: Drop pins on the interactive map to show where improvements are needed. Take the survey to - [AIM's Announces New Schedule and Vibe for the San Rafael Summer Market](https://downtownsanrafael.org/summer-market-news/) - AIM announces that the beloved San Rafael Summer Market is back, but with new dates and a fresh new vibe. This year, the Downtown San Rafael Summer Market will be held on the 2nd Friday of each month from June-August. The market hours are 5-9 PM and will be held on 4th St. near the - [San Rafael Chamber Economic Forecast in the Books](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chamber-economic-forecast/) - The San Rafael Chamber hosted the 2025 Economic Forecast: Growth, Housing & Mobility. They kicked off conversations about the economy - what's going on federally and how it's impacting all of us at home, progress and barriers to housing and the scoop about transportation. Congressman Jared Huffman kicked us off with some insight into what's - [Marin IJ Restaurant Review: Burren House](https://downtownsanrafael.org/burren-ij-article/) - Restaurant review: Irish pub a tasty addition to San Rafael By Ann Walker | IJ correspondent UPDATED: May 6, 2025 at 2:22 PM PDT READ FULL ARTICLE HERE - [Welcoming Humbowl to Downtown San Rafael, 1016 Court St in the Plaza!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-humbowl/) - Humbowl opens it's second location in San Rafael! They offer healthy rice dishes that provide a punch of mixed vegetables, coupled with a protein choice, and a refreshing unique sauce to balance everything out. Each one has a different flavor profile. They can easily accommodate almost any dietary restrictions and allergies, including being incredibly vegan - [Creative Team Selected to Lead New Public Art Installations in Downtown San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dsrad-rfp-local-edition-creative-selected/) - The Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD) is excited to announce the selection of Local Edition Creative as the lead implementor for a major new public art initiative in Downtown San Rafael. This project aims to enhance downtown vitality through the creation of five new art installations on public property. The City has identified at - [Burren House Featured in Smithsonian Magazine](https://downtownsanrafael.org/burren-article/) - We're proud to share that Burren House Pub, one of the newest additions to Downtown San Rafael, was featured in a recent Smithsonian Magazine article highlighting the global impact of Irish pubs. The piece explores how these beloved community hubs have become cultural icons around the world-and Burren House and San Rafael were highlighted! The - [Cast your Votes for the Best of Marin '25](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pacsun-best-of-marin-2025/) - For more than 60 years, the Pacific Sun has been Marin's hype machine-spotlighting the tastemakers, scene-stealers, do-gooders and divine oddballs who make this place what it is. And now? It's your turn to return the favor. This year's Best of Marin is rolling out in two acts: Nominations open Monday, March 31 and run through - [San Rafael GO - City Resources to Help Businesses Thrive](https://downtownsanrafael.org/san-rafael-go-2025/) - The City of San Rafael's Community and Economic Development Division is here to help businesses thrive. By fostering collaboration between businesses, the community, and the City, they work to create a vibrant economic environment for businesses, residents, and visitors. San Rafael GO is a one-stop-shop for current and prospective businesses to get the resources they - [2025 Business of the Year Award Nominations - San Rafael Chamber!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2025-business-nominations/) - It's that time again! Take a few minutes and nominate your favorite business for the 2025 San Rafael Chamber Business of the Year Awards! Help recognize the businesses that make San Rafael thrive! The Chamber is accepting nominations for: Small Business of the Year Large Business of the Year NOMINATE HERE Joe Garbarino, Jr. Green - [Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements Project Updates](https://downtownsanrafael.org/second-fourth-updates/) - Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvement Project and Latest Concept Design Fourth Street, or the "Miracle Mile," links San Rafael to San Anselmo and West Marin. While a retail hub downtown, it shifts west into a six-lane arterial handling 20,000 vehicles daily. Built mid-20th century, the corridor is outdated, with obsolete signals and non-ADA-compliant pedestrian access. - [San Rafael Celebrates Women's History Month in March](https://downtownsanrafael.org/womens-history-month-2025/) - City of San Rafael Announces: The San Rafael City Council officially proclaimed March as Women's History Month during their March 3rd meeting, honoring the achievements and strength of women in San Rafael and around the world. This year's theme, "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations," resonates deeply with our community's commitment to mentorship - [San Rafael Secures $2.5M for Safety Upgrades](https://downtownsanrafael.org/lincoln-safety-upgrades/) - The City of San Rafael's Public Works Department has secured over $2.5 million in grants for infrastructure improvements. These grants will enhance safety and efficiency along Lincoln Avenue, particularly between Second and Paloma Streets. Safety upgrades will include painting protected left turn lanes, changing signal phases, and making intersections safer with traffic signal upgrades, intersection - [Support for Immigrants in San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/immigrant-support-san-rafael/) - The City of San Rafael announces: San Rafael stands unwavering in its commitment to supporting our immigrant communities. There are a range of services that can provide support if you need it, including: Canal Alliance: Know Your Rights Resources: Educational workshops, resource guides and planning tools for how to ensure the safety and well-being of - [Main Street America Spotlight: What Can Main Streets and Small Businesses Expect in 2025?](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mainstreet-spotlight-mar/) - Matt Wagner, Ph.D. - Chief Innovation Officer - Main Street America Article As Chief Innovation Officer and host of our Main Street Business Insights podcast, I have a unique opportunity to observe first-hand what is happening in small business and entrepreneurship and participate in primary and secondary research through Main Street America's work. Combining these experiences and macroeconomic, technological, and - [Northgate Town Square Redevelopment Officially Moves Forward Following City Council Approval](https://downtownsanrafael.org/northgate-update-feb/) - City of San Rafael - Northgate Town Square Redevelopment Officially Moves Forward Following City Council Approval Northgate Town Square redevelopment project has officially received the green light from the San Rafael City Council after the approval of key land entitlements, marking a major milestone for the City's ongoing efforts to revitalize the Northgate area. This - [Boost Your Business with Winning Instagram Strategies - Free SBDC Workshops in March](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mar-sbdc-2025/) - Ready to take your business to the next level on Instagram? In this workshop, we'll cover proven strategies to grow your brand, engage your audience, and drive results using Instagram's most powerful features. Learn how to: · Create eye-catching Reels that captivate and hold attention. · Leverage Stories and Highlights to keep your brand - [Porch Fest - Call for 2025 Poster Artist](https://downtownsanrafael.org/porchfest-poster-art-2025/) - It's time to find the 2025 artist for Porch Fest! Are you an artist and want to join the amazing artists above and be a part of this beloved community music event? If so, we want to hear from you! ​​We are accepting artwork concepts and designs NOW THROUGH TUESDAY, APRIL 1st for a friendly - [Downtown San Rafael Adopt an Intersection Project 2025](https://downtownsanrafael.org/intersection-project-2025/) - The San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) is seeking a dedicated group or organization to adopt intersections along 4th Street in Downtown San Rafael to enhance their appearance year-round. This is a fantastic opportunity for a local nonprofit, community group, or landscaping organization to make a visible impact on our downtown environment. Scope of Work: - [Welcoming Everest Curry & MoMo House, 1444 4th Street, to Downtown San Rafael!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-everest/) - The Marin IJ Featured an article about our new addition to the Downtown San Rafael Restraunt scene! Novato resident opens restaurant with Nepalese, Indian flavors By Leanne Battelle | ij.lbattelle@gmail.com | IJ correspondent UPDATED: February 18, 2025 at 12:42 PM PST Novato resident Deepak Bhandari and his father-in-law, Hari Dhital, bring a wealth of restaurant experience to downtown San - [Welcoming Burren House, 925 4th Street, to Downtown San Rafael!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-burren/) - The Burren House opened their doors on Dec 21st. The Official Grand Opening Celebration is set for Friday March 7th at 3p. The event will include a Ribbon Cutting, Irish Dancers, Live music with Ivor Collin's from Co Waterford Ireland, and Live music at 10pm with Eoin and Bryan from Ireland! The Burren House has - [Upcoming Marin SBDC Trainings - February & March 2025](https://downtownsanrafael.org/feb-sbdc-2025/) - UPCOMING TRAININGS - ALL FREE The SBDC provides virtual and in-person training and workshops designed for business development on various key topics. Did we mention these trainings are free? Building a Successful Food & Beverage Brand - Feb 18 - 10:30 am - 12:00 pm The program is critical for anyone looking to develop a - [Join Yet Wah for their Chinese New Year Celebration!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/join-yet-wah-for-their-chinese-new-year-celebration/) - Come join Yet Wah for their Chinese New Year Celebration: THE YEAR OF TIGER! The Marin Chinese Cultural Association will be performing the Classic Lion Dance at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 12th, Saturday, February 19th & Sunday, February 20th! Please call for information & reservations: 415-460-9883. YET WAH Restaurant, 1238 4th St, San Rafael. 2022 - [Black History Celebrations in Marin County](https://downtownsanrafael.org/marin-county-black-history-month/) - Explore all the events in Marin County Celebrating Black History Month. Film Screenings, Book Clubs, performances, story telling, art shows, musical programs, poetry readings, herbal remedy classes, and more! VIEW LIST HERE - [A Marin City Native Shares His Story: A Conversation With Bishlam Bullock, Owner of Salon B - Marin Magazine, 2020](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bishlam-story-marin-mag-2020/) - Celebrating Black History Month - highlighting our Downtown Business Owners "Most Marin County residents have little first-hand knowledge of Marin City, the tiny hamlet of just over 3,000 people - in a county of about 260,000 - tucked into the base of the Marin Headlands east of Sausalito. Some know only the Wikipedia snapshot - - [Marin Library Presents its Annual Black History Celebration](https://downtownsanrafael.org/marin-library-black-history/) - Marin County, CA - The Marin County Free Library (MCFL) is proud to present its annual Black History Celebration, a month-long series of events in February honoring Black voices and cultural contributions. Community members of all ages are invited to participate in programs featuring music, history, and discussions that highlight the achievements and resilience of Black communities. MCFL is - [Celebrate SF Beer Week Close to Home - Marin IJ Article](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sf-beer-week-2025/) - Since 2009, SF Beer Week has been raising pints and spirits and celebrating the creativity, craftsmanship and passion of the Bay Area's independent brewers. This year's 10-day, two-weekend festival runs from Feb. 21 through March 2 and is packed with rare tastings, bold pairings, live music and plenty of reasons to raise a glass. Marin's - [Marin Dish - February's Best Top 2 in Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/marin-dish-best-feb/) - Marin dish Share February's Best Bets + Fêtes, where to have fun (with or without the sun)! Their Top 2 picks for fab food and fun are in Downtown San Rafael! #1: FeBREWary is Downtown San Rafael's official month-long celebration of local craft beer. Breweries, tap rooms, and pubs are in full swing, so head - [Homelessness Updates in San Rafael 2025](https://downtownsanrafael.org/homelessness-updates-2025/) - Stay up to date on all of the hard work the City of San Rafael's Homelessness Department is working on to support our unhoused community. Subscribe to the Newsletter HERE. Newest updates: The City of San Rafael has a new Community Services Division Director, Daniel Cooperman, who is here to help address homelessness. He comes - [BID & DSRAD - Matching Grant Program for Art & Beautification for Downtown Businesses](https://downtownsanrafael.org/matching-art-grant/) - Dear Downtown San Rafael Businesses, The Business Improvement District (BID) & the Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD), is proud to announce an art beautification matching grant given out to 4 (or possibly more) Downtown Businesses! Overview: The DSRAD is one of 14 certified Cultural Arts Districts within the State of California. The Cultural District program - [Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 at Yet Wah with Lion Dance Performances, 6:30pm! ](https://downtownsanrafael.org/yet-wah-2025/) - Come Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 - The Year of the Snake Lion Dance Performances, 6:30pm! February 1 , 2, 15, and 16 Performed by the Marin Chinese Cultural Association at Yet Wah - 1238 4th Street https://www.facebook.com/MarinLionDance - [School to Career (STC) Partnership](https://downtownsanrafael.org/school-to-career/) - Developing San Rafael's Workforce The Marin County Office of Education is actively seeking civic oriented Downtown San San Rafael businesses to host spring and summer internships for San Rafael High and Terra Linda High school students in a broad scope of industries. The Marin County Office of Education School to Career (STC) Partnership provides Martin County students with direct - [Congratulations to our Elf hunt Winners!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/elf-hunt-winners-2024/) - The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District is excited to celebrate the success of this year's Elf Hunt, which had over 200 participants exploring downtown in search of 36 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 cards generously - [San Rafael Rotary Adopts Lauren Place in Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/rotary-adopts-lauren-place/) - The BID is excited to share that the San Rafael Rotary Club has officially adopted Lauren Place- a memorial on 4th Street dedicated to Lauren Grandcolas who perished on United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001. As part of their ongoing commitment to enhancing our community, the Rotary will be beautifying this space with - [Request for Proposals (RFP) for Public Art Program Implementation, Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD)](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dsrad-rfp/) - The Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD), the San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID), and the City of San Rafael are seeking qualified consultants to support program implementation for the Downtown San Rafael Arts District. The successful arts consultant team will develop a Call for Artists and implement a Public Art Installation Program in Downtown - [Exciting News: The return of a dedicated San Rafael Police officer to patrol our Downtown! (draft)](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-patrol/) - We are pleased to welcome the return of a dedicated San Rafael Police officer to patrol our Downtown area. Officer Sanchez currently patrols the corridor from the freeway to the West End, including all side streets between 2nd Street and 5th Avenue, on duty Tuesday through Friday. In the coming months, the San Rafael Police - [Welcoming Malibu Burger, 819 4th Street, to Downtown San Rafael!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-malibu/) - Popular East Bay vegan burger joint comes to Marin By Leanne Battelle | ij.lbattelle@gmail.com | IJ correspondent UPDATED: January 7, 2025 at 1:37 PM PST Darren Preston, the visionary behind the popular East Bay vegan burger joint Malibu's Burgers, began his plant-based journey more than a decade ago while living and working in Marin. Last weekend, things came full circle - [Join North Bay Pizza Week, January 8-19, 2025](https://downtownsanrafael.org/north-bay-pizza-week-25/) - North Bay Pizza Week: From January 8-19, 2025, local pizza establishments and restaurants that serve pizza can offer special pies, slices and pricing to encourage customers to visit local establishments. As a registered participant in North Bay Pizza Week, you earn special pricing to market your pizza specials. BASIC PACKAGE $250* Logo, pizza, location, map - [Welcoming (ARTT) Another Reclaimed Treasure From Trash, 1033 C Street, to Downtown San Rafael!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-artt/) - Another Reclaimed Treasure from Trash (ARTT) was recently founded by Crystal Lynn Vargas and Michelle Hope Martinez local moms, longtime friends, colleagues, burners (Burning Man enthusiasts) and artists. ARTT's mission is to advance recycling efforts, use reclaimed/recycled materials to create works of art and provide a space and opportunity for local artists to do the - [Downtown San Rafael Art District's Website and Programming Updates](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dsrad-website-updates/) - The Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD) has been hard at work over the past few years, fostering creativity and community through dynamic programming, artist collaborations, events, and more. These efforts have brought new energy to downtown, as you will read on the press page. Our brand-new website, www.dsrad.org, features all of the recent programming - [San Rafael Ranked #3 Top 40 Most Arts-Vibrant Communities of 2024 in U.S.](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sr-top-3-art-24/) - "SMU DataArts, the National Center for Arts Research recognizes and celebrates the Top 40 communities according to our 2024 Arts Vibrancy Index. Shifts in arts participation, rising costs, the winding down of unprecedented levels of relief funding, as well as long-standing inequities in access, funding, and employment continue to challenge arts communities-yet the undeniable richness that arts and culture bring to society endures. When - [Downtown San Rafael’s cultural rebrand](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sr-cultural-rebrand/) - Pacific Sun Article, Isabella Cook, Dec 3, 2024: The heart of Marin County is amid an artistic renaissance, thanks to downtown San Rafael. "San Rafael's artistic culture is the heartbeat of Marin County, a vibrant blend of diverse arts offerings and contemporary creativity that brings the community to life," said Elisabeth Setten, executive director of - [Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) Assessment Annual Renewal, 12/16](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bid-renewal-2024/) - SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL - MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2024 SPECIAL MEETING AT 5:30 P.M. San Rafael City Hall, Council Chambers 1400 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901 Watch online: https://tinyurl.com/cc-2024-12-16 or www.youtube.com/cityofsanrafael Listen by phone: (669) 444-9171 ID: 860-6190-5675# One Tap Mobile: +16694449171,,86061905675# US Agenda Item #6: Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) Assessment Annual Renewal Resolution - [Thank you to our volunteers that helped Phase 3 of the Downtown Mulching Project on 11/14](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase-3-2024-nov/) - A HUGE thank you to our BID volunteer mulching team: Tobi Lessem from Bodywise Massage, and Anthony & Jeff Brusati from T&B Sports! Also thank you to Aaron Tubbs of the City of San Rafael for the mulch and tools. The before and after photos speak for themselves and help make our Downtown shine! Your - [$5,000 Retail Business Grant Due 11/30](https://downtownsanrafael.org/retail-grant-nov/) - SMALL BUSINESS GRANT: Get $5,000 to stock your new store! This small business grant program gives select new stores $5,000 to use on Faire to stock their shelves with amazing products. It's our way of helping you kickstart your dream shop. What is Faire: Faire is an online wholesale marketplace used by hundreds of thousands of - [Redwood Bikeshare - Sonoma & Marin's new Ebike program](https://downtownsanrafael.org/redwood-bikeshare/) - You may have noticed bikes popping up around the SMART corridor. Redwood Bikeshare is the fun new way to get around Marin and Sonoma counties! The Sonoma County Transportation Authority (SCTA) and Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) have partnered with Drop Mobility for a pilot bikeshare program along the SMART corridor. Whether you're running errands, - [Homelessness Solutions Working Group](https://downtownsanrafael.org/homelessness-solutions-2024/) - The City of San Rafael is establishing a working group that will meet three times over the next six months to explore ongoing challenges and potential solutions regarding homelessness in the City. We have heard from the community that they want to help and want to better understand the complexities surrounding solving homelessness. The work - [Welcome MODERN + AVENIDA to our Downtown - 1332 4th Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/welcome-modern-avenida/) - MODERN + AVENIDA: is a homeware store specializing in acacia wood kitchenware. We're committed to ethically sourced, handcrafted wood products. Each item is carefully carved from a single piece of wood, ensuring high quality, durability, and unique artistry. We also offer a selection of locally made, hand-poured candles in a variety of captivating scents to - [Join the Holiday Gift Guide - deadline Oct 30!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/join-2024-gift-guide/) - Dear Downtown San Rafael Business Owners, As the holiday season approaches, the BID is excited to offer you a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business to the entire Marin County community. We are organizing a full-page ad in the Marin Independent Journal's (Marin IJ) November Shopping Guide, reaching thousands of potential customers during this prime shopping season. - [City of San Rafael Sanctioned Camping Program](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sanctioned-camping-program/) - The City is establishing a sanctioned camping area along the northern portion of the Mahon Creek Path through grant funding provided by the State of California Encampment Resolution Funding Program. Why the Camping Area has Been Established Individuals experiencing homelessness have been camping in this area in recent years. When the City banned camping at Albert - [4th Annual Hops & Vines Stroll Brought Nearly 300 People Into Our Downtown Businesses!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/hops-2024/) - We are thrilled to share that the 4th Annual Hops & Vines Stroll on September 30th was a fantastic success, bringing nearly 300 people into our vibrant Downtown San Rafael! Attendees enjoyed a day filled with shopping, dining, and exploring, as they visited 20 participating businesses. One of the highlights of the event was the - [Thank you to our volunteers that helped Phase 2 of the Downtown Mulching Project on 9/26](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase-2-2024-sept-copy/) - A big thank you to Tobi Lessum from Bodywise Massage and all the wonderful volunteers who joined us on September 26th for Phase 2 of our annual mulching project. The before and after photos speak for themselves and help makes out Downtown shine! Your hard work is helping to beautify our downtown, and we couldn't - [Introducing the NEW Downtown San Rafael Business Community Calendar!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/new-community-calendar/) - Stay connected with everything happening in Downtown San Rafael! Our new community calendar is your go-to spot for discovering downtown business events like trivia nights, live music, art shows, and more. Businesses are encouraged to list their happenings so the community can easily see what's going on downtown. Whether you're a local business owner or - [Downtown Community Benefit District Meeting, Monday, September 30](https://downtownsanrafael.org/cbid-meeting-sept/) - The first meeting of the new Downtown San Rafael Community Benefit District (CBiD) is scheduled for Monday September 30 from 4pm - 5pm. The meeting is open to the public and will be held at San Rafael City Hall, 1400 5th Avenue, San Rafael. We hope you will attend the first meeting in person or - [San Rafael Leadership Institute Class Project - Utility Box "Art With a Purpose" - May Updates](https://downtownsanrafael.org/srli-utilitybox-2024-may-updates/) - Utility Box Painting Program returned to San Rafael this May! What: The San Rafael Leadership Institute Class of 2024 "Art with a Purpose" project promotes creating a healthy, sustainable, inclusive, and resilient community. Why: Install art on existing infrastructure, aiming to inspire residents, job seekers, and employers by promoting chamber values such as sustainability, inclusivity, and equitable opportunities. - [1001 4th Street Art Transformation](https://downtownsanrafael.org/1001-4th/) - "Artist's Design Concept" Art Works Downtown has commissioned an artist to install a 450 square foot original visual art piece in the windows of 1001 4th Street. The Sausalito-based artist, Raylene Gorum, works primarily with intricately cut vinyl, acrylic, and wood to create installations and flat work that blur spatial boundaries. In collaboration, the owner - [Join Phase 2 of the Downtown Mulching Project - Thursday, September 26th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase-2-2024-sept/) - Join Us for Phase 2 of the BID Downtown Mulching Project 2024! Date: Thursday, Sept 26 Time: 9:30a-12:30p Location: 4th Street Intersections Beautify Our Downtown Together What's Happening: Phase 2 of the BID's Mulching Project is here, and we need your help to make it a success! We'll be continuing to mulch the intersections along - [Scoping Meeting to Present Planned Improvements to US 101 / I-580](https://downtownsanrafael.org/tam-101-580/) - The Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) and Caltrans invites you to participate in the upcoming scoping meeting for the US 101/I-580 Multi-Modal and Local Access Improvement Project. This project aims to reduce travel times between northbound US 101 and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge and includes possible improvements along Bellam Boulevard such as potential roundabouts and - [Upcoming Marin SBDC Trainings - September & October](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sept-sbdc-copy/) - UPCOMING TRAININGS The SBDC provides virtual and in-person training and workshops designed for business development on various key topics. Did we mention these trainings are free? CANVA BASICS - Wednesday, September 25 | 12:00 - 1:30 PM Create professional images and videos without a design background. In this workshop, you will learn how to use Canva - [Downtown San Rafael Holiday Event Producer Request for Proposal (RFP)](https://downtownsanrafael.org/rfp-holiday-2024/) - SAN RAFAEL HOLIDAY EVENT PRODUCER REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL HOLIDAY EVENT PRODUCERREQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL HOLIDAY EVENT PRODUCERREQUEST FOR PROPOSAL The BID has released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for event production services on behalf of the San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) and the San Rafael Chamber. The RFP solicits - [San Rafael Public Library - The Downtown Library will be temporarily relocating to 4th Street](https://downtownsanrafael.org/srfire-150-copy/) - On September 2nd, the Downtown Library will be closing for much-needed safety and infrastructure updates. On September 16th, they will be reopening at a pop-up location on 4th Street to continue providing library services in downtown San Rafael during construction. The pop-up library will be at 1009 4th Street, across from the Bank of America, - [City of San Rafael Fire Department Celebrating 150th Anniversary - Aug 17th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/srfire-150/) - Join the City of San Rafael Fire Department in celebrating our 150th Anniversary! To celebrate, we are hosting open houses at each Fire Station across the city. Our next open house is at Station 52 on August 17 from 10-12 and will include a firefighting demonstration at 11 AM. Visit us and meet the crews, - [Best of Marin - San Rafael Winners](https://downtownsanrafael.org/best-of-marin-2024/) - Marin Magazine listed the winners for the readers choice award in Marin County! San Rafael is stacked with Winners!!! Congratulations: Dining: Best Indian - Lotus Cuisine of India Take comfort in award-winning Indian cuisine from a long-running, family-run, certified green business with an energy-efficient kitchen and eco-friendly appliances. There is an abundance of organic vegan, - [Best of Marin Dining - San Rafael Winners](https://downtownsanrafael.org/best-of-marin-dining-2024/) - Marin Magazine listed the winners for the readers choice award in Dining. Whether you're craving Italian, Mexican, Chinese or a meal out with a view, here are the Best of the County 2024 readers' choices for dining in San Rafael. Congratulations! Best Indian - Lotus Cuisine of India Take comfort in award-winning Indian cuisine from a - [San Rafael apartment plan switches to seniors’ housing](https://downtownsanrafael.org/apartment-plan-switch/) - A controversial plan for an 80-foot-tall, 162-apartment building in downtown San Rafael has been swapped for a seniors' complex of the same size, but with more rooms. Monahan Pacific, a San Rafael development firm, won approval for the apartment project last year amid complaints from community members - including an appeal to the City Council - [Cue the Core Pop-Up Event - Aug 25](https://downtownsanrafael.org/cue-core-8-25/) - [Join Phase 2 of the Downtown Mulching Project - Thursday, July 25th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase-2-2024/) - Join Us for Phase 2 of the BID Downtown Mulching Project 2024! Date: Thursday, July 25 Time: 9a-11a Location: 4th Street Intersections Beautify Our Downtown Together What's Happening: Phase 2 of the BID's Mulching Project is here, and we need your help to make it a success! We'll be continuing to mulch the intersections along - [San Rafael Transit Center - New Concept Revealed at June 25th Open House](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sr-transit-center-updates-july/) - The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District (Bridge District) has started a multi-year process to develop a new transit center for San Rafael. Several government agencies are partners with the Bridge District to identify a new transit center site and configuration that will provide for the current and future mobility needs of San Rafael - [SAFE Team Statistics & Report (March 2023 – March 2024)](https://downtownsanrafael.org/safe-team-report-2024/) - The San Rafael Specialized Assistance For Everyone (SAFE) Team launched on March 27, 2023. This program is a collaborative effort based on the CAHOOTS model deployed in Eugene, Oregon, which is the leading model for emergency crisis intervention and prevention. 2024 STATITICS: • Calls for Service Handled - 3152 The SAFE Team serves both the - [Join Phase 3 of the Downtown Mulching Project - Friday, Dec. 1st](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase3/) - Join Us for Phase 3 of the Downtown Mulching Project! Date: Friday, December 1 Time: 10a-12n Location: 4th Street Intersections Beautify Our Downtown Together What's Happening: Phase 3 of our Downtown Mulching Project is here, and we need your help to make it a success! We'll be continuing to mulch the intersections along 4th Street - [Happy 19th Anniversary Rebound Bookstore!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/rebound-19-anniversary/) - REBOUND BOOKSTORE CELEBRATING, 19 YEARS ON 4TH STREET! JULY, 2024 News from ye olde Stacks! YOU'RE INVITED TO CELEBRATE! 19 years of feeding your imagination! AND A DEAL TO CELEBRATE! Buy any 3 books, and get a book worth $6 or less, FOR FREE! AN UNEXPECTED COLLECTION! IN STOCK NOW! over 200 books on CD, Great for road trips, lighten your - [California Compete State Tax Credit Available to Businesses](https://downtownsanrafael.org/tax-credit/) - The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size, or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will - [Voices of Freedom - Young Writers Speak out about tomorrow - June 19th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/voices-of-freedom/) - Reading event! New work by students from Novato Marin School of the Arts. Wednesday Juneteenth, 6:00- 8:00 PM. Rebound Bookstore, 1611 4th Street. San Rafael No charge. light snacks Seize the time! - [Dancing Under the Lights - A New Celebration and Pivot - more details coming soon](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dancing-under-the-lights-news-2024/) - Dear BID Members, It is with great excitement that we introduce, Dancing Under The Lights (DUTL). The purpose of introducing Dancing Under The Lights is to showcase our next step from the former Dining Under The Lights. Dining Under The Lights was a very important part of bringing community back to Downtown as businesses were - [Dancing Under the Lights - A New Celebration and Pivot](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dancing-under-the-lights-news/) - February 29, 2024 BID Members Dear BID Members, It is with great excitement that we introduce, Dancing Under The Lights (DUTL). The purpose of introducing Dancing Under The Lights is to showcase our next step from the former Dining Under The Lights. Dining Under The Lights was a very important part of bringing community - [Here and Queer - Spotlight Show at the YIA Gallery, June 10-21](https://downtownsanrafael.org/here-and-queer-2024/) - Here and Queer Spotlight Show at the YIA Gallery Guest Curated by High School Student, Eva H. On view June 10-21, 2024 Public Reception: Friday, June 14; 5:00-7:00pm YIA Gallery & Art Lab 917 C Street San Rafael, CA 94901 Gallery & Art Lab Hours: 11:00am-4:00pm Youth in Arts is proud to present the inaugural - [519 4th Street Housing Development](https://downtownsanrafael.org/519-housing/) - An affordable-housing developer is proposing to construct a six-story complex with 56 apartments on a city-owned lot in downtown San Rafael. Half of the dwellings would be reserved as supportive housing for formerly homeless residents, according to the preliminary application from Abode Housing Development. The quarter-acre site is located at 519 Fourth St. between Irwin Street and - [GRANTS TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE REUSABLE FOODWARE ORDINANCE](https://downtownsanrafael.org/food-grant-2024/) - The Marin County Environmental Health Services (EHS) wants to help all cities and towns in Marin County to meet the requirements of the Reusable Foodware Ordinance (RFO). Enforcement began by EHS inspectors on November 10, 2023. The EHS Technical Assistance Team is available to educate and award grants of $599 to help businesses transition to meet - [SMART Offering Free rides to Seniors and Youth](https://downtownsanrafael.org/smart-free-2024/) - SMART is offering free fare for youth and seniors. This new fare structure is a pilot program effective through June 30, 2025, which aims to increase use of public transit for these age groups, fostering environmental sustainability and enhancing mobility in the region. How it works Beginning April 1, 2024, youth (ages 0-18) and seniors (ages - [Homelessness Updates in San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/homelessness-updates-2024/) - Stay up to date on all of the hard work the City of San Rafael's Homelessness Department is working on to support our unhoused community. Subscribe to the Newsletter HERE. Newest update: Marin County and the City of San Rafael have been awarded nearly $6 million by the California Interagency Council on Homelessness (Cal ICH) - [See Click Fix - How to report an Issue in Downtown!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/see-click-fix/) - SeeClickFix is a 311 solution that empowers businesses to report issues, identify repair needs, share feedback, and ask questions of their local government leaders. For local governments, it powers efficient and transparent workflows, fostering accountability and trust. The result is collaborative experiences between governments and residents that co-create clean, safe, and happy communities. Categories that - [Pacific Sun Best of Marin VOTE 2024](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pac-sun-vote-2024/) - The Pacific Sun Best of Marin 2024 Readers Poll For over 60 years, the Pacific Sun has shone a spotlight on the best that Marin County as to offer. Now it's time to turn to you, our loyal readers, to share what makes our region the finest place to live, work, and revel, through our - [REBOUND BOOKSTORE HOSTS ACTIVIST PHOTO EXHIBIT -“TAKE IT TO THE STREETS!”](https://downtownsanrafael.org/rebound-activist-exhibit/) - Juxtaposed with the permanent display of original 1960's rock posters at the Rebound Bookstore 1611 4th Street will be a powerful collection of political street images shot by two exciting photographers. Displayed will be historic photos from the 1960s' by internationally published activist/ photographer William Haigwood and documentary images of current political activism in Marin - [San Rafael Leadership Institute Class Project - Utility Box "Art With a Purpose"](https://downtownsanrafael.org/srli-utilitybox-2024/) - Utility Box Painting Program returns to San Rafael! What: The San Rafael Leadership Institute Class of 2024 "Art with a Purpose" project promotes creating a healthy, sustainable, inclusive, and resilient community. Why: Install art on existing infrastructure, aiming to inspire residents, job seekers, and employers by promoting chamber values such as sustainability, inclusivity, and equitable opportunities. Specifically, we - [Downtown Clean & Green / Shop Local for Earth Day](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-clean-green-shop-local-for-earth-day/) - Spruce up Downtown and the West End Village for Earth Day, Friday April 22, 2022! 10:00am-12noon. Join other awesome volunteers and business members in sprucing up Downtown for Earth Day! We'll be removing graffiti, polishing up parking meters and sidewalk fixtures, pulling spring weeds, and removing every little scrap of litter to help make Downtown match the - [Celebrate Diversity Month - April](https://downtownsanrafael.org/diversity-month-april/) - At Tuesday's City Council meeting, there will be a special presentation supporting Celebrate Diversity Month. Members of the City's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Committee are set to accept a proclamation and provide a brief overview of their work. This presentation will highlight the Committee's efforts to foster an inclusive environment, promote equity, and - [ART EXHIBITION:  The Marin Society of Artists presents “CRAZY FOR ART”](https://downtownsanrafael.org/msa-crazy-for-art/) - ART EXHIBITION: The Marin Society of Artists presents "CRAZY FOR ART", an adventurous exhibition of MSA member's artwork. An exciting reception is planned for Friday, April 12, 5pm to 8pm - guest performers "Improv Marin" at 6pm, live music by "JT and Friends", an award presentation, snacks and drinks. We have 3 galleries filled with - [San Rafael Transit Center - Stay Updated](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sr-transit-center-updates/) - The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District (Bridge District) has started a multi-year process to develop a new transit center for San Rafael. Several government agencies are partners with the Bridge District to identify a new transit center site and configuration that will provide for the current and future mobility needs of San Rafael - [April Chamber Morning Program - Improv Marin](https://downtownsanrafael.org/april-chamber-morning/) - Date: April 2, 2024 Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM PDT Come to the Chamber AM program each month to network, listen and learn. At this face-to-face networking meeting, you can grow your contact list, hear how existing members have utilized benefits for positive outcomes and learn something new about our community so you gain a better understanding of - [Supporting Economic Vitality for Small Business Owners - $10,000 Grant, Deadline April 7](https://downtownsanrafael.org/10k-grant/) - Supporting Economic Vitality for Small Business Owners In partnership with American Express, the Backing Small Businesses grant program supports economically vulnerable and under-resourced small businesses with community reach. This year, eligible small business owners can apply for $10,000 grants for projects that grow or improve their businesses by building community, supporting their economic viability, or - [San Rafael Leadership Institute Class Project - Utility Box "Art With a Purpose" - CALL TO ARTISTS](https://downtownsanrafael.org/srli-utility-box-2024/) - Utility Box Painting Program returns to San Rafael! What: The San Rafael Leadership Institute Class of 2024 "Art with a Purpose" project promotes creating a healthy, sustainable, inclusive, and resilient community. Why: Install art on existing infrastructure, aiming to inspire residents, job seekers, and employers by promoting chamber values such as sustainability, inclusivity, and equitable opportunities. Specifically, we - [2024 Labor Law & Handbook Updates - March 20 Workshop](https://downtownsanrafael.org/labor-law-march-20/) - Mar 20 12:00 pm - 1:15 pm If you are an employer, then this workshop will be important for you. In 2024, new employment laws have already gone into effect and there will be more coming in July. All of these changes will impact the way you conduct your business. This workshop will cover the recent changes, - [ArtRageous: Burning Bubbles Bash, April 20](https://downtownsanrafael.org/burning-bubbles-bash/) - ArtRageous: Burning Bubbles Bash Saturday, April 20, 2024 • 7-10pm Join us for an evening of live music, delicious nosh, art exhibits, and festive libations at Art Works Downtown's Burning Bubbles Bash! Get groovy with The Crooked Stuff and have an arty party time, while supporting our mission to provide an environment where visual arts thrive for - [2024 Business of the Year Nominations - San Rafael Chamber!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2024-business-nominations/) - Calling All 2024 Business of the Year Nominations! Don't forget to vote for your favorite Chamber Business of the Year and Downtown San Rafael Business of the Year. Honorees will be announced at the State of the City - Taste of San Rafael, Business of the Year Awards on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Award categories - [Increase Sales with Google Ads - April 4th Workshop](https://downtownsanrafael.org/april-4-google-ad-workshop/) - Thursday, April 4 | 12:00 - 1:30 PM FREE WORKSHOP This webinar will teach you ways to use Google Ads to increase your marketing capabilities and show up better in searches. Clients who have taken this workshop have seen increases in sales and a targeted approach to attracting the right clients. Here's a recent - [Become a Canva Pro - April 25 Workshop](https://downtownsanrafael.org/april-25-canva-workshop/) - Thursday, April 25 | 12:00 - 1:30 PM Canva, often described as the "design tool for non-designers," is a fantastic platform to help you craft a variety of visual formats: social media posts, presentations, print materials such as flyers and post cards, mockups, and many others. This workshop will teach you how to use Canva - [New in Town - TuTu Lounge (old Bogie's location)](https://downtownsanrafael.org/tutu-lounge-new/) - There's a new San Rafael restaurant on Fourth Street! TuTu Lounge, serving "Pacific Rim Cuisine", has taken over at 1335 - 4th St in the Art Works Downtown building. This location has been home to a few restaurants over the past dozen years. Odalisque Cafe & Grille, Green Chile Kitchen & Bogie's Too. Much of - [New Art Exhibition at Art Works Downtown: Art of the African Diaspora February 9- March 8](https://downtownsanrafael.org/african-diapora-exhibit/) - Art of the African Diaspora February 9-March 8, 2024 February 9, 5-8pm: Reception and Art Walk March 8, 5-8pm: Reception and Art Walk Featuring the photography of Asual Aswad, Duane Conliffe, Jim Dennis, Zhané GayByrd Art of the African Diaspora is the longest running event of its kind in the Bay Area. For 26 years it has - [Wabi Pottery Ladies night every Weds- starting this February!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/wabi-pottery-ladies-night/) - Starting this February, Wabi Pottery Studio will be hosting weekly women's wine Wednesdays! They welcome you to come after work, relax, enjoy a glass of wine and meet other creative local women! During this event you will learn how to use the wheel to make cups, bowls, plates or vases. All instruction, clay, and tools - [Storytelling Marketing Through Video and Image Workshop, 2/28](https://downtownsanrafael.org/feb-28-workshop/) - Are your photos and videos working for you? Now more than ever, images and videos are key components to maximize your marketing efforts. Learn from an expert (Stephanie Koehler, Owner of SAKinterMedia) how to promote yourself through your visuals. Learn what it takes to create an image or video that has impact, draw and pull - [AI Marketing Workshop, March 13th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mar-13-workshop/) - This workshop by Stephanie Koehler, Owner of SAKinterMedia, will provide insights into how artificial intelligence is transforming the marketing landscape. Learn the benefits of leveraging AI for marketing, including content ideation, optimization, and personalization. Attendees will learn how to integrate machine learning with tools to save time and develop targeted campaigns. We'll also cover some - [Third Street Improvement Project - Completed!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/third-street-completed/) - On Friday, January 11th, the City of San Rafael celebrated the successful completion of the extensive 20-month Third Street Improvement Project, a collaborative effort involving utility companies, the City, and private projects. This $20.8 million project, which began construction in March 2022 and was funded in part by TAM's Measures A and AA funds as - [Downtown Streets Team](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-streets-2024/) - What a whirlwind it has been for Downtown Streets Team, Marin! In 2023, we expanded our housing case management and street outreach efforts substantially throughout various programming county-wide. Overall, 29 of our unhoused neighbors found a place to call home through our services and support this past year, receiving the dignity, care, and stable housing - [BID Annual Report 2023 and 2024 Plan](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bid-annual-report-2023/) - The BID Annual Report for 2023 and Plan for 2024 was presented to the City Council in December - It highlighted the prior year's activities of the BID and the projected activities for the next year. The City Council approved the BID assessment for 2024. READ FULL REPORT HERE The BID is also looking for - [A-Frame Signs in Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/a-frame-signs/) - The City's Community Development Department has received numerous code enforcement complaints on A-frame (sandwich board) signs in the Downtown. The City's Code Enforcement Division will be sending out courtesy notices to all businesses with illegal signage and asking them to remove. The City's sign ordinance does not allow A-frame signs and they are prohibited and - [Big Stars Visit Downtown San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/big-stars-cafilm/) - Over the past few weeks, the California Film Institute has turned Downtown San Rafael into a cinematic playground, orchestrating a blockbuster extravaganza that brought the biggest movie stars right to our doorstep! Thanks to the CA Film Institute's commitment to film excellence, audiences have had the rare opportunity to witness Hollywood's elite on the red - [2024 Business License Renewal](https://downtownsanrafael.org/business-license-renewal-24/) - Business owners with active licenses expiring December 31st, 2023, are reminded that the deadline to renew their license is February 15th, 2024. The City accepts cash, checks, money orders, and most major credit cards. Licenses may be renewed online via credit card or through eCheck. If you have questions about business licenses, please contact the - [Ranch Water Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting, January 23](https://downtownsanrafael.org/ranch-water-ribbon/) - Name: Ranch Water Ribbon Cutting Date: January 23, 2024 Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM PST Location: 711 Fourth Street, San Rafael Join us as we celebrate the welcoming Ranch Water, a vibrant new tequila bar in the heart of Downtown San Rafael. Indulge in their signature cocktails, as we officially cut the ribbon to mark the beginning of this - [Marin Magazine Article - Explore San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/marin-mag-jan/) - Exciting news! San Rafael takes the spotlight in the January issue of Marin Magazine, recognized as a standout destination. Titled "Explore San Rafael" the article highlights the San Rafael Arts Honor we received by SMU Data Arts - which assesses communities' vibrancy through a data-driven approach. They officially ranked San Rafael as the #4 most - [San Rafael Fire Foundation Crab Feed, Saturday January 13, 2024](https://downtownsanrafael.org/crab-feed-2024/) - San Rafael Fire Foundation Resumes Crab Feed Crab Feed & Silent Auction Saturday, January 13, 2024 5:00 P.M. B Street Community Center 618 B St. San Rafael, CA 94901 Some great items will be available in the silent auction - great holiday gifts Gift certificates AND much more Live music with Dry Creek Station https://www.drycreekstation.com/ BUY TICKETS - [Photos from Phase 3 of the Downtown Mulching Project - Friday, Dec. 1st](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase3-photos/) - Downtown San Rafael's Phase 3 Mulching Beautification Project Before and After Photos: Details: The City of San Rafael and the BID joined efforts once again for Phase 3 of our Downtown Mulching Project on Dec 1st to help beautify our Downtown Corridor. Phase 1 was on Earth Day Clean and Green Day in April. Phase - [Dazzling Success: Our Downtown Holiday Extravaganza Lights up the news!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/holiday-of-lights-news/) - The enchantment of the season reached sparkling heights this year as our Downtown Holiday of Lights Festival unfolded in a spectacular display of festive magic last weekend! News reviews from Chanel 7, the Marin IJ, and the SF Chronicle highlighted our sense of community that lit up our streets. Our community's spirit truly shone during - [San Rafael Transit Center preliminary design unveiled](https://downtownsanrafael.org/transit-plan-dec/) - Officials from the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District gave a sneak preview of the conceptual design of the new San Rafael Transit Center, Marin County's local and regional transportation hub. . "One of the most important things is we're going to retain the features, the look and feel, of the 1929 railroad depot," said Ron - [San Rafael Santa Cop Toy Collection](https://downtownsanrafael.org/santa-cop-2023/) - This program was interested in helping children who were missed by other programs, and who were not going to have Christmas due to circumstances beyond their control. The Police and Fire Departments, through their community contacts, are familiar with children who are from families with difficult financial situations as well as difficult family situations. The - [Cue the Core Ribbon Cutting, December 5th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/cue-core-ribbon/) - "When you're at your breaking point and feel like you don't have time to invest in yourself. We make self-care simple, effective, and on your schedule. At Cue the Core, we're here to support you. Our studio specializes in contemporary Pilates, integrative wellness workshops, and health coaching. We offers a range of classes designed to - [Coming Soon: Pixels Arcade & Taproom, 1137 4th Street!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pixels-coming-soon/) - Proposed Opening Date: In January 2024 - Saturday January 13. Check our website for any changes or updates. They will kick off our grand opening festivities at noon with a free concert on the street in front of Pixels with music by Kid Galaga (playing 80s and 90s dance rock covers). At approximately 1 PM - [Groundfloor Community Market, Saturday December 16, 2023](https://downtownsanrafael.org/groundfloor-market-dec/) - Tis the season! Groundfloor San Rafael is hosting its first ever community market featuring Bay Area vendors! Come bring your friends and family for an afternoon of supporting local businesses! Come wrap your gifts at our gift wrapping station, enjoy our hot chocolate station (and a warm alcoholic bev for the adults), and eat some - [San Rafael Fire Foundation Crab Feed, Saturday December 9, 2023](https://downtownsanrafael.org/crab-feed-2023/) - San Rafael Fire Foundation Resumes Crab Feed Crab Feed & Silent Auction Saturday, December 9, 2023 5:00 P.M. B Street Community Center 618 B St. San Rafael, CA 94901 Some great items will be available in the silent auction - great holiday gifts Gift certificates AND much more Live music with Dry Creek Station https://www.drycreekstation.com/ BUY TICKETS - [Art School SF Bay Art Workshop - Jan 2-5, 2024](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sf-bay-art-camp-jan/) - World of Illustration (Jan 2-5, 9am-3:30pm): https://www.artschoolsfbay.com/camps/world-of-illustration artschoolsf World of Illustration Master art fundamentals and learn to compose an image that tells a compelling tale. (2 MB) Art School of SF Bay 1510 Fourth Street, San Rafael Artschoolsfbay.com/san-rafael sr@artschoolsfbay.com This camp will not only teach you technical skills that will help you improve your art but you - [Bogie's Too - San Rafael High School Drama Department Fundraiser - Nov. 11](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bogies-sr-high/) - Get your palate ready to enjoy a little decadence when you pair a delicious chef curated multi-course dinner from Bogie's Too with premium spirits from established local distillery St George Spirits. Add a Spirits Expert & top consultant in the distilled spirits world to the mix, ready to impart his knowledge on the joys of - [Tam Commons 1 Year Anniversary Celebration - Nov. 8](https://downtownsanrafael.org/tam-1-year/) - When: Wednesday, November 8, 2023 Time: 5 - 6:30 pm Where: Tam Commons, 1300 Fourth Street San Rafael Enjoy networking with other members in a relaxed setting, sample great food & drink and help Tam Commons celebrate their fi rst year in business! VISIT WEBSITE - [BID Annual Report, Levy Assessments, Board Appointments - November City Council](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bid-city-council-notice-2023/) - The BID Annual Report & Report is being presented to the City Council in November. It will highlight of prior year's budget and activities of the BID and the projected budget and activities for the next year. November 3, 2023 - Draft Annual Report & Budget Submitted to the City - The BID sent out - [Billposting & Signs on Public Property Prohibited](https://downtownsanrafael.org/posting-posters-prohibited/) - The Downtown San Rafael Volunteer of the Year, Tom, spends countless hours removing signs, posters, and ads from our street poles and newspaper holders. Please share the below San Rafael Municipal Ordinance with anyone you see posting on public property. 8.12.080 - Billposting and signs on public property prohibited. No person shall paint, mark, write - [Chamber Morning Program - November 7](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chamber-morning-11-7/) - Date: November 7, 2023 Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM PST Event Description: Come to the Chamber AM program each month to network, listen and learn. At this face-to-face networking meeting, you can grow your contact list, hear how existing members have utilized benefits for positive outcomes and learn something new about our community so you gain a better - [$5000 Restaurant Care Resilience Fund - available NOW closes 11/8](https://downtownsanrafael.org/5k-grant/) - $5,000 Grants for Independent Restaurants The Restaurants Care Resilience Fund is launching its fall application cycle from October 25 - November 8. Restaurants are invited to apply for $5,000 to build resilience - technology upgrades, equipment upgrades, employee training/retention, and unforeseen hardship. Who is eligible to receive a grant for the Fall Cycle? Restaurants located in - [San Rafael Ranked #4 in the USA Arts Vibrancy Index](https://downtownsanrafael.org/san-rafael-ranked-4-arts/) - We are thrilled to announce that SMU Data Arts has officially ranked San Rafael as the #4 most vibrant arts community in the country for medium-sized communities! San Rafael is the heart of Marin County's vibrant arts community, and this recognition is a testament to the passion and creativity of our local arts organizations, artists, - [AGLOW - Youth In Arts Fundraiser Results](https://downtownsanrafael.org/aglow-fundraiser-results/) - AGLOW helped San Rafael students SHINE! Youth in Arts hosted their community-focused fundraiser on September 21; 5-9pm in downtown San Rafael. They rallied to raise nearly $40,000, to bolster creativity for the 3,100 TK-5th Grade students Youth in Arts serves in visual and performing arts education programs in San Rafael City Schools. The evening began - [Photos from the Beautification & Mulching our Intersections- Phase 2, September 8th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase2-photos/) - With the help from the DPW, the City of San Rafael, and the Volunteer of the Year, phase 2 of our BID Beautification effort took place on Friday, September 8th. Five volunteers got their hands dirty to weed and mulch the intersections between A Street and B Street to give our Downtown a little bit - [Mill Valley Film Festival Ticket Stub Deals](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mvff-ticket-stub-2023/) - Each year the festival welcomes more than 200 filmmakers, representing more than 50 countries. Screening sections include World Cinema; US Cinema; Valley of the Docs; Children's FilmFest; a daily shorts program; and Active Cinema, MVFF's activist films initiative. Festival guests also enjoy Tributes, Spotlights, and Galas throughout. Let's get those ticket holders & filmmakers INSIDE your - [Indigenous People’s Day - October 9th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/indigenous-peoples-day/) - The second Monday in October is celebrated across the country as Indigenous Peoples' Day. To mark this occasion, the San Rafael City Council will consider a proclamation to declare October 9th as Indigenous People's Day. The proclamation urges all residents and community members to reflect upon the ongoing struggles of Indigenous people in our City, - [Beautification & Mulching our Intersections- Phase 2, September 8th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase2/) - On Earth Day, the City of San Rafael, the BID, DPW, and a large handful of volunteers, joined efforts to remove graffiti, polish up parking meters, pulled spring weeds to beautify the intersections, and removed every little scrap of litter to help make Downtown match the beautiful merchants and other business owners who make San - [Pastel Drawing Class at the Falkirk Cultural Center](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pastel-class-falkirk/) - Pastel Drawing Class at the Falkirk Cultural Center! No experience necessary. Class takes place every Wednesday from 10am - 12pm. October 4 - October 25 (Registration code: 6656) Resident: $110 Non-Resident: $121 The class will be held outdoors weather permitting! If it is chilly, then it will be held inside ???? You can register at - [West End Wednesdays](https://downtownsanrafael.org/west-end-weds-news/) - The San Rafael West End Village presents: West End Wednesdays Deals and Discoveries! West End Wednesdays! West End Village, San Rafael from E' Street down to the Miracle Mile Junction. 20+ shops offer bargains every Wednesday through December 2023! Bikes and books, lunch and lashes, Pets and Camera gear! Appliances and clothing, Yarn and Yoga! No street - [Back-To-School Teacher Support Through September](https://downtownsanrafael.org/back-to-school-sept/) - It's that time of year and our San Rafael Teachers need our support! Join Salon B's Back-to-School campaign by participating in their "Teacher's Wishlist" initiative. Here's what you can do to make a BIG difference in their classrooms: Click the link below to view the teacher's wish lists. Drop off your awesome donation to Salon - [AGLOW - Youth In Arts Fundraiser](https://downtownsanrafael.org/aglow-fundraiser/) - AGLOW: Help Students Shine Thorough Arts Education Date: September 21, 2023 Time: 5:00pm to 9:00pm Location: Tam Commons 1300 4th St, San Rafael, CA 94901 Youth in Arts is taking over Tam Commons, and part of C Street for our fall fundraising event. AGLOW features delicious food, drinks, live and silent auction, games, and performances by Kid Galaga, `Til Dawn, - [Boyd Gate House - August Exhibit](https://downtownsanrafael.org/boyd-gate-august/) - [San Rafael Pacifics Hosting the Playoffs - August](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pacifics-playoffs/) - Pacifics Playoff Baseball Starts Monday Night at Albert Park The San Rafael Pacifics will host the Pecos League finals starting Wednesday or Thursday Night at Albert Park vs the Trinidad (Colorado) Triggers or the Tucson Saguaros! Be there! BUY TICKETS HERE - [Special Benefit Screening of 26.2 TO LIFE, Sept 22nd](https://downtownsanrafael.org/26-2-to-life/) - Uncommon Law is hosting a special benefit screening of 26.2 TO LIFE at the Smith Rafael Film Center on September 22nd. This award-winning documentary about the San Quentin 1000 Mile Club is set right in Marin, at San Quentin State Prison. The event will also feature a post-screening panel with formerly incarcerated members of the - [Groundfloor Opening Day, September 12th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/groundfloor-opening/) - It's official, Groundfloor San Rafael is opening its doors on Tuesday, September 12th! Groundfloor is an inclusive community of people from all walks of life looking to build meaningful relationships. Known to be the home of new friends, the space exists as a cure to social isolation, and our mission is to empower new relationships, face-to-face. Groundfloor members - [Beautification & Mulching our Intersections- Phase 2, September 8th, 10a-12n](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mulching-phase-2/) - On Earth Day, the City of San Rafael, the BID, DPW, and a large handful of volunteers, joined efforts to remove graffiti, polish up parking meters, pulled spring weeds to beautify the intersections, and removed every little scrap of litter to help make Downtown match the beautiful merchants and other business owners who make San - [San Rafael Green Business and Workforce Development Survey](https://downtownsanrafael.org/green-biz-survey/) - The City of San Rafael is designing an Equitable Low Carbon Economy Project. They would appreciate the input of representatives of local businesses, non-profits, education, workforce development, and government organizations through this 5-10 minute survey. (Si prefiere responder en español, siga este enlace.) Respondents will be entered into a raffle with 3 opportunities to win - [Upcoming Marin SBDC Trainings - September](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sept-sbdc/) - UPCOMING TRAININGS The SBDC provides virtual and in-person training and workshops designed for business development on various key topics. Did we mention these trainings are free? 9/7: SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY - OPTIMIZING YOUR EFFORTS 9/13: INSTAGRAM, THREADS & REELS 9/21: STORYTELLING MARKETING VIA IMAGE & VIDEO 9/28: DIGITAL MARKETING FUNDAMENTALS REGISTER HERE - [Gathering Thyme Herb School - Starts September 6th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/herb-school/) - From Sept 2023 - June 2024, Gathering Thyme is offering online & In-Person Classes at their Herb School program. The first class is Herbalism: Connecting Plants & People on September 6th. Learn the ancient and modern traditions of herbal medicine. This class is open to anyone with an interest in learning the craft of herbalism - [Mill Valley Film Festival - Sponsorship Opportunities](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mill-valley-film-festival-sponsorship/) - ???? Step into the Spotlight: Elevate Your Brand with MVFF46 Sponsorships! ???? Lights, camera, sponsorship! Embrace the extraordinary opportunity to shine alongside national, regional, and community businesses as a valued sponsor of the highly-acclaimed Mill Valley Film Festival. MVFF46 (Oct 5-15) is calling for partners like you to join forces in an unforgettable cinematic celebration. - [New Rooftop Dining Destination in San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/rooftop-dining/) - The ground-up development of the contemporary AC Hotel San Rafael by Marriott that's one block north of San Rafael's main Fourth Street corridor is now complete. Given that locals have little need for overnight accommodations, the real stir has been about the boutique hotel's Wednesday opening of Above Fifth, San Rafael's first rooftop dining destination, - [Public Relations Webinar, August 28 - FREE for BID Members](https://downtownsanrafael.org/public-relations-webinar/) - 5 Easy Steps To Getting Your Business Press Monday, August 28, 3 pm PT (Tickets available up to event start) Please join the San Rafael Downtown BID for an informative webinar about public relations with Sarah Segal, the founder, and CEO of Segal Communications. Sarah's team represents countless Bay Area businesses, including many in the - [Lower the Speed Limit on 4th Street?](https://downtownsanrafael.org/speed-limit-on-4th/) - Marin bicycling and pedestrian advocates are calling on San Rafael to slow traffic on the city's main drag. The speed limit is 25 mph on Fourth Street. Proponents said slowing motorists to 20 mph would greatly improve safety. The effort is being led by Walk/Bike San Rafael, a branch of the Marin County Bicycle Coalition. - [Sign Up to Participate in Aim's Dine Out Farmers Market Week](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dine-out-week/) - Join AIM for Dine Out Farmers Market Week, an exciting public initiative and fundraiser celebrating chefs and restaurants who champion our local farmers markets. This event, running from August 6-12, is also a drive to support AIM's Racial Equity Fund. Participating restaurants will be spotlighted on our website and social media platforms, inspiring food lovers - [The West End Block Party Proposed Dates](https://downtownsanrafael.org/july-sbdc-webinars-copy/) - In addition to the 2nd Fridays Dining Under the Lights block parties that take place throughout Downtown San Rafael, the West End will host their Friday Night Block Party from F to G Streets from 6 pm-10 pm (music will end at 9pm). A revised proposal for the WEBP has been presented to the City - [FREE WEBINARS IN JULY: Norcal SBDC & Port Labs Presents: Deep Dive- Present Your Product](https://downtownsanrafael.org/july-sbdc-webinars/) - Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is part of a 40-year national legacy committed to small business success. Register below. Session 1 (July 18): Product Identity - How To Present Your Product: Ideal Customer Profile, Branding, Messaging, PR Session 2 (July 20): Online Presence - Where To Present Your Product: Website, Kickstarter, Networking, Social Media Session 3 (July - [Happy 18th Anniversary Rebound Bookstore!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/rebound-18-anniversary/) - REBOUND BOOKSTORE CELEBRATING, 18 YEARS ON 4TH STREET! JULY, 2023 NEW IN THE STORE: UNIQUE COLLECTIONS: Tarot card decks! Russian books! Spanish books for children! KIDS BOOKS ON SCIENCE AND NATURE: Rocks and Minerals, Sea creatures, Pets, Stars and Planets, Insects and Bugs, Gardens and Plants A new "easy reader's" box with books-for-a-buck for small children HOURS: Mon-Sat, 11:00 5:00, 415-482-0550, Reboundbookstore@aol.com VISIT WEBSITE - [FREE & Informative Public Relations and Social Media Webinar with Sarah Segal](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pr-social-media-webinar/) - A PUBLIC RELATIONS AND SOCIAL MEDIA PRIMER Please join the San Rafael Downtown BID for a FREE and informative webinar about public relations and social media with Sarah Segal, the founder, and CEO of Segal Communications. Date and time TBD. Sarah's team represents countless Bay Area businesses, including many in the North Bay, such as - [Time To Shine! Belrose Summer Youth Theatre Program](https://downtownsanrafael.org/belrose-summer-workshop/) - Jun 26, 10:00 AM - Aug 02, 2:00 PM San Rafael, 1415 Fifth Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901, USA Dance, Voice and Acting for all kids 7-14! VISIT WEBSITE - [New Art Exhibition at Art Works Downtown: Landscape Perspectives June 2–July 22](https://downtownsanrafael.org/june-art-exhibit/) - Landscape Perspectives, June 2-July 22, 2023. Viewing hours: Thursday-Sundays, 1-8pm. Receptions and Art Walks: June 9 and July 14, 5-8pm. The exhibit, Landscape Perspectives, reimagines and celebrates traditional landscape-based artwork by offering a diverse collection of expressions, approaches, and interpretations. From realism to surrealism, to abstraction, and beyond; viewers will surely enjoy this multi-dimensional experience. - [City Approves 2-Year Agreement with San Rafael Chamber to Enhance BID Funding, Capacity Building & Management](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chamber-city-contract/) - At last Monday's City Council meeting, the Council approved entering into a 2-year agreement with the Chamber of Commerce, paying them $50K per year to create The BID Enhancement Program. The BID has been a leading organization in Downtown San Rafael since 1979, but the COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced the number of active businesses and - [CUP OF GOLD Coffee Shop Opens inside Autistry Studios](https://downtownsanrafael.org/cup-of-gold-opens/) - Autistry Studios in partnership with Double Rainbow Cafe announce the opening of their NEW COFFEE SHOP! "CUP OF GOLD" Opening Monday, June 5th 2023. Come for a Cup of Gold & Shop in our Makers Market. Mon to Fri, 8:30am-2pm ~ 850 4th St San Rafael - [Downtown San Rafael Hosting SUMMER Kickoff Elf Hunt! San Rafael School themed](https://downtownsanrafael.org/summer-elf-hunt/) - SCHOOL IS OUT FOR SUMMER! San Rafael Elves are enjoying the kickoff to Summer in our Downtown San Rafael Businesses. We are inviting our community to come to Downtown for a Summer Kickoff Scavenger Hunt for the whole month of June. The BID hosted a holiday Elf Hunt where over 250 families participated in the - [PREMIUM WORKSPACE PROVIDER AVANTSPACE OPENS NEW LOCATION IN DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL](https://downtownsanrafael.org/avantspace/) - AvantSpace, a premium network of high-tech, boutique coworking spaces, will open its second location in the San Francisco Bay Area- right here in Downtown San Rafael. The membership-based workspace offers a solution for local professionals who no longer want to work at home but are reluctant to return to long commutes and traditional office environments. - [Reviving a Local Tradition: Downtown San Rafael Summer Farmers Market Returns June 1st, 2023 - Ribbon Cutting at 5:30pm at the Plaza](https://downtownsanrafael.org/reviving-thursday-market/) - The Agricultural Institute of Marin (AIM) is delighted to declare the return of the much-anticipated San Rafael Summer Farmers Market on Thursday, June 1st, 2023 with a ceremonial ribbon cutting at 5:30 pm near the Court Street Plaza. The market will be open from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm on Fourth Street, nestled between Lootens - [AIM Accepting Applications for Racial Equity Fund](https://downtownsanrafael.org/aim-racial-equity/) - AIM is now accepting applications for our Racial Equity Fund at the downtown San Rafael Farmers Market. As part of our work to make markets more inclusive and accessible, we will be offering financial support to three Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Farmers, Food Producers, and Artisans getting their start at the farmers - [Belrose Theatre is producing its first theatrical production in ages!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/belrose-romeo/) - In honor of the great legacy of Margie Belrose, and all that she has passed on to her family and the community, Belrose Theater is excited to present its first show since her passing. Romeo & Juliet: Choose Your Own Ending is a fun and raucous retelling of the famous Shakespeare play where the audience - [Under the Stars: A Sleepout to End Homelessness in Marin, May 20](https://downtownsanrafael.org/under-the-stars/) - Join Ritter Center's 3rd Annual Under the Stars fundraiser on May 20, 2023! Two events. One Goal. Help End Homelessness. This year, there are two ways to help end homelessness. Like in previous years, you can team up and organize a sleepout with friends and family to fundraise for our programs to end homelessness. NEW THIS - [SAFE (Specialized Assistance for Everyone)](https://downtownsanrafael.org/safe-services/) - The City of San Rafael has partnered with Petaluma People Services Center to start a mobile mental health crisis response team. This team referred to as "SAFE" (Specialized Assistance For Everyone), went into service on March 29th, 2023. The SAFE team is modeled after the CAHOOTS (Crisis Assistance Helping Out On The Streets) program in - [Art Works Downtown Wine Tasting Fundraiser, May 20](https://downtownsanrafael.org/wine-fundraiser-art-works/) - Join Art Works Downtown for an elegant and educational evening of wine tasting to learn about the JCB Alchemy of the Senses wine series, led by Naomi Polite, a long-time Marin restauranteur. Donors will delight in five wine varietal types with light appetizers surrounded by artworks from the Delicious exhibition-juried by Julie Zener-in Art Works Downtown's - [Reusable Foodware Ordinance](https://downtownsanrafael.org/reusable-foodware/) - The City of San Rafael is considering adopting the County of Marin's Reusable Foodware Model Ordinance. The ordinance seeks to standardize waste management across all Marin County jurisdictions and require retail food vendors (restaurants, cafes, food trucks, grocery stores, etc.) to do the following: Require compliant compostable foodware for takeout for all food vendors. Require reusable - [Nominate your Favorite Downtown Business of the Year](https://downtownsanrafael.org/chamber-award-23/) - Nominate Your Favorite Business for a 2023 Business of the Year Award! Categories are as follows: Small Business of the Year (less than 25 employees) Large Business of the Year (25 employees or more) Joe Garbarino Small Green Business of the Year (less than 25 employees) Joe Garbarino Large Green Business of the Year (25 employees - [Pacific Sun's Best of Marin Readers Poll 2023](https://downtownsanrafael.org/best-of-marin-23/) - From now to May 17, 2023, tell Pacific Sun what you love most in Marin by voting for your favorites among a bevy of categories in such sections such as Arts & Culture, Beauty, Health & Wellness, Cannabis, Everyday, Family, Food & Drink, Beer, Wine & Spirits, Home Improvement, Fitness & Recreation, and Romance. Winners - [BE PART OF THE SOLUTION TO SAN RAFAEL’S SEA LEVEL RISE](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sea-level-rise/) - Global warming is changing our climate. It is predicted that if we don't act now parts of the Canal Neighborhood and downtown San Rafael will be prone to frequent floods in the near future. If you are starting to think about what can be done about flooding in your local area and are interested in - [Climate Action & Local Businesses](https://downtownsanrafael.org/climate-action/) - The City of San Rafael is developing a project to take climate action while enhancing our local economy. They'd like to hear your ideas about how local climate action efforts can have the greatest benefit on local businesses and the workforce. Please share your thoughts through this ~5 minute survey. Your ideas will support the - [Fast Signs 15% Discount for Downtown Businesses](https://downtownsanrafael.org/fast-signs/) - The BID Board President contacted Fast Signs in San Rafael and helped create a 15% discount for ALL Downtown San Rafael Businesses. The Downtown Businesses are listed HERE. Make sure your business is listed, if not, email us (info@SRBID.org). Let the marketing strategists, graphic experts and problem solvers at FASTSIGNS of San Rafael, CA solve - [1515 4th Street Apartments](https://downtownsanrafael.org/1515-fourth/) - 1515 Fourth Street Apartments 1515 Fourth Street is an apartment project in downtown San Rafael from local developer, Monahan Pacific. The project site is located at the former West America Bank site on Fourth Street between Shaver and E Street at the gateway to the West End. The mid-rise design includes 162 multifamily residential units - [Downtown San Rafael Farmers Market launches June 1](https://downtownsanrafael.org/farmers-market-june-1/) - The Downtown San Rafael Farmers Market Launches June 1st! Savor the summer farmers market! Come shop for seasonal produce and support small local businesses this Summer on Fourth Street. The Agricultural Institute of Marin (AIM) is re-launching the longstanding San Rafael Summer Farmers Market after a year off. Market dates: Thursday, June 1, 2023 - - [Welcoming Oliver’s Pizzeria](https://downtownsanrafael.org/olivers-pizzeria/) - Oliver's Pizzeria - Carefully crafted wood-fired pizza featuring hand-mixed dough, seasonal salads, beer, wine, and curated cocktails in an intimate setting. The exposed brick and second-story location make for a unique, speakeasy-style experience. Check out their dining room and bar located above Vin Antico. Available for private events. Come join us Wednesday to Saturday, 5pm - [Belrose Open Auditions: Romeo & Juliet](https://downtownsanrafael.org/belrose-auditions/) - The Belrose is seeking six actors of all ages, genders, and ethnicities for its May production of: Romeo and Juliet: Choose Your Own Ending, by Ann Fraistat and Shawn Fraistat, (and William Shakespeare) Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare's "star-crossed lovers", eternally doomed by fate -- or are they? In this play, indifferent fate is replaced by the audience, - [Pueblo Revolt at Art Works Downtown, February Shows](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pueblo-revolt/) - Pueblo Revolt By Dillon Chitto At Art Works Downtown 2/16, 17, 18, 7pm 2/19, 2pm 2/23, 2/24, 2/25, 7pm 2/26, 2pm Pueblo Revolt explores the Pueblo Uprising through the eyes of a gay Pueblo teen, Feem, and his older brother, Ba'homa. Equally hilarious and poignant, the play weaves together history and Indigifuturism to examine queerness, family, - [Red Rooster Brick Oven - Soft Opening](https://downtownsanrafael.org/red-rooster/) - Red Rooster is a couple-owned continental restaurant with Asian influences featuring a brick oven and open kitchen. With the support and guidance of Dario Da Rold, former restaurateur and 40-year resident of San Rafael, the restaurant is Italian-forward and approved. Located on the corner of 3rd Street and B Street, Red Rooster believes in putting - [San Rafael Institution Perry’s Deli reopens](https://downtownsanrafael.org/perrys-reopens/) - When the Schilling family decided it was time to step away from the century-old downtown Perry's Deli sandwich shop that patriarch Bob Schilling purchased in 1958, they approached Kaity and Roberto Galvez, owners of the four-year-old LJ's Deli in Terra Linda, about taking it over. After an extended renovation and refresh, Perry's Deli is now - [Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements](https://downtownsanrafael.org/second-and-fourth/) - Second Street/Fourth Street Intersection Project - 1/26/2023 Virtual Community Meeting The City of San Rafael invites you to attend a virtual community meeting on Thursday, January 26, 2023, at 7:00 PM (via Zoom) for the Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements project. City staff will be providing updates on the latest conceptual design and accepting - [Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements Project](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2nd-and-4th-intersection-project/) - Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements Project Description: The Second and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements Project is to redesign the corridor to improve pedestrians crossings, promote bicycle connectivity, maintain local transit navigability, and simplify vehicular movement. The City of San Rafael Department of Public Works team are working with consultants to perform outreach and redesign - [B Street Two-Way Conversion Improvements Project](https://downtownsanrafael.org/b-street-two-way/) - B Street Two-Way Conversion Project Timeline: Perform Outreach To Date Mail Notifications (January 2023) Federation of SR Neighborhoods Meeting (January 12, 2023) B Street Community Outreach Virtual Meeting (January 18, 2023) City Council Meeting (February 6, 2023) Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (February 8, 2023) San Rafael Chamber of Commerce (February 14, 2023) Site Walk - [Re-launching the Thursday Night Farmer's Market](https://downtownsanrafael.org/re-launching-farmers-market/) - The Agricultural Institute of Marin, in partnership with the City of San Rafael and the San Rafael Business Improvement District, are exploring the viability of re-launching the Downtown Seasonal San Rafael Farmers Market in the evening on 4th Street in its original location between A St and Lootens. They invite you to complete this short - [Doughnut & Beer Pairing at Pond Farm Brewing Co on February 12th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/donut-and-beer-2023/) - Event title: Doughnut & Beer Pairing at Pond Farm Brewing Co. Event address: 1848 4th St, San Rafael, CA 94901 Time/Date: 11 AM - 3 PM , February 12, 2023 Description: Are you ready to elevate your taste buds? Join us for a one-day beer and doughnut pairing event, brought to you by the collaboration - [Time to Vote for the San Rafael Businesses of the Year Award!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/business-of-the-year-2023/) - Please join the San Rafael Chamber in celebrating our members by submitting nominations for the 2023 Business of the Year Awards. Categories are as follows: Small Business of the Year (less than 25 employees) Large Business of the Year (25 employees or more) Joe Garbarino Small Green Business of the Year (less than 25 employees) Joe - [Grow Your Sales with Online Tips - Marin SBDC Workshops](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sbdc-free-workshops-2023/) - Marin SBDC brought back some popular workshops and created some new ones. Testimonials from participants say the tips shared in these workshops helped them grow followers, find new customers, increase sales, get better search results, target specific customers and find new avenues for revenues. Take advantage of these no-cost workshops now: SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY: - [Social Media Strategy Webinar February 15th – Optimizing Your Efforts](https://downtownsanrafael.org/social-media-strategy/) - One of the biggest social media challenge for small business owners is time. The webinar will cover how to build a social media strategy and content calendar to optimize your digital marketing efforts and streamline the time it takes to execute your strategy. It will include how to best use keywords, captions and hashtags to - [Christmas Window Art Scavenger Hunt](https://downtownsanrafael.org/christmas-window-art/) - The holidays are a magical time for Devlin Espeleta. It's when the hand lettering and mural artist gets to display his hundreds of drum-themed ornaments on garlands around his San Rafael house and create imaginative window art - from joyful snowmen to vibrant candy canes - for Marin businesses and beyond for the holidays. This - [SING OUT! CONCERT RAISES MONEY FOR DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL NON-PROFIT](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sing-out/) - SAN RAFAEL, CA - `Til Dawn, Youth In Arts' award-winning teen a cappella ensemble, is back with its annual SING OUT! concert to raise money for its scholarship fund. The longest-running, year-round teen ensemble in the Bay Area has been going strong for 27 years. This is a night not to be missed! BUY TICKETS - [New Year's Eve at Bogie's Too](https://downtownsanrafael.org/new-years-bogies-too/) - [Improv Royale on Saturday, Feb. 4th at 7pm](https://downtownsanrafael.org/improve-feb-4/) - Improv we're willing to bet on. This is improv plus poker. Come watch improvisers try to play their way to the final table, win and take all. Many of these performers are deep in debt. This is their chance to hit it big gambling with pretend money. $15 on Eventbrite, $20 at the door. Limited - [Open Mic Night at the Belrose - Every Thursday](https://downtownsanrafael.org/open-mic-belrose/) - It's a new year, and that means new experiences! Despite a soggy and dreary start to the year, we all need the space to explore those resolutions. The Belrose Open Mic can offer you that space to show off your talents every Thursday night. All Ages and All Talents are welcome! Contact The Belrose with - [Inclusivity Project: Upcoming Workshops to support Black and African American Entrepreneurs](https://downtownsanrafael.org/inclusivity-project-workshops/) - Our SBDC network has received funding from Wells Fargo to support Black and African American Entrepreneurs. They have brought on new team members to support these entrepreneurs and will be rolling out training programs as well as providing additional advising support. Below are some upcoming events to spread in the community and attached is a - [Pink Owl & January's Pac Sun Cover Story](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pink-owl-pacsun-story/) - Pacific Sun Weekly's January 11th Cover Story featured a story about Pink Owl: Spreading Their Wings, From cancer to caffeine, Pink Owl thrives. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE - [Marin Magazine "Pandemic Pivots" Article Highlights Downtown Local Yoga Businesses](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pandemic-pivot/) - Marin Magazine highlighted two Downtown San Rafael Business Owners in their recent story: Pandemic Pivots: Local Business Owners on How They Adapted to Covid-19 Challenges. If the past few years have taught us anything, it's to always expect the unexpected. For Marin businesses, the Covid-19 lockdown presented a remarkably difficult challenge. With yoga studios no - [Welcoming New BID Board President, Terrance!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/new-board-president/) - The BID is excited to welcome Terrance Thornton as its new President. Terrance joined the BID's board of directors in 2020 as a way to stay connected to Downtown and the community he serves while his business was closed during the pandemic. Terrance is the owner of San Rafael Martial Arts, founded in 2011. San - [BID Annual Assessment, Dec 7th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bid-annual-assessment/) - Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) Business Assessment Annual Renewal Resolution Confirming the 2022 Annual Report for the Downtown Business Improvement District and Levy of Assessments for Calendar Year 2023 (ED) Recommended Action - Adopt Resolution AGENDA SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL - MONDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2022 REGULAR MEETING AT 7:00 P.M. READ STAFF REPORT In-Person: San - [Meet Tom Harrison, Tireless Volunteer Tackling Litter & Graffiti in Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/tackling-graffiti/) - Take a stroll in downtown San Rafael and you're bound to spot volunteer Tom Harrison quietly tackling eyesores that many people walk right by: litter and graffiti. Tom has been volunteering with the City since 2015, and over the years he's consistently helped with litter abatement in various neighborhoods. Last summer, he began a new - [North Bay Business Article](https://downtownsanrafael.org/lost-business-article/) - How lost business is pushing this Marin County downtown to find a new path forward Michael Freed, chef and owner of Bogie's Too in downtown San Rafael, no longer counts on sales from the workforce that used to drive his breakfast and lunch business during the week. He can't afford to. In a post-pandemic world, - [SF Chronicle Article For Shop Small](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sf-chron-article-shop-small/) - Bay Area lights up for the holidays: 'You can't Amazon Prime a festival' A band of grade schoolers with glittering Santa Claus hats and electric guitars commanded the crowd Saturday that descended on Fourth Street in San Rafael. Businesses had flung open their doors to shoppers and children on a city-run scavenger hunt for the - [ABC 7 News Video For Shop Small Saturday](https://downtownsanrafael.org/abc-7-video-shop-small/) - 'We're still here': San Rafael merchants go big for Small Business Saturday SAN RAFAEL, Calif. (KGO) -- Several cities in the North Bay were making a big pitch for Small Business Saturday, a day to shop local for the holidays and support local businesses. One community even made it snow. A winter wonderland was brought to - [Grand Opening & Welcome Sweetly Cali Desserts!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/cali-sweetly-grand-opening/) - We'd like to welcome Sweetly Cali Desserts to our Downtown District! Sweetly Cali is a woman-owned start-up dessert company and plans to have a long-term presence in the Bay Area market. They focus on simplicity, good quality ingredients, and flavors while providing healthy alternative desserts for everyone to enjoy. They provide catering and you can - [Parking Meter Citation Rate Increase](https://downtownsanrafael.org/meter-citation-rate-increase/) - The City of San Rafael Parking Services is proposing that several citation rates be raised as part of the master fee schedule update. Citations for expired meters, red zones, abandoned vehicles and several others are recommended for increase. The current expired meter is $35, and a possible increase discussed would be $40. Other cities in - [San Rafael Economic Development Strategic Plan - Business Survey](https://downtownsanrafael.org/edsp-survey/) - The City of San Rafael has embarked on a collaboration for an Economic Development Strategic Plan. Economic Recovery is the Council's #1 priority and the City is interested in hearing from you, the business community, about what you think are the most important issues. The survey on the following pages provides local businesses an opportunity - [Shop Local Saturday • November 26, 2022](https://downtownsanrafael.org/shop-local-saturday/) - Shop Local Saturday provides us an opportunity to honor and celebrate the hardworking folks that are creating jobs, fueling the economy, enriching our lives, supporting local organizations and preserving our unique culture in San Rafael. By shopping local and small, and by using local services, the majority of your money stays within our own community. - [Comedy Show at Thai Food Express on November 9th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/comedy-at-thai/) - Come down to Thai Food Express, 857 Fourth Street, on Wednesday, November 9th for a night of laughs! The FREE comedy show starts at 7 pm and will Mean Dave will be the headliner. Comedians Nina G & Alexia will also make you laugh the night away! See you there! Visit the website for more - [Wellness Event at Metta Yoga on November 10th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/wellness-event-at-metta-yoga/) - The San Rafael Chamber of Commerce Health and Wellness Resource Group invites you to join a Free Wellness Event! Come and enjoy an hour of functional movement with F45, yoga with Metta Yoga and meditation with Dr Linda Berry, followed by an open hour of socializing and getting to know each other. The class will - [1st Saturday of the Month Herbal Pop Up Events at Gathering Thyme](https://downtownsanrafael.org/herbal-pop-up/) - HERBAL POP-UP LOCATION: Our herb store at 1332 4th St, San Rafael, CA 94901 from 11-4pm Come check out our local artisans and healers, sip herbal tea and browse our curated selection of goods. Enter our raffle to win an assortment of our custom-blended teas and a beautiful glass teapot along with our new recycled - [2022 Slurry Seal Project In Downtown San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/slurry-seal-project/) - The Department of Public Works is planning a slurry seal project from Sunday, October 9th to Sunday, October 16th. Affected roads will be closed between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Parking will not be possible on the treatment day, but one-way traffic will be accommodated on most roads. These phases will focus on the Canal - [City of San Rafael Seeking Partners for Interim Housing](https://downtownsanrafael.org/seeking-interim-housing/) - Greetings, The City of San Rafael is seeking partners to collaborate on interim housing in an ongoing effort to respond to the homelessness crisis in Marin County. The City is requesting information from property owners, managers, developers, faith-based organizations, or social service providers who are interested in partnering with the City of San Rafael on - [BID Partnership with Embassy Suites in San Rafael to Generate Foot Traffic in Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/public-hearing-notice-streetaries-copy/) - The BID recently connected with the Embassy Suites Front Office Manager to discuss ways to generate more traffic for our local businesses and events in Downtown San Rafael by the guests that stay at their property. The ideas set in motion are: Adding a QR code that links to our Downtown Events Page to their - [Luminous- A Fine Art Exhibition as the Marin Society of Artists- Reception September 9th!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/luminous-art-exhibition/) - Luminous: A Fine Art Exhibition Featuring artwork from the Marin Society of Artists & the Marin County Watercolor Society. September 2 - September 24 Thursday - Sunday 12noon - 4pm RECEPTION: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 - 5pm to 7pm 1515 3rd Street, Corner of E, San Rafael - [FREE ALL LEVELS FLOW YOGA CLASS AT METTA YOGA, Thursday, September 8th!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/free-yoga-thursday/) - FREE ALL LEVELS FLOW WITH DENISHA BREKKE + JUICE, WINE AND BITES AT SAN RAFAEL THURSDAYS Thursday, September 8, 2022 6:00 PM 7:00 PM Metta Yoga San Rafael, 835 4th Street, Suite BSan Rafael Join Metta Yoga at San Rafael Thursdays - Dining Under the Lights for a FREE All Levels Yoga flow class with Denisha - [Back to School Block Party, Thursday August 25th!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/back-to-school/) - Back to School Family Block Party! Thursday, August 25th, 6pm-9pm Fourth Street from Cijos to Lincoln Music Food, Entertainment, Local Vendors, Games and more! Email Salon B for more info: salonbsanrafael@gmail.com Salon B 4th Annual Back to School Fundraiser! Bring in supplies for a chance to win a basket of local goodies! Thursday-Saturday 11a-5p - [Espin Electric Bikes Grand Opening, August 16th!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/espin-electric-bikes/) - A HUGE Welcome to Espin Electric Bikes, located at 1447 4th Street, Ste B. Their Grand Opening will be August 16th-20th, open 11am-6pm. Espin Electric Bikes is committed to bringing accessibility, sustainability, and fun to your morning commute, weekend adventures, daily errands, and more! Our comfortable, easy-to-mount step-through frames ensure a smooth, safe ride no - [City of San Rafael Offering Trespass Letter to Help Businesses with Unlawful Lodging](https://downtownsanrafael.org/tresspass-letter/) - The City of San Rafael currently offers business owners the opportunity to complete a Trespass Letter to help with individuals that may be unlawfully lodging on your property. The City of San Rafael and its homelessness team understands that this is a sensitive topic and by doing this it allows trained professionals the opportunity to - [Trick or Treat on 4th Street](https://downtownsanrafael.org/trick-or-treat-halloween/) - Downtown San Rafael & West End Village Trick or Treat Saturday, October 29, 2022 Please bring your own bag. Enjoy a family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween! Fourth Street merchants will be welcoming kids and families on Saturday October 29th from 1p-3p. Dress up, bring a bag and get ready for some treats! (or tricks) Photos - [Folk Art Gallery Retiring after 35 years!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/folk-art-gallery-retiring/) - From Sharon Christovich, the owner of Folk Art Gallery. "After 35 years in business in Marin County, the time has come to close our colorful storefront in San Rafael and move completely online to www.theFolkArtGallery.com and to our new Instagram Shop @thefolkartgallery at the end of August 2022. As a special thank you to you, our longtime friends - [Girl's Night Out at Pleasures of the Heart, Wednesday, July 23rd!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/girls-night-out/) - Grab your bestie, sister, or neighbor or come alone and join us for a fun night on Wednesday, July 27th at 6:30 pm! Limited seating to 15 people to provide a more private evening. $10 fee per person. Email or call at (415)482-9899 to reserve your spot. This is a women-only event. They will provide 1 glass - [Belrose's 60th Anniversary Celebration! July 31st](https://downtownsanrafael.org/belrose-60th-anniversary/) - "It will be 60 years ago this July 4th at 10 am that the dreams for "The Belrose" began for it was that very moment that our mom and dad entered their new "church building" and our mom said, "David, we're about to own a theatre, now what are we going to do?" and the rest - [First Federal Savings & Loan of San Rafael Has Moved!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/first-federal-moved/) - First Federal Savings & Loan opened for business on Fourth Street in San Rafael nearly 60 years ago. In 1987, the First Federal headquarters moved to 1030 Third Street in San Rafael and our administrative functions remain there today. In July of 2022, we relocated the San Rafael branch to 998 Fourth Street. There are - [Happy Birthday Rebound Bookstore!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/happy-birthday-rebound/) - The Rebound Bookstore invites you… to celebrate our birthday! 17 amazing years of firing up your imagination! Thurs. July 7th, Fri. July 8th, Sat July 9th BUY 3 BOOKS, GET ONE FREE! 11:00-5:00 --Hepa-filter in operation-- (Masks are appreciated) - [Downtown San Rafael Hops and Vines Stroll](https://downtownsanrafael.org/annual-downtown-san-rafael-hops-and-vines-stroll/) - Saturday, September 10, 2022 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Downtown San Rafael, CA The Annual Downtown San Rafael Hops & Vines Stroll will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2022, from 2 pm to 6 pm. Celebrating the craft beer and premium wine scene in Marin, the festive tasting event will take place along - [Downtown San Rafael Loves @LifeInSanRafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/3692-2/) - We found @LifeInSanRafael on Instagram. Their photos and stories beautifully focused on how to Play Local, Eat Local, and Shop Local in Downtown San Rafael. But who are they? Who is behind these magnificent and frequent posts that showcase the color and desire that make San Rafael the best City in Marin? Follow them on - [Mandatory Recycling and Organics Law for our Businesses](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mandatory-recycling-and-organics-law-for-our-businesses/) - Starting January 2022, all California businesses will be required to compost organic waste properly. The law aims to reduce harmful methane emissions from landfills that contribute to climate change and global warming. Please visit Cal Recycle's website for more information on the new law. How do I comply? NOTE: if you received a Courtesy Notice of Violation - [Fundraiser for Royal Ground, Thursday, June 30th!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/fundraiser-royal-ground/) - What: Fundraiser for Royal Ground When: Thursday June 30 from 6pm to 10pm Where: Libation Taproom & Bottle Shop - outside on B Street between 3rd & 4th Why: Libation will be graciously donating the proceeds of the sale of the beer served on-street at the event - huge props to Ryan at Libation! Here are some - [New ABC Law in effect July 1, 2022](https://downtownsanrafael.org/new-abc-law-in-effect-july-1-2022/) - A new law, California Assembly Bill 1221(AB 1221), also know as the Responsible Beverage Service Training Act, will mandate that any on-premise alcohol server and manager must have a valid RBS certification from an ABC accredited RBS training provider & pass an online ABC administered RBS exam within 60 calendar days from the first date - [Discover Properties Available for Lease in our Awesome Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/discover-properties-available-for-lease-in-our-awesome-downtown/) - Are you looking for commercial spaces in Downtown San Rafael? LoopNet has you covered! You can search sale or lease listings by type (retail, office, industrial), or don't select type to get everything, and you can set your location area. We've simplified the process for you, so click the link below and discover the new - [Overhead Criss Cross Tivoli Lights On 4th Street](https://downtownsanrafael.org/overhead-criss-cross-tivoli-lights-coming-to-4th-street/) - Downtown Lighting 2020 Checkout our bright new permanent light installation Downtown. Fun facts: The Fourth Street corridor contains more than a mile of light at about 5,400+/- linear feet and the lights are 2 feet apart so there are more than 2,700 lights! The twinkle tree lights served us well for many years. They were - [Downtown San Rafael Bike Racks](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-san-rafael-bike-racks/) - We recently installed more bike racks throughout downtown San Rafael. Before you head out or when you get to downtown, use this map of bike racks to find a place to lock your wheels up! - [Free COVID Vaccination Clinic at DUTL](https://downtownsanrafael.org/free-covid-vaccination-clinic-at-dutl/) - Thursdays from 4:15-7:30pm until September 17th at 4th & A Streets downtown. - [Searchlight Lending Open House, April 28th](https://downtownsanrafael.org/searchlight-lending-open-house/) - From Searchlight Lending: Hello colleagues, associates, partners, friends, neighbors, and everyone in between! We are hosting an open house on April 28th and "let's hope covid is over", back to the 'ol times of in person drinks, food, and discussion! Please RSVP by emailing: info@searchlightlending.com *Please note, we kindly ask that you are vaccinated or - [May Madness Car Show and Parade, THIS Saturday!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/may-madness-car-show-and-parade-this-saturday/) - May Madness is BACK and ready to roll this Saturday! The 32nd Annual May Madness Car Show & Parade will be held on Saturday, May 7th, 2022, from Noon to 6pm with the Parade at 5pm. The event is on Fourth Street from Lincoln Ave to D Street. The parade will begin on A Street, - [Dine Under the Lights in Downtown San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dine-under-the-lights-in-downtown-san-rafael/) - Click Image below for Entertainment Scehdule Thursdays 6-10 pm starting May 26th & both Thursday & Friday in the West End The Dining Under the Lights program is returning! It will run every Thursday in Downtown and the West end with an extra Friday night block party in the West End, weather permitting. Thanks to - [Terri Abelar of San Rafael’s Aging Solutions wins Latino Business Leadership Award](https://downtownsanrafael.org/terri-abelar-of-san-rafaels-aging-solutions-wins-latino-business-leadership-award/) - For the second year, the Business Journal has selected those in the Latino business community who are making difference and honored them with one of the Latino Business Leadership Awards, and Terri Abelar's exemplary work within the Marin Latino community has earned her a well deserved place on this year's winner's list. read more > - [McRoskey Mattress Co. Opening Pop Up Store in Downtown San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mcroskey-mattress-co-opening-pop-up-store-in-downtown-san-rafael/) - The San Francisco-based mattress maker and retailer is opening a pop up showroom this November. The store will open on 4th Street Saturday, Nov. 4, and will operate through February. Opening weekend will feature a 'Breakfast in Bed' celebration at which customers can enjoy local pastries and beverages while trying the beds, all in the - [Summer Sidewalk Sale - August](https://downtownsanrafael.org/summer-sidewalk-sale-saturday-august/) - Mark your calendars to participate in our great summer savings event on Saturday, August TBD! Join us for entertainment, food and lively shopping from 10am to 6pm. The fun will stretch from downtown 4th Street to the West End Village. More than 60 merchants and restaurants are gearing up to offer special items, entertainment and - [Summer Sidewalk Sale - August](https://downtownsanrafael.org/summer-sidewalk-sale-sat-august/) - Mark your calendars to participate in our great summer savings event on Saturday, August 24, 11-5pm! Join us for discounts, sales, demos, special events, food and lively shopping. The fun will stretch from downtown 4th Street to the West End Village. Downtown businesses will offer sales and discounts, special items, entertainment and an opportunity to - [Pond Farm to Host SF Beer Week's Kick Off Party, Friday, February 11th!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/reason-to-rejoice-sf-beer-week-returns-feb-11-20/) - SF Beer Week is back February 11-20 to celebrate independent craft beers and those who brew them. Events, activities and at-home offerings await from dozens of bars, restaurants and breweries, including members of the Bay Area Brewers Guild, producer of this much-loved tradition. New in 2022, too, are five opening night festivities that spotlight the five - [Sparkle & Cheer](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sparkle-cheer/) - Sparkle & Cheer - Friday, December 9, 2022 Vote for your favorite sparkly holiday window display and win awesome prizes! Downtown San Rafael businesses will be providing free hot cocoa or apple cider while shoppers enjoy discounts, deals, and demos. There will also be live music and lots of art exhibits at the 2nd Friday Art Walk - [POSTPONED: May Madness Car Show and Parade](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2020-may-madness-postponed/) - The 32st Annual Greg Borrelli May Madness, the longest running Car Show and Parade in Northern California was scheduled for Saturday, May 9, from Noon-6 PM in Downtown San Rafael this year. It will be held later in the year, and if you have already registered, your registration will still be valid for the new - [West End Village Celebration: November 2022](https://downtownsanrafael.org/west-end-village-celebration/) - "Family Fun Day" West End Celebration Starting at H Street and stretching east three blocks, San Rafael's West End Village will again be the destination for local families and friends to enjoy the West End Village Celebration (WEVC). For the 11th year, community spirit, kid's arts and crafts activities (in partnership with several local non-profit organizations), - [San Rafael Summer Market is Here](https://downtownsanrafael.org/san-rafael-summer-market-is-here/) - Dear San Rafael Colleagues and Friends: Some good news to share with you... the San Rafael Summer Market is Here! Savor the Summer Farmers Market with farm-fresh produce, honey, wine, baked goods, flowers, cured meats, jams, pastas, handmade crafts, and community. We're excited to welcome back an exciting range of 40+ new and returning farmers - [Classic Car Cruise Night Saturday, August 28, 2021](https://downtownsanrafael.org/classic-car-cruise-night-saturday-august-28-2021/) - Classic Car Cruise Night Sat. Aug. 28 at 6 PM in Downtown San Rafael on 4th Street. Come view the Saturday night Rock & Rollin' Car Cruise and grab a bite while you're Downtown to support local! The cruise replaces May Madness again this year brought to you by the Downtown BID (Business Improvement District.) - [Copperfields Books New San Rafael Location](https://downtownsanrafael.org/copperfields-books-new-san-rafael-location/) - [Shop San Rafael Proclamation](https://downtownsanrafael.org/shop-san-rafael-proclamation/) - Thanks to the San Rafael City Council for this recognition given in November 2019. City of San Rafael Proclamation supporting Shop San Rafael WHEREAS, Local businesses are the City’s economic engines that make up an essentialpart of the economic health of the City of San Rafael, and contributes to avibrant and active street life in - [Meet Your Neighbors: Rebound Bookstore](https://downtownsanrafael.org/meet-your-neighbors-rebound-bookstore/) - 1611 4th Street, West End Village, San Rafael Who are your customers? We have walk-in neighbors and tourists from around the world and the Bay Area. Many people look for book shops when they travel and locals consider a book shop a mainstay. Saturday morning the store is usually filled with families from the neighborhood with their kids. It looks like a daycare center... - [Meet Your Neighbor: Salon B](https://downtownsanrafael.org/meet-your-neighbor-salon-b/) - 886 4th Street, San Rafael Owners: Bishlam and Amy Bullock What's the hardest lesson you learned in starting a business? To not run my business all the time. It’s hard to take my hands off the wheel sometimes, and let it evolve the way it wants to. The business will tell you what it needs... - [Meet Your Neighbor: Friends Books](https://downtownsanrafael.org/meet-your-neighbor-friends-books/) - How long has the bookstore existed? We’re going into our 12th year. The same group of people who work at the store now were the ones who started out years ago, doing sales on the library lawn and in the library meeting room. What is the purpose of the store? We support library programs. After - [Postponed: Clean & Green Day 2020](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-clean-up-day/) - The date for the next Downtown San Rafael Clean and Green Day is TBD 9:00am to Noon Volunteers will pick up litter, sweep, and clean parking meters on 4th Street and corners from the SMART tracks to the Pond Farm Brewing Co. The Business Improvement District (BID) and San Rafael Clean Coalition are hosting this event. BID will have booths at two - [](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2494-2/) - [Yet Wah](https://downtownsanrafael.org/yet-wah/) - Pickup and delivery 7 days Tues - Sat Midnight Call (415) 460-9883 or yetwahsanrafael.com Follow on Facebook | Yelp - [Whipper Snapper](https://downtownsanrafael.org/whipper-snapper/) - Curbside takeout orders, 5-8 pm Tuesday-Sunday Call 415-258-1818 or visit whipsnap.biz Follow on Facebook | Yelp - [Vin Antico](https://downtownsanrafael.org/vin-antico/) - Hours: Weds-Sat, 4:30-7:30pm Call 415-721-0600 or vinantico.com Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [Uncle Wing’s](https://downtownsanrafael.org/uncle-wings/) - Pickup & Delivery Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-3:30pm & 4:30-9:30pm Sun 4-9:30 Call 415-459-2212 or online: unclewings.com Follow on Yelp - [Uchiwa Ramen](https://downtownsanrafael.org/uchiwa-ramen/) - Delivery via: Dine-In Marin, Caviar, DoorDash, UberEats, GrubHub Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-1:30pm, 5:30pm-8pm Call (415) 524-2727 or uchiwaramen.com Follow on Facebook | Yelp - [Theresa and Johnnys](https://downtownsanrafael.org/theresa-and-johnnys/) - Pickup curbside comfort food, Hours: 8am-3pm daily Call 415-259-0182 or order online: theresajohnnys.com Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [The Kitchen Table](https://downtownsanrafael.org/the-kitchen-table/) - Hours: Tuesday Saturday 5-8pm Call 415-521-5568 or order online thekitchentablesr.com Follow on Facebook| Yelp - [Tenkyu Sushi Restaurant](https://downtownsanrafael.org/tenkyu-sushi-restaurant/) - Call 415-460-0207 or order online tenkyu.netwaiter.com Follow on Facebook | Yelp - [Sushi To Dai For](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sushi-to-dai-for/) - Hours: Mon-Sat 12-3pm 4:30-8pm 15% off pickup orders Call 415-721-0392 or sushitodaiforsr.com Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [Sol Food](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sol-food/) - Pick up & delivery 7 days, 8AM – 9PM Call (415) 451-4765 or order online: solfoodrestaurant.com Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [Shiro Kuma Sushi](https://downtownsanrafael.org/shiro-kuma-sushi/) - Order online: sushishirokuma.com M-Sun 10% discount Delivery by UberEats, GrubHub or DoorDash Follow on Facebook | Yelp - [Revel and Roost](https://downtownsanrafael.org/revel-and-roost/) - Takeout or Delivery Wed – Sun 12PM to 8PM Call 415-870-9946, online revelroostkitchen.com or walk in using our ordering Kiosk. Curbside delivery is available Now with pantry items also. Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [Pond Farm Brewing](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pond-farm-brewing/) - Order to-go beer and merch online pondfarmbrewing.com Pick up 2-7pm Wed - Sun. Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter - [Pink Owl Coffee](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pink-owl-coffee/) - Open for curbside or delivery everyday 7am -5pm Call: 415-870-9934 or Grubhub delivery, pinkowlcoffee.com Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [Perry's Deli](https://downtownsanrafael.org/perrys-deli/) - 415-456-4886 - [Original Buffalo Wings](https://downtownsanrafael.org/original-buffalo-wings/) - Pickup and delivery 1-9pm GrubHub Call 415- 258-9202 or order online: originalbuffalowingssanrafael.com - [My Thai Restaurant](https://downtownsanrafael.org/my-thai-restaurant/) - Take out: call 415-456-4455 or order online: MyThai.com Call ahead to pick up at the door. 0$ delivery fee available thru UberEats (taxes and service fee still apply). Follow on Facebook | Twitter | Yelp - [Moonlight Deli](https://downtownsanrafael.org/moonlight-deli/) - Free Delivery of Hot & Cold Sandwiches Hours: M-F 5:30am-4-pm, Sat 6:30am-3-pm Call: 415-459-2835 or text: 415-261-2913 Giving free bagged lunches to first responders. Please donate! Follow on Facebook | Yelp - [Magnolia Kitchen](https://downtownsanrafael.org/magnolia-kitchen/) - Call 415-521-5591 or order online magnoliaparkkitchen.com Delivery thru Doordash. Follow on Facebook | Twitter | Yelp - [Lotus Cuisine of India](https://downtownsanrafael.org/lotus-cuisine-of-india/) - Take out orders call (415) 456-5808 or online LotusRestaurant.com Yes, we'll bring your order to the car if you call ahead. Delivery available thru DineinMarin.com Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Yelp - [Los Moles Hecho En Casa](https://downtownsanrafael.org/los-moles-hecho-en-casa/) - Pick up & delivery. Hours: 7 days from 11am-8pm Call 415 453 5850 or online: losmoles.com/san-rafael Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [Libation Taproom & Bottle Shop](https://downtownsanrafael.org/libation-taproom-bottle-shop/) - Pickup Hours: Friday 3-7pm, Sat/ Sun 1-5pm. Shop online at libationmarin.com Follow on Instagram | Yelp - [Le Comptoir](https://downtownsanrafael.org/le-comptoir/) - Curbside pick-up. Take-Out Menu & Epicerie Shop are Open 11am-6pm Call 415-454-5454 or LeComptoirSR.com Follow on Facebook | Yelp - [LaVier Latin Fusion](https://downtownsanrafael.org/lavier-latin-fusion/) - Open for pickup 11-6 pm 7 days Phone in order: 415 295-7990 & doordash.com, ubereats.com Follow on Facebook| Yelp - [Julie’s Hummus Bar & Grill](https://downtownsanrafael.org/julies-hummus-bar-grill/) - Hours: Mon-Sat 11-9pm Call 415-755-4818 or website: julieshummusbar.com Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [Extreme Pizza](https://downtownsanrafael.org/extreme-pizza/) - Pickup & delivery 7 days Call 415-454-6111 or order online: extremepizza.com - [Krumbs Cakes](https://downtownsanrafael.org/krumbs-cakes/) - Open for curbside pick up Weds & Sat 10am to 1pm 24 hour notice, please call (415) 320-2400 or email christian@krumbscakes.com, Delivery option available as well. krumbscakes.com Follow on Facebook | Yelp - [Johnny Doughnuts](https://downtownsanrafael.org/johnny-doughnuts/) - Curbside pickup & deliveries daily 8am-2pm Call 415-450-1866 or visit johnny-doughnuts-2.square.site Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter - [El Perol](https://downtownsanrafael.org/el-perol/) - To go orders. Website: elperolrestaurant.com/menu Hours: M closed, T-F Noon-2 & 5-7pm, Sat & Sun 1-5pm, (415) 295-7980, email: elperolorderstogo@gmail.com Also on Doordash or Caviar. - [Double Rainbow](https://downtownsanrafael.org/double-rainbow/) - Open for curbside or delivery. Call (415) 457-0803, Website: doublerainbowcafe.com Double Rainbow Cafe Hours: 11am-10pm Sun-Th & 11am-12am Sat & Sun - [Crepevine](https://downtownsanrafael.org/crepevine/) - Open daily for take out from 10am-4pm Delivery through Caviar , Uber eats , Doordash & Grubhub Phone: (415) 257-8822 or crepevine.com/locations/san-rafael - [Cold Stone Creamery](https://downtownsanrafael.org/cold-stone-creamery/) - Delivery of online orders only through Doordash, Uber Eats, Cold Stone Creamery App and Website. Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter - [Bordenave’s Bakery](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bordenaves-bakery/) - Pickup cash only Website: bordenavesbakery.com - [Bogie’s Too](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bogies-too/) - Sat & Sun take out menu at: Bogie's Too Cafe Call 415-492-1530 Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [Bombay Grill](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bombay-grill/) - Call 415-455-0444 or order online bombaygrillsanrafael.com Follow on Facebook | Twitter | Yelp - [Bella Luxe Catering](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bella-luxe-catering/) - Curbside Pick-up, Wednesday -Sunday 4-7 pm, Check weekly menu on FB & Instagram @bellaluxelisa or text for menu Call or text order (415) 378-4581 or email bellaluxelisa@gmail.com - [Bay Thai Cuisine](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bay-thai-cuisine/) - Takeout. Call 415-458-8845 Menu on Website: baythaimenu.com Open 7 days 11am-9:30pm - [Bangkok Thai Express](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bangkok-thai-express/) - Pad Thai meal kit - buy and cook at home. $20 Pad Thai chicken or Pad Thai vegetarian, $25 Pad Thai with Prawns. Serves 2 to 3 people. Call or text 415-302-9877. Order before 5 pm on Thursday the 7th for delivery Friday, May 8th, between 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. - [Arizmendi Bakery & Pizzeria](https://downtownsanrafael.org/arizmendi-bakery-pizzeria/) - Pre-order on website: arizmendi-sanrafael.com Call 415-456-4093 Open: Thursday-Saturday, 10am-2pm Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp - [Amici's East Coast Pizzeria](https://downtownsanrafael.org/amicis-east-coast-pizzeria/) - Curbside Pickup or Delivery Call 415-455-9777 or online at amicis.com Open: 7 days: 11am-9pm Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter - [2019 Annual Meeting/Report](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2019-annual-meeting-report/) - Download 2019 BID Annual Report - [Our BID MVP!](https://downtownsanrafael.org/our-bid-mvp/) - A huge thank you to our outgoing president, Jaime Ortiz, from Bank of Marin. Jaime has served as BID President for the past three years, creating a cohesive, cooperative and effective organization. He did it while also being an active in the Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber, and several more organizations. We salute - [alterTheater presents Ghosts of Bogotá by Diana Burbano](https://downtownsanrafael.org/altertheater-presents-ghosts-of-bogota-by-diana-burbano/) - Get Tickets Here AlterTheater is opening their new play at 1200 4th Street, the old Rafael Jewelers corner. Folks can "Window-Shop Theater" as they walk by from January 29th - February 23rd and you and your customers can take in a show after work. Thanks to Chen Properties for offering the space! Join the BID, - [Trick or Treat on 4th Street: Saturday, October 26 • 1–3pm](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dia-de-los-muertos-sat-oct-26/) - Trick or Treat on 4th Street! Fourth Street, Downtown & the West End Village (from Lincoln to H Street) Bring your little ones in costume for treats from participating merchants all up and down Fourth Street, Downtown from Lincoln to the West End Village, look for the poster and balloons. San Rafael City Plaza (at - [Annual Member Meeting/BID Mixer Thursday, September 26 from 5:30-7:30 pm at Istanbul Rug](https://downtownsanrafael.org/member-mixer-thursday-september-26-from-530-730-pm-at-istanbul-rug/) - Annual Member Meeting/BID Mixer Thursday, September 26 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM Hosted by Ogi Teker at Istanbul Rug, 1504 4th Street We will be sharing our 2019 Annual Report and Board slate. Miriam Karell, the SBDC Director will speak on workshops relevant to your business and Digital Marketing Strategies. Come meet your Downtown neighbors for a social evening of fun and information. - [Panel Q&A / Beautification Report](https://downtownsanrafael.org/panel-qa-beautification-report/) - Panel Q & A from February 28th Downtown Beautification Mixer at T&B Sports DST Jesse Taylor-Vermont Project Manager • Marin County Downtown Streets Team DST's cleaning schedule: Fourth Street, D to Hetherton, M-F 8am-noon, Special Projects on Fridays. West End and Under Freeway, rotate to clean 1 or 2 times per month. Pick up 5,000 gallons of - [Member Mixer Thursday, June 27 at Bogie's Too from 5:30-7:30pm](https://downtownsanrafael.org/june-27-member-mixer-at-bogies-too-from-530-730pm/) - Join your BID friends and neighbors for a fun, informative evening with light refreshments, beer and wine. Bring your co-workers. We will hear a presentation by Barry Miller, San Rafael General Plan 2040 Project Manager Paul Jensen, San Rafael Community Development Director will also be there to answer any questions. Please stop by after work - [Spring Sidewalk Sale - Sat. April 13, 11am-5pm](https://downtownsanrafael.org/sidewalk-sale-sat-april-13-11am-5pm/) - Mark your calendars to participate in our great summer savings event on Saturday, April 13, 11-5pm! Join us for discounts, sales, demos, special events, food and lively shopping. The fun will stretch from downtown 4th Street to the West End Village. Downtown merchants and restaurants are gearing up to offer special items, entertainment and an - [BID Mixer on Thursday, February 28 from 5:30-7:30pm at T&B Sports](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bid-mixer-on-thursday-february-28-from-530-730pm-at-tb-sports/) - BEAUTIFICATION MIXER Feb 28th at T&B Sports PANEL Q & A: DST Jesse Taylor-Vermont Project Manager • Marin County Downtown Streets Team DST's cleaning schedule: Fourth Street, D to Hetherton, M-F 8am-noon, Special Projects on Fridays West End and Under Freeway, rotate to clean 1 or 2 times per month Pick up 5,000 gallons of debris per week, - [Dressing Up Empty Store Windows](https://downtownsanrafael.org/1181-2/) - The BID and Downtown San Rafael Arts District have joined forces to showcase local artwork and dress up empty retail spaces. In our first project, artist Lynn Sondag created whimsical fall trees that blend beautifully with the surroundings. See her work at 1200 4th Street, at the corner of B (old Rafael Jewelers). Special thanks to: - [West End Pilot Lighting Project](https://downtownsanrafael.org/west-end-pilot-lighting-project/) - Downtown San Rafael Kicked Off the West End Pilot Lighting Project on 4th Street between G Street and Shaver at this year's West End Village Celebration event on Sunday, November 4th. Downtown San Rafael has always been known for its charming lights, and now the West End will join the party with the overhead lights - [Shop Small / Shop Local](https://downtownsanrafael.org/shop-small-shop-local/) - Throughout the Holiday season, you can support Downtown San Rafael's small businesses and entrepreneurs and encourage local friends and residents to "shop small” in both Downtown and the West End Village. We’re also encouraging consumers to ‘dine small’ by grabbing a bite or a drink at a local eatery or brew pub or to relax - [Parade of Lights • Friday, November 23rd](https://downtownsanrafael.org/parade-of-lights-november-23/) - 39th Annual Parade of Lights Winter Wonderland on Friday, November 23, 2018. Fourth Street - A Street to Lootens, Downtown San Rafael "The Heart of Marin" Free Snow Sledding & Kids Activities on A Street between Fourth & 5th Ave from 12-4pm & 6:30-8pm Parade of Lights & Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:30pm Holiday - [Shop Small / Shop Local Saturday, November 24 • 10–6](https://downtownsanrafael.org/small-business-saturday-november-24-•-10am-6pm/) - On Saturday, November 24, 2018 and throughout the Holiday season, you can support Downtown San Rafael's small businesses and entrepreneurs by participating in “Shop Small / Shop Local Saturday” and encourage local friends and residents to ‘shop small” in both Downtown and the West End Village. Shop Small / Shop Local Saturday plays a - [BID Mixer and Annual Membership Meeting Nov. 1](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bid-mixer-and-annual-membership-meeting-nov-1/) - San Rafael's Sunrise Home store hosts BID mixer. Join us for a glass of wine or beer and light refreshments at the lovely Sunrise Home store. Hear the BID's plans for 2019, meet/elect the Board of Director members and connect with your fellow new and longtime Downtown business people. Please RSVP here if you plan - [Downtown's 4th Street Bank of Marin to Host Chamber of Commerce Mixer](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtowns-4th-street-bank-of-marin-to-host-chamber-of-commerce-mixer/) - 4th Street's Bank of Marin is slated to host the next San Rafael Chamber of Commerce mixer, to be held on November 8th, from 5-7pm. This networking opportunity enables attendees to rub elbows with other community members, as well as City, BID, and Chamber representatives and staff. We look forward to seeing you there! read - [2nd Friday Art Walk](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2nd-friday-art-walk/) - 2018 2nd Friday Art Walk dates: 8/10, 9/14, 10/12, 11/9, 12/14 Enjoy galleries, open studios, art exhibits, live music and refreshments as you stroll in downtown San Rafael. Anchored by Art Works Downtown galleries and artist studios, the 2nd Friday Art Walk links venues along downtown Fourth Street the second Friday of each month. Artworks - [ 30+ BID Members joined the fun at Iron Springs Mixer 6/20](https://downtownsanrafael.org/parking-director-to-speak-about-free-parking-at-mixer-6-20/) - Big Thanks to Anne & Mike Altman the owners of Iron Springs Public House and their Manager Terrell Washington for generously providing rounds of beer tastings and very yummy bites at our Mixer Wednesday June 20th. 30+ BID Members joined the fun! The Parking Services Department presented exciting news of of FREE WEEKEND PARKING in - [Parking Director speaking at Iron Springs Mixer - June 20th 5:30](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-4th-streets-iron-springs-brewery-to-host-june-chamber-of-commerce-mixer/) - Member Mixer Wednesday, June 20, 5:30-7:30pm at Iron Springs Public House, 901 Fourth Street Iron Springs will be generously offering free beer tastings and have some yummy bites too! Come join your fellow business neighbors in our beautiful new Public House. The Parking Services Department will be there with exciting news of of FREE WEEKEND ## Pages - [Home](https://downtownsanrafael.org/) - Downtown San Rafael is Marin’s cultural hub - on 4th St from Lincoln to the West End - with shops, restaurants, coffee, breweries, art, yoga, events, & more. - [Dancing Under the Lights: Community Event in San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dancing-under-the-lights/) - 3rd Annual Dancing Under the Lights A Night of Community, Music, Food, and Celebration! Friday, August 7, 2026 5p-9p Fourth St from A Street to Lootens Place Join us for a fun filled evening in downtown San Rafael this summer as we host our annual event, "Dancing Under The Lights"! Prepare to dance the night - [Downtown Pizza Month](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pizza-month/) - Downtown San Rafael's 1st Annual Pizza Month July 1-31, 2026 Welcome to the very first Downtown San Rafael Pizza Month! San Rafael has a big appetite, a growing pizza scene, and each of our pizzerias brings something totally different to the table. That's why we launched Pizza Month - we want to showcase all the great - [Events](https://downtownsanrafael.org/events/) - Downtown San Rafael Annual Events & Programs: Click images to learn more about each event Complete Business Calendar Year-long activities: Art Shows, Fundraisers, Trivia, Karaoke, and More! (add your events here) Learn more. 3rd Annual Pride Art Walk Puzzle June 5- 30, 2026 Learn more. 1st Annual Downtown Pizza Month July 2026 Learn more. AIM's - [Utility Box Art Program – Downtown San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/utility-box-art-program/) - Utility Box Art Program - Downtown San Rafael The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (SRBID) wanted to create this Utility Box Art Program to help turn City street light utility boxes into colorful pieces of public art by local artists! This permanent program builds on earlier utility box art projects completed by the San - [Beautification Programs](https://downtownsanrafael.org/beautification/) - Downtown Beautification Programs The San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) is proud to support ongoing beautification efforts that help make our downtown more vibrant, welcoming, and uniquely San Rafael. From planting and mulching to adopting planters and public art installations, these programs reflect the dedication of our business owners, residents, and volunteers who care about - [Members](https://downtownsanrafael.org/members/) - About the BID The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) is a 501 C(6) nonprofit corporation established in 1979 to revitalize the downtown corridor and promote the common interests of Downtown businesses. Through attention to streetscape, marketing and promotions, special events and advocating on issues of safety, public parking and other factors affecting the - [BID Mulching Program](https://downtownsanrafael.org/bid-mulching-program/) - Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement Mulching Program Helping Downtown Grow, One Intersection at a Time The Downtown San Rafael BID Mulching Program is a volunteer-driven beautification effort that helps keep our downtown intersections looking healthy. Three times each year, BID Board members, community members, local businesses, and City partners come together to refresh tree wells - [2026 Meetings Agendas Minutes by Month](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2026-meetings-agendas-minutes-by-month/) - 2026 Agendas & Meeting Minutes by Month Month Agenda Minutes January 15, 2026 Meeting Agenda Minutes February 19, 2026 Meeting Agenda Minutes March 19, 2026 Meeting Agenda Minutes April 16, 2026 Meeting Agenda Minutes May 21, 2026 Meeting Agenda Minutes - coming soon June 12, 2026 Special Meeting Agenda Minutes - coming soon June 18, - [2025 Meetings Agendas Minutes by Month](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2025-meetings-agendas-minutes-by-month/) - 2025 Agendas & Meeting Minutes by Month Month Agenda Minutes January 16, 2025 Meeting Agenda Minutes February 20, 2025 Meeting Agenda Minutes March 20, 2025 Meeting Agenda (no meeting) Minutes (no meeting) April 17, 2025 Meeting Agenda Minutes May 15, 2025 Meeting Agenda Minutes June 19, 2025 Meeting Agenda Minutes July 17, 2025 Meeting Agenda - [Juneteenth in Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/juneteenth-downtown/) - 3rd Annual San Rafael Juneteenth in Downtown (and beyond) 2026 Join the Business Improvement District as we commemorate Juneteenth, a day of reflection, celebration, and community. Discover the heart of our city as businesses come together to honor this historic milestone in American history with an array of activities all month long. This page is - [Pride Art Walk](https://downtownsanrafael.org/pride-art-walk/) - 3rd Annual Downtown San Rafael Pride Art Walk Puzzle & Celebration June 5-30 2026 Celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Downtown San Rafael! Starting Friday June 5th, the San Rafael Business Improvement District will be celebrating Pride, art, and local history with the 3rd Annual Pride Art Walk Puzzle & Celebration! Downtown storefronts will be decorated - [About Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/about-downtown/) - About Downtown San Rafael San Rafael is at the center of things. The oldest, largest and most culturally diverse city in Marin also enjoys the best weather. San Rafael is a lively business and cultural center located in an area of incomparable natural beauty. Visit Our Vibrant Downtown Our eclectic downtown business and shopping district - [Downtown BID Night Pacific's Game](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-bid-night-pacifics-game/) - 5th Annual Downtown San Rafael Summer BID Mixer at the Pacifics Game Friday, June 5, 2026 Mixer starts at 5pm ~ Game at 6pm Albert Park, San Rafael Join your fellow Downtown San Rafael businesses for one of the most fun nights of the year! Mingle and enjoy a summer evening at the ballpark as - [Friday Night Car Cruise](https://downtownsanrafael.org/friday-night-cruise/) - May Madness Friday Night Car Cruise Friday, May 8, 2026 ~ 6:00pm 4th Street from H Street to Lincoln Join us as we kick off the May Madness Car Show & Parade Celebrations early and cruise 4th Street on Friday Night from 6p-7p. The Friday Night Vintage Car Cruise in Downtown San Rafael is where - [Clean & Green Day](https://downtownsanrafael.org/clean-green-day/) - Downtown Clean & Green Day on Earth Day Wednesday, April 22, 2026 10:00am-12noon Downtown San Rafael Help us spruce up Downtown and the West End Village for Earth Day! Join other awesome volunteers and business members in sprucing up Downtown for Earth Day! We'll be removing graffiti, polishing up parking meters and sidewalk fixtures, pulling - [West End Block Party](https://downtownsanrafael.org/west-end-block-party/) - West End Fridays Block Party 6 pm - 9 pm Fridays, August - October 2026 Proposed Dates: 8/21, 8/28, 9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, 10/16 F-G St. in the West End! Join us for the West End Friday Block Party in Downtown San Rafael! Fridays from August through mid-October, the vibrant stretch from F to - [Lunar New Year](https://downtownsanrafael.org/lunar-new-year/) - 3rd Annual Downtown San Rafael Lunar New Year Horse Hunt & Word Scramble Challenge February 1-28, 2026 Downtown San Rafael The Year of the Horse Join us in ushering in the Year of the Horse with this adventurous celebration in Downtown San Rafael with this year's "Horse Hunt & Word Scramble Challenge"! How it works: - [West End Culture Crawl](https://downtownsanrafael.org/west-end-culture-crawl/) - The San Rafael West End Village brings back the Culture Crawl! Saturday, October 14, 2023 ~ 1 pm -5 pm The 5th Annual West End Culture Crawl will be held on Saturday, October 14th, from 1 pm to 5 pm. West Businesses open their doors on Saturday, October 14th with a host of in-store and - [San Rafael Arts District Mixer: Where Art Meets Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dsrad-mixer/) - The Downtown San Rafael Arts District presents the 1st Annual: San Rafael Arts District Mixer: Where Art Meets Downtown Thursday, April 2, 2026 ~ 5:00-7:00 PMHosted at Art Works Downtown 1337 4th Street, San Rafael The Downtown San Rafael Art District (DSRAD) is proud to present the 1st Annual San Rafael Art District Mixer: Where - [Fe-BREW-ary](https://downtownsanrafael.org/fe-brew-ary/) - 4th Annual Fe-BREW-ary in Downtown San Rafael WHAT IS FEBREWARY? FeBREWary is Downtown San Rafael's official month-long celebration of local craft beer. Breweries, tap rooms, and pubs are in full swing, so head to your favorite Downtown San Rafael destination and expand your brew I.Q. with a new style of beer from a local craft - [Thank you for creating your business listing.](https://downtownsanrafael.org/thank-you-for-creating-your-business-listing/) - Thank you for creating your directory listing for your Downtown San Rafael Business! We will review your listing and publish it to the website shortly. If you are NOT within the BID Boundary, we cannot add you to our directory. View BID boundary here: https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown/#about-bid If you need to make any changes to your listing, - [Listings](https://downtownsanrafael.org/listings/) - Downtown San Rafael Business Listings Click here to view all listings. Don't see your Downtown San Rafael business listed? Click here. View All Listings Add Downtown San Rafael Business - [Elf Hunt](https://downtownsanrafael.org/elf-hunt/) - The 4th Annual Downtown San Rafael ELF HUNT November 29, 2025 - January 5, 2026 4th Street from Lincoln to H Street Downtown San Rafael The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement invites you to participate in the 4th Annual Downtown San Rafael Elf Hunt! Some rogue elves have left the North Pole and were - [Downtown San Rafael Film History](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-san-rafael-film-history/) - Downtown San Rafael: A Film History Where Hollywood History Began - Right Here Movies have been part of San Rafael's DNA since 1911, when the Essanay Film Company (one of the first major motion picture studios) set up shop in town. From silent westerns to American Graffiti, from early movie palaces to Industrial Light & - [Downtown News](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-news/) - Downtown News Search Search Posts - [Calendar](https://downtownsanrafael.org/calendar/) - Downtown Business Event Calendar: - [Menorah Lighting](https://downtownsanrafael.org/menorah-lighting/) - Downtown San Rafael's 4th Annual Giant Menorah Lighting & Gelt Drop Sunday, December 21, 2025 ~ 5pm - 6:30pm Downtown San Rafael Plaza Sunday 9:00am Weather Update - Event Canceled: Due to rain in the forecast all day, tonight's outdoor Menorah Lighting & Gelt Drop has been canceled. While we can't celebrate together outdoors, - [BID Holiday Party & Mixer](https://downtownsanrafael.org/holiday-member-mixer/) - BID Member Holiday Party & Mixer December 16, 2025 5:30pm - 7:30pm Location: Glaze & Confused, 1321 4th Street Dear Downtown Businesses and BID Members, You're invited to our Annual Member Holiday Party & Mixer, hosted this year at one of our newest Downtown businesses, Glaze & Confused! Dress to Impress, Holiday Style! Break - [Holiday of Lights and Winter Wonderland](https://downtownsanrafael.org/holiday-of-lights-and-winterwonderland/) - Downtown San Rafael's 44th Annual Holiday of Lights & Winter Wonderland November 29, 2025 5:00p - 7:00p Downtown Plaza Kick off the season at Downtown San Rafael's Holiday of Lights: Winter Wonderland - a festive community gathering featuring the annual holiday tree lighting, warm drinks, twinkling lights, and joyful entertainment for all ages. Bundle up - [Shop Local & Shop San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/shop-local/) - Shop Small Saturday November 29, 2025 Launched by American Express in 2010, Shop Small Saturday was created to support small, locally owned businesses during one of the biggest shopping weekends of the year. Since then, communities across the country, San Rafael included, have embraced it as a way to celebrate our awesome Downtown Small Business - [Holidays in Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/holidays-in-downtown/) - Welcome to the Holidays in Downtown San Rafael! Celebrate the holidays in Downtown San Rafael! This year, our downtown offers a festive array of events and activities to help you celebrate, explore, and support our local businesses. Stroll through our holiday events, including our annual tree lighting and menorah lighting. Explore downtown for the adventurous - [Holiday Windows](https://downtownsanrafael.org/holiday-windows/) - Annual Downtown San Rafael Holiday Window Decorating Contest December 2025 Discover the festive spirit of Downtown San Rafael through our annual Window Decorating Contest! Our local businesses have put their creativity on display, transforming their storefronts into enchanting holiday scenes for you to enjoy. Stroll through downtown, take in the sights, and don't forget to - [Things To Do](https://downtownsanrafael.org/things-to-do/) - Things To Do in Downtown San Rafael click links below to learn more Downtown Events Arts & Entertainment Business Calendar Dining & Drinks Shopping Beauty & Wellness Downtown San Rafael Garages Free on Weekends Enjoy our Downtown with FREE parking on Saturdays and Sundays! FREE WEEKEND PARKING is in the A Street and C Street - [Holiday Gift Guide](https://downtownsanrafael.org/holiday-gift-guide/) - Downtown San Rafael Holiday Gift Guide Shopping local this holiday season is more important than ever! By choosing gifts from Downtown San Rafael's businesses, you're not only finding unique and thoughtful presents but also helping to keep our community vibrant and strong. Explore the gift ideas below and make a big impact by supporting our - [Trick Or Treat on Fourth Street](https://downtownsanrafael.org/trick-or-treat-on-fourth-street/) - Trick-Or-Treat on Fourth Street! with a pet costume contest! Saturday, October 25, 2025 ~ 1 pm - 3 pm RAIN OR SHINE Enjoy a family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween! Fourth Street merchants will be welcoming kids and families on Saturday, October 25th from 1p-3p. Dress up, bring a bag, and get ready for some treats! - [Parking](https://downtownsanrafael.org/parking/) - VISIT CITY PARKING SERVICES WEBSITE HERE Free Weekend Parking in A Street & C Street Garages City of San Rafael Downtown Parking Guide Parking Office: Jim Myhers, Parking Services Manager Email: parking@cityofsanrafael.org (415) 458-5333 Contact us 1400 5th Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 Hours City Hall, 1400 5th Ave Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from - [Dia De Los Muertos](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dia-de-los-muertos/) - Celebrate Día de los Muertos in Downtown San Rafael! Altar Displays in Downtown San Rafael October - November, 2025 View the Altar map HERE (coming soon) Join us for San Rafael's Multicultural Community Event honoring the traditions of Day of the Dead. Experience beautiful altars displayed in local businesses that bring our community together in - [Hops and Vines Stroll](https://downtownsanrafael.org/hops-and-vines-stroll/) - 5th Annual Downtown San Rafael Hops & Vines Stroll Saturday, September 27, 2025 2pm - 6pm Downtown San Rafael Join us for a fun-filled afternoon at the 5th Annual Hops & Vines (& Spirits) Stroll, where you can sample the finest local beer, wine, spirits, and cider inside participating shops along 4th Street in Downtown San - [Annual Member Mixer & BID Annual Meeting](https://downtownsanrafael.org/annual-member-mixer/) - Annual BID Member Meeting & Mixer 2025 Tuesday, September 30 5:30p-7:30p at Tutu Lounge, 1335 4th Street Dear Downtown Businesses and BID Members, You are invited to join us for our Annual Member Mixer and BID Meeting, and we encourage you to bring your whole team! At the meeting, we'll share the draft of our - [Banned Books Week Book Walk](https://downtownsanrafael.org/banned-books-week/) - 1st Annual Banned Books Week Book Walk October 5-11, 2025 in Downtown San Rafael Celebrate the freedom to read during Banned Books Week with a self-guided Book Walk through Downtown San Rafael! Stroll 4th Street and explore four unique local bookstores, each with its own character, community spirit, and shelves full of treasures: Copperfield's Books - [Mill Valley Film Festival](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mill-valley-film-festival/) - Mill Valley Film Festival Downtown San Rafael, CA October 2-12, 2025 Each year the festival welcomes more than 200 filmmakers, representing more than 50 countries. Screening sections include World Cinema; US Cinema; Valley of the Docs; Children's FilmFest; a daily shorts program; and Active Cinema, MVFF's activist films initiative. Festival guests also enjoy Tributes, Spotlights, and - [2024 Meetings Agendas Minutes by Month](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2024-meetings-agendas-minutes-by-month/) - 2024 Agendas & Meeting Minutes by Month Month Agenda Minutes January 18, 2024 Meeting Agenda Minutes February 15, 2024 Meeting Agenda Minutes March 21, 2024 Meeting Agenda Minutes April 18, 2024 Meeting Agenda Minutes May 16, 2024 Meeting Agenda Minutes June 20, 2024 Meeting Agenda Minutes July 18, 2024 Meeting Agenda Minutes August 15, 2024 - [20__ Meetings Agendas Minutes by Month - BLANK TEMPLATE](https://downtownsanrafael.org/20__-meetings-agendas-minutes-by-month/) - 20__ Agendas & Meeting Minutes by Month - BLANK TEMPLATE Month Agenda Minutes January 16, 2025 Meeting Agenda - coming soon Minutes - coming soon February 20, 2025 Meeting Agenda - coming soon Minutes - coming soon March 20, 2025 Meeting Agenda- No meeting Minutes - no meeting April 17, 2025 Meeting Agenda - coming - [2023 Meetings Agendas Minutes by Month](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2023-meetings-agendas-minutes-by-month/) - 2023 Agendas & Meeting Minutes by Month Month Agenda Minutes January 19, 2023 Meeting Agenda Minutes February 16, 2023 Meeting Agenda Minutes March 16, 2023 Meeting Agenda Minutes April 20, 2023 Meeting Agenda Minutes May 18, 2023 Meeting Agenda Minutes June 15, 2023 Meeting Agenda Minutes July 20, 2023 Meeting Agenda Minutes August 17, 2023 - [Client Portal](https://downtownsanrafael.org/clients/) - [jetpackcrm_clientportal] - [DSRAD Fall Arts Festival](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dsrad-arts-festival/) - The Downtown San Rafael Arts District presents: The DSRAD Fall Arts Festival Friday, October 13, 2023 ~ 5 pm -9 pm 4th Street from C to D Street 1515 3rd Street 917 C Street The Downtown San Rafael Art District (DSRAD) is proud to present the 1st Annual Fall Arts Festival on October 13 from - [City of San Rafael Resources](https://downtownsanrafael.org/city-resources/) - Important City Resource Downloads: 2024 City Resources for Businesses 2023 Economic Strategic Plan 2021 Resources for Businesses SRPD Holiday Tips for Business Owners & Customers Homelessness Resources Links: Visit the City of San Rafael Homelessness Website page for updated information Join the Homelessness Solutions Working Group 2024 Read the July Report VISIT CITY WEBSITE BUSINESS - [Get Involved](https://downtownsanrafael.org/get-involved/) - GET INVOLVED! The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District is looking for engaged, passionate BID Members who are interested in serving on the BID Board of Directors and/or on a Committee. If having your finger on the pulse of the community and creating new ideas and initiatives for downtown sounds like something you'd like to - [San Rafael Food & Drink](https://downtownsanrafael.org/san-rafael-food-drink/) - Hungry? Support local businesses & order food from our Downtown San Rafael restaurants, cafes, coffee shops & breweries. Arizmendi Bakery & Pizzeria Pre-order on website: arizmendi-sanrafael.com Call 415-456-4093 Open: Thursday-Saturday, 10am-2pm Follow on Facebook | Instagram | Yelp Libation Taproom & Bottle Shop Pickup Hours: Friday 3-7pm, Sat/ Sun 1-5pm. Shop online at libationmarin.com Follow - [Holidays Home page](https://downtownsanrafael.org/holidays-home-page/) - Complete Directory Search by Name Shop Local this Holiday Season in Downtown San Rafael & West End Village Art, apparel, home furnishings, sports, collectibles, jewelry, books, pet supplies, flowers, cameras, luggage, music, crafts, comics, design, health, beauty, food & drinks! 3 Hours of Free Parking at City Lots & Garages 11/30-1/6! Weekends Always Free! Can - [SRBID Newsletters](https://downtownsanrafael.org/newsletters/) - SR BID Monthly Newsletters Watch the Downtown San Rafael BID website for member interviews. If you'd like to be featured or suggest someone else, please contact Sharon at folkart@thefolkartgallery.com It's easy to get highlighted. We'll interview you, take some photos or use yours, and share your story on our website for all to see. We'll - [Meet Your Neighbors](https://downtownsanrafael.org/meet-your-neighbors/) - Meet Your Neighbors Introducing a new feature, where you'll find the stories of members of the Downtown San Rafael business neighborhood. It's easy to get highlighted. We'll interview you, take some photos or use yours, and share your story on our website for all to see. We'll get to know one another better and the - [Downtown Community Calendar](https://downtownsanrafael.org/community-calendar/) - Community Calendar Submit an Event Downtown San Rafael Garages Free on Weekends Enjoy our Downtown with FREE parking on Saturdays and Sundays! FREE WEEKEND PARKING is in the A Street and C Street Garages only, thanks to the Parking Department's pilot program started in 2019. More About Parking Parking Holidays - [Contact Us](https://downtownsanrafael.org/contact-us/) - San Rafael Business Improvement District We would love to hear from you! Contact: For all questions and queries, please contact Sarah Tipple, Executive Director. The best way to reach us is by email. Email Sarah Mailing Address: PO Box 151050 San Rafael, CA 94915 Join Our Email List and receive Monthly Newsletters Need to report - [Shopping](https://downtownsanrafael.org/shopping/) - Downtown San Rafael Shopping Click here to view all listings. Don't see your Downtown San Rafael business listed? Click here. View All Listings Add Downtown San Rafael Business - [2022 Meetings Agendas Minutes by Month](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2022-meetings-agendas-minutes-by-month/) - Meetings & Agendas BID members, you're invited! Join our standing board meetings. Find out what's happening & share your thoughts! Monthly BID Board meetings 3rd Thursdays via Zoom Please email for meeting invite director@downtownsanrafael.org Important Downloads: 2022 BID Annual Report 2021 BID Annual Report 2021 Resources for Businesses SRPD Holiday Tips for Business Owners & - [Dining Under The Lights (DUTL)](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dining-under-the-lights-dutl/) - 2nd Friday Dining Under the Lights Block Parties Featuring the 2nd Friday Art Walk, presented by Art Works Downtown May-October 2023 6p-10p Fourth St will have partial street closures The Downtown San Rafael "Dining Under the Lights" summer block party is a monthly FREE event where parts of 4th Street and B Street will be - [Transportation and Parking](https://downtownsanrafael.org/transportation-and-parking/) - Transportation and SMART Train Info/Parking Located 16 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, Downtown San Rafael is easily accessible by public transit, car & bicycle. All About Downtown Parking Plan your trip with Public Transit Explore Carma for Ride Sharing with other Downtown San Rafael workers. Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) Stations Transit - [West End Wednesdays](https://downtownsanrafael.org/west-end-wednesdays/) - The San Rafael West End Village presents: West End Wednesdays Deals and Discoveries! West End Wednesdays! West End Village, San Rafael from E' Street down to the Miracle Mile Junction. 20+ shops offer bargains every Wednesday through December 2023! Bikes and books, lunch and lashes, Pets and Camera gear! Appliances and clothing, Yarn and Yoga! No street - [DSRAD](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dsrad/) - The Downtown San Rafael Summer Kickoff ELF HUNT June 9-30, 2023 4th Street from Lincoln to H Street Downtown San Rafael SCHOOL IS OUT FOR SUMMER! 15 Elves are enjoying the kick-off to Summer in Downtown San Rafael! Can you find out what school the Elves go to? Starting June 9th, visit the business on the map, - [Cultural Arts District](https://downtownsanrafael.org/cultural-arts-district/) - San Rafael is proud to be one of 14 California Cultural Districts recognized by the California Arts Council, highlighting thriving cultural diversity and unique artistic identities within local communities across California. Downtown San Rafael Arts District An urbanized nerve center for culture in the suburban outpost of Marin County. About San Rafael All 14 CA - [Downtown Eats Passport](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-eats-passport/) - The Downtown EATS Passport August 2023 Downtown San Rafael Eat Downtown the Month of August to Save $$ and Win $$! Our Downtown Eats Passport offers deals at participating restaurants and cafes in downtown San Rafael for the whole month of August. The program is presented by the San Rafael Business Improvement District to promote - [Summer Elf Hunt](https://downtownsanrafael.org/summer-elf-hunt/) - The Downtown San Rafael Summer Kickoff ELF HUNT June 9-30, 2023 4th Street from Lincoln to H Street Downtown San Rafael SCHOOL IS OUT FOR SUMMER! 15 Elves are enjoying the kick-off to Summer in Downtown San Rafael! Can you find out what school the Elves go to? Starting June 9th, visit the business on the map, - [Summer Sidewalk Sale Participants](https://downtownsanrafael.org/summer-sidewalk-sale-participants/) - 2019 Sidewalk Sale Participants Mark your calendars to participate in our great Spring & Summer Sidewalk Sale savings event on Saturday, April 13 & Saturday, August 24! The fun will stretch from downtown 4th Street to the West End Village. More than 60 merchants and restaurants will offer special items, entertainment and an opportunity to - [Shop Local Holiday Graphics](https://downtownsanrafael.org/shop-local-holiday-graphics/) - Shop Local Season Downloadable Graphics 1080 by 1080 For Instagram Click Here to Download 1080 by 1080 For Instagram Click Here to Download 2050 by 780 For Facebook Click Here to Download 2050 by 780 For Facebook Click Here to Download 1204 by 2560 Click Here to Download 1600 by 900 Click Here to Download - [Parade of Lights Participants](https://downtownsanrafael.org/parade-of-lights-participants/) - [Shop Local Saturday Business Owners](https://downtownsanrafael.org/shop-local-saturday-business-owners/) - Shop Local Saturday Business Participant List Shop Local Saturday Business Owner To Do List Click through tabs below. Holiday Season To Do List Raffel & Donation Info Download Raffle Tickets Shop Local Offerings & Gift Card Pledge Sign Up Holiday Season To Do List Raffel & Donation Info Download Raffle Tickets Shop Local Offerings & - [About the BID](https://downtownsanrafael.org/about-the-bid/) - About the BID The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) is a 501 C(6) nonprofit corporation established to revitalize the downtown corridor and promote the common interests of Downtown businesses. Through attention to streetscape, marketing and promotions, special events and advocating on issues of safety, public parking and other factors affecting the economic vitality - [Downloads + Graphics](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downloads-graphics/) - Downloads & Graphics Poster Download Printable PDF Meter Sign Download Printable PDF - [2021 Meetings Agendas Minutes by month](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2021-meetings-agendas-minutes-by-month/) - Meetings & Agendas BID members, you're invited! Join our standing board meetings. Find out what's happening & share your thoughts! Monthly BID Board meetings 3rd Thursdays via Zoom Please email for meeting invite director@downtownsanrafael.org Important Downloads: 2021 BID Annual Report 2021 Resources for Businesses SRPD Holiday Tips for Business Owners & Customers Bylaws: Resolution 2021 - [Did You Know?](https://downtownsanrafael.org/did-you-know/) - Did You Know? Stories of members of the Downtown San Rafael business neighborhood. - [2020 Agendas & Meeting Minutes by Month](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2020-agendas-meeting-minutes-by-month/) - 2020 Agendas & Meeting Minutes by Month [table id=4 /] - [Downtown San Rafael Business Listings](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-san-rafael-business-listings/) - Downtown San Rafael Business Listings Search examples: "retail" "restaurant" etc. Click here to view all listings. - [Search Directory by Business Name](https://downtownsanrafael.org/directory/) - [Downtown Business Owner Login](https://downtownsanrafael.org/downtown-business-owner-login/) - Click here to edit your entry: https://downtownsanrafael.org/new-directory-listing/ - [Reset password](https://downtownsanrafael.org/reset-password/) - [Submit your Downtown San Rafael Business Listing](https://downtownsanrafael.org/submit-your-downtown-san-rafael-business-listing/) - [2019 Meeting Agendas & Minutes](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2019-meeting-agendas-minutes/) - 2019 Agendas & Meeting Minutes by Month [table id=3 /] - [2018 Meeting Agendas & Minutes](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2018-meeting-agendas-minutes/) - 2018 Agendas & Meeting Minutes by Month [table id=2 /] - [2017 Meeting Agendas & Minutes](https://downtownsanrafael.org/2017-meeting-agendas-minutes/) - [table id=1 /] - [Gallery](https://downtownsanrafael.org/gallery/) - Photo Gallery Click here to edit Spacer module. - [June 2018 Mixer at Iron Springs](https://downtownsanrafael.org/june-2018-mixer-at-iron-springs/) - [Board & Staff](https://downtownsanrafael.org/board-staff/) - Board & Staff Staff Executive Director: Eda Lochte Welcome, Dezzy! Dezzy St. Andre Rumor Has It Dezzy envisioned empowering and inspiring her hometown when she opened her West End boutique, Rumor Has It. An interior design and fashion boutique, it's stocked with unique clothing, accessories, furniture and home goods at affordable prices, featuring local designers - [Meetings & Agendas](https://downtownsanrafael.org/meetings-agendas/) - Meetings & Agendas BID members, you're invited! Come to our standing board meetings. Find out what's happening and share your thoughts! Monthly BID Board meetings 3rd Thursdays, 8 - 9 a.m., Bank of Marin Conference room, 1101 4th Street, San Rafael Click to open BID Agenda 2018 4 19 Downtown San Rafael's 2018 Work Plan San - [Mixers](https://downtownsanrafael.org/mixers/) - BID Member Mixers Click here to edit Spacer module. - [San Rafael Parking Downtown](https://downtownsanrafael.org/san-rafael-parking-downtown/) - Now Available: Park by phone by downloading the Parkmobile App. Suggested Use: If you need to extend your meter time, pay for the first two hours by credit card: enter the parking zone (on green label on parking meter) into your park mobile app, for later use. If you need to exceed the 2-hour limit - [About San Rafael](https://downtownsanrafael.org/about-san-rafael/) - About San Rafael San Rafael is at the center of things. The oldest, largest and most culturally diverse city in Marin also enjoys the best weather. San Rafael is a lively business and cultural center located in an area of incomparable natural beauty. City Demographics Date of Incorporation: February 18, 1874Form of Government: Incorporated as - [DST Request for Service](https://downtownsanrafael.org/dst-request-for-service/) - Downtown Streets Team Request for Service Fill out this request form if you have a cleaning or maintenance task for the Downtown Streets Team Select a Choice Please Describe problem to be addressed and where it is located - [Voluntary Membership](https://downtownsanrafael.org/voluntary-membership/) - [Street Banner Artists](https://downtownsanrafael.org/street-banner-artists/) ## Legal Pages - [Terms and Conditions](https://downtownsanrafael.org/wpautoterms/terms-and-conditions/) - Last updated: Please read these Terms of Use ("Terms", "Terms of Use") carefully before using the website (the "Service") operated by ("us", "we", or "our"). 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We use your Personal Information for ## Views - [Downtown San Rafael Business Listings](https://downtownsanrafael.org/frm_display/2204/) - [16] | [19][18][71] | [25] - [Downtown San Rafael Businesses](https://downtownsanrafael.org/frm_display/downtown-san-rafael-businesses/) - [1]: [55] [10] [56] [14]: [6] [7] | [8] [11]: [12] ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/uncategorized/) - [San Rafael News](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/san-rafael-news/) - [Upcoming Events](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/upcoming-events/) - [Mixer](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/mixer/) - [Past Events](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/past-events/) - [Recurring Events](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/recurring-events/) - [Meet Your Neighbors](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/meet-your-neighbors/) - [Restaurants](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/restaurants/) - [COVID19](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/covid19/) - [Chinese](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/chinese/) - [Did You Know?](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/did-you-know/) - [Past News](https://downtownsanrafael.org/category/past-news/)