Events at Congregation Sherith Israel, San Francisco

About Congregation Sherith Israel

Congregation Sherith Israel – whose name means “Remnant of Israel” – is a historic Reform Jewish synagogue and multi-use event venue in San Francisco’s Pacific Heights district. Its grand sanctuary was completed in 1905 and designed by architect Albert Pissis, combining Classical Revival, Romanesque and Moorish motifs (www.sherithisrael.org). The most striking feature is its soaring dome: a 60-foot-wide, 120-foot-tall dome that crowns the building above California Street (artandarchitecture-sf.com). Inside, the sanctuary spans roughly 20,000 square feet and seats about 1,100–1,200 people on two levels (www.sherithisrael.org) (www.sherithisrael.org). Visitors encounter richly crafted details: hand-carved Honduran mahogany on the bimah and ark, polished marble flooring, and hundreds of stained-glass panels and forged-bronze light fixtures (www.sherithisrael.org). These historic elements give Sherith a warm, spiritual atmosphere. The sanctuary still houses a massive Murray Harris pipe organ (3,500 pipes) and in 2020 acquired a new Yamaha concert grand piano (www.sherithisrael.org) (www.sherithisrael.org), underlining its importance as an acoustic music space.

Founded during the Gold Rush in 1851, Sherith Israel quickly became a centerpiece of Jewish life in early San Francisco. By the 1905 dedication of this building, newspapers hailed it as “one of the finest Jewish temples in America” (www.sherithisrael.org). Remarkably, the sanctuary survived the 1906 earthquake with minimal damage and even served as San Francisco’s temporary courtroom (notably hosting the Abe Ruef trials) while City Hall was rebuilt (artandarchitecture-sf.com) (www.sherithisrael.org). The interior has been carefully preserved; in 2012 Sherith was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural and cultural significance (www.sherithisrael.org). Today the community treasures Sherith not only for spiritual services but also for its historic pedigree and beauty. Between concerts and tours, its weekly Shabbat services and holiday celebrations keep the space alive. In sum, Sherith Israel’s unique combination of architectural grandeur, rich history, and active congregation make it an unmatched venue and landmark in the local cultural scene.

Events and Programming

Sherith Israel is not a traditional theater – it hosts occasional concerts, lectures and community programs rather than nightly shows. Typically the synagogue schedules only a handful of public events each year. Recent programming has focused on cultural music and festivals. For example, in May 2023 Sherith co-presented the “SF Sephardic Music Fest,” featuring live Ladino and Middle Eastern music (with acts like The Qadim Ensemble and Zirzuví) (www.sherithisrael.org). In June 2023 it staged the World Folk Jam Summer Solstice Festival, a day-long world music celebration with multiple stages (www.worldfolkjam.com). A matching “Midwinter Magic” folk concert was held on December 21, 2023, celebrating winter traditions through song and dance (www.ticketfairy.com). These annual solstice events (by organizer Tea Tribe) have become local traditions at Sherith – they draw diverse crowds to hear global and Sufi performers, indigenous drummers, Balkan brass, and more. Beyond these festivals, Sherith also hosts smaller concerts and holiday celebrations (e.g. Chanukah or Kabbalat Shabbat evenings) weaved into its calendar.

On a week-to-week basis, the venue is primarily used for worship services and community gatherings. Weekly Shabbat services (Friday nights) and holiday events bring in the congregation, and these are generally private or by donation rather than ticketed. Open public events tend to cluster in the spring and summer (concert season) and around major Jewish holidays. Performers range from local singer-songwriters to chamber ensembles to ethnic folk groups. Notably, the acoustics and historical ambience also draw occasional outside recitals – for instance, Sherith’s new concert grand piano and restored organ have been featured in public organ recitals and jazz performances (led by Sherith’s own music director) (www.sherithisrael.org). Although large rock or pop acts don’t play here, many local ensembles prize Sherith for its warm sound and setting.

Tickets for Sherith Israel events vary by program. Community concerts and workshops are often quite affordable (sometimes just $10–$20), while full-scale world music festivals tend to be $25–$30 for general admission (www.sherithisrael.org). In a recent festival for example, general tickets were $30 with a $20 member price (www.sherithisrael.org), and livestream viewing was offered for $10. Membership in Sherith Israel or related organizations usually grants a discount for these events. Because seating is limited, popular events often do sell out weeks in advance. Event organizers post tickets on Sherith’s website and local event platforms, so going on sale notifications (via newsletters or social media) is the best bet for planning. In summary, Sherith’s programming blends religious services with cultural events – expect world music, organ or piano recitals, youth programs, and holiday concerts more than mainstream pop shows.

Tickets and Booking

There is no single box office at Sherith Israel; tickets are generally purchased through the event’s promoters or on Sherith’s own website links. For each upcoming show, check the Sherith Israel “Event Calendar” page or the organization hosting the event (e.g. Tea Tribe, Anatolian Arts). For instance, the SF Sephardic Fest announcement included a link to purchase Exhibit tickets via Eventbrite (www.sherithisrael.org). Likewise, the World Folk Jam homepage directed ticket buyers to its online system. When tickets go on sale, information is sent out in advance through the synagogue’s mailing list and local event listings. Popular events may sell out, so the best strategy is to buy as early as possible. Some concerts or lectures may also offer a limited number of “at-the-door” tickets if the show is not fully booked, but this is not guaranteed.

Ticket prices depend on the event. General admission typically runs from about $15 for small community programs up to $30 for larger concerts (www.sherithisrael.org). Many events have tiered pricing: front-row or “gold circle” seats might cost extra, and live-stream or student tickets are usually cheaper. Membership or “friends of Sherith” discounts often apply (the 2023 Sephardic event, for example, charged $20 for members vs. $30 for non-members (www.sherithisrael.org)). There are no age restrictions for most shows – in fact, family-friendly events explicitly welcome all ages (“kids 12 and under free” was advertised for the folk jam (www.ticketfairy.com)). However, standard concert etiquette applies: expect an earlier start time for sold seats shows and arrive before the posted door time to get your tickets scanned. The temple is also available for rental (e.g. weddings, lectures) – Sherith’s facility page notes that the historic sanctuary seats ~1200 and is often used for galas or off-site events (www.sherithisrael.org), but private events require separate booking through the office. In short: watch Sherith Israel’s event calendar, buy online in advance, and be aware of tiered pricing and door policies for each show.

Seating and Layout

The main performance area is the historic sanctuary. Seating consists of long wooden pews facing the front ark. There are two levels – the main floor (usually flat) and a full balcony above – providing roughly 1,200 seats total (www.sherithisrael.org) (www.sherithisrael.org). For audiences, the best sightlines tend to be center-section seats on the floor or near the front of the balcony. The church-like interior is wide and open, so viewing angles are generally good; the only minor obstruction is a low balcony lip at the front on the sides. Because the sanctuary is large but acoustically live, sound projects well to every corner – even seats under the balcony still hear clearly. If attending a loud rock or folk concert, note that front-center seats can feel quite loud (if you prefer milder sound, try a mid-row balcony position).

There are no standing-room-only areas during seated events – everyone is expected to sit in assigned pew space. Ushers will guide ticket holders to their assigned section or issue seat numbers if applicable. No VIP boxes exist; all guests share the same level of seating. For general-admission shows, seating may be first-come, and you may even be invited to sit on floor cushions closer to the stage if space permits (this happens only at very casual events). Unlike a modern theater, Sherith has very few aisle gaps: walking between rows requires stepping over the bench backs. The wooden pews have thin approximately 2-inch seat cushions (replaced in 2018) but not much padding, so height or back support is minimal; bringing a folded shawl or cushion is common for additional comfort. A helpful tip: when sinks up for worship events, the choir is on the raised bimah in front, but for concerts the performers often set up on the same level as the ark. Seating orientation remains front-facing. Be mindful of which concerts face forwards versus backwards, as Sherith can sometimes configure the stage differently. Overall, pick a central aisle seat in the row closest to your sightline preference. If you are behind tall people or want to avoid the end of pew benches (which can jostle when people pass), aim for spots slightly off-center. The sanctuary’s design is very rectangular and symmetrical, so virtually every seat provides a full view of the stage area, and vocals and instruments resonate uniformly throughout the hall.

Getting There and Parking

Sherith Israel is at 2266 California Street (at Webster) in San Francisco (www.sherithisrael.org). The building’s main entrance faces California (east-west street), but an accessible side door is on Webster. The neighborhood is hilly and mainly residential, so plan your arrival carefully. There are two short-term **10-minute drop-off zones** (white-painted curbs) right in front of the synagogue on California Street (www.sherithisrael.org). Use these for quick passenger unloading, but never park there. Street parking in the area is metered (2-hour limits M-Sat) and is free after 6pm on weekdays; however, spots are limited and subject to street-cleaning restrictions (www.sherithisrael.org). Read posted signs carefully – many adjacent streets do allow free parking outside meter hours. In short, handheld parking apps or meter payment via phone are advisable.

• Public Transit: Several MUNI lines serve the corner of Webster & Sacramento (one block uphill) and the Fillmore/California intersection. Bus **#1 California** stops at Sacramento & Webster (www.sherithisrael.org); bus **#22 Union** stops at Fillmore & California. Both connect to downtown BART stations (Embarcadero or Montgomery). Buses **#2 Clement** and **#38 Geary** also stop within a block (at Van Ness or Fillmore) and link to Montgomery BART (www.sherithisrael.org). A scenic option is the historic California cable car – it runs east-west along California St (Powell/Hyde line) and the Fillmore/California stop is only a block from Sherith. (Note: cable cars stop running by 9pm on weekdays, around 10pm on weekends.)
• Parking: Sherith does not have its own lot (www.sherithisrael.org). Nearby paid parking includes the SF MTA lot at California & Steiner (across from Mollie Stone’s market), and private garages: the CMPC garage at Clay & Webster (open 24/7, ~$35/day max) and the Pacific Professional Building lot at 2100 Webster (open 7am–7pm, ~$8/hr, ~$35/day max) (www.sherithisrael.org). These are within 2–3 blocks (Steiner lot is ~5 minutes by foot). Drive carefully – the short one-way streets can be confusing. If parking on Webster or Fillmore, come prepared to walk a block or two.
• Ride-Sharing & Drop-off: If using Uber or Lyft, ask the driver to pull up to Webster Street (north side) near the façade, or to use the marked white “Passenger Loading” zone on California (www.sherithisrael.org). After performances, the Webster curb (by Newman Hall’s wheelchair ramp) is typically open for pick-ups.
• Late-Night Options: Public transit runs thin after midnight. The #38-Geary bus runs 24 hours along Geary (which you can catch on Fillmore near Geary), and the #1-California bus has overnight service (Owl buses) (www.sherithisrael.org). BART itself stops at midnight, so if you rely on it you’ll have to leave the event by 11pm to make the last train. Otherwise, plan a rideshare or taxi for after a late show.

Inside the Venue

Once inside Sherith Israel, expect a quiet, reverent atmosphere. Entry is through the front sanctuary doors (on California St) or via the accessible ramp and elevator entrance through Newman Hall (on Webster St). For concerts, show staff will check tickets (usually e-tickets on phones). Be prepared for a quick security check: large bags, weapons, outside food/drink, and the like are not allowed per synagogue policy. (Side note: at special events, Sherith often provides vendors selling refreshments. For example, the Midwinter Music festival had a tea-and-coffee bar, snacks and even mulled wine available (www.ticketfairy.com). However, that is at the promoter’s discretion. Normally, no food or drink fountains are inside.)

The sanctuary interior is impressive: many “hundreds of decorative light bulbs” remain from 1905 (www.sherithisrael.org), glowing behind ornate bronze fixtures. The high dome and curved choir loft create a softly reflective acoustic, so voices and instruments carry naturally. There is no built-in amplification or theatrical lighting; any microphones and stage lights are installed by the event crew. Coats and personal items: Sherith typically offers a staffed coat-check or rack during big events (check if your ticket or usher mentions it). For retrofit concerts (wandering performers), coat racks along the side walls are provided. In cooler months you’ll likely hang your jacket; in summer the sanctuary has ceiling fans and HVAC (it’s chilly under the dome, so a light sweater is useful).

Facilities: Restrooms are on the lower level (basement). Ushers will direct you to nearest restrooms (often near the back entrance). There is no gift shop or cafe, but a small table of brochures and event flyers is usually available in the lobby. Cell phone use: Wi-Fi is not provided, and cell signal can be spotty inside; most people keep phones silent or off and use them again outside after the show. Photography/Recording: Sherith Israel is a house of worship, so during most events (especially religious services) photography and video are strictly prohibited. At secular concerts, cell-phone photos are sometimes tolerated between songs, but no flash or tripods. As a rule of thumb, assume “no recording” unless otherwise noted.

Accessibility: Sherith Israel is wheelchair-accessible but note the layout. The main California St doors have a few steps; the ramped Webster side entrance leads to an elevator that serves the basement and balcony levels (www.sherithisrael.org). Inside seating, ushers can help find accessible seats (usually on the end of a pew or in the front row of the mezzanine). Audio: no hearing loop system is known, so those needing assistance may bring personal aids. In summary, the inside is spare of modern amenities but rich in historic character – patrons generally experience a hushed, attentive audience, much like a chamber concert hall or old cathedral. Coat checks, food vendors or other service tables only appear during special events as advertised.

Nearby Amenities

The Sherith Israel building is in a charming residential-commercial mix area, so there are several amenities within walking distance. Note these are suggestions; always check current hours and availability.

• Restaurants & Cafés: Walk one block east on California to Fillmore Street and you’ll enter a busy dining corridor. Here you’ll find many choices: casual eateries, cafes and bars. Options include popular local spots (pizza, Thai, Asian fusion, modern-American brasseries, etc.). For example, a few doors down on Fillmore you might see a sushi restaurant or Mediterranean grill; a bustling sandwich shop; and a high-end cocktail lounge for pre-show drinks. There are also chain cafés (Starbucks is 2 blocks south at Fillmore & Sacramento) and a well-reviewed bakery on Fillmore. Just next door to Sherith, the Mollie Stone’s pharmacy market has prepared foods and coffee, handy for quick snacks.
• Bars & Nightlife: The neighborhood is not a nightclub zone, but there are craft beer bars and wine lounges on Fillmore and nearby Union Street. If you want a drink after a show, try a gastropub or wine bar one to two blocks north (there’s a popular Irish pub up Steiner, and a late-night café near Fillmore/Clay). Most places close by 11pm. In warm weather, small outdoor tables on Fillmore can be a pleasant spot to relax post-concert.
• Hotels/Lodging: For visitors staying overnight, a few hotels are within easy reach. The Cow Hollow Inn & Suites (2190 Lombard St) is about 0.4 miles north (www.booking.com) and is a convenient budget-friendly choice. A few upscale boutique hotels line nearby Pacific Avenue (e.g. 2900 block of Pacific). On Van Ness or Nob Hill (further south) are larger hotels such as the InterContinental Mark Hopkins and the Drisco Hotel. If downtown guests are visiting Sherith, the Powell Street Cable Car (2 miles away) or a quick Lyft can reach Lincoln Park. When choosing accommodations, find something near Van Ness, Fillmore, or Union Street for easy access to Sherith Israel.
• Pre-Show Tips: Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before an event. If you need dinner first, allow ample time – traffic and parking can slow you. (Restaurants in this area often require reservations for weekend evenings.) Give yourself a buffer for possible delay. After the performance, note that nearby restaurants and shops close by 10–11pm. If you need late-night food or a ride, it’s safest to arrange in advance: either take a rideshare or catch the MUNI #38-Geary (24-hour service) at Fillmore/Geary. The bus routes run roughly every 15–20 minutes at night. Otherwise, pre-booking an Uber or Lyft from Webster & Broadway (one block north) or taking a taxi from Fillmore is wise for late departures.

What Makes This Venue Special

Sherith Israel stands out for its unique fusion of historic grandeur and community spirit. Architecturally, it is a true jewel – an eight-sided, domed sanctuary that looks unlike anything else in the city (artandarchitecture-sf.com). Its mix of Byzantine/Moorish design elements and lavish interior details makes it a challenge to find another comparable venue on the West Coast (www.sherithisrael.org) (artandarchitecture-sf.com). The artistry inside is especially noteworthy: in preparation for Sherith’s centennial, art historians discovered that all the stained-glass windows were designed by Emile Pissis (the architect’s brother) (artandarchitecture-sf.com). The ornamented ceiling and dome, vivid frescoes, and mosaic floors are such that even passersby often stop to gape at the exterior. It really feels like stepping into a colonnaded chapel or palace rather than a plain hall.

Historically, Sherith has been a backdrop for landmark events. Beyond the 1906 quake trials mentioned earlier (artandarchitecture-sf.com), in 1945 Sherith Israel hosted a national Jewish assembly commemorating the founding of the United Nations (artandarchitecture-sf.com). Under progressive leadership in the late 20th century, Sherith became known for social justice advocacy and inclusive policies (interestingly, it began performing interfaith weddings in the 2000s). This progressive reputation lends the venue a warm, open vibe. In the arts community, the Temple is beloved for its acoustics and intimacy. Many performers and attendees remark that music “sounds magnificent” under Sherith’s dome – the combination of organ resonance and natural reverb creates a rich soundstage. Plus, because it isn’t a commercial rock arena, audiences here tend to be respectful and attentive, giving shows a personal feel.

Finally, as a living synagogue Sherith Israel regularly brings in people who might not otherwise enter such a sacred space. Open concerts and cultural festivals introduce thousands of locals to this historic monument each year. The pride of the local Jewish and San Francisco communities in maintaining this landmark is palpable. In short, Sherith Israel is special because it is both a beautifully preserved piece of architectural heritage (www.sherithisrael.org) (www.sherithisrael.org) and a vibrant community center. Visitors often remember it as “the one with the big dome and organ” – a venue that effortlessly blends spiritual significance with cultural events.

Visitor Tips and Information

Getting In: Arrive at the time advised on your ticket or earlier. Doors typically open 20–30 minutes before showtime. Even if you have an e-ticket, it’s wise to have a backup printout or screenshot of your order. At the front, use the Webster entrance if you need wheelchair access or have large items – there is an elevator and ramp there (www.sherithisrael.org). Otherwise, the California Street entrance (with a couple of steps) will lead you immediately into the sanctuary.

Weather & Dress: San Francisco weather can be cool, so a light jacket is recommended year-round. The sanctuary itself can be chilly (especially in winter), so dress in layers. There is no strict dress code – concert-goers typically wear casual to smart-casual attire (jeans/pants and a shirt). If you are attending a religious holiday service, modest attire (no shorts, covered shoulders) is appreciated out of respect.

Children & Families: Many Sherith events are family-friendly. In fact, promotional materials sometimes note “All ages – kids under 12 free” (www.ticketfairy.com). However, not all performances are aimed at children; check the event description. If you bring young children, consider bringing ear protection for loud music (concerts can get noisy). There is no nursery or childcare on site, so infants/very young kids must remain with you in the sanctuary.

Bag Restrictions: For security you may be asked to open bags at entry. Large backpacks, tripods, and professional camera gear are often prohibited. Small personal bags or purses are usually allowed. Outside food/drink and alcoholic beverages are not permitted except for official events that explicitly sell refreshments (www.ticketfairy.com). Smoking is never allowed indoors or on temple grounds.

Seating & Mobility: If you have any difficulty walking, notify the ushers; they can help find seats near aisles. There are wheelchair spots booked through the office. Note that the pew layout means aisles are narrow. Bring any mobility aids you need – the venue has ramps/elevator but no motorized carts. If mobility is an issue, planning entry/exit routes (via the ramp on Webster) ahead of time is recommended.

Behavior and Atmosphere: Sherith Israel is still a sacred space. Even during concerts, maintain quiet during performances (applaud between songs rather than shouting). Avoid wearing hats or blowing horns indoors. Cell phones should be silenced or off. The vibe is generally respectful and attentive; you likely won’t hear screaming fans or profanity unless it’s part of a fringe show. If it’s your first time in a synagogue, remove hats or head coverings if offered (this varies by event), and follow any instructions from staff or volunteers.

Planning Tips: If you have time, consider taking Sherith’s free guided tour. Every Wednesday at 2pm, a docent leads a one-hour walk through the sanctuary and Newman Hall (www.sherithisrael.org) – a great way to learn the building’s history and cool anecdotes. Also, double-check event listings for any specific bag, camera, or late-arrival policies. Finally, calibrate your clock – San Francisco public restrooms and entry lines may cause delays, so budget extra transition time, especially if you need to stop at a café or restroom before the show.