Folsom Street Fair

The Folsom Street Fair, held each September in San Francisco's South of Market district, is a vibrant celebration of BDSM and leather subculture. In 2019, it attracted over 300,000 attendees, making it the largest leather event globally. Since its inception in 1984, the fair has evolved into a non-profit charity event, with proceeds benefiting various charitable organizations. The event offers a multitude of activities, including games, beverage booths, and unique fundraising events like "spanking for donations." Attendees who donate $10 or more receive a discount on drinks.

The leather subculture in the U.S. dates back to the 1940s and gained significant traction in the 1950s with the emergence of gay leather bars and biker culture. San Francisco has been a key hub for this community since the 1960s, with Folsom Street becoming a central gathering place. The fair itself was established during the 1980s AIDS epidemic as a way to raise funds, increase visibility for the community, and disseminate crucial information about safer sex practices.

Over the years, the fair has faced its share of controversies. For instance, a 2007 poster depicting a BDSM-themed version of "The Last Supper" drew criticism from conservative groups. Despite such controversies, the fair has received robust support from city officials and has successfully raised substantial funds for charity. Attendees can enjoy live music, entertainment, and a wide range of activities tailored to the BDSM and leather communities.

The success of the San Francisco event has inspired similar fairs in other cities, such as New York City's Folsom Street East and Berlin's Folsom Europe. The fair continues to evolve, adding new features like a women's area and an erotic artists' section. The atmosphere at the fair uniquely blends transgressive activities, engaging entertainment, and a strong sense of community.