After last year’s celebration drew record crowds, the Arts and Events and Retail Services teams have been hard at work to make Block Party 13 the biggest and best yet.
The event started as a way to spotlight UCSF’s retail spaces at Mission Bay. It has now grown into one of the most anticipated campus gatherings of the year — bringing together staff, learners, and the community for a day full of food, fun, and entertainment.
Here’s your guide to Block Party 13:
1. $13 Pride Bucks for the First 2,500 Attendees
Nothing says Block Party like free food. The first 2,500 attendees will snag $13 Pride Bucks, redeemable at participating vendors like Publico, SF Kebab, Peasant Pies, Subway, and Double Shot.
Furry friends are always a hit. Muttville’s lovable senior dogs will be on-site for snuggles and photo ops.
3. Maddie B Performs Live
Singer Maddie B — famous for belting the national anthem at Bay Area stadiums and performing at the Tonga Room — returns to wow the Block Party crowd.
4. DJ JayBee Spins the Beats
Keep the energy high with DJ JayBee on the turntables. Expect music that’ll keep you moving between activities.
5. Sparkle with Face Gems
Add a little festival sparkle with colorful face gem designs! It’s perfect for photos or just channeling your inner star.
6. Bubble Experience Artist (on Stilts!)
Yes, bubbles…but bigger! Look for the bubble artist towering on stilts, dazzling the crowd with mesmerizing bubble creations.
Capture the day with a caricature portrait of your team or friends! It’s a fun, fast, and one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home.
Need a break from the action? Stop by for a quick chair massage from professional therapists and recharge before your next adventure.
9. Test Ride Rybit E-Bikes
Hop on and take a spin! Rybit will be offering e-bike test rides so you can see what the buzz is all about.
10. Meet UCPD Dogs McGruff and Nash
Keep an eye out for McGruff the Crime Dog, UCPD’s friendly safety mascot, and Nash, one of UCPD’s hardworking K-9s. They’ll be on hand for photos, tail wags, and plenty of smiles.
11. Drag Bingo with Katya Smirnoff-Skyy
Fan-favorite Katya Smirnoff-Skyy returns to host Drag Bingo — complete with laughs, songs, and chances to win fabulous prizes.
12. Explore 15+ Vendor Booths
From campus resources to local discount partners, the vendor booths are a must-stop for swag, giveaways, and deals.
13. Step Inside the Uber Commute Shuttle
Curious about the new commute option? Check out the Uber Commute Shuttle parked on-site and see the future of shared rides.
No matter how you spend your time, there’s no wrong way to do Block Party 13. Whether you swing by for lunch, stay for the performances, or just explore the booths, you’ll be part of one of UCSF’s biggest traditions.
Yes, Block Party has lots of ‘things’ you can do but my favorite part and, in my opinion, most importantly is just the time you get to spend with your UCSF community — eating, laughing, and creating memories,” expressed Jamie DeAraujo, Arts and Events manager.
