San Francisco, California story
A Stage in the Square
Portsmouth Square is known as the Heart of Chinatown, and it's currently undergoing a transformation to better serve the community. As part of a major improvement project, the cit…
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Portsmouth Square is known as the Heart of Chinatown, and it's currently undergoing a transformation to better serve the community. As part of a major improvement project, the city is adding a performance stage to the historic plaza. This will allow the square—which is already a vital gathering place for Chinatown's multi-generational community—to host more live music and cultural events.
From the first raising of the American flag in 1846 to this new era of public art and performance, Portsmouth Square continues to be the city's oldest and most enduring public stage.
Updated June 2026