The Big Twang! A Book Event Honoring 25 Years of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
Please register to attend this free in-person program presented by Hardly Strictly Bluegrass and the Jewish Community Library, celebrating the enduring legacy of one of San Francisco’s most beloved cultural traditions. The Library is located at 1835 Ellis Street in San Francisco, with free garage parking at 1227 Pierce Street between Ellis and Eddy.
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass at 25: The Big Twang! is a newly released coffee-table book capturing the festival’s rich history through stunning photography and behind-the-scenes stories. Featuring hundreds of images from Jay Blakesburg and other distinguished photographers, the book chronicles the unforgettable artists, devoted fans, and the one-of-a-kind spirit that has filled Hellman Hollow for a quarter century. It offers a vivid look into how the festival—founded as a gift to the city by philanthropist Warren Hellman—grew into a free cultural phenomenon drawing hundreds of thousands to Golden Gate Park each fall.
The event will feature a conversation with:
Tricia Hellman Gibbs, daughter of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass founder Warren Hellman, who will reflect on her parents and their passions, commitments, and legacy.
Frances Dinkelspiel, journalist and author of Towers of Gold: How One Jewish Immigrant Named Isaias Hellman Created California, who will speak about the Hellman family’s history and the German Jews who made California their home.
Sarah Davis, Creative Director of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, who will trace the festival’s evolution, and how it is reflected in the book.
This festive afternoon will weave together the magic of storytelling, live music (including several original songs written by Warren Hellman), and the spirit of community, culminating in candle-lighting led by Rabbi Lawrence Kushner to mark the first night of Hanukkah, along with a delicious reception. It will be a perfect intersection of Hanukkah warmth and San Francisco musical heritage.
Copies of HSB At 25: The Big Twang! will be available for purchase at a 25% discount.
“What better way to remember my father on his yahrtzeit than in celebrating his favorite gift to San Francisco, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, which has brought light and joy to the world now for a quarter century! I’m looking forward to gathering with the community that has embraced and sustained his vision.” – Tricia Hellman Gibbs