Stern Grove’s opening day felt like a warm family reunion and Oakland’s hometown heroes, The California Honeydrops, proved the perfect hosts. Against the iconic eucalyptus‑canopied backdrop of Sigmund Stern Grove, a beloved 33‑acre natural amphitheater dating back to 1938, the band brought electrifying, retro‑soul energy from the outset.
From the first horn blast of saxophonist Yanos “Johnny Bones” Lustig to the jubilant melodies of frontman Lech Wierzynski, there wasn’t a dormant foot in the crowd. Their improvisational spirit was on full display with what looked like no setlist, no script, just pure musical chemistry.
They rolled through originals and reinterpreted timeless blues and soul, all with respect and swagger. The Dip, their warm-up act, delivered tight retro‑R&B grooves in their own right, that kept the energy ingredients simmering until the headliners took the stage .
The crowd was filled with families spread over picnic blankets, longtime patrons of the 88‑year‑old festival, and new visitors alike. Laughter, communal dancing, and spontaneous calls for encores spoke volumes about the connection forged beneath that warm Sunday sun. Stern Grove’s new lottery and ticketing system seemed a small sacrifice for a day of free-flowing music.
Opening day at Stern Grove reminded us why this festival remains a beloved fixture in San Francisco’s cultural calendar. The California Honeydrops didn’t just perform, they shared a story rooted in roots music and community spirit. As the echoes of their soulful riffs faded into the woodland air, the Grove seemed to whisper, “This is what summer in SF sounds like.”
