Heart of Town Concert Honors Grateful Dead Spirit for 60th Anniversary in San Francisco – Photo Recap

Photos by Ryan Myers

The Heart of Town concert series was a three-night celebration held at Pier 48 in San Francisco, marking the 60th anniversary of the Grateful Dead. Curated by Grahame Lesh & Friends, the event honored the band’s enduring legacy through immersive visuals, a psychedelic atmosphere, and a rotating cast of over 45 musicians. Each night brought together a wide community of fans in true Deadhead spirit, blending old-school reverence with modern jam-band energy.

Musical guests spanned an impressive range, with Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith (Dawes), Holly Bowling, Eric Krasno, Ivan Neville, and Sam Grisman serving as part of the core group across all nights. Highlights included Stephen Stills performing “Uncle John’s Band” and “Teach Your Children” on opening night, Duane Betts and Nicki Bluhm on Friday, and John Medeski, Jackie Greene, and Robert Randolph on Saturday. The lineup also featured members of Trey Anastasio Band, North Mississippi Allstars, and ALO, reflecting the widespread influence of the Dead’s music and drawing thousands to this unique, community-driven celebration.