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San Francisco, United States

Traditions and customs in San Francisco

5 customs and traditions in San Francisco — what they are, and how to take part without causing offence.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Cable cars

Cable cars
Photo: Fartese · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

The last manually operated cable car system in the world, and a national landmark.

2. Coffee culture

Coffee culture
Photo: LianaAn · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

Third-wave roasting largely began here, and the standard is high across the city.

3. Fog, named

Fog, named
Photo: wbaiv · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

The city's fog is called Karl and has its own social media following.

4. Dungeness crab season

Dungeness crab season
Photo: Gary Soup · CC BY 2.0 · source

The local catch, from November, and a genuine seasonal event.

5. Bay to Breakers

Bay to Breakers
Photo: sfmission.com · CC BY 2.0 · source

A May footrace across the city that is mostly fancy dress and floats.

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