Vintage Neon Night Hike: Financial District, Chinatown, and North Beach

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An evening urban hike through San Francisco’s Financial District, Chinatown, and North Beach to see vintage neon signs.

AI summary · From the event listing

With the time change comes the start of vintage neon sign urban hiking season. Let's start this year off with a Thursday evening urban hike from the Financial District to see some vintage neon signs in the Financial District, Chinatown, North Beach and possibly a bit into the edge of Fisherman's Wharf. We meet at 5:30, but leave at 5:40 (grace period). We're also highlighting a new a newly restored neon sign that was unveiled over the summer; the vintage Golden Star Radio. The sign marks the birthplace of "The Chinese Hour," believed to be the very first Chinese-language radio program in North America. Launched in 1939 by pioneer broadcasters Tommy and May Chin Tong, the couple broadcasted news and cultural entertainment in Cantonese from a hidden basement studio directly below their appliance shop. For 40 years, it served as a vital cultural lifeline for thousands of new immigrants adjusting to life in San Francisco. While the broadcasts ceased in 1979 and the family's sign fell deep into disrepair, the physical piece remained hanging on the building—hiding in plain sight until the restoration campaign pulled it down to be saved. After this hike you may never look at neon signs the same way again! After the walk, we will will have the after gathering at a commerical estabisment in the North Beach area. Hope to see you there! Please note: Phone help is not available for latecomers. If you are late it is very hard to catch up with us. We walk at a medium pace.

Financial District