The Fillmore in San Francisco is one of the most historically important rock venues in America, central to the 1960s counterculture and the psychedelic San Francisco sound.
Made famous by promoter Bill Graham, its intimate ballroom hosted the Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and generations of artists since.
Stats at a Glance
- Location: San Francisco, California
- Type: Historic music hall / ballroom
- Capacity: About 1,150
- Famous for: 1960s rock and the Bill Graham era
- Tradition: Free apples and commemorative posters for fans
The Bill Graham Era
Under Bill Graham, the Fillmore became the launchpad for the San Francisco rock scene. Its psychedelic concert posters are now collector’s art, and the venue’s intimate scale makes every show feel historic.
Traditions That Endure
The Fillmore still greets fans with its famous free apples and hands out commemorative posters after headline shows – small traditions that connect today’s concerts to its storied past.
Explore more: types of concert venues.
The Fillmore FAQs
Why is the Fillmore famous?
As the home of the 1960s San Francisco rock scene under promoter Bill Graham.
What is the Fillmore’s capacity?
About 1,150.
What are the Fillmore’s traditions?
Free apples for fans and commemorative posters handed out after headline shows.
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Photo: total13 / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.