A world leader in the global Pride movement, SF Pride has been a not-to-be-missed fixture on the LGBTQ calendar since the first Pride parade and celebration was held in 1970. Now in its 50th year, the SF Pride Committee remains a powerhouse in the ongoing fight for equality for all LGBTQ people - both in San Francisco and beyond. The Committee continues to play a crucial role in both celebrating and commemorating LGBTQ culture and heritage. SF Pride is a not for profit membership organisation, and its work supports other not for profits in the United States working in areas related to HIV and AIDS, cancer, and homelessness - along with other important causes that benefit the LGBTQ community. Education is at the heart of its mission, and the SF Pride website serves as an essential resource on both the history of the movement and the annual Pride celebrations and other events. The SF Pride magazine, 'Inside Pride' is also available on the website. The yearly SF Pride celebrations are held throughout June, with the famous march forming the focal point. Almost one million people attend the parade and festivities, coming from all over the globe. The main stage is on the steps of the historic San Francisco City Hall, and there are tens more stages representing the diverse range of groups that make up the LGBTQ community. The parade begins on Beale Street and ends at Market 8th street. Happily, the annual pride celebration is free to attend, though SF Pride does ask for a donation of $1 o $5 at the entry gates. Additionally, there are some ticketed events, for which charges apply. These include the opportunity to view the parade from the United Nations Plaza, which offers a breathtaking vantage point of the intoxicating displays of colour and diversity below. The SF Pride website outlines how you can become a member. Packages start at $15. Members receive voting rights and discounts from partner organisations. But arguably the most significant benefit is knowing that you're playing a part in one of the most powerful LGBTQ ***s for good in the world.

A coffee shop aimed at the kink community - where else would this exist but in magnificent San Francisco? Wicked Grounds SF is America's first kink café and boutique, offering the fetish community a safe, informal, and always friendly space in which to meet and form meaningful connections. Founded in 2009, Wicked Grounds SF was always going to be more than your average coffee shop. Yes, of course, you can pick up a silky smooth flat white, but you'll be sipping it surrounded by the very best in artisan bondage and BDSM gear and a wide range of non-fiction books serving as vital educational resources. But more importantly, you'll be sitting beside the eclectic, fascinating bunch of people who make up the local queer and kink community. The Wicked Grounds SF website is a lovingly curated online resource for kinksters. Vibrant and enticing, it mirrors the café itself, which welcomes everyone. Whether you're an experienced kinkster looking to date or a newbie, the staff at Wicked Grounds SF are there to answer your questions and make you feel included. Community is indeed everything here. The café is open to anyone aged 18 and above. All they ask is that you are respectful of those who share the space. There are no demands that you dress in a particular way, though fetish gear is, naturally, more than welcome. Expect to see a human pup enjoying his dog bowl! Wicked Ground SF offer a diverse range of events. On average, there are 50 events each month covering game nights, munches, coffee socials, classes, demos, and BDSM trunk shows. It's the perfect space to see artists and meet traveling authors - and you're guaranteed to come away inspired. Additionally, Wicked Grounds SF host four play parties off-site each year. These are held at the SF Citadel, one of San Francisco's foremost dungeons, This is a strict non-judgment zone, though there are a few rules. The café serve food, so keep your nether regions covered. And, as always, consent is everything. A $300 a year annual membership gives you a host of great benefits - but you don't need to be a member to enjoy this very special place.

Based on the sexual utopia that is San Francisco, Society of Janus provides education and support to anyone who is on a BDSM journey. A not for profit, membership organisation, Society of Janus organises programs and events that connect kinksters of all persuasions. Pansexual and open to all genders and ages, the society fosters a strong sense of community and personal growth. Its cardinal rule is that all BDSM activity should be safe and consensual - and non-exploitative. Society of Janus has a long and venerable history. It was formed way back in 1974 by Cynthia Slater and Larry Olsen, and is the second oldest BDSM group in the United States. Those new to the BDSM will be welcomed with open arms at Society of Janus. It recognises that the thought of a kinky lifestyle can be daunting for those taking their first steps. Accordingly, the society has appointed two officers who work specifically with newbies as part of a 'Welcoming Program'. The 'Welcoming Program' includes monthly coffee events where you can meet other new members - and ask questions. 'Newcomer Adventures' offer special kink trips and other events. Additionally, Society of Janus runs a mentoring scheme in which you are paired with a seasoned kinkster in a non-play relationship. Full details of this scheme are available on the society's website. What better way to make you feel at ease as you explore your fantasies? A local event calendar on the website lists the many events that the society organises. Each year, it has a prominent presence at the legendary Folsom Street Fair and San Francisco Pride. You can also join regular munches and a wide range of workshops covering all aspects of BDSM. The Society of Janus website is brimming with information on BDSM. You will find helpful information on topics such as Dom/sub dynamics, impact play, bondage, as well as a list of suggested reading. Additionally, the organisation offers two free publications. 'Growing ***s' is a bi-monthly newsletter which includes inspirational stories, interviews, art and much more. The Offical monthly e-mail newsletter, Yellow, keeps you up to date with upcoming events and programs. Membership of Society of Janus costs $50 a year and brings a host of benefits. You must be at least 18 years to join.