SF celebrates 50 years of punk at iconic Mabuhay Gardens

"Mabuhay Gardens, or the "Fab Mab," hosted icons like the Ramones, Sex Pistols, and Devo in the 70s and 80s, but perhaps more importantly, it was a place for punk to gather and evolve in San Francisco, launching local legends like The Avengers, Dead Kennedys, The Nuns, Crime and Flipper."

"For many, Saturday night was a reunion—an evening to reconnect with old friends and reminisce about earlier shows. Aileen Sullivan recalled growing up in the Bay Area punk scene. Her first show was Black Flag and Flipper. "No matter where we go, I guess we all just sort of find each other and gather," she said."

"Rabiah Harrison said she never thought she'd have the opportunity to experience the venue. She's from the Midwest and always wanted to move to San Francisco and be a part of the scene. "I really hope Mabuhay stays," she said, "especially with Bottom of the Hill and Thee Parkside closing.""

"Pam Satterthwaite was confident of punk's endurance. "We're like water," she said. "We find a way." Chuck "The Freek," who was working the door on Saturday night, agreed. "The punk scene here is very vibrant. People that say there isn't a scene""

Mabuhay Gardens, the legendary San Francisco punk venue known as the "Fab Mab," recently reopened after closing for nearly 40 years. The venue hosted a 50-year celebration of Bay Area punk, drawing hundreds of fans ranging from longtime scene veterans to newcomers. Historically, Mabuhay Gardens launched local punk legends including The Avengers, Dead Kennedys, The Nuns, Crime, and Flipper, while also hosting iconic acts like the Ramones and Sex Pistols. The event served as a reunion for many, allowing attendees to reconnect with friends and reminisce about earlier shows. Attendees expressed hope for the venue's longevity, particularly given recent closures of other San Francisco music venues, while emphasizing punk's resilience and enduring community.

Read at Mission Local