Night of Ideas 2025: (un)Common Ground

Family Programming: 4pm-6pm

Evening Programming: 7pm-1am

FULL PROGRAM SCHEDULE HERE!

Night of Ideas returns this year with nocturnal arts and culture marathons in cities across the U.S. The theme of Night of Ideas 2025, “(Un)Common Ground,” invites us to consider the values and resources that bind us together. In an increasingly digital world, how can we foster authentic interpersonal connection? Given a polarized political landscape, where are our opportunities for dialogue? As extreme weather threatens our planet, how can we preserve the land beneath our feet?  

This year’s theme explores the vital role of civil society in mediating our differences and charting a shared destiny. It challenges us to reconsider the values that form the foundation of our communities—whether territorial, social, or emotional—and how we can repair our social fabric amid increasing polarization. How can we rebuild a sense of the common good and what is necessary to realize it in a time of deep division? In an era dominated by AI and social networks, how do we forge meaningful interpersonal connections and preserve the essence of shared values? How can we find common ground?

We also welcome back Afternoon of Ideas, a family program ahead of the main event inviting younger generations to participate in crafts, performances and workshops with popular children’s book authors, artists, performers, and educators.

Join KQED, the Asian Art Museum, San Francisco Public Library, Villa Albertine San Francisco, along with artistic curating partner Circuit Network, and DJs provided by EMPIRE for another inspiring marathon of talks, live performances, workshops, food, art and collective imagination!

FULL PROGRAM SCHEDULE HERE!

Night of Ideas SF is co-presented by