
Special Events at The Commonwealth Club
2025 Annual Gala
Fall 2024
The Distinguished Citizens Awards Gala is one of the most prestigious events in the Bay Area; it offers the philanthropic community an essential opportunity to support the Club’s civic and nonpartisan mission. We strive to cultivate a vibrant, informed and engaged citizenry equipped with the knowledge and tools to build a strong and thriving society.
For the past seven years, the Gala has been held at our beautiful venue on the Embarcadero. Building on last year’s incredible success, we are expanding to accommodate a larger audience. In the fall of 2025, the event will take place at one of San Francisco’s iconic hotels. The evening will feature a reception with honorees, a lively awards ceremony with inspiring speeches, and a celebratory party.

Blue Angels Viewing Party
October 11, 2025
Every fall, the world-famous Blue Angels soar through the San Francisco skyline, captivating crowds. Join us on Saturday, October 11, from 1 to 4 p.m., to enjoy some of the remarkable maneuvers from the perfect vantage point—on The Commonwealth Club's rooftop terrace!
California Book Awards
The California Book Awards annually recognize the state’s best writers and illuminate the wealth and diversity of literature written in California. The California Book Awards began in 1931, and through the years recipients have included Jared Diamond, Khaled Hosseini, Kay Ryan, John Steinbeck, Amy Tan, and many others.
Exhibits at the Club
Ongoing
Exhibits of artworks at the Club are available during most business hours and, unless otherwise noted, are free to view. Many exhibits also feature a special event featuring the artist.