Dead & Company Honors 60 Years of Grateful Dead Legacy with Epic Golden Gate Park Performance

SAN FRANCISCO — There’s something magical about hearing Grateful Dead songs drifting through the San Francisco air, and on Saturday night, Dead & Company proved just how powerful that magic still is. Taking the stage for Night 2 of a three-day music celebration in Golden Gate Park, the band honored 60 years of Grateful Dead music, and deadheads from across the country showed up in droves.

From Raleigh to Walnut Creek to Chicago, fans packed the park wearing tie-dye shirts and wide smiles. Some, like Mark Kelsey, returned after attending the 50th anniversary: “Well, I was at the 50th. How can you miss the 60th?”

A Tribute for the Ages

Formed in 2015, Dead & Company features former Grateful Dead members and new collaborators, including John Mayer, who has become a respected figure among even the most loyal fans.

“Every night you come, it’s a different experience,” said Jack Manalli, a fan from Chicago. “John Mayer, Bob Weir, Jeff on the keys… they’re some of the best musicians in the world.”

The group’s setlists are never the same, creating a unique show every night — a tradition that honors the Grateful Dead’s legendary improvisational spirit.

The Spirit of Community Lives On

Fans weren’t just there for the music — they were there for the vibe. Ty Decaires, who traveled from Brooklyn, summed it up best:

“This is all about love and cultivating a safe vibe for people to just enjoy the music.”

Even younger generations have embraced the Dead’s legacy. Olivia Cunningham from Walnut Creek noted,

“It brings out true peace in people. This is like the type of community you always strive for.”

For millennial fan Ashlynn Parenteau, the pull was irresistible:

“Actually, for a while I tried to fight it. But I can’t. I’m three generations in.”

Legacy in Full Bloom

While the music roared, another tribute bloomed nearby: specially-developed Grateful Dead roses were on display in the Golden Gate Park Rose Garden, linking the natural beauty of San Francisco with the lasting impact of the band.

Some longtime fans like Star, who began following the band in 1984, traveled from Florida for this possible final opportunity:

“Now I’m here for one last time.”

Were you at Golden Gate Park for the 60th celebration? Share your favorite Dead & Company moments with us at chicagomusicguide.com and let’s keep the community spirit alive.