San Francisco Opera announced its 2026 “Opera Ball” is delayed as the San Francisco Opera Orchestra and Opera are still in active negotiations.

Originally scheduled for Sept. 12 at San Francisco City Hall, the Opera Ball will now take place on Nov. 12. The season-opening performance of Verdi’s “Simon Boccanegra” at the War Memorial Opera House will continue as planned on Sept. 12 without the gala component of the evening.

The date change follows the recent announcement by the San Francisco Opera Orchestra of their intention not to perform unless the Opera and Orchestra have resolved a new collective bargaining agreement by opening night of the season. The Orchestra is asking for financial stability and pay that keeps pace with the cost of living in the city, as well as a working partnership with management to reverse the pattern of cuts.

Matthew Shilvock, the Tad and Dianne Taube General Director of San Francisco Opera, said in a press release, “I am deeply grateful to all those involved in Opera Ball for pivoting to this new November date, particularly the co-chairs and host committee who are working tirelessly to make this such a special fundraiser. We feel that this is the best decision to ensure that this critical fundraising event can continue, free of any uncertainty, while at the same time giving negotiations the space needed to proceed ahead of what promises to be a beautiful opening of Simon Boccanegra on September 12. I am deeply grateful to all those attending Opera Ball for their understanding as we make this adjustment.”

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