Rock or opera? You pick this weekend in Golden Gate Park

This weekend, Golden Gate Park plays hosts to two free music events that sit at the opposite ends of the audio spectrum.

First up on Saturday is Power to the Peaceful 2009, where you’ll join Michael Franti and friends for a day of music, arts and celebration. Last year, 70,000 people packed Speedway Meadow to listen to the great music.

This year’s lineup includes Michael Franti & Spearhead, Alanis Morissette (acoustic trio), Sly & Robbie and more on the main stage. There will also be an open-air DJ tent and a special kids zone for the wee music fans. See the complete lineup.

Power to the Peaceful runs from 9am to 5pm on Saturday in Golden Gate Park’s Speedway Meadow (map). Admission is free though a $5 donation is “requested and admired”. 😉 There are more events happening in the city on Sunday for this festival, so visit their website for more information.

If divas are more your thing, don’t miss Opera in the Park, taking place on Sunday at Sharon Meadow (map). Frisbees will give way to falsettos, blankets will be accompanied by baritones and moms with strollers will hobnob with maestros.

The free concert begins at 1:30pm and is a preview of the upcoming San Francisco Opera season. Artists performing include Sondra Radvanovsky, Ewa PodleÅ›, Marco Berti, Brandon Jovanovich, Quinn Kelsey and Andrea Silvestrelli, and the San Francisco Opera Orchestra conducted by new Music Director Nicola Luisotti.

And a note on chairs from their website: “Tall lawn chairs are not permitted in the meadow to ensure that everyone may see the stage comfortably.”

So which will it be, rock or opera?

Sarah B.