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, if there is any?
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 Villa Albertine San Francisco, KQED, the Asian Art Museum, San Francisco Public Library, along with artistic curating partner Circuit Network, for another inspiring marathon of talks, live performances, workshops, food, art, and collective imagination!
Villa SF is excited to announce that this year is larger than ever, with events taking place at the Asian Art Museum, Fulton Plaza, and the San Francisco Public Library, and that we are welcoming back Burning Man as special curatorial partners.