Event Production & Staging

The Art Of Meeting At Our Downtown San Francisco Event Venue

At the Hilton San Francisco Union Square we feel there is an art to designing signature San Francisco special events. Much like a theatrical production, planning an event, meeting, or function is an all-consuming endeavor done successfully with great passion. Working as one creative team, our professional San Francisco event production staff can oversee the infinite details without losing sight of the big picture. From setting up an office away from the office, to spectacular live presentations, shows, and seeing to your attendees’ travel plans and accommodations, it's always a big production and we love it making sure that show goes off without a hitch.

Audio/Visual

To ease the planning process and enhance the messages you want delivered during your event, the hotel has its own ballroom expertise and provides in-house access to the extensive resources of a professional audio visual company. While we are the exclusive provider of sound, lighting, rigging and electrical services for the hotel, Presentation Services Audio Visual (PSAV) is in-house to provide all visual production equipment such as screens, staging, and projection equipment.

Though an outside production company may be selected, our Ballroom Operations Team remains in charge of sound, lighting, rigging, and electrical equipment for which there is an appropriate charge. The production company must ensure that they are compliance with all local negotiated labor guidelines. A Vendor Production Guideline will be sent to the production company outlining all the details and requirements and is downloadable from this site.

Please feel free to contact the following individuals for more detailed information:

Charlie Cartolano
Director of AV Production, Hilton San Francisco Union Square
415-923-5044
charlie_cartolano@hilton.com

Jeff Liu
Director, Event Technology
PSAV® Presentation Services
Hotel Services Division
Direct: 415.614.9002
Fax: 415.614.9005
jeff_liu@hilton.com

Pyrotechnics

The storage, use or display of pyrotechnic material or devices, fireworks (Class "C" explosives) and similar incendiary devices intended for theatrical or entertainment purposes, in interior locations of hotels or other facilities owned or managed by Hilton Hotels Corporation is prohibited. The use or display of such devices on the property of, but exterior to such hotels or other facilities owned or managed by Hilton Hotels Corporation shall be governed by the following requirements.

All requirements in local and/or state regulations with respect to the display of pyrotechnics shall be adhered to. The local fire department shall be notified on the day of the scheduled display to confirm the exact time the event will commence. When fire department attendance at such displays is required, such displays shall not commence until the fire department representative confirms the adequacy of the preparations and authorizes the event to begin. Only licensed operators shall be permitted to use or display outdoor pyrotechnics. Proof of current licensure shall be provided by the operator to the hotel or facility representative at least five business days in advance of such activities. All required state and/or local permits associated with the storage, use or display of pyrotechnics shall be obtained from the appropriate authorities having jurisdiction at least five business days prior to such events and copies thereof provided to the hotel or facility representative in advance of the scheduled event.

Pianos

The hotel has in inventory two Baby Grand pianos. Pianos are available based on group demand for the particular time period of interest. Pianos are moved throughout the hotel often, therefore it is highly recommended it be tuned prior to each use. Tuning fees are required and a leadtime of one (1) week notice is required. If your group requires additional pianos or pianos in outdoor/alternate locations, your Catering/Event Manager can rent them from an outside source. Please note that there is an additional labor fee if you request a piano to be placed on top of portable staging.

Music/Musicians

The hotel has key contacts in the entertainment industry which make it possible to assure satisfaction and secure the best local, national, and international talents. The City of San Francisco requests that outdoor entertainment begins no earlier than 6 pm and ends no later than 12:00 am. Please contact your Catering/Event Manager for assistance in booking entertainment.

Dance floor

The Hilton carries portable dance floors of the highest quality that can be set-up almost anywhere. All original portable dance floor panels have 100% floor contact so there is not possibility of breakthrough. The edges of each panel are protected by an aluminum metal feature strip, adding extra safety and peace of mind. The dance floor is a light oak color and comes in 3’ x 3’ sections. Most requests can be accommodated, however, it is subject to the available inventory.

Superb San Francisco Special Event Services And Amenities

The Hilton San Francisco Union Square is not only one of the largest hotels on the West Coast, it’s one of the best. Enjoy exceptional resort-style amenities and surprisingly intimate service just steps from Union Square. To learn more about our San Francisco event staging services, please send an email to Scott Baublitz at Scott.Baublitz@Hilton.com - or submit an Online Request For Information.