Merchants tense as Burning Man reservations get off to slow start

SAN FRANCISCO – For the first time in a decade, Burning Man has not sold out, leading to a noticeable decline in ticket sales and affecting local businesses in San Francisco. The annual art festival, held in the Black Rock Desert of northern Nevada, typically generates a surge in shopping for festival attire, but this year’s slower sales have raised concerns among retailers. One notable business feeling the pinch is Kimono Dave, located in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. Owner Dave Carr highlighted the popularity of blacklight-reactive clothing, which he believes is essential for festival-goers wanting to stand out. Despite a slow start to the season, Carr reported a slight uptick in sales, although he acknowledged that overall business has been down compared to previous years. Other local retailers are also experiencing the effects of the sluggish ticket sales. Uti, owner of Piedmont Boutique, expressed uncertainty about the upcoming festival, stating, “As of this weekend, the world is going to come or not.” With just ten days remaining until Burning Man begins, businesses are preparing for a potential last-minute rush, hoping that ticket sales will pick up and bring in customers. As the festival approaches, local shops remain hopeful that interest will increase, allowing them to capitalize on the unique shopping opportunities that Burning Man typically brings to the San Francisco area.