100 Years of Community, Culture, and ProgressDaly City Centennial Celebration
March 2024 marks the 100th anniversary of Daly City's incorporation as a municipality in California. Join us as we honor our rich history, celebrate our diverse community, and look toward a bright future. Over the past century, Daly City has grown from a small settlement to a thriving city of over 100,000 residents, each generation contributing to the vibrant tapestry that makes our community unique.
The Centennial Celebration features a year-long series of events, exhibitions, and community initiatives designed to bring together residents, businesses, and organizations to celebrate our shared heritage and create lasting memories for future generations.
Learn How To Participate
Named after John Daly, a prominent businessman and landowner, Daly City was officially incorporated on March 18, 1914. However, its roots stretch back further, with early settlers attracted to the area's mild climate and stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Throughout its first century, Daly City has transformed while maintaining its distinctive character as the "Gateway to the Peninsula."
The city's development has been shaped by various historical events, including the 1906 San Francisco earthquake which led many displaced residents to settle in what would become Daly City. During World War II, the city saw significant growth with the establishment of neighboring military installations. In the post-war era, Daly City became one of the first communities to address housing needs with innovative developments.
Date: April 15, 2024
Join us for a spectacular community parade featuring local bands, historical vehicles, cultural performers, and community organizations as we march through the heart of Daly City.
Date: May through September
This comprehensive exhibition at the Daly City History Museum includes rare photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays showcasing the city's evolution over ten decades.
Date: June 22, 2024
Celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Daly City with food, music, dance, and art representing the diverse communities that call our city home.
Date: July 4, 2024
A special Independence Day celebration featuring live music, family activities, and a spectacular fireworks display to honor Daly City's 100th birthday.
Date: August 26, 2024
Run, jog, or walk through historic neighborhoods in this community-oriented fitness event celebrating healthy living and our beautiful city.
Date: September 28, 2024
A formal evening recognizing community leaders, business partners, and organizations that have contributed to Daly City's success over the past century.
With official incorporation in 1914, Daly City established its first government, infrastructure, and community services. The streetcar extension from San Francisco spurred development and connected our growing community to regional transportation networks.
Despite the Great Depression, Daly City continued steady growth. During World War II, the city played a vital role in supporting the war effort, with residents working in defense industries and communities demonstrating remarkable resilience.
The post-war boom transformed Daly City with new housing developments, shopping centers, and schools. The famous Westlake district, one of the nation's first master-planned communities, became a model for suburban development.
As cultural diversity increased, Daly City developed its distinctive character as a welcoming community where different traditions and perspectives thrived. New civic facilities, including libraries and community centers, were established.
Improved transportation connections, including BART extension, linked Daly City more closely to the broader Bay Area. Environmental initiatives and smart growth principles began shaping city planning as Daly City balanced urbanization with preservation of natural beauty.
Technological innovation, sustainability initiatives, and community-centered development have characterized recent years. Today, Daly City stands as a model of diversity, resilience, and forward-thinking governance.
There are numerous ways to participate in the Centennial Celebration:
The Centennial Celebration is not just about honoring the pastit's about building a foundation for the next century. Several legacy projects will create lasting benefits for our community:
Daly City's centennial represents a milestone not just in years, but in the spirit, resilience, and community that have defined our first century. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we honor all who have contributed to making Daly City special and look forward to the next chapter in our community's remarkable journey.
