We weren't actually going to mingle with the unwashed masses, of course. Hannah had (once again) scored corporate hospitality tickets, which we thought meant a fenced off piece of grass and hopefully our own bank of portaloos. We were pleasantly surprised to be shown to our luxury Chevron cabana, with our own bar (two bartenders), hot buffet, and open-fronted view of the bridge. Endless dim sum and noodles, three cocktails and a beer later, I was ready to watch lots of coloured things go boom.
The display did not disappoint. I have no idea how they managed it, I presume the bridge has been shut to pedestrians for days to set it up. The display was enormous, as songs about San Fran echoed around the Bay, finishing with Tony Bennett and his heart which he left here. It was an incredible sight, one I hope we'll be back to see in 25 years time.
Show over, the streets of SF were filled with revellers attempting to get back to where they'd come from. We decided that feet were going to be the best method of transport, and headed for Fisherman's Wharf. Every third window gave you a glimpse into another party, and cars and buses simply waited for the happy pedestrian throng that filled the streets to disperse. The fact that it's a public holiday tomorrow didn't hurt the mood either. Amazingly we found a half-empty trolley car, and nestled into a packed and warm BART train that was waiting for us when we arrived at Embarcadero. Those trying to drive home seemed to be fairing worse than anyone - they need to build a few more bridges around here.
No surprise.
Jesus loves you. Everyone else thinks you're a clown.
The crowds at Crissy Fields.
Restricted access, that's how we like it.
Hannah cabana.
Is that an open bar I see before me?
Ahhh...start the afternoon as you mean to go on.
The sun sets.
An expectant crowd waits.
When the lights go down in the city.
Happy birthday Golden Gate Bridge! Now we're going to set you on fire. (To give you an idea of scale, it's 4,200ft, or 1.3km, between those towers).
I mean, it was huge.
Lights too.
Boom!
Ooooh.
Aaaaaah.
Whizz bang.
Then they did the waterfall thing again, but this time it was different colours!
Peace is restored, and the bridge can relax for another few years (or at least until they let the traffic back on at 10pm).
