It may not be 1967, but you can think of the 11th annual Power to the Peaceful Festival as a modern-day summer of love. Best known as Michael Franti’s pet project, the two-day music, yoga, art and action event is a weekend dedicated to service towards peace. The Bay Area-born musician has always carried a message of unity with his work and PTTP is an extension of that philosophy. It’s all about plugging the community into ways they can, as individuals, help people and the planet. The FREE concert (a $5 donation is welcome) in Golden Gate Park is expected to draw at least 70,000 eager to hear performances by Michael Franti & Spearhead (who is back in action after a case of appendicitis earlier this summer), Alanis Morissette, Sly & Robbie, Cherine Anderson, Vieux Farka Toure, Sellassie, Truth Universal and Namkha Rinpoche will deliver a personal message from the Dalai Lama.

If that’s not enough, take a break from the music to wander the gallery, featuring artists Sam Flores, James Bowyer, Eric K. Arnold, Case Conover and Githinji Wa Mbiri. Or head over to the healing sanctuary for massage, reiki and aroma therapy. Engage with environmental and social organizations active in international and grassroots community work and check out vendors selling everything from organic raw food to hemp wear and yoga clothing.

For the truly dedicated, day two is a combination of music, yoga, arts, Capoiera classes and action workshops presented by Michael Franti and CARE. Representatives from Back to Earth, the office of Nancy Pelosi, Potentia Foundation, Room to Read, Spark, UC Berkeley, Vitamin Angels and CARE will lead forums on climate change, women’s rights, global hunger and more.

Sure, this may all sound a bit out there, but don’t dismiss PTTP as “for hippies and activists only.” Go for the music and give the rest a chance.  

Saturday, 9/12, Speedway Meadow, Golden Gate Park, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Free
Sunday, 9/13, Herbst Theatre, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., $20-$90