Ras,
The SFO area sounds great! Any particular part of it that you recommend? Maybe somewhere not too far from the airport in case folks fly in and with lots for free parking for those who drive. Which May-Sept. holiday works best for you? Do you have a favorite hotel just outside the city? We have used the Oakland and San Jose airports as well, so they might have airport hotels that are empty on holidays, too.
If I remember correctly, downtown is really expensive. We stayed at 5th and Market I think last time at the Marriott about 8 years ago, and hotel rates have been high every time I have checked since then as well.
Any idea how much space you would need to set up the displays you are willing to bring? Those of us who fly in obviously won't be bringing much. It could be a great time for folks to trade sets and parts if they have the ability to bring them along.
Once we narrow it down to a location that seems to work, I'd be glad to help find a decent hotel with affordable rates and some meeting rooms they would throw in with the deal.
Cheers, Pgal