Best of SF’s Guide to the Holidays in San Francisco
San Francisco transforms into a wonderland of lights, art, and nostalgia during the holiday season. With its iconic fog often taking on a festive glow, the city offers a blend of timeless traditions and quirky celebrations that reflect its unique charm. Whether you’re wandering through a Victorian Christmas market or marveling at glittering sculptures, San Francisco’s holiday spirit is as diverse and dynamic as its residents.
From skating beneath towering palm trees to sipping tea inside a life-sized gingerbread house, every corner of the Bay Area has something to offer. The holiday season here isn’t just about events; it’s about experiences that bring together friends, families, and visitors from all walks of life. Let this guide lead you to the best of San Francisco's holiday celebrations, each offering a little magic to warm the chill of a winter day.
UNION SQUARE ICE RINK
November 6, 2024 – January 20, 2025
No holiday visit to San Francisco is complete without a twirl on the Union Square Ice Rink. Nestled among the sparkling lights and towering palm trees, this open-air rink offers an unforgettable skating experience in the heart of the city. The rink is surrounded by high-end shops and a dazzling holiday tree, making it an ideal spot to soak in the festive atmosphere. Open to skaters of all ages and skill levels, the rink also hosts themed nights, including drag performances and family-friendly events. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot, as it’s one of the city’s most popular seasonal attractions. Afterward, warm up with a hot drink from a nearby café while people-watching in this vibrant urban setting.
EXPLORATORIUM’S “GLOW” EXHIBIT
November 21, 2024 – January 26, 2025
The Exploratorium’s GLOW exhibit takes light art to the next level, creating a dazzling indoor experience perfect for chilly winter days. This annual exhibition features interactive and sculptural works that play with light, color, and shadow in innovative ways. Visitors can explore installations like LED dungeon crawlers, music-composing light displays, and crystalline sculptures that reveal hidden surprises. The hands-on nature of the exhibit makes it a hit with both kids and adults, blending art with science in true Exploratorium style. Located on the Embarcadero, it’s an ideal stop for anyone looking to experience the holidays in a unique and modern way. Pair your visit with a stroll along the waterfront to admire the Bay Bridge lights for a complete evening of illumination.
THE GREAT DICKENS CHRISTMAS FAIR
November 23 – December 22, 2024
Step back in time to a bustling Victorian-era London at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair. Held at Daly City’s Cow Palace, this immersive event recreates a 19th-century Christmas market complete with cobblestone streets, period costumes, and old-world charm. Wander among dozens of vendors selling handcrafted gifts, feast on hearty English fare, and sip on steaming mugs of mulled wine. You’ll encounter characters from Dickens’ novels, such as Ebenezer Scrooge and Oliver Twist, as they roam the market adding whimsy and theatricality. Families will love the puppet shows and carolers, while adults can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the English pubs. This event is a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that’s both nostalgic and vibrant.
THE FAIRMONT HOTEL — GIANT GINGERBREAD HOUSE
November 23, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Step into a holiday fantasy at the Fairmont Hotel, where a life-sized gingerbread house transforms the lobby into a confectionery wonderland. Constructed with hundreds of real gingerbread bricks and adorned with pounds of See’s Candies, this architectural marvel is as fragrant as it is festive. While the display itself is free to admire, the true magic lies in the exclusive dining experiences inside the gingerbread house itself. Up to eight guests can enjoy a private holiday tea or dinner surrounded by the sweet scents and cozy ambiance of this one-of-a-kind setting. Families, couples, and friends alike will find this a memorable way to celebrate the season. Don't miss the holiday tea service in the hotel's elegant lounge—a perfect pairing for the enchanting surroundings.
JACK LONDON SQUARE TREE LIGHTING
December 6, 2024
Kick off the holiday season in the East Bay with the annual tree lighting at Jack London Square in Oakland. The waterfront transforms into a festive gathering place, centered around a 55-foot Christmas tree adorned with more than 5,000 lights and 600 ornaments. The event includes live performances from local musicians, seasonal pop-up shops, and plenty of photo opportunities with Santa. This year, families can enjoy laser light shows, special performances by Oaktown Jazz Workshops’ Performance Ensemble and The Lyric Performing Arts Academy, as well as photos with Santa, Frosty, Holiday Teddy Bear and The Peppermint Princess. This free, community-focused celebration is the perfect way to experience holiday cheer outside of San Francisco. Arrive early to grab a good spot for the lighting ceremony and soak in the festive vibes along the waterfront.
SF BALLET’S NUTCRACKER
December 6–29, 2024
The SF Ballet’s Nutcracker is a cherished holiday tradition that has delighted audiences for decades. As the first ballet company in the U.S. to perform this classic, the SF Ballet delivers a breathtaking rendition filled with enchanting choreography, opulent costumes, and a stunning score by Tchaikovsky. Families will especially love the sensory-friendly and family-friendly performances designed to accommodate younger audiences and individuals with different needs. From the moment the curtain rises on Clara's magical journey, you'll be transported into a winter wonderland filled with dazzling snowflakes and the Land of Sweets. Whether you're a first-timer or a longtime fan, this performance will ignite your holiday spirit and leave you humming its timeless tunes.
San Francisco’s holiday events embody the city’s knack for blending tradition with innovation. Whether you’re skating under a giant tree in Union Square or immersing yourself in Victorian-era festivities, the season offers something for everyone. These experiences capture not just the beauty of the holidays but the warmth and inclusiveness of the Bay Area’s community spirit.
As the fog rolls in and the city’s lights shine brighter, the holidays in San Francisco remind us of the joy found in both grand spectacles and quiet moments. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these events will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the city's holiday magic. So bundle up, grab a cup of cocoa, and let San Francisco fill your season with wonder.
