San Francisco Christmas: Your 2024 Ultimate Holiday Guide!
If you’ve ever dreamed of a holiday by the sea, both the lights and waves are glittering during the most wonderful time of the year in San Francisco!
Christmas in San Francisco is a magical blend of festivity, tradition, and the city’s iconic charm. Every corner is adorned with twinkling lights, turning the city into a glimmering wonderland. From holiday markets at Union Square to enchanting light displays at Golden Gate Park, there’s something special around every corner.
Imagine wandering through the festive streets of Nob Hill, ice rinks, and sipping hot cocoa or enjoying a holiday meal. Perhaps, even have chocolates at Ghirardelli Square or marvel at the Sugar Castle at the Westin St Francis. Discover hidden gems and well-loved traditions that make spending Christmas here unforgettable.
So, bundle up and dive into the Christmas San Francisco holiday spirit!
Festive Events This Christmas in San Francisco 2024
Get ready to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a dazzling array of festive events happening in San Francisco this Christmas. From vibrant holiday markets to enchanting ice-skating rinks, the city transforms into a winter wonderland teeming with cheer and magic!
Let’s Glow SF (December 6 to 15): Immerse yourself in Let’s Glow SF, the country’s largest holiday projection event, lighting up downtown San Francisco from Market Street to the Ferry Building.
Witness spectacular animated art on iconic SF buildings nightly from December 6th through 15th, complemented by live entertainment and food options. The event kicks off with the vibrant Countdown to Glow on December 6th, adding a festive sparkle to your holiday season.
Macy’s Holiday Celebrations*: Join the festive flurry at Macy’s at Union Square, where the annual tree lighting and mesmerizing window displays create a holiday spectacle. This iconic store turns into a winter wonderland, drawing visitors from around the world to enjoy its festive decorations and holiday cheer.
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair (November 23 to December 22): Step into the historic Cow Palace Exhibition Halls in Daly City for The Great Dickens Christmas Fair, where Victorian London comes to life. Wander through music halls, theatres, and pubs, and browse charming shops for handmade holiday treasures amid the aromas of roasted chestnuts. This immersive holiday experience, complete with hundreds of characters from Dickens’ stories, is perfect for family outings.
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San Francisco Holiday Lights & Sites Tuk Tuk Tour: Hop in a Tuk Tuk and get ready for a magical ride through the twinkling streets of San Francisco! This cozy tour takes you past iconic landmarks and dazzling holiday lights, creating unforgettable memories.
From Fisherman’s Wharf to Union Square, every corner is a festive surprise. It’s the perfect way to experience the city’s holiday magic while learning fun facts about its history. Bundle up, grab your camera, and let the holiday adventure begin!
Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl San Francisco – SweaterCon (December 14): Join the festive fun at SweaterCon, the jolliest holiday pub crawl on Polk Street, San Francisco. Kick off the evening at Mayes Oyster House, 1233 Polk Street, where you can pick up your wristbands and maps from 4 PM to 8 PM.
Dress in your ugliest sweater or creative holiday costume and enjoy a night of bar-hopping with special drink offers at local favorites. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with friends, featuring cheap drinks, festive decorations, and a chance to win holiday gifts.
The Parol Lantern Festival*: Celebrate a cherished Filipino tradition at the Parol Lantern Festival at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco. This event highlights the beautiful parol lantern as a symbol of hope and peace during the holiday season, featuring cultural performances, a Taste of Christmas, and the Parol Stroll. It’s an inspiring evening filled with community spirit and festive joy.
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Winter Walk in Union Square*: Experience the magical Winter Walk in Union Square, where two blocks are transformed into a festive pedestrian plaza. Enjoy lush turf, diverse food truck offerings, enticing bars, and arctic-themed décor perfect for Instagram. This 10-day event also features live performances, making it a vibrant destination for family outings and holiday revelers seeking a festive atmosphere in the heart of San Francisco.
Visit the Gingerbread House at the Fairmont Hotel*: Step into the Fairmont Hotel this holiday season and marvel at a life-sized Gingerbread House constructed from real gingerbread and adorned with See’s Candies.
Available from Thanksgiving through the New Year, this enchanting setup is not just a feast for the eyes but also offers a unique dining experience inside the gingerbread construction for up to 8 guests.
*2024 dates for these events are TBA. Stay tuned for updates!
Where to Catch the Best Holiday Lights in San Francisco During Christmas
San Francisco transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with dazzling light displays illuminating the city’s landmarks. Whether you’re strolling through Union Square or exploring the festive neighborhoods, the magical glow will leave you in awe!
Holidays on Fourth Street Berkeley*: Celebrate the holiday season on Fourth Street in Berkeley, where the streets come alive with festive decorations, unique shops, and live music.
This event transforms the area into a vibrant holiday hub, making it perfect for family outings and finding that special gift. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and delightful culinary treats offered by local vendors!
‘Tis the Season for Science (Closes January 7): Celebrate the wonders of winter at the California Academy of Sciences, where ‘Tis the Season for Science brings interactive fun. Engage in winter-themed activities, watch live shows, and marvel at snowfall indoors, all while exploring the holiday habits of 60,000 resident animals. It’s a fascinating blend of holiday magic and scientific discovery located at 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco.
Illuminate SF™’s Festival of Light (From the day after Thanksgiving until the end of January): Illuminate your holiday evenings with the Illuminate SF™ Festival of Light, showcasing brilliant artworks throughout San Francisco’s neighborhoods. Wander through the illuminated city, from permanent light sculptures to temporary installations, making each visit a unique adventure. This event highlights San Francisco’s innovative spirit and is accessible by public transport, with most artworks free to view.
San Francisco Fire Engine Holiday Lights Tour (December 3 to December 23): Climb aboard a vintage Mack fire engine at Fisherman’s Wharf for a festive tour of San Francisco’s holiday lights. Covering key attractions like the Embarcadero, Market Street, and Union Square, this tour offers cozy fire gear for warmth and fantastic photo opportunities, making it a memorable outing for all ages.
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The 54th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights (December 8 and December 15): Watch the San Diego Bay Area shine during the 54th Annual Parade of Lights, where lavishly decorated boats sail by, echoing this year’s theme, “PEACE ON EARTH.”
Spectate from the best vantage points along the shoreline, including the newly accessible pier at Cesar Chavez Park, for a spectacular view of this cherished local tradition.
Glowfari at Oakland Zoo (November 2024): Experience a holiday adventure at the Oakland Zoo located at 9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland, with Glowfari. This enchanting exhibition features hundreds of larger-than-life animal lanterns, from North American forests to the depths of the ocean. Cap off your visit with a magical train ride through the Madagascar-themed landscape, filled with lemurs and chameleons.
*2024 dates for these events are TBA. Stay tuned for updates!
San Francisco Christmas Shows to See
Holidays with the SF Symphony (Dates throughout December): Celebrate the season at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco with the San Francisco Symphony’s array of holiday concerts. Enjoy everything from the lively ‘Deck the Hall’ to the enchanting ‘Holiday Gaiety’, featuring conductor Edwin Outwater and Peaches Christ. Don’t miss the majestic ‘Handel’s Messiah’, and the family favorite ‘Peter and the Wolf’, which are sure to fill your holiday with joy and music.
The Nutcracker by San Francisco Ballet (December 6 to 29): Step into a holiday tradition with the San Francisco Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ at the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco, first performed in the U.S. right here in 1944.
This production, celebrating its 20th anniversary, is set during San Francisco’s 1915 Panama Pacific International Exhibition, offering a historical glimpse into the city’s past with breathtaking sets and costumes that complement Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.
Whynot’s A Christmas Carol (November 26 to December 24): Dive into a unique theatrical experience with ‘Whynot’s A Christmas Carol’ at Toni Rembe Theater in San Francisco. This playful and inventive adaptation of Dickens’s classic by Craig Lucas, directed by Pam MacKinnon, follows a small theater troupe in the town of Whynot.
Here, they overcome hilarious mishaps to deliver a heartfelt performance. With magical ghosts, festive music, and a message of generosity, this rendition is perfect for those seeking a mix of humor and holiday warmth.
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A John Waters Christmas (December 2): Experience a uniquely entertaining holiday show with John Waters, the legendary cult-filmmaker at The Chapel, 777 Valencia St. His one-man monologue dives into everything from Christmas films to the question, “Is Santa erotic?” Waters’ transgressive humor and celebration of the glamorous misfit make this show perfect for those looking to add a bit of edgy fun to their holiday season. Join the hilarity and let Waters remind you not to take the holidays too seriously.
A Drag Queen Christmas (December 10): Get ready for an unforgettable night with the all-star queens of RuPaul’s Drag Race at A Drag Queen Christmas at The Warfield, 982 Market St. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this show features favorite stars singing seasonal classics with plenty of sass.
Hosted by Nina West and featuring performances by Sasha Colby, Roxxxy Andrews, and many more, this event is perfect for fans of the beloved TV sensation. Sashay your way to The Warfield for a night of eleganza and holiday spirit.
Christmas Events in San Francisco FAQs
Does It Snow in San Francisco at Christmas?
San Francisco does not typically see snow during Christmas. In fact, the last time it snowed in San Francisco was over 40 years ago. The city's holiday charm comes from its festive decorations, vibrant events, and mild winter weather, rather than snowy landscapes.
Does San Francisco Decorate for Christmas?
Yes, San Francisco goes all out with its Christmas decorations. The city is full of holiday lights, Christmas trees, decorations, and festive displays that transform it into a winter wonderland. Popular spots like Union Square, Pier 39, and various neighborhoods are adorned with spectacular holiday decorations, making the city feel magical during the season.
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Did We Miss Any San Francisco Christmas Events?
Let us know in the comments below!
