See all San Francisco Christmas happenings this year!
San Francisco welcomes Christmas 2025 across Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square, where cable car lights and bay breezes mingle with holiday displays. Festive festivities, winter celebrations and seasonal adventures include markets, concerts and illuminated promenades for a magical city holiday.
Find the best San Francisco Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around San Francisco
- San Francisco Symphony Holiday Concerts
- San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker
- The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square
- Union Square Winter Walk
- The Guardsmen Christmas Tree Lot
- Thrive City Winter Wonderland 2024
- San Francisco City Hall Holiday Lighting
- 22nd Annual Parol Lantern Festival
- Smuin's The Christmas Ballet
- North Beach Holiday Night Market
See even MORE Christmas events below!
San Francisco Christmas Events
San Francisco Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with the San Francisco Symphony's festive concert series. They offer a magical blend of live orchestral performances, beloved holiday films accompanied by a symphony, and special guest artists. From 'A Merry-Achi Christmas' to 'Disney's Frozen in Concert,' there's a performance to delight every member of the family.
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Step into a world of enchantment with San Francisco Ballet's historic Nutcracker. Transport yourself to 1915 San Francisco and witness a timeless story unfold through breathtaking dance. Experience the magic of snowflakes, flowers, and dreams coming to life in this iconic holiday tradition.
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Smuin's The Christmas Ballet returns as a beloved holiday tradition, spreading yuletide cheer across the Bay Area. This captivating performance features a delightful mix of new works by renowned choreographers and cherished Smuin classics. Prepare to be enchanted by the artistry and festive spirit that makes this annual event a must-see.
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Returning for its 20th year, "The Golden Girls Live: The Christmas Episodes" brings holiday hilarity to San Francisco. Four drag legends perform two parody holiday episodes of the iconic sitcom, celebrating its 40th anniversary. This beloved tradition promises big laughs, heartwarming moments, and a fabulous dose of holiday spirit, complete with cheesecake.
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This iconic San Francisco event offers a unique blend of Jewish comedy and Chinese cuisine, held annually on Christmas. Featuring legendary comedians like Elayne Boosler, it provides a memorable experience for those seeking entertainment and a festive meal during the holiday. Attendees can choose between in-person shows with dinner or cocktail options, or enjoy the performances virtually.
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Experience a fresh and humorous take on the beloved holiday classic, 'A Christmas Carol.' This production follows a small theater troupe as they race against time and budget to stage a new version of the story. Featuring a world-premiere script by Craig Lucas and directed by Pam MacKinnon, the show promises a "joyous and puckishly funny" performance filled with puppets and magic.
San Francisco Christmas Markets and Shopping
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Experience the magic of the Union Square Winter Walk, a beloved 10-day festival transforming Stockton Street into a vibrant pedestrian plaza. Discover a winter wonderland with arctic-themed décor, indulge in diverse food truck offerings, and enjoy enticing drinks from pop-up bars. Live performances and entertainment add to the festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit holiday destination.
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Experience a cherished San Francisco holiday tradition at The Guardsmen Tree Lot. Since 1947, this all-volunteer organization has offered a wide selection of fresh-cut Noble Fir Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands, with all proceeds benefiting at-risk youth in the Bay Area. It's a festive way to kick off the holiday season and support a great cause.
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Discover the 22nd Annual Parol Lantern Festival, a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture in San Francisco. This event showcases the iconic Parol lanterns, symbols of hope and blessings during the holiday season. Attendees can enjoy a 'Taste of Christmas' featuring traditional Filipino holiday snacks and treats, alongside offerings from new local eateries.
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Experience the festive spirit at the North Beach Holiday Night Market. This vibrant event transforms Grant Avenue into a lively marketplace filled with local food vendors, unique artisan crafts, and engaging entertainment. It's the perfect opportunity to find special holiday gifts and soak in the cheerful atmosphere of the season.
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Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at the Belvedere-Tiburon Landmarks Society Holiday Arts & Crafts Sale. Browse a curated selection of artisanal goods, from intricate wood-turned bowls and hand-knit animals to local spices and preserves. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to find distinctive holiday gifts while supporting the preservation of local historic sites.
San Francisco Christmas Light Displays
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Experience the magic of the holiday season at The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square, San Francisco's premier outdoor skating destination. Glide under the stars surrounded by festive lights and iconic city views. This beloved tradition offers hour-long sessions daily, with special events like Drag on Ice and Silent Skate parties adding extra sparkle to the season.
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Experience the magic of the holidays at Thrive City's Winter Wonderland! This festive celebration features a towering 90-foot Christmas tree, live music from Montell Jordan, and special appearances. Enjoy ice skating, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa celebrations, and a Noon Year's Eve party with cultural performances and a countdown drop. Seasonal treats and drinks are available throughout the festivities.
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San Francisco City Hall transforms into a dazzling spectacle each evening at sunset, illuminated by over 220 advanced LED lights. This breathtaking display highlights the building's grand architecture with a warm, white glow, often enhanced with special schemes for holidays and seasons. The modern LED system offers an energy-efficient and visually stunning experience.
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Step into a winter wonderland at the Fairmont San Francisco, where their iconic life-sized Gingerbread House takes center stage. This colossal creation, built with real gingerbread and adorned with pounds of candy, is a must-see holiday spectacle. For an extra special treat, book a private dining experience within the Gingerbread House itself, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere with a drink at the Lobby Champagne Bar.
San Francisco Christmas Food, Drink and Parties
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Join the Bay Area Advertising Relief Committee for their renowned holiday luncheon, a festive gathering benefiting the San Francisco Firefighters Toy Drive and BAARC. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with industry professionals while supporting a great cause.
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Gather for a magical fifth annual holiday tradition at the iconic Westin St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco. This enchanting Dollie + Me Holiday Tea offers a festive afternoon for families, featuring delightful crafting sessions, a special children's tea experience with hot chocolate and sweet treats, and an elegant adult tea service complete with champagne. Each child receives a goodie bag with crafts to cherish.
San Francisco Other Christmas Activities
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Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Yerba Buena Gardens Holiday Tree Lighting. This cherished community event marks the beginning of festive celebrations with the ceremonial lighting of the holiday tree. It's a wonderful opportunity to gather with loved ones and embrace the spirit of the season in a beautiful urban oasis.
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Join the magical 'Breakfast with Santa' event for a heartwarming holiday experience. Enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by Santa's elves, complete with pancakes, sausage, milk, and juice. Children can participate in a fun seasonal craft and, most importantly, meet and take photos with Santa Claus himself. Two seatings are available, offering a chance to see Santa arrive or wave goodbye as he heads back to the North Pole.
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Step into a world of wonder at Glow, the Exploratorium's annual celebration of light art. Artists transform Pier 15 into a luminous wonderland with dazzling sculptures and interactive installations. Experience the magic of light and sound, from relaxing under giant bubbles to exploring a city of shadows. This beloved exhibition is a must-see winter attraction.
Christmas Events Near San Francisco
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San Mateo Christmas Events
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