Events in SF You Don’t Want to Miss this Holiday Season

Summertime in San Francisco is starting to wind down and you know what that means? The holidays are just around the corner.

With fall officially kicking off on September 22nd, the countdown to the holiday season will officially be on. If you’ve been in San Francisco around the holidays, you know the city transforms into a magical wonderland around this time and offers endless activities and festivities for people of all ages.

Here’s a list of events we’ve coming to town later this year you don’t want to miss out own.

Iconic Winter Wonderland Experiences

1. Union Square Ice Rink: This beloved tradition returns from November 1st to January 15th. In the heart of Union Square, glide on the ice surrounded by the city’s festive decorations and atmosphere. This event is perfect for families and couples alike.  
2. Pier 39’s Festive Tree: From November 21st to January 7th, marvel at a 60-foot white fir tree decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments near the water at Pier 39. This kid-friendly attraction is a must-see for holiday excitement and has been happening since 1983.
3. RWF World Tree of Hope: This holiday season, the 19th annual Rainbow World Fun Tree of Hope at Grace Cathedral will be showcasing the largest origami Christmas tree in the world from December 4th to January 5th. A perfect activity for families and art enthusiasts and people that want to support a greater cause.

Immersive Light Displays and Festive Events

1. Winter Walk: Enjoy a pedestrian-only vibrant culinary experience in Union Square from December 15th to 24th. You’ll be amongst a wide array of delicious food trucks, bar gardens, and family-friendly activities for people of all ages.
2. Entwined: Immerse yourself in a magical world of light at Golden Gate Park’s Peacock Meadow. This enchanting light installation, running through the holiday season, is a must-see for families and those seeking a unique experience and is free to the public.  
3. SantaCon: Love beer and Santa? Keep an eye out for the annual SantaCon pub crawl, typically happening every December. This adult-oriented event involves participants dressing head to toe as Santa Claus and visiting various bars throughout the city with other SantaCon-goers. Official date is to-be-determined.

Holiday Performances and Traditions

1. Nutcracker Ballet: A stunning and impressive experience, The Nutcracker put on by the San Francisco Ballet allows you to experience the magic of the holiday season. Performances typically run throughout December and tickets start around $29.
2. Mark Foehringer’s Nutcracker Sweets: This performance is a family-friendly alternative to the traditional Nutcracker and runs from December 7nd to 22nd. It’s said to be all things magical, zany, and fun.   
3. The Velveteen Rabbit: Another family-friendly option if you’d like to go to a performance, this beloved holiday tradition by ODC/Dance runs from November 30th to December 8th. 

Indulge Your Senses

1. Westin St. Francis Sugar Castle: Be amazed at the stunning 12-foot sugar castle on display at the Westin St. Francis. This enchanting creation is perfect for a touch of holiday magic. Official date is to-be-determined.

As we’re still early into the impending holiday season, keep an eye out on local websites and event calendars for official dates and new events to be announced. There are plenty of things to do in San Francisco in the coming months you’re sure to find something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun, romantic experiences, or cultural enrichment, the city’s festive atmosphere is sure to create lasting memories