what is there to do in san francisco at christmas

10 Top Things to Do in San Francisco for Christmas

Full Answer

What are the best San Francisco Christmas events?

The best and most festive San Francisco Christmas events include everything from a holiday ice skating rink to a lighted boat parade to some fun shopping. Revelers can also hop on a famous cable car and make their way to various parts of town to watch the lighting of huge, well-adorned trees, along with concerts and ballets.

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

California Academy of Sciences: Head over to Golden Gate Park to visit one of the top attractions in San Francisco. The California Academy of Sciences is four museums in one with a 4-story rainforest, aquarium, natural history museum, planetarium, and so much more. Find tickets for Christmas Day. 2.

Where can I see the Christmas lights in San Francisco?

In Embarcadero Plaza across from the historic Ferry Building is a free family winter carnival before the seasonal illumination ceremony. That happens the Friday before Thanksgiving, but the Holiday Ice Rink opens in early November and stays open through the holiday season. The best place to see the lights is to get away from them a bit.

What is it like to live in San Francisco at Christmas?

That is until it’s Christmas in San Francisco. The city by the bay hunkers down in its annual traditions of tree lights, events, and stunning window displays with the comfort of a hug from grandma who’s making you a warm cup of cocoa with extra marshmallows. She knows just how to make you feel loved and welcome every time you visit.

How can I spend Christmas in San Francisco?

ICE SKATING IN SAN FRANCISCOEmbarcadero Ice Rink.Yerba Buena Ice Skating.Union Square Ice Rink.Renegade Craft Fair.San Francisco Swedish Christmas Fair.Great Dickens Christmas Fair.Sunset Holiday Mercantile.California Academy of Sciences (CAS) NightLife Holiday Bazaar.More items...

Is San Francisco nice at Christmas?

San Francisco in December is simply beyond beautiful. A wonderful way to spend the holidays is the visit the Christmas lights at City Hall or go for a free walking tour around the city. You can also pay a visit to Fisherman's Wharf and be a part of the lighted boat parade.

Is it worth going to San Francisco in December?

December in is the best time to visit San Francisco, and worth visiting. The month usually is prepping for the colder Christmas season, with Christmas and New year not far off. It is happy and cheerful energy all through the town.

Is Fisherman's Wharf open on Christmas Day?

Closed on Thanksgiving Day Christmas Eve: 11:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Closed on Christmas Day New Year's Eve: 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. New Year's Day: 11:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

How do people dress in San Francisco in December?

The Essential Packing List For San Francisco In The WinterA Good Raincoat. We'd consider San Franciso a part of the Pacific Northwest. ... Rainboots. ... Walking Shoes + Hiking Boots. ... Sweaters / Cardigans. ... Warm Layers. ... Travel Backpack. ... Lightweight Coat. ... Hats.More items...

Does San Francisco have a Christmas market?

Christmas markets in San Francisco normally provide everything from entertainment to relaxed stylish yards. When you are in the city you will experiences festive, classic and cozy fun. Including eating hot chocolates to ice skating.

Is it cold in San Francisco in December?

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES IN DECEMBER As you may have heard, San Francisco has a Mediterranean climate, meaning it doesn't get very cold in our city. The average high temperature throughout December is about 66 F (19 C), which means that during the day, a sweatshirt or light jacket is all you need to stay warm.

What do people in San Francisco wear in the winter?

There is no set style of dress in San Francisco, as people tend to dress according to the weather. In February, the weather is usually cool to mild, so people dress in layers, including light jackets or sweaters. San Francisco is a casual city, so people usually dress in jeans, t-shirts, and comfortable shoes.

What is the best month to go to San Francisco?

The best time to visit San Francisco is from September to November. Believe it or not, fall offers some of the city's warmest temperatures year-round, not to mention fewer crowds than summer. Spring is another good time to visit thanks to its mild temperatures and lack of rain (compared to other parts of California).

Where should I eat on Christmas in San Francisco?

2022 Best Christmas Restaurants in San Francisco/Bay Area1/ Anzu. 222 Mason St. ... 2/ Fogo de Chão. 201 Third St., Ste. ... 3/ Le Colonial. 20 Cosmo Pl. ... 4/ Left Bank. 635 Santa Cruz Ave. ... 5/ Left Bank. 507 Magnolia Ave. ... 6/ One Market. 1 Market St. ... 7/ Quattro Restaurant & Bar. 2050 University Ave. ... 8/ Spruce. 3640 Sacramento St.More items...

What do you do on Christmas Day?

PureWow18 Fun Things to Do on Christmas Day in 2022. By Emma Singer. ... Tour the Christmas Lights. ... Watch a Christmas Movie. ... Check Out a Ballet Performance of 'The Nutcracker' ... Clean Up and Donate. ... Make It a Themed Family Game Night. ... Go Caroling. ... Cook a Christmas Day Feast.More items...•

Is Pier 39 open on New Years?

Attractions Open on New Year's Day On New Year's Day, you will find a number of attractions open including the Aquarium of the Bay on Pier 39, the SF Zoo, and the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park.

Is San Francisco cold in December?

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES IN DECEMBER As you may have heard, San Francisco has a Mediterranean climate, meaning it doesn't get very cold in our city. The average high temperature throughout December is about 66 F (19 C), which means that during the day, a sweatshirt or light jacket is all you need to stay warm.

What is there to do on Christmas Day in the Bay Area?

Places in the Bay Area Open on Christmas DayThe San Francisco Botanical Garden.The San Francisco Zoo.The Academy of Sciences.The Japanese Tea Garden.Jewish Contemporary Museum.Christmas in the Park (San Jose)

Where should I eat on Christmas in San Francisco?

2022 Best Christmas Restaurants in San Francisco/Bay Area1/ Anzu. 222 Mason St. ... 2/ Fogo de Chão. 201 Third St., Ste. ... 3/ Le Colonial. 20 Cosmo Pl. ... 4/ Left Bank. 635 Santa Cruz Ave. ... 5/ Left Bank. 507 Magnolia Ave. ... 6/ One Market. 1 Market St. ... 7/ Quattro Restaurant & Bar. 2050 University Ave. ... 8/ Spruce. 3640 Sacramento St.More items...

Does it snow in San Francisco?

Since 1900, there have been only two official reports of accumulating snow in downtown San Francisco: Dec. 11, 1932 (0.8”) and Jan. 15, 1952 (0.3”). However, photographic and anecdotal evidence shows that measurable snow fell at low elevations in the city on Feb.

Where to ice skate in San Francisco?

All four downtown San Francisco ice skating rinks ( Yerba Buena, the Embarcadero, Civic Center, and Union Square) are open for you to show off your triple axels on Christmas Day. The Union Square rink is particularly jolly, as the commercial bustle will have ceased but the adjacent holiday tree remains lit.

What is the tradition of eating Chinese food on Christmas?

Kung Pao Kosher Comedy brings together the Jewish comedic heritage with the venerable tradition of eating Chinese food on Christmas. Comic Lisa Geduldig began performing at the 370-seat New Asia Restaurant in Chinatown in 1993, and the tradition has grown every year since. This year’s performances happen Dec. 24-26.

Is the Jewish Museum open on Christmas?

The Contemporary Jewish Museum is open on Christmas. Better yet, it’s a Community Free Day, so all the galleries are open (which means advance registration is highly recommended). Art-making, musical performances, and a nosh from Wise Sons Delicatessen round out a wonderful holiday afternoon inside Daniel Libeskind’s post-modern cube.

Is Golden Gate Park open on Christmas Day?

The Botanical Gardens are Golden Gate Park ’s most manicured jewel. Although San Francisco residents never pay an entrance fee, the gates are flung open to everyone on Christmas Day. Roam through 55 acres of native plants, succulents, magnolias, a grove of redwoods, the Ancient Plant Garden, and the rest of the 8,000 species on display, ...

Is Pier 39 closed on Christmas Day?

While the shops at PIER 39 will be closed on Christmas Day, many of the Pier's restaurants like Fog Harbor Fish House, Pier Market Seafood Restaurant, Eagle Cafe, and Crab House will be serving up holiday feasts. Be sure to make your reservations far in advance!

Is it colder in San Francisco in December?

December is a beautiful time to visit San Francisco—just don’t expect to see snow on the ground. No matter how cold California natives might find the weather, Dec. 25 in San Francisco is guaranteed to be warmer than at least 38 other states.

Is the Fairmont San Francisco a Christmas wonderland?

The Fairmont San Francisco will turn into a holiday wonderland this year, offering an exquisite holiday brunch buffet menu, a jazz duo performance and photos with Santa! While you're there, don't miss out on more photo ops with the Fairmont's impressive Gingerbread House and 23-foot Christmas tree in the main lobby.

Where is Christmas in San Francisco?

Union Square. Union Square is the heart of all things Christmas in San Francisco. Each year it is covered in lights, and all of the stores that surround the square put up extravagant displays in their historic buildings. Here are some of the things to do in Union Square for Christmas.

Where to go in Union Square during Christmas?

Macy’s Department Store is the most popular place to visit in Union Square during the holidays. The exterior is adorned with wreaths and lights, while half of the top floor is dedicated to Christmas related souvenirs. You can even write a letter to Santa or sit on his lap while you walk around the store. I never buy anything, but I always like looking around.

When is Winterwalk SF?

Winterwalk SF. Winterwalk SF happens during December, and the street between Macy’s and Nieman Marcus is closed to cars. You can walk along the astroturf they lay down over the road, eat at food trucks, relax on the lighted benches or browse the Macy’s storefront windows where there are animals to adopt.

Where is Tom and Jerry's house?

Tom and Jerry’s House is a privately owned house in the southern part of the city. This house gets decked out every year for the holidays, and people come from all over to see it. This is their 35 year creating this fun Christmas activity for the community to enjoy. Be sure to be respectful if you visit.

Where is the California Academy of Sciences?

California Academy of Sciences. The California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park is a fun spot to visit with your family any time of the year. They have a large dome that houses a rainforest and has butterflies that flutter around you as you walk.

Is there a place where kids can sit on Santa's lap?

There is not a lot that happens here for Christmas, but it’s still worth walking around to see the lights on the buildings and the Christmas lights on the Fisherman’s Wharf sign. Plus, Boudin has a place where children can sit on Santa’s lap during specific nights as well.

Is the Walk Disney Family Museum free?

They put up a “Home for the Holiday’s” exhibit, which features a reproduction of Walt Disney’s home and a railroad track that goes around it. This exhibit is free, but the rest of the museums does cost.

What to do in San Francisco for Christmas?

Additional fun things to do this Christmas in San Francisco include heading to a restaurant for your holiday meal, seeing our colorful lights displays around town and heading out on a special holiday cruise.

What are the best places to visit in San Francisco?

1. California Academy of Sciences: Head over to Golden Gate Park to visit one of the top attractions in San Francisco. The California Academy of Sciences is four museums in one with a 4-story rainforest, aquarium, natural history museum, planetarium, and so much more. Find tickets for Christmas Day. 2.

What time does Santa's Christmas party start in San Francisco?

This holiday event starts at 5 pm and ends at 8 pm.

What time does the SF made holiday fair start?

You will be able to purchase all your holiday gifts including toys, holiday cards, jewelry, decorations, and much more. The Holiday Fair starts at 11 am and finishes at 5 pm.

How to save on hotel stay in San Francisco?

The best way to save on your hotel stay is to shop around a little before you book. Here are just a few of the great places to save! Click on the links below to find the best deals in San Francisco for Christmas.

Where is the Christmas Carol show?

Location: ACT's Geary Theater. Every year, the American Conservatory Theater offers several performances of A Christmas Carol. This classic Christmas in San Francisco show is the story of Ebenezer Scrooge. Scrooge is a grumpy business owner that has no desire to celebrate Christmas.

When was the first Christmas ballet?

This popular show was first performed by the SF Ballet, the oldest ballet company in the US, on Christmas Eve in 1944. Since that time, it's been a holiday tradition here in San Francisco.

Where to get holiday tea in San Francisco?

Fancy but kid-friendly holiday tea at the Westin St. Francis. Some of the other well-known teas include the Gingerbread Holiday Tea at The Fairmont San Francisco, the Teddy Bear Tea at the Ritz-Carlton, and the Children’s Magical Tea at the Top of the Mark in the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins.

When is the ice skating rink open in San Francisco?

Union Square always has a large rink sponsored by Safeway and Alaska Airlines, open from early November until mid to late January each year .

What time is Black Santa's parade?

Black Santa will lead kids in distanced Festival of Lights Parade at 6:30pm and hand out a treat to every kid. Kids can drop off their letters to Santa and complimentary hot cocoa is available to all! Reservations are required and the event will sell out. See details and buy here.

What is the new night time festival at the Oakland Zoo?

Replacing the Oakland Zoo’s usual Zoo Lights is a new night time festival, Glowfari. I was able to visit with my family last year when the event debuted, and it was truly breathtaking.

Where is the gingerbread house in San Francisco?

The hotel constructs an enormous two story gingerbread house every year on display in the lobby.

When is the Nutcracker ballet in San Francisco?

Performances normally run from mid to late December. This year, the ballet’s performance dates are December 10-30. 2021.

Will Santa be in Union Square in 2020?

Changes for 2020: While Santa won’t be meeting and greeting and there won’t be a big crowd for an official tree lighting ceremony, there will still be the usual giant tree in Union Square to set the holiday scene. Get on your holiday best and go get those Christmas card photos there this year!

What to do in San Francisco during Christmas?

This post is a guide to things to do in San Francisco during Christmas, including holiday-themed tours, light displays, performances, ice-skating, and Christmas markets.

How often do Christmas lights perform?

Its lights are synchronized with music, and the tree lights ‘perform’ once an hour on the hour between 5 pm – 10 pm every night. If you want to see something magical, plan your time accordingly!

When will Christmas Carol air in 2020?

2020 dates are Dec 4 and Dec 23 from 6 PM.

Where is the Macy's tree lighting?

The Macy's Annual Tree Lighting will take place in Union Square Park right across from the front of Macy's.

Is the Christmas season 2020 postponed?

You can enjoy all sorts of roasted foods and holiday treats. Tickets are required and sell out fast. The 2020 season has been postponed until 2021.

Is there a Christmas show in San Francisco?

CHRISTMAS SHOWS AND HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES. San Francisco has high-quality theater and musical performances every day of the year. The holidays are no exception . The classics are in town, with productions of The Nutcracker, Handel’s Messiah, and a one-of-a-kind live performance of the animated A Charlie Brown Christmas.

What to do in San Francisco for Christmas?

The most joyful time of the year is back! Set up that Christmas tree, admire some Christmas lights and get in the holiday spirit with the best Christmas events and holiday things to do in San Francisco this year. From ice skating with drag queens and a live-action "Charlie Brown Christmas" to a life-size gingerbread house and pop-up holiday bars, these memory-making delights are sure to brighten up your December. And don't forget to chow down on some delicious bites and sip festive tipples along the way! Happy holidays!

Where is the Dickens Christmas Fair?

Step back in time at this holiday adventure set in Victorian London which features quaint shops, costumed performers, and the aroma of roasted chestnuts. A Bay Area tradition since 1970, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair takes over the Cow Palace for several weekends every holiday season. Guests can peruse corset stalls, engage in mead-chugging competitions and maybe even spot Scrooge himself.