Living in the Bay area for almost 20 years I can tell you the many fun places we love visiting in San Francisco. Over the years we have experienced the magic of San Francisco during Christmas season and I made the most complete list of favorite thing we have done.
‘Tis the season to be jolly! From the iconic Union Square tree lighting to the bustling Oakland holiday market, the San Francisco Bay Area offers a variety of incredible holiday experiences. Plan your perfect holiday getaway with this ultimate guide and make the most of the holidays!
Discover the festive lights and sights of San Francisco: take a stroll through the bustling Union Square, admire the spectacular tree lighting ceremony, and enjoy the diverse array of holiday shopping opportunities. Take in the holiday spirit with the twinkling lights and festive decorations lining the streets. With endless holiday attractions, the San Francisco Bay Area is the perfect place to celebrate the season.
Christmas in San Francisco and the Best Things to Do
Free things to do In Christmas in San Francisco
1. Visit Pier 39 and check the 60 foot Christmas Tree
Experience the holiday cheer and one-of-a-kind shopping at San Francisco’s Pier 39. Take a relaxing stroll as you explore the shops and stalls at this iconic location and enjoy the festive atmosphere with the 60-foot Christmas tree and ice rink. Experience the holiday spirit at San Francisco’s Pier 39! Take a stroll, explore the shops and stalls. Find festive items for yourself or buy souvenirs for your family. Enjoy tasty food or browse unique galleries and boutiques. Don’t miss this holiday treat – Pier 39 has it all!You won’t want to miss out on this holiday treat!
Location: The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133
Dates: Special lighting ceremony on Tuesday, November 21 and be visible until January 7
2. World Tree of Hope at Grace Cathedral
Come see the amazing Rainbow World Tree of Hope! It’s the biggest origami Christmas tree in the world and it’s located at Grace Cathedral. Best of all, it’s free to visit! The tree will be on display throughout the holiday season, so don’t miss it!
Location:1100 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94108
Dates: The lighting of this tree will take place on Monday, December 4. Events will kick off at 6:30 pm with performances by the San Francisco Boys Chorus, Leberta Loral, and others. The tree lighting is around 7:15 pm. All activities will wrap up at 8 pm. and free admission
3. Explore the Lobby at Palace Hotel
Visit the Palace Hotel this holiday season and be treated to a festive experience! Step into the lobby and be surrounded by three magnificent Christmas trees decorated with twinkling lights and vibrant ornaments. Enjoy the sounds of holiday music and the smell of freshly-baked cookies. Get cozy with a warm drink, treat yourself to some delicious snacks, and make lasting memories. Come make the Palace Hotel your home away from home and let us help you spread some holiday cheer!
Location: 2 New Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94105
Dates: Nov. 27-Jan. 2
4. Christmas Tree in Union Square
Every year, San Francisco brings the holiday spirit to life with its Union Square Christmas tree. The giant tree is lit up and covered in festive decorations, and it brings joy to people from all over. It’s a special tradition to stand in the square and admire its beauty.
The area around Union Square has lots of holiday activities, like carol singing and tree-lighting ceremonies. And even if people don’t take part, they’re still mesmerized by the scene. The tree stands for more than just decorations – it’s a symbol of hope and kindness. It reminds us to take a break from our busy lives and appreciate what we have. The Union Square tree is full of joy and a reminder that we’re all in this together. Let’s take a moment to enjoy the holiday season and share in the happiness it brings!
Location:Macy’s Tree in Union Square view is Free
Dates: The tree will be lit up soon! You can visit it any night from November 9 to January 1. Even though there isn’t an official celebration this year, you can still enjoy it.
5. Window shop and check the SPCA animals at Macy’s
Macy’s stores have lots of fun things for you to do during your weekend. You can check out their cool window displays and enjoy the special holiday atmosphere. Plus, there’s a bonus! At certain times of the year, Macy’s opens up its space to the SPCA. They bring animals from shelters who are looking for homes.
You can find all sorts of stuff at Macy’s — clothing, kitchen items, and more. But the best part is when you turn down the “pet aisle,” because that’s where you’ll find all kinds of cats and dogs who need a family to love them. Whether it’s a big dog or a tiny cat, they all have their own special personalities.When you’re there, it’s an opportunity to help both the animals and the SPCA. You’ll be helping the animals find homes, and you’ll be supporting the good work that the SPCA does to rescue animals. And it’s all while having a great time! So head to Macy’s and see all the animals who need your help. You might just find your new best friend!
6. Enjoy the holiday activities at Ghirardelli Square
Enjoy a cozy winter evening at Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco! You can smell the chocolatey treats in the air and see the famous clock tower up ahead. Make your way towards the square and you’ll be greeted by the iconic Ghirardelli sign. There are yummy treats and hot drinks to enjoy. Sit by the window and take in the beauty of the square while sipping a cup of hot cocoa. As the night progresses, a stunning light show will start at the clock tower that you won’t want to miss. Ghirardelli Square is a unique experience with its old-world charm and delicious treats that you won’t forget anytime soon!
Location: 900 North Point St F301, San Francisco, CA 94109
7. Visit the Gingerbread House at Fairmont San Francisco
The Gingerbread House at Fairmont San Francisco is a delightful way to kick off the holiday season. Dreams of sugar plums and gingerbread houses come alive at the Fairmont San Francisco, and their Gingerbread House is something that must be seen to be believed. An annual tradition since 1996, the Gingerbread House is an edible masterpiece crafted from over 100 lbs of gingerbread, 80 lbs of pastillage, 60 lbs of chocolate, and 40 lbs of icing. During the annual festivities, a dedicated team of artisans and pastry chefs spend over 600 hours creating this masterpiece and it’s easy to see why – the intricate details and thoughtful design elements give it a life of its own.
The results are almost too beautiful to eat! Tourists and locals alike congregate to admire the Gingerbread House and take pictures to forever capture these magical moments. This annual event provides a much-needed respite from the holiday hustle and bustle, as visitors can take time to appreciate the available artwork while sipping on hot chocolate and enjoying delicious pastries.
Free access
Location: 950 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Dates: now until January 3rd
8. Stop to admire the Sugar Castle at the Westin St. Francis Hotel
Witness the sweet spectacle of the Sugar Castle at the Westin St. Francis Hotel and See the 12 foot tall Sugar Castle. Anyone can visit the lobby for free to see this one-of-a-kind creation! You’ll love it, I promise! Don’t forget to look into the POP Lounge. Gather some snacks and a glass of champagne. The Sweet Boutique is available for kiddos.
Dates: This magical sight will be up through January 2. It’s open to the public without expectations to purchase anything but there will be opportunities to enjoy snacks and drinks!
November 26 – December 18 Sweet Boutique. Saturdays & Sundays from 11 am-4 pm
November 26 – December 18POP! Lounge.1-7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays; 12-6 pm on Sundays
Location: 335 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
9. Uncle John’s Tree in Golden Gate Park at the McLaren Lodge
This is the official tree of SF. John’s Tree in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park stands out from the rest of the trees as a living monument to the past. Despite being over 115 years old, it continues to thrive and has been at the heart of numerous significant events throughout its lifetime.
Every December, the McLaren Lodge in the heart of San Francisco brings holiday cheer and joy to the city. Watch in awe as the Monterey Cypress tree – standing a majestic 70 feet tall and bedecked in tens of thousands of twinkling ornaments – illuminates the park, a tradition which dates back to 1929. In 2019, this beloved event attracted more than 8,000 people.
It has lots of fun things to do, like carnival rides, arts and crafts, a visit from Santa and more. Plus, your family will be helping the city too! The money raised from the event goes to programs that help children with sports, recreation and education. Come be part of the joyful community at the Tree Lighting – it’s a tradition that will live on for years!
Location: Holiday Tree Lighting at McLaren Lodge This event runs from 4 pm to 8 pm at John McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park.
Free access
10. Christmas Lights At City Hall
Every year in San Francisco, a free event occurs around City Hall at Christmas. Visitors can see brightly-colored lights decorating the building, bringing joy and happiness to all who pass by. The tradition of decorating City Hall for Christmas dates back to the 1940s, when it was first done to show unity while the world was at war. People can find garlands of lights, wreaths, and banners at City Hall during the holiday season, plus a big, 11-foot Christmas tree on the steps. It’s a striking sight for sure! This year there will also be a holiday concert and a parade with Santa-driven fire trucks giving gifts to children. Seeing City Hall during the holidays is an unforgettable experience–it’s full of holiday spirit and reminds us of the joy that the season brings, no matter what our religion is.
Head over to the Civic Center this holiday season – it’s time for the magical Tree Lighting Ceremony! A festive parade will march down Main Street, complete with marching bands, floats, fun characters, and thousands of dazzling lights. The night will be filled with music, dancing, and holiday cheer. You may even get some special treats like hot cocoa, candy canes, or cider. If you can’t attend in person, you can still tune in and listen live on the local radio station. Celebrate the season with everyone and the special Tree Lighting Ceremony!
Dates: The official tree lighting is at 5:30 pm by Mayor London Breed.
Location: 1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Pl, San Francisco
11. Entwined at Golden Gate Park
Every winter, Golden Gate Park in San Francisco lights up with Entwined’s amazing art installation. You can explore art, technology and nature as you roam the grounds of the park. Since 2022, there have been fun performances and activities twice a week. Golden Gate Park is incredibly special. It’s a place of calm and beauty, and it’s over 1,000 acres big – the biggest park in the city. There are gorgeous botanical gardens, interesting museums, and serene lakes and meadows.
This park has a special history. It was made by a group of people from all kinds of backgrounds who wanted to create a place for everyone to enjoy. It’s a symbol of San Francisco’s spirit and a place of celebration and healing.
When you’re in Golden Gate Park, take in the peaceful sights and sounds of nature. Feel the healing power of the land and the grandeur of the landscape. This park is an invitation to pause and appreciate the beauty of life.
Entwined in Golden Gate Park: FREE
Location: 240 John F Kennedy Dr, San Francisco, CA 94117
Dates: December 7, 2023 – April 28, 2024
12. Civic Center Tree Lighting Ceremony
Head over to the Civic Center this holiday season – it’s time for the magical Tree Lighting Ceremony! A festive parade will march down Main Street, complete with marching bands, floats, fun characters, and thousands of dazzling lights. The night will be filled with music, dancing, and holiday cheer. You may even get some special treats like hot cocoa, candy canes, or cider. If you can’t attend in person, you can still tune in and listen live on the local radio station. Celebrate the season with everyone and the special Tree Lighting Ceremony!
Dates: tree lighting event on December 6. Activities run from 4 pm to 7 pm and include performances, and a visit from Santa.
13. Let it Glow SF
This is a stuning glowing light display. Let it Glow SF, is a colorful art installation by local artist Alberto Marin. He worked with engineers, artists, and designers to create big LED light shows. You can find them in places like Union Square and the Embarcadero, and each place has something special and unique.
The displays are powered by digital technology called AI-powered Light Painting. People can move around and interact with the lights, controlling and customizing the show. It’s a fun and educational experience.Let it Glow SF has a bigger story too. Marin wants to brighten up the city and teach people to think differently. Stop by and explore the creativity of the city – you won’t be disappointed!
Location: The Ferry Building, Hobart Building, Landing at Leidesdorff, One Bush Plaza, Pacific Coast Stock Exchange, Salesforce Tower
Dates: Dec 2-10, 2023 from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
More information here
14. SF’s Embarcadero Center Christmas Lights
It’s a beautiful sight! The iconic 39-story building will light up with mesmerizing colors from dusk until 10 pm. There will be a carnival set up in the plaza with live music, food, art, and activities for the whole family.
It’s a family-friendly event with carnival games, a special appearance from Santa and Frozen the Musical themed photo ops. It will end with the illumination of the 17,000 lights around the Embarcadero Center. The lights will be lit throughout the holiday season.
Every year the Embarcadero Center in San Francisco puts on an incredible show. Millions of twinkling Christmas lights are hung across its five towers, forming a beautiful display. It’s such a special event that hotels fill up with visitors wanting to experience it. It’s also been featured in the San Francisco Chronicle and on KGO-TV. The lighting is so popular that its timing is kept a secret until it’s time for everyone to come and see it. While it’s been celebrated since 1975, it’s only become a Bay Area favorite in recent decades and it’s especially magical when the fog rolls in.
Dates: 36th Annual Building Lighting Ceremony & Carnival at Embarcadero Center! The excitement begins at 4:00pm on Friday, November 18th with the Building Lighting Carnival.
Location: One Embarcadero Center, San Francisco, CA 94111
Budget Friendly things to do In Christmas in San Francisco
15. Ice Skating in Union Square
Head to Union Square for a unique skating experience! Skate on the large, open plaza or challenge yourself on the obstacles in the skate park. Whether you’re a beginner or pro, Union Square has something for all skill levels. Plus, inside Joon skate shop, you’ll find all the gear you need. Enjoy a fun day of skating surrounded by festive decorations and holiday spirit! Glide into the holidays with the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink at Union Square.
Dates: happening now through Jan. 15, 2024. Enjoy daily skating and special events all season long. The Rink at Union Square is Budget Friendly
16. Ride the Cable Car to hear some caroling
Take a special ride on San Francisco’s Cable Car during the holidays! You’ll hear caroling in the air and see the city’s famous landmarks. You’ll also experience joy and positivity, since locals sing and cheer along. The carolers are usually college students dressed in festive costumes. And don’t forget to listen to unique holiday carols from all around the world. A cable car ride in San Francisco is a must-do during the holidays!
17. Reindeer at the Academy of Sciences
Take your kids to the Academy of Sciences for an unforgettable holiday experience. It’s a tradition that dates back to the first holiday season when the Academy opened in 1891. Each year, one of the festive decorations includes a team of regal reindeer in the mission-style courtyard. The reindeer have become quite the showstoppers.Every year, a team of majestic reindeer arrive in the mission-style courtyard, ready to greet visitors. Not only can you get up close and personal with these wild animals, but the Academy of Sciences provides an opportunity to learn about their behavior and physiology. And when the weather permits, you can even go on an adventurous walk alongside the reindeer on the ice and snow. According to a study conducted by the Academy of Sciences, these animals can travel up to 15 miles per hour, live in herds of up to 500, and are intelligent enough to learn human commands. So if you’re looking to create lasting memories, the Academy of Sciences provides a practically magical experience.
Other events:
Academic of science has winter wonderland between November 17 and January 7, with indoor flurries, icy science experiments, spirited performances, and more.
Welcome Winter Night Tuesday, December 5, 2023. 6:30-9:30 pm (6 pm early entry for members!)
Location: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118
Other Christmas events in San Franciso Less known
18. San Francisco Fire Engine Holiday Lights Tour
Experience the holiday season in San Francisco in a unique way – join the San Francisco Fire Engine Holiday Lights Tour! On December 23rd, you’ll begin at City Hall and make your way through different neighborhoods, taking in incredible decorations, hearing carolers sing, and feeling the joy of the season. Packages are available with VIP tours and hotel stays, plus hot chocolate and cookies. It’s sure to be a magical evening to remember!
19. Annual Boat Parade & Merry-Time at the Wharf
Every year during the holidays, Wharf comes alive with the Annual Boat Parade & Merry-Time! Decorated boats parade through the harbor, with sparkling lights and special decorations. Onshore, people cheer and wave at the boats as they go by. At the waterfront, there’s free hot cocoa and lots of fun activities like live music, dancing, and a snowman-building competition. Plus, there’s an opportunity to help the local fire station collect donations for those in need! It’s a great way to bring the community together to enjoy the holidays. Don’t miss it!
20. The Presidio Tree at The Presidio Inn
The Presidio Tree stands tall at The Presidio Inn in San Francisco. It’s an ancient California live oak, estimated to be over 120 years old. That’s older than many buildings in the city! Despite wild weather, it has stayed strong for a century. Since 1991, the now 55-foot tall Norfolk Island pine has glowed with strings of lights at night beginning the first Friday in December, bringing the warmth of the season into the hearts of all
The tree’s strength symbolizes resilience at the Presidio Inn and in the whole city. It’s inspired art, literature, and culture. It might even be in the famous book The Call of the Wild. People take care of the tree to preserve its beauty and make sure it stands for many more years.
The Presidio Tree is a symbol of power and hope. It shows that San Francisco is strong and resilient. It gives people comfort and assurance, no matter what life throws at them.
21. SantaCon Bar Crawl San Francisco
SantaCon Bar Crawl is a fun event where thousands dressed in festive Santa-inspired attire gather and roam downtown, enjoying bars to lounges, pubs, and clubs. It welcomes people of all ages, genders, races, and beliefs. In past years, SantaCon brought together 20 countries and 45 states, creating an economic impact of over $3.5 million and 175,000 hours of work for local businesses.
But remember to stay mindful of the guidelines for a safe and enjoyable experience. Santa has explicitly forbidden “inappropriate” slogans or symbols on costumes and public urination and lewd behavior are not allowed.
Location: Starts down in Market Street and the Christmas tree raising near Union Square.
Dates: Saturday, December 9, 2023 – 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm | Cost: FREE
22. Winterfest at Salesforce Park
Every December, the magical Winterfest comes to San Francisco’s Salesforce Park. The park is transformed into a festive wonderland with lights, decorations, live music, ice-skating, fire pits, and more. You can also watch holiday movie screenings, explore interactive art installations, and sip hot cocoa. The centerpiece of the park is the iconic 65-foot-tall holiday tree, decorated with thousands of twinkling lights. Winterfest is a special time for people of all ages to come together, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and celebrate the holiday season. Don’t miss out on the joy and fun of Winterfest – join in the spirit of the season and celebrate with friends and family in San Francisco!
Location:425 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94105
Dates: Dec. 8-10, 2023
23. Pop-up holiday bars
Feel the joy of the holidays with a visit to one of San Francisco’s festive pop-up bars with tasty cocktails.
Miracle at PCH – Get cozy with thousands of colorful lights at Miracle. Be ready for exciting cocktails Opens Nov. 25
Deck the Halls bar –experience three different special themes at Deck the Halls. With three locations on Union Street — and three different special themes. Opens Nov. 24
Sippin’ Santa pop-up: Unique Christmas -themed bar. Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit. Aloha from the North Pole! This is a festive tiki Christmas cocktail pop-up that spread sunny Christmas cheer around USA and arrived to San Francisco in November 8th!I We were able to visit for the first time in our last weekend getaway. So fun!
Kona’s will not be taking any reservations during the Sippin’ Santa pop-up, which runs until December 31st.
KONA’S STREET MARKET 32 3rd Street San Francisco from Mon-Sat 5PM-12AM
Traditional Events in Christmas in San Francisco for families
San Francisco Best Holiday Performances
The Nutcracker at San Francisco Ballet
Explore various Nutcracker performances and other holiday shows. Live Performances:
- San Francisco Youth Ballet Nutcracker December 3 & 4, 1 pm & 5 pm
- San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker December 8-27
- Mark Foehringer’s Nutcracjer sweets December 3-18th
San Francisco Symphony Christmas Concerts
- SF Symphony Deck The Hall Dec 4th
- SF Symphony The Colors of Christmas Dec 6 & 7th
- SF Symphony Handel’s Messiah Dec 9 & 10th
- SF Symphony How the Grinch Stole Christmas Dec 16 & 17th
- SF Symphony Elf Dec 21 & 22nd
- San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra Peter And The Wolf – December 10 by Sergei Prokofiev’s
Christmas Concerts at Grace Cathedral
ODC The Velveteen Rabbit Nov 26- Dec 11
A Christmas Carol ACT Nov 30-Dec 24
Popular Events that Must be Booked Ahead
Christmas High Tea in the City
Book your spot for an elegant Christmas high tea experience:
- High Tea Westin St Francis Dollie + Me Tea Dec 17 – 18
- Dollie and Me Tea at the Westin San Francisco, December 16-17
- Fairmont Holiday Tea Nov 25-Jan 1
- TeddyBear Tea at the Ritz Carlton Nov 26 – Dec 23
- Santa Claus Tea at Garden Court of the Palace Hotel Dec 7 – Dec 24
- Top of the Mark Magical Tea, Dec. 3/4, 10/11, & 17/18, 12 noon seating for each
- Breakfast with Santa December 10 9 am-12 pm. $90 for adults and $65 for children.
- St. Francis Holiday Tea December 10-11 & 17-18 1:30-3:30 pm. Prices start at $85 per person.
Christmas Brunch at the Palace Hotel
Celebrate the holidays at the Palace Hotel in downtown San Franciso! The grand lobby is filled with decorations that will take your breath away, and the friendly staff will make you feel welcome. Dine on a lavish menu that includes Maine lobster omelets, French toast, prime rib, and dessert. While you eat, enjoy the beautiful views, cozy furnishings, and live music. Spend the holidays with your family and friends, and make lasting memories at the Palace Hotel
Holiday Lights and Festive Decorations to see and Love in San Francisco and Bay Area
1. Checking out Beautifully Decorated Homes
This is free show and one of the best houses is Located at 45 Upper Terrace and 68 Castro Street, San Francisco.
2. Christmas in the Park San Jose
Christmas In The Park is a walk through light show. It has all the decorated trees are up and all throughout the event. Here you can get Free pics with Santa. Winter Wonderland carnival rides are open and there are several in a few areas. Don’t forget to grab a fully loaded hot cocoa! Bring Cash.
Giant inflatable tavern open Wed thru Sun with beer and wine. There are several parking garages in the area. Try to find one where the 1st 90 mins are free and then $1 for every 15 mins after that. We parked at the Market/San Pedro Square garage and walked a few blocks. It was only $5 for just under 3 hours!
There are 3 wristband options you can buy-2 rides $10, 4 rides $18 or Unlimited for $20 Cash/Card/Applepay. Live music. Schedule is online.
Free to enter
Open 12pm-10pm (until 11pm Fri&Sat)
Location: 194 South Market St in Plaza de Cesar Chavez
3. The Great Dickens Christmas FairGreat Dickens Christmas Fair
Transport yourself to Victorian-era London at this immersive fair.
Come along as we visit, the only true Dickens Fair in the United States. This one of a kind experience will take you back to the mid-1800s to experience Christmas in London. With carnival games, sing along, era themed foods and crafts there is something for everyone! Our kids were particularly mesmerized by the science lectures with fossils and discussions about the discovery of evolution!
There’s also dancing in the ball room, a children’s tour and so much more! Head to the Cow Palace it will be the highlight of your holidays!
Opens Saturday, November 18, and runs Saturdays and Sundays (plus the Friday after Thanksgiving) through December 17, 2023, from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
General Admission prices:
General Adult (13+ yrs.): $45.00
General Youth (ages 5-12): $25.00
Children under 5: Free
Fair Season Pass: $160.00 (a $495.00 value!)
Location: Cow Palace Exhibition Halls, 2600 Geneva Avenue, Daly City
It will run for five weekends starting the weekend of Thanksgiving.
4. Light Display at Filoli
At Filoli Estate & Gardens in Woodside, you can experience one of the Bay Area’s most beautiful light displays. Thousands of sparkling lights decorate the trees, plants, and hedges. In the middle is the 210-foot-long light tunnel, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by lights. The mansion is also decorated with care, and each table inside is different, representing various holiday traditions. Food is available at the Quail Cafe and Woodland Court pop-up, and you can book a private firepit experience. The lights are on from 4-9, and you can relax by the firepits. Visit Filoli to experience a unique holiday event!
Food is available at Quail Cafe from 10am-8:30pm daily plus there is the Woodland Court pop-up selling wine, beer, warm libations, cocktails, and hot chocolate. You can visit extra special by booking a private holiday firepit experience. Up to 15 guests can enjoy private seating, mulled wine and hot whiskey cider and enjoy a cozy firepit.
Open during the day from 10-4, but the night time is when Filoli comes to life with all the lights from 4-9. There are several cozy fire pits to sit around and relax.
Daytime tickets: Adult $33, Child 5-17 $23 Under 5 Free
Nighttime tickets: Adult $42, Child 5-17 $28 Under 5 Free
Members 20% off and Filoli is part of the Museums for All discount program.
Dates: Holidays at Filoli run through Nov. 18, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024. It is closed December 24-25.
Santa days are: Dec 3,4,10,11,17, 18,23 Snap a photo with him on the Woodland Court.
Location: 86 Cañada Rd, Woodside, CA 94062
5. Enchant San Jose
It is a remarkable 10-acre arena of custom-designed sculptures spread across large installations, families – especially kids – can find eight missing star fragments, helping Santa save Christmas!
My son was running around so quickly that I lost him a few times – thank goodness for cell phones! It truly is the world’s largest holiday event, with a unique, multi-sensory experience that will leave you and your family in awe.
This it is a great way to start the season we had a great time. Make sure to take a spin on the ice-skating trail, surrounded by a beautiful forest of Christmas lights. And don’t forget to visit Santa’s Landing, the Little Elves Play Place, and several artisan vendors, crafters, and boutiques in the Christmas Village Marketplace.
Cost: Adults from $38.00; Junior (Ages 3 – 17) from $28.50; Military and Seniors (Age 65+) $34.50; Children under 2: Free
$15/Adult; $10/Junior
Parking: $25 standard, $35 preferred
Dates: This winter wonderland starts November 24th and ends December 31st – hurry before Santa takes off!
Location: 123 Coleman Ave, San Jose, CA 95110, Where: PayPal Park
5. Ride the Family Christmas Train in Bay Area
The Bay Area has a handful of seasonal train journeys that you can reserve this year.
Santa Train Jolly Journeys with the Napa Valley Wine Train Take a festive journey with the Napa Valley Wine Train this holiday season! Ride the train and meet Santa, enjoy a delicious dinner, and explore the beautiful wine country. It’s sure to be a magical experience for the whole family!
Nov. 30-Dec. 23
Roaring Camp Hop on a magical vintage train and get ready to zoom down the coast towards Santa Cruz! The train will be all decked up in holiday lights and there’s even a special Chanukah ride on December 7. It’s the perfect way to get into the spirit of the season!
Nov. 24 – Dec. 23
Location: 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA 95018
6. Visit the Merry Meritage at Meritage Resort & Spa in Napa
The Meritage Resort & Spa in Napa, in the Bay Area, has something special for the holiday season. It will be bringing back its winter village with lots of fun activities. You can go ice skating, roast marshmallows over a firepit, hang out in special igloos, listen to Santa’s storytime, and more! It’s a festive wonderland – don’t miss it!
Location:875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA 94558
Dates: Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024
7. Holiday Tree Walk – Felton
The Holiday Tree Walk in Felton, California is a fun event that takes place the weekend after Thanksgiving. Visitors start their journey at the front of the Felton Historical Museum. As they walk along the two-mile route, they’ll see lots of festive decorations. Colorful trees twinkle with lights of red and green. There’s even artisans selling homemade treats and special gifts. At the end of the walk, there’s plenty to appreciate! This holiday event is a great way to make lasting memories and bring cheer to the community.
Location: Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018
Dates: November 24 – December 17
8. Drive in Vasona Park in Los Gatos
At Vasona Park, the holiday season begins with the magical twinkling of Christmas lights! Every December, the park is illuminated with rainbow-colored strings of lights that make it look like a winter wonderland. You can also hear festive music and carols, watch performances from local groups, and treat yourself to seasonal snacks from the food vendors. Plus, there are all kinds of fun seasonal activities like art projects and hot chocolate stations.
People come from near and far to experience the beauty of the park and make memories they’ll never forget. One event attendee commented, “It reminds us that it’s more important to enjoy the holiday season with family and friends than to worry about material gifts.” Don’t miss your chance to join in the fun; the lights will be lit every night until the beginning of January.
Location: 333 Blossom Hill Rd, Los Gatos, CA 95032
9. Enjoy Santana Row Holidays Live performances
Santana Row Snow Showers, starts 11/26
Spirit of the Row performances, starts 11/29
Snow Showers begins Dec 2 and Spirit of the Row on Dec 5
Location: 377 Santana Row, San Jose, CA 95128
10. Après Village & Skate Rink at the Four Seasons Silicon Valley.
Christmas is almost here! Get ready to visit Apres Village in Palo Alto. It’s the perfect place to make amazing holiday memories. Enjoy semi-private chalets with cozy fireplaces, TVs and blankets. Shop at the holiday sweet shop and take lots of pictures at the giant snow globe and life-size sleigh. Skate all day on the special rink, too! Apres Village opens November 16, so get ready for the most magical time of the year!
Location:2050 UNIVERSITY AVENUE, EAST PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA 94303 U.S.A
Dates: Nov. 16, 2023-Jan. 28, 2024
Amusement Parks & Zoos events around San Francisco
1. Oakland Zoo Glowfari
As winter approaches and the days get shorter and colder, one of the best ways to experience the season is to enjoy one of the many winter-themed festivals and attractions that Northern California has to offer. From Oakland to Santa Cruz, Vallejo to Gilroy, the Bay Area is home to a unique set of winter events to keep you entertained.
The Glowfari in Oakland is a two-month event from November 10 until January 28. You can enjoy light shows, carnival rides, festive food and live performances. It’s a mix of winter fun and old-timey Oakland charm at Jack London Square. You won’t want to miss these larger-than-life animal lanterns and interactive light displays . Here through January with all new themes!
Advance tickets required:🎟️ Adults $26, Kids 2-14 $22 and under 2 free. Themes including:🌲North America ❄️ Arctic 🐙 Deep Ocean🐊 Bayou 🦋 Madagascar
In November on weekends and every night in December.
Location: 9777 Golf Links Road Oakland, CA 94605
Oakland, November 10 – January 28
2. Winterfest at Great America
Dates: November 24 – January 1
Location: 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA 95054
3. Boardwalk Winter Wonderland
In Santa Cruz, Boardwalk Winter Wonderland brings a bit of classic winter fun to the beach. Features a variety of carnival rides, caroling, holiday decorations, and of course, the unique flavors of Santa Cruz’s famous Boardwalk.
Dates: November 23 – December 31
Location: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
4. Six Flags Holidays in the Park
Head to Vallejo for an incredible holiday experience at Six Flags Holidays in the Park. It’s full of amazing activities for everyone. You’ll find fantastic lights, exciting rides, live shows, and delicious food. It’s the perfect way to start your holiday season!
Dates: Vallejo, November 26 – January 2
Location: 1001 Fairgrounds Dr. SW, Vallejo, CA 94589.
5. North Pole Nights at Gilroy Gardens
Experience the winter holidays in a unique way! Go to Gilroy Gardens from November 24 to December 31 to visit North Pole Nights. You’ll have a more traditional winter experience with snow, sleigh rides, and ice skating. There will be classic holiday treats and beautifully decorated trees. Plus, Santa may even make an appearance! If you’re looking for more winter fun, check out Oakland and other Bay Area festivals and attractions. You’ll find carnivals, boardwalks, roller coasters, and snows capes. So get ready to embrace the cold and have a festive winter celebration with your friends and family!
Dates: November 24 – December 31
Location: 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy, CA 95020
6. Fairy Winterland at Children’s Fairyland (Oakland)
Check out Fairy Winterland! Kids and families can wander through a wonderland of twinkling lights, make candles and ornaments, see Black Santa’s Festival of Lights Parade, and enjoy free cocoa and cider.
Plus, there’s a special night for grownups. Twas the Night Before Fairy Winterland is an adults-only event with live music, a night market, and delicious drinks.
Entry to Fairy Winterland is $18 per person or $9 for members. For Twas the Night, early bird tickets are $25 each. Visit fairyland.org/winterlandtickets or fairyland.org/twasthenighttickets to get yours.
Early bird tickets are on sale until Tuesday, November 13!Fairy Winterland- Starting December 15
Location: 699 Bellevue Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Best Drive through Events in San Francisco and surrounded areas
Fantasy of Lights
Happens at Santa Clara County Parks
Walk opens Dec 2-3
Drive thru opens Dec 5 to December 30
Tickets sold out fast
Location: Vasona Lake County Park, 333 Blossom Hill Road, Los Gatos
Take a Drive Down Christmas Tree Lane
Welcome families to the Bay area’s best and brightest FREE holiday display in 2023! Kids won’t want to miss out on this San Jose house, where a 6-foot tall Talking, Singing Santa and seven Reindeer make for incredible photo ops.
It runs nightly Nov 25 to Dec 25.
Location: 578 Flagler St, San Jose.
This is the most complete and best list and I hope is helpful
