Holidays in San Francisco 2024

Posted by Rebecca White on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 4:00 PM By Rebecca White / November 14, 2023 Comment

The Holiday Season is one of my favorite times of the year in San Francisco...

The lights, the decorations, the Salvation Army bell-ringers, and Holiday music blaring, all bring joy to everyone who sees, hears, and smells the holiday sights, sounds and scents in our City!

Some of our beloved San Francisco neighborhoods and commercial districts go all out! It is fun to drive though some of the wealthier enclaves such as Presidio Heights, Pacific Heights, St. Francis Wood, and Sea Cliff, and to walk around Union Square, Pier 39, and the Embarcadero. Many of our luxury hotels really "deck the halls" and anyone can wander in to enjoy a "winter wonderland" of red, green, glittery gold, and sparkling silver with TONS of lights, gingerbread houses and photos with Santa.

I am not even sure where to begin to share with you some of the wonderful places and sights to see, hear, touch, and experience firsthand. Here are some suggestions to help narrow down your options for enjoying the Holidays in San Francisco.

San Francisco's Civic Center Tree Lighting Ceremony

Get ready for the joyous Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting celebration on December 6 from 4 to 7pm! Mark your calendars for this delightful, complimentary, and family-oriented festivity. The evening's entertainment is curated by Boxcar Theatre's Artistic Director, Nick A. Olivero, and features an exciting lineup: The Tap Dancing Christmas Trees, The Topman All Stars, magician Josh Farenbaugh, vocalist Doris Bumpus, and special appearances from beloved Christmas figures, including Santa himself! Enjoy delicious festive snacks and drinks available for purchase, and a bar serving seasonal specialties.

The event promises a magical atmosphere with "snow" flurries, a toy giveaway for children in partnership with Another Planet Entertainment, and a Makers Village offering complimentary activities for both kids and adults. This is an experience you won't want to miss!

Set against the stunning backdrop of a lit-up City Hall at Civic Center Plaza, it's the perfect setting for memorable photos. The event kicks off at 4 PM, with the highlight being the illumination of Civic Center’s 50-foot noble fir by Mayor London Breed at 5:30 PM. Secure your spot by RSVPing through Eventbrite.