Beyond lights and markets, San Francisco offers unique seasonal experiences throughout the city. From ice skating at Union Square and Embarcadero Center with stunning city views to waterfront celebrations and cable car rides, the Bay Area provides diverse holiday fun. Explore Alcatraz holiday tours, museum exhibits, and family-friendly attractions across San Francisco's iconic neighborhoods.
Winter at Wonderland - Tree Lighting Celebration
Location: Vallejo
Dates: December 5, 2025
Cost: FREE
The Winter at Wonderland event at Children's Wonderland Park features an annual grand tree lighting ceremony that officially marks the start of the holiday season. Attendees can enjoy live music performances, warm hot chocolate from vendors, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus throughout the evening. The park will be adorned with festive decorations, creating a cheerful atmosphere for families.
Highlights:
- The grand tree lighting ceremony marks the official start of the holiday season.
- A festive atmosphere filled with holiday cheer for all ages.
- Enjoy live music performances throughout the evening.
Breakfast with Santa
Location: Sausalito
Dates: December 6, 2025
Cost: $$
Breakfast with Santa at the Sausalito Yacht Club offers an engaging morning for families, featuring a delightful breakfast prepared by Santa's elves. Attendees can enjoy pancakes, sausage, milk, and juice while participating in interactive holiday crafts. The event also provides opportunities to take photos with Santa, making it a memorable experience for children.
Highlights:
- A delightful breakfast experience with Santa Claus.
- Interactive holiday crafts for attendees.
- Photo opportunities with Santa.
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Hillsdale Shopping Center Tree Lighting
Location: San Mateo
Cost: FREE
The Hillsdale Shopping Center Tree Lighting event features a dazzling illumination of the holiday tree accompanied by a Rockin' Holiday Show. Live musical performances will fill the shopping center, creating an inviting atmosphere for holiday shoppers and families alike. The event also showcases festive decorations throughout the center for all to enjoy.
Venue: Hillsdale Shopping Center
Address: 60 31st Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403
Phone: (650) 586-7703
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Celebrate the start of the holiday season with a dazzling tree lighting.
- Enjoy a special holiday show featuring music and entertainment.
- Enjoy live musical performances throughout the event.
Dublin Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
Location: Dublin
Dates: December 4
Cost: FREE
The Dublin Annual Holiday Tree Lighting at the Civic Center features the official lighting of a 30-foot holiday tree, along with festive entertainment. Attendees can enjoy live performances by local school choirs, participate in arts and crafts, and interact with Santa Claus during this community gathering. The event is designed to bring families together for a night of holiday cheer.
Venue: Dublin Civic Center
Address: 100 Civic Plaza, Dublin, CA 94568
Phone: 925-833-6650
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- The official lighting of the city's holiday tree.
- Festive entertainment including music and crafts.
- Opportunities to interact with Santa Claus.
Holiday Tree Lighting at Lytton Plaza
Location: Palo Alto
Dates: Friday, December 05, 2025 | 05:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Cost: FREE
The Holiday Tree Lighting at Lytton Plaza is a community event that marks the beginning of the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony. Attendees can enjoy live music from performers such as the School of Rock and the Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra, along with winter treats and hot cocoa. The plaza will be beautifully decorated, providing a festive backdrop for the evening.
Venue: Lytton Plaza
Address: 200 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Phone: 650-329-2478
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Kick off the holiday season with a community tree lighting ceremony.
- Family-friendly evening with live entertainment and festive treats.
- Enjoy live music from talented performers like the School of Rock, Boost Class Merry Holiday Dancers, and the Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra.
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Children's Fairyland Fairy Winterland
Location: Oakland
Cost: $$
Children's Fairyland transforms into Fairy Winterland, featuring whimsical storybook sets reimagined for winter. The park spans 10 acres and includes enchanting decorations, gentle rides for young children, and charming animal residents. This event offers a magical experience designed specifically to spark imagination and joy in young visitors.
Venue: Children's Fairyland
Address: 699 Bellevue Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Phone: (510) 452-2259
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Step into a fairytale world designed specifically for young children, sparking imagination and play.
- Enjoy a unique, uncynical, and magical experience reminiscent of childhood wonder.
- Explore a 10-acre park filled with storybook sets, gardens, and attractions on the shores of Lake Merritt.
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Yerba Buena Gardens Holiday Tree Lighting
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Saturday, Dec 6, 2025, 6pm - 7pm
Cost: FREE
The Yerba Buena Gardens Holiday Tree Lighting is the second annual event bringing the community together for a festive tree lighting ceremony. Attendees can witness the illumination of the holiday tree, which serves as a central feature of the celebration. The event fosters a sense of community spirit as families gather to enjoy this holiday tradition.
Venue: Yerba Buena Gardens
Address: 750 Howard St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415.919.4049
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Join the community for the second annual Holiday Tree Lighting event.
- Participate in the festive atmosphere of the annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony.
- Witness the illumination of the holiday tree, a central festive attraction.
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Concord Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting
Location: Walnut Creek
Dates: December 4, 2025
Cost: FREE
The Concord Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting features a festive parade that kicks off the holiday season, culminating in a special tree lighting ceremony led by Santa Claus. Attendees can enjoy a stroll through an open house with local retailers and witness the grand moment when Santa lights the Broadway Plaza Christmas Tree.
Venue: Broadway Plaza
Address: 1275 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Phone: (925) 939-7601
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- The annual Parade of Lights kicking off the holiday season.
- A special Tree Lighting Ceremony led by Santa Claus.
- Stroll through an open house featuring retailers and community partners.
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Glow: The Art of Light
Location: San Francisco
Dates: November 20, 2025 – January 25, 2026
Cost: $$
Glow: The Art of Light at the Exploratorium features artist-created light sculptures that illuminate Pier 15. This annual winter exhibition offers interactive and sensory experiences designed to engage visitors of all ages. The event showcases a blend of new installations and beloved seasonal favorites, creating a captivating visual experience.
Venue: Exploratorium
Address: Pier 15, San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: 415.528.4444
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Annual winter exhibition featuring artist-created light sculptures.
- Interactive and sensory experiences designed to engage visitors of all ages.
- A beloved expansion of the Exploratorium's iconic experiences with light.
Free Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
Location: Oakland
Dates: December 7, 2025
Cost: FREE
Free Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Mountain View Cemetery offers families a chance to capture holiday memories without any cost. In addition to photos, children can engage in arts and crafts activities during the event. Families can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Tower Chapel for a delightful experience.
Venue: Mountain View Cemetery
Address: 5000 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland, CA 94611
Phone: 510-658-2588
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
- Arts and crafts for children.
- Enjoy arts and crafts activities.
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Santa Claus at Shadelands Ranch
Location: Walnut Creek
Dates: Saturday, November 29, 2025
Cost: $5.00
At Shadelands Ranch, families can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at the historic gazebo, capturing personal photos with the holiday icons. This event offers a chance to enjoy a festive atmosphere while creating cherished memories with loved ones. The charming setting enhances the experience, making it an ideal spot for holiday celebrations.
Venue: Shadelands Ranch
Address: 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Phone: 925-935-7871
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A special holiday visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.
- Opportunity for personal photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
- Meet and greet with Mr. and Mrs. Claus at the historic Shadelands Ranch Gazebo.
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City of Concord's Annual Tree Lighting & Mayor's Sing-Along
Location: Concord
Dates: Friday, December 5, 2025
Cost: FREE
The annual tree lighting ceremony at Todos Santos Plaza features a festive sing-along led by the Mayor, making it a cherished community tradition. Attendees can participate in the joyous lighting of the city’s Christmas tree and enjoy a variety of holiday carols. This event brings together residents of all ages to celebrate the holiday spirit in a vibrant setting.
Highlights:
- The annual tree lighting ceremony, a beloved community tradition.
- A special sing-along led by the Mayor, bringing festive music to the plaza.
- Join the Mayor for a festive sing-along session filled with holiday carols.
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Hanukkah Community Celebration
Location: Martinez
Dates: December 14th - 22nd, 2025
Cost: FREE
The Hanukkah Community Celebration at Main Street Plaza features nightly menorah lightings and is hosted by Congregation B'nai Shalom. Attendees can enjoy festive music, family-friendly entertainment, and traditional Hanukkah treats like sufganiyot. This event fosters a sense of community and celebration during the Hanukkah season.
Highlights:
- Annual Hanukkah Community Celebration hosted by Congregation B'nai Shalom and Downtown Martinez & Co.
- Nightly menorah lightings at the Main Street Plaza.
- Family fun with music and traditional Hanukkah treats.
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15th Annual Reindeer Run-Walk 5k/10k
Location: American Canyon
Dates: December 6th
Cost: $
The 15th Annual Reindeer Run-Walk offers both 5K and 10K race options in American Canyon, catering to participants of all ages and fitness levels. This family-friendly event features special pricing for children, and early bird registration encourages participants to sign up ahead of time. Pre-race festivities start at 8 AM, with staggered race starts for different categories.
Highlights:
- The 15th annual Reindeer Run-Walk offers both 5K and 10K race options.
- A family-friendly event with special pricing and awards for children.
- Early bird registration opens July 1st, encouraging early sign-ups for the fun.
It's a Wonderful Life in Lafayette Holiday Celebration
Location: Lafayette
Dates: Sunday, December 7, 2025, 4pm-6pm
Cost: FREE
The It's a Wonderful Life in Lafayette Holiday Celebration features free visits with Santa Claus, complimentary rides on the Lafayette Express train, and an official tree lighting ceremony. Families can enjoy festive crafts and activities throughout the day. The event creates a joyful atmosphere, perfect for celebrating the holiday season with loved ones.
Venue: Lafayette Plaza
Address: 3530 Plaza Way, Lafayette, CA 94549
Phone: 925-284-7404
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Free visit with Santa Claus.
- Complimentary rides on the Lafayette Express train.
- Official holiday tree lighting ceremony.
Santa Skivvies Run
Location: San Francisco
Dates: December 7, 2025
Cost: $
The Santa Skivvies Run is an annual holiday fun run in the Castro neighborhood, inviting participants to wear festive attire for a good cause. This body-positive event also includes post-run entertainment such as a drag show and awards ceremony. Participants can engage in fundraising activities to support the San Francisco AIDS Foundation while enjoying a unique holiday experience.
Highlights:
- An annual holiday underwear fun run and fundraiser for a vital cause.
- A body-positive event encouraging participants to wear festive attire.
- Post-run entertainment including a drag show and awards ceremony.
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Ice Skating at Embarcadero Center
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $
Glide across a pristine outdoor ice rink set against the stunning backdrop of the San Francisco Bay Bridge and waterfront skyline. This scenic winter destination combines the thrill of ice skating with breathtaking views of the bay, creating an unforgettable holiday experience in the heart of the city's vibrant Embarcadero district. Perfect for both seasoned skaters and first-time visitors, the rink offers skate rentals and hour-long sessions throughout the season.
Venue: Embarcadero Center
Address: Embarcadero Center, SF, CA 94111
Phone: 415-772-0700
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Seasonal rink
- City views
- Downtown location
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Yerba Buena Ice Skating
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $
Experience the joy of winter at Yerba Buena Ice Skating, San Francisco’s premier year-round indoor rink located atop the Moscone Center. This festive holiday season, glide across a spacious NHL-sized ice surface surrounded by vibrant seasonal décor and enjoy special events including dazzling skating shows and interactive winter activities. Perfect for all ages, it offers a unique urban winter escape in the heart of downtown.
Venue: Yerba Buena Gardens
Address: 750 Howard Street, SF, CA 94103
Highlights:
- Downtown rink
- Gardens setting
- Family-friendly
Alcatraz Holiday Tours
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Explore one of America's most iconic penitentiaries during the festive holiday season with special evening tours that combine historic prison exploration with San Francisco's sparkling winter scenery. These seasonal tours offer a unique contrast between the somber history of Alcatraz Island and the vibrant holiday atmosphere of the surrounding Bay Area, featuring illuminated views of the Golden Gate Bridge and city lights during the return ferry journey. Perfect for those seeking an unconventional holiday experience that blends education, history, and seasonal charm in a memorable way.
Highlights:
- Historic prison
- Island tour
- Bay views
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California Academy of Sciences Holiday
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Experience the California Academy of Sciences transformed into a winter wonderland this holiday season, featuring extended evening hours filled with festive activities for the entire family. Visitors can interact with live reindeer, participate in hands-on holiday crafts, and explore world-class exhibits showcasing marine life and natural wonders. The event combines educational science experiences with seasonal entertainment, creating a unique celebration that blends learning and holiday cheer under one iconic San Francisco destination.
Venue: California Academy of Sciences
Address: 55 Music Concourse Drive, SF, CA 94118
Phone: 415-379-8000
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Science museum
- Aquarium
- Planetarium
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Exploratorium Holiday Exhibits
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
This holiday season, the Exploratorium transforms into a luminous wonderland with its annual Glow exhibition, featuring dazzling interactive light art installations that blend science, creativity, and festive spirit. Visitors of all ages can explore hands-on exhibits, optical illusions, and immersive environments that respond to movement and touch, making each experience uniquely personal. From glowing sculptures to animated light waves, the museum becomes a playground of radiant discovery, perfect for sparking curiosity and holiday cheer.
Highlights:
- Science museum
- Interactive exhibits
- Pier 15 location
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de Young Museum Holiday Exhibitions
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Celebrate the holiday season at the de Young Museum in San Francisco with immersive art exhibitions that blend tradition and contemporary creativity. Nestled in Golden Gate Park, the museum offers a festive cultural experience featuring exclusive seasonal displays, interactive installations, and curated collections that highlight diverse artistic voices. This unique holiday event invites visitors to explore art in a vibrant, inspiring setting during Christmas 2025.
Venue: de Young Museum
Address: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, SF, CA 94118
Phone: 415-750-3600
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Art museum
- Golden Gate Park
- Holiday exhibitions
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Legion of Honor Holiday Tours
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Celebrate the holiday season at San Francisco’s Legion of Honor with exclusive guided tours that illuminate its renowned European art collection in a festive setting. Experience the museum’s elegant galleries adorned with seasonal decorations while discovering masterpieces from the Renaissance to the 19th century. These tours offer a unique blend of art, history, and holiday spirit, perfect for cultural enrichment during Christmas 2025.
Venue: Legion of Honor
Address: 100 34th Avenue, SF, CA 94121
Phone: 415-750-3600
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- European art
- Lincoln Park
- Classical architecture
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Golden Gate Park Holiday Activities
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
San Francisco's largest urban park transforms into a winter wonderland featuring multiple illuminated attractions and seasonal celebrations throughout December. From the immersive Lightscape trail with over one million twinkling lights and interactive sculptures to festive tree lightings, carousel rides, and live entertainment along JFK Drive, the park offers a diverse array of holiday experiences. Visitors can enjoy seasonal food vendors, holiday markets, and family-friendly activities while exploring the park's 1,017 acres of natural beauty enhanced by artistic light installations and festive décor.
Highlights:
- Park trails
- Multiple attractions
- Free activities
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Lands End Trail Holiday Hikes
Location: San Francisco
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Lands End Trail Holiday Hikes invite visitors to explore one of San Francisco’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes during the festive season. Wander along winding paths with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, and dramatic cliffs, all dusted with a crisp winter atmosphere. The trail’s serene beauty is enhanced by seasonal decorations and the occasional sighting of holiday lights from nearby homes, making it a peaceful yet magical way to celebrate the holidays outdoors.
Venue: Lands End
Address: 680 Point Lobos Avenue, SF, CA 94121
Highlights:
- Ocean views
- Scenic trails
- Free hiking
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in San Francisco.