Experience the Magic of Christmas in San Francisco

The holiday season in San Francisco is nothing short of magical. And for visitors to the Bay Area, there’s no shortage of festive activities to get into the Christmas spirit! Whether you’re wandering through the twinkling lights of Fisherman’s Wharf or exploring one of the many holiday markets, Christmas in San Francisco offers a memorable blend of charm, culture, and celebration. From tree lightings and carolers to grand feasts and holiday parades, the city comes alive with festive cheer throughout the season. If you’re planning to spend Christmas in the city, here’s a guide to some of the best yuletide events and activities around San Francisco.

Christmas at Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the city’s most iconic waterfront areas, and during the holiday season, it transforms into a winter wonderland. With dazzling light displays, festive decorations, and waterfront views, it's a great place to kick off your Christmas celebrations.

Pier 39 Christmas Tree: One of the must-see attractions at Fisherman’s Wharf during the holiday season is the massive Christmas tree at Pier 39. Illuminated with thousands of sparkling lights, it makes for the perfect photo opportunity. On Christmas Eve, Pier 39 will also host live holiday performances and entertainment, bringing joy to families and visitors alike.   

Hyde Street Pier: Visit the Hyde Street Pier to enjoy a truly unique Christmas Eve experience. As part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, the pier features historic ships decorated for the holidays. Some years, they host caroling events or live reenactments aboard the ships, providing a step back in time to enjoy old-fashioned Christmas traditions.

Christmas Lights Cruise: Consider taking a Christmas Lights Cruise to experience the beauty of San Francisco Bay during the holidays. These evening boat tours offer stunning views of the city skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge, all while cruising past dazzling light displays along the waterfront. Some cruises even include hot cocoa and carolers on board for a full festive experience.

Union Square: The Heart of Christmas in San Francisco

Located just a short distance from Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square is the heartbeat of Christmas in San Francisco. Its iconic Christmas tree and holiday ice rink are essential stops for visitors during the season.

Union Square Christmas Tree: The Union Square Christmas tree, towering over 80 feet tall, is one of the most photographed holiday attractions in the city. The tree lighting ceremony is a major event. But if you're visiting on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, it's still a breathtaking sight to see the tree lit up against the backdrop of San Francisco’s bustling downtown.

Holiday Ice Rink: Lace up your skates and glide across the Union Square Holiday Ice Rink, open daily throughout December (including Christmas Eve). This outdoor rink is a favorite for families, couples, and friends looking to make special holiday memories. Skating under the lights of the Christmas tree is a magical experience that’s fun for all ages.

Holiday Shopping: Christmas in San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a bit of shopping. Union Square is home to some of the city’s top retail destinations, and during the holidays, you’ll find festive window displays, pop-up markets, and an array of gift options. From luxury boutiques to local artisan shops, it’s the perfect place to pick up last-minute gifts or souvenirs.

Christmas Feasts in San Francisco

What’s Christmas without a festive meal? San Francisco is home to an impressive array of restaurants offering special holiday menus for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. From classic American turkey dinners to global cuisine, there’s something for every palate.

Bistro Boudin: Located right on Fisherman’s Wharf, Bistro Boudin is known for its sourdough bread and sweeping views of the bay. On Christmas Day, they offer a special holiday menu featuring local seafood, roasted meats, and all the trimmings. It's a great spot to enjoy a cozy Christmas dinner while overlooking the waterfront.

The Cavalier: The Cavalier near Union Square is a fantastic choice for elegant Christmas Eve or Christmas Day dining. Their holiday menu typically includes traditional favorites like roasted turkey and prime rib, along with seasonal sides like Brussels sprouts and mashed potatoes. The ambiance, offering a blend of British charm and San Francisco flair, makes it an ideal setting for a holiday dinner.

House of Prime Rib: House of Prime Rib is a San Francisco institution known for its hearty cuts of slow-roasted beef, making it the perfect place to celebrate Christmas in style. Their holiday menu is similar to their year-round offering, but on Christmas, it’s especially popular for families looking to indulge in a feast.

Holiday Performances and Entertainment

San Francisco is rich in culture and creativity, and during the holiday season, the city hosts a variety of performances and shows to add some extra holiday magic to your visit.

San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker: The San Francisco Ballet’s performance of “The Nutcracker” is a beloved yuletide tradition. Running throughout December, including Christmas Eve, this enchanting holiday classic is perfect for families and theater lovers. The War Memorial Opera House (where the performance is held) is always decked out in festive splendor, making it a truly magical experience.

A Christmas Carol: Head to the American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.) for their annual production of “A Christmas Carol.” This heartwarming adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale of redemption and Christmas spirit is a great way to celebrate the season in true theatrical style.

Stay at Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf for the Holidays

After a day of festive fun, there’s no better place to relax and unwind than Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf. Conveniently located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, Hotel Caza offers the perfect blend of comfort and style for your holiday stay in San Francisco. Its close proximity to major holiday attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s Christmas festivities.

Hotel Caza’s warm and inviting atmosphere is perfect for families and couples alike, and with spacious rooms, modern amenities, and cozy common areas, it’s the ultimate home-away-from-home during the holiday season.