If you’re lucky enough to be spending Christmas in San Francisco this year, you’re in for a treat! The city comes alive with festive cheer and there are so many amazing events to get you into the holiday spirit. We’ve put together a local’s guide to 10 incredible Christmas events happening in San Francisco in 2021, so you can make the most of the holiday season in the city. From ice skating to beautiful light displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Ice Skating at Union Square
One of the most iconic Christmas activities in San Francisco is ice skating at Union Square. The rink is surrounded by twinkling lights and a giant Christmas tree, making it the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re a pro on the ice or just starting out, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Winter Walk SF
For a unique Christmas experience, check out Winter Walk SF. This outdoor holiday pop-up features a variety of festive activities, live performances, food vendors, and more. It’s the perfect place to wander around and take in the sights and sounds of the season.
Shop at the Holiday Market at the Embarcadero Center
If you’re looking for unique gifts and holiday treats, head to the Holiday Market at the Embarcadero Center. This pop-up market features a wide variety of local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious holiday treats. It’s a great place to do some Christmas shopping while supporting local businesses.
Visit the Fairmont Hotel’s Gingerbread House
The Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco is known for its spectacular gingerbread house, which is a must-see during the holiday season. This life-size gingerbread house is made with thousands of homemade gingerbread bricks, royal icing, and candy decorations. It’s a true marvel and a Christmas tradition in the city.
Golden Gate Park’s Winter Lights
For a beautiful and immersive holiday experience, head to Golden Gate Park’s Winter Lights event. This outdoor light exhibit features stunning light installations, interactive displays, and festive entertainment. It’s the perfect way to spend a magical evening with family and friends.
Attend the Great Dickens Christmas Fair
For a truly unique Christmas event, don’t miss the Great Dickens Christmas Fair. This Victorian-themed event takes you back in time to the streets of old London, with costumed characters, music, dancing, and a wide variety of vendors selling handmade gifts and trinkets. It’s a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience that’s not to be missed.
Attend a Christmas Concert at Grace Cathedral
Grace Cathedral is a stunning venue for a Christmas concert, and they have a variety of holiday-themed performances throughout the season. Whether you’re into classical music, gospel, or contemporary Christmas tunes, there’s something for everyone at Grace Cathedral’s Christmas concerts.
Take a Holiday Lights Tour
San Francisco is known for its beautiful holiday light displays, and there are several companies that offer holiday lights tours around the city. Hop on a festively decorated tour bus and take in the sights of some of the most stunning Christmas light displays in the city.
Visit the San Francisco Zoo’s ZooLights
The San Francisco Zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with their ZooLights event. This evening event features light displays, live entertainment, and holiday treats throughout the zoo. It’s a great way to experience the magic of the holiday season in a unique setting.
Watch the Nutcracker at the San Francisco Ballet
No Christmas season is complete without seeing a performance of the Nutcracker, and the San Francisco Ballet puts on a spectacular show each year. Whether it’s your first time seeing the classic ballet or a yearly tradition, it’s a must-see Christmas event in San Francisco.
No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season in San Francisco. With so many amazing Christmas events to choose from, you’re sure to have a magical time in the city. From ice skating at Union Square to visiting the Fairmont Hotel’s gingerbread house, there’s no shortage of festive cheer to be found in San Francisco this Christmas. So, grab your loved ones and get ready to make some wonderful holiday memories in the city by the bay!
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