While San Francisco may not receive the classic snow that defines the holiday season, that only makes our city go even more above-and-beyond to provide that classic winter wonderland ambience.
There is definitely no shortage of impressively festive December events, and here are the best ones you absolutely cannot miss that are essential anticipated traditions perfect for families, couples, or even on a solo date!
See also: Best SF Holiday Home Decor Shops To Stylishly Deck Your Halls With
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333 Post St / (415) 295-1588 / Website
Perhaps no image of a San Francisco winter is as iconic as the yearly premiere of our grand Union Square ice skating rink. A joyous activity for all ages, there's nothing more magical than skating right in the heart of downtown, especially with their rotating themed nights, like costumed "Flashback Fridays," talented "Drag Queens on Ice," and of course, the playfully skimpy "Polar Bear Skate." Disney's Frozen the Musical will also make impressive appearances, so be sure to check their calendar and book reservations online.
See also: Union Square's Beloved Ice Skating Rink To Open With Grand 2022 Ceremony
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333 Post St / Website
Beginning on Sunday, December 18 is the The Bill Graham Menorah Lighting, located just beside the towering Christmas tree in Union Square. The live ceremony will run from 2-6pm, and every day from then on, the Menorah will be lit at 5pm for Hanukkah. This is a fantastically honorable and spectacular occasion beloved by many locals, practicing or not.
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950 Mason St / (415) 772-5000 / Website
Another key signal that the holidays in the city have arrived is one that can't be missed, and that's the Fairmont Hotel's massive gingerbread house display! Where else can you walk through a life-sized house layout made tirelessly out of the holiday cookie by our most precisely talented bakers? This is a highly Instagrammable and fragrant feat that will definitely sweeten up your feed and bring out your inner child.
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3650 21st St / Website
While all our classic Victorian architecture already exudes a Dickensian novel atmosphere, some residents go even more all out and decorate their homes to the jolly fullest. One of the most famous one to view is the Tom and Jerry House, unmissable just off of Dolores Park. A crisp walk around the city to scout these homes truly makes for a romantic or engaging leisurely activity, just be sure to wear comfy and warm boots!
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Whether it be the Miracle pop up, the Winter Wonderland at the Vault Garden, or any of the other holiday-exclusive themed bars, there is definitely no shortage of the merry feeling in the winter nightlife. No matter where you decide to go out in the city, you are sure to walk into a venue radiantly decked-out in shimmery Christmas lights, cozy jolly aesthetics, and of course, a "nice list" of appropriately flavored cocktails.
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301 Van Ness Ave / (415) 621-6600 / Website
The San Francisco Ballet annually puts on a fabulous production of the Nutcracker at the War Memorial Opera House, which is on many fans' must-see list, both near and far. Treat yourself to a jaw-droppingly elegant night out to this show that is as classic as it is heartwarming.
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865 Market St / (415) 512-6776 / Website
The holidays are shopping season, and you can guarantee that our downtown shopping district is ready! From Neiman Marcus, to Nordstrom, Macy's, and our multi-level Westfield Shopping Center, our high fashion department stores and boutiques absolutely adore gift-giving mood, fitting their stores with massive displays just like the one coruscating on Union Square. At Westfield's dome is the large upside down tree as well, which is definitely a photo-worthy stop!
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2020 Addison St, Berkeley / (510) 644-2020 / Website
The San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus is a highly beloved and sharply talented group that is historic, impressive, and genuinely love to give back to their community. You can catch their symphonic performance at Berkeley's Freight and Salvage on Sunday, December 11th at 7pm.
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2600 Geneva Ave, Daly City / (415) 404-4100 / Website
Want to step into a completely immersive and accurate vintage winter novel? The Dicken's Christmas Fair at nearby Cow Palace will magnificently transport you into the 1800s, replete with the holiday aromas of cinnamon spice and roasted chestnuts, committed reenactment characters, and plenty of cute stalls to shop handmade crafts and exclusive trinkets. Since 1970, this magical experience has been a Bay Area favorite, and for a generously affordable price. Bonus points if you also don a festive Victorian wardrobe!
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Last but certainly not least, SantaCon is the partygoer's paradise. Every year, SantaCon makes its presence all over the bustling streets, livening up the city with a sea of fun red and white costumes and traveling en masse to all our hottest bars. The eye-catching spectacle this year is on Saturday, December 10th, so be sure to plan your warm and playful Santa costume and get ready to have a blast making new friends while exploring the town!
San Francisco truly loves the winter season, inclusively providing a range of diverse events that caters to everyone's interests. Which one(s) do you plan to attend?
See also: Best SF Spots For Festive Holiday-Themed Coffees
Photography by: Courtesy of Erica Davis/Getty Images
