Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! There’s something special about Christmas in San Francisco. The whole city shines with decorations everywhere and a feeling of excitement you can really notice. There are holiday markets, amazing lights, and events happening all around. It’s almost impossible not to join in the fun. If you want to make your Christmas Day in San Francisco extra special, here are some of the best things to do on Christmas day in SF. Let’s jump in and make this holiday a great one to remember.
San Francisco Weather December: Plan Your Christmas Day in San Francisco
The climate in San Francisco in December makes it cool and cosy. This is the perfect time for holiday adventures. During the daytime, the temperatures are generally between 50°F and 60°F. This temperature is cool enough to feel comfortable and warm, but not so chilly to make it unbearable. No snow as you’d see elsewhere, so you need not bother about snowstorms or mud. It might rain, though, so be ready. Here’s a brief overview of the average pattern of the December patterns to assist you in preparing to the cold relaxed climate of San Francisco:
| Weather Type | Avg High Temp (°F) | Avg Low Temp (°F) | Avg Rainfall (inches) |
| Mild Coastal | 58 | 48 | 3.5 |
| Cold Winter | 40 | 25 | 3.0 |
| Snowy Winter | 30 | 15 | 5.0 |
Getting a handle on San Francisco weather in December lets you pack just right and enjoy your Christmas day in San Francisco without any curveballs.
What’s Open on Christmas Day in San Francisco – Top Spots for Your Holiday
Curious about what’s open on Christmas Day in San Francisco? The city doesn’t shut down completely – there are outdoor spots, nature hangs, and cool attractions ready for folks on December 25, 2025. Check out this list of top places to hit up and catch that holiday spirit.
1. Union Square Ice Rink
The Union Square Ice Rink is open and ready for some skating fun on Christmas Day. It’s a great hang for families and friends wanting things to do on Christmas Day in SF that pull everyone together with that upbeat holiday mood, just right for kicking back with your people.
2. San Francisco Botanical Gardens
Pop into the San Francisco Botanical Gardens for free on Christmas Day. Relax and explore 55 acres of beautiful plants and peaceful paths. It is a good way to relax outside, enjoy the natural atmosphere, and avoid the holiday rush in the city.
3. San Francisco Zoo
The San Francisco Zoo’s got the Reindeer Romp happening on Christmas Day. Families can spot reindeer and other critters amid the holiday setups. It is a combination of fun, knowledge and play time for both children and adults.
4. Pier 39
Pier 39 remains busy with stores and food stalls open on Christmas Day. Get a few unique presents, have a party bite and see the well-known sea lions hanging around the docks. It is a fun place to spend the holiday due to this vibrant arrangement.
5. Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is available to explore the gardens and museums. The California Academy of Sciences closes at 11 AM -5 PM on Christmas Day. It is a cool place to gain knowledge, take a break and have an exposure to nature in the heart of the city.
6. Chinatown
Chinatown has stores and restaurants open during Christmas Day, and there is that 24-hour holiday feel. Dive into real food, find unique gifts, and feel the energetic culture that lights up this area during the season.
7. Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island tours run on Christmas Day, but grab tickets early since they go quick. Check out the old prison, learn its stories, and take in holiday views of the San Francisco Bay. It’s a different kind of memorable Day out.
Christmas Lights in San Francisco: Must-See Spots
Cruising through the decorated neighbourhoods and enjoying the magical Christmas lights, which light up the city, is one of the best activities that one can do on Christmas Day in SF. The year 2025 is full of lit-up lights to explore, and these lights are perfect to enjoy the festivity as you wander about the popular locations of San Francisco.
1. Union Square Tree
- Location: Union Square, Downtown San Francisco
- Dates: Lit daily from late November through early January
- Ticket: Free to visit
The Union Square Tree sits at the core of San Francisco’s holiday buzz. It’s tall and decked out nicely, drawing in locals and travellers. Nearby, you’ll spot fun decorations, holiday songs, and street acts keeping things lively. The nearby ice rink remains open during the Christmas Holiday, making it a chilled-out meeting point for the family and friends. Visit the stores and eateries to get some holiday shopping and snacks.
2. Illuminate SF Festival of Light
- Location: Various public locations across San Francisco
- Dates: Runs through December, including Christmas Day (December 25, 2025)
- Ticket: Free public viewing
This festival flips the city into a shining art space with fresh light pieces from local and global artists. On Christmas Day, everything stays glowing, setting up a fun stroll through streets and parks. It’s a nice mix of art and holiday fun. Pack your camera since those vibrant lights snap great shots, especially at night.
3. Pier 39 Tree and Nightly Shows
- Location: Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf
- Dates: Tree lit daily from late November through early January, nightly shows start at sunset
- Ticket: Free to visit; shops and restaurants priced normally
Pier 39 brings a waterfront holiday atmosphere with its large Christmas tree and evening light shows with music. In addition to the lights, sample new seafood, shop for special gifts, and watch the sea lions lying on the beach. Decorations cover the pier, making it warm and active for families and pairs.
4. Ghirardelli Square
- Location: Ghirardelli Square, Near Fisherman’s Wharf
- Dates: Lights on from late November to early January
- Ticket: Free to visit; chocolates and food are priced individually
Ghirardelli Square combines lights with delicious confectioners, and it is a must-visit around the time of Christmas. The place is full of twinkling lights and the sweet smell of chocolate at the famous Ghirardelli store. Have a hot cocoa drink or something seasonal as you look at the displays.
5. Tom and Jerry’s House
- Location: Private residence (Richmond District, publicly known)
- Dates: Display active December through early January, best viewed after dark
- Ticket: Free to view from the street
This home’s famous for its wild Christmas light setup, packed with thousands of colourful bulbs, moving decor, and tunes. It’s a go-to tradition for locals and visitors driving by for the holiday show. Be cool to the area – park right and stay quiet.
6. Entwined Glowing Trees in Golden Gate Park
- Location: Near the Conservatory of Flowers, Golden Gate Park
- Dates: December 1 through early January, open daily
- Ticket: Free to walk through
The entwined lights turn a chunk of Golden Gate Park into a dreamy winter scene. Trees illuminated with LEDs in thousands of lights have a calming, enchanted atmosphere. It is a combination of nature and vacation where someone can have an evening stroll or capture photos with their family. It is not as busy as downtown, and it is a relaxing getaway.
Christmas Market in San Francisco: Where to Find Holiday Treasures
When you are in the mood to do some shopping around the season, the 2025 Christmas market in San Francisco has some amazing locations to make unique purchases and enjoy the holiday spirit. Some wrap up pre-Christmas Day, but the energy lingers, and there are still cool places around the Bay Area to explore.
1. Union Square Holiday Market
Dates: November 22 – December 24, 2025
The center of holiday shopping in the city is the Union Square Holiday Market. Dozens of stalls with handmade items, decorations, and yummy snacks – ideal for gift hunting. Set by the iconic Union Square Christmas tree and rink, the atmosphere is enchanting. Even post-close, the area’s alive with lights and events, making it essential for the season.
2. Fort Mason Holiday Craft Fair
Dates: December 2025 (check exact dates closer to the event)
At waterfront Fort Mason, this fair highlights local makers. From jewellery and art to decor and food, it’s full of thoughtful gift ideas. The bay views and setup make shopping here stand out. Nice for backing small biz while catching holiday vibes.
3. Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Dates: Weekends, November 23 – December 22, 2025
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair offers costumes and performances, themed stalls, and audiences can immerse themselves in Victorian times. It brings out the London atmosphere of Dickens and includes carolers, performances and the best-old-fashioned goodies. This all-in experience suits families and history fans craving traditional cheer.
4. Holiday French Market in Berkeley
Dates: December 2025 (check exact dates closer to the event)
On the other side of the bay at Berkeley, the Holiday French Market provides a French European shopping flavour. Artisanal items, holiday foods, and crafts make for unique treasures. The inviting vibes are perfect for a quick holiday outing beyond San Francisco.
Christmas Events in San Francisco: SF Christmas Events and Activities
San Francisco is a city with the brightest spirit of the holidays. You will come across a bunch of Christmas events in San Francisco in 2025 for all ages and interests. From classic shows to community fun, there’s even stuff on Christmas Day. Here’s a breakdown of the top San Francisco Christmas events and activities worth catching.
1. A Christmas Carol at ACT
Dates: December 6 – 24, 2025 Location: American Conservatory Theatre (ACT), 415 Geary St, San Francisco Tickets: Starting at $45. This is a classic play that makes the redemption story of Dickens come alive, and is a good play to be enjoyed by everyone. The ACT takes are loved for pulling folks in. It finishes before Christmas Day, but it is a regular to get that early holiday feel.
2. The Nutcracker at SF Ballet
- Dates: December 13 – 21, 2025
- Location: War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco
- Tickets: Starting at $55
The Nutcracker by San Francisco Ballet is a world holiday tradition that amazes through dance, costumes, and orchestra. It suits families, dates, and ballet lovers. The fairy tale about the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Mouse King diffuses pleasure and wonder.
3. Kung Pao Kosher Comedy
- Dates: December 24 – 26, 2025 (includes Christmas Day shows)
- Location: Various comedy venues in San Francisco (check local listings)
- Tickets: Starting at $30
Kung Pao Kosher Comedy is a new holiday laugh with stand-up that has a touch of festivity. It is a combination of Jewish and holiday jokes, so it is easy-going amusement that is best shared with friends or relatives during the Christmas holidays.
4. Great Dickens Christmas Fair
- Dates: Weekends, November 23 – December 22, 2025
- Location: Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave, Daly City (near San Francisco)
- Tickets: Around $35 for adults, $20 for children
Enter old-school London at this engaging fair. Stroll the streets, grab crafts, watch shows, and meet Dickens folks. Costumes, tunes, and decor make it a family and history hit for unique Christmas vibes.
5. SantaCon
- Dates: December 13 – 14, 2025
- Location: Various bars and public spaces throughout San Francisco
- Tickets: Usually free to participate; some venues may have cover charges
SantaCon’s a fun bash where crowds dress as Santa to share cheer citywide. Pre-Christmas Day, but the buzz lasts. Social with crawls, music, parties – great for lively groups.
6. Civic Center Holiday Tree Lighting
- Date: December 3, 2025 (lights remain up through early January)
- Location: Civic Center Plaza, 355 McAllister St, San Francisco
- Tickets: Free to attend
This lighting event starts the city’s holidays with music, dances, and Santa. The tree and decor stay glowing past Christmas for nice evening backdrops.
7. Let’s Glow SF
- Dates: December 5 – 14, 2025 (lights remain visible afterward)
- Location: Various public spaces around San Francisco
- Tickets: Free public art event
Let’s Glow SF makes the city an illuminated art hub with interactive pieces from artists. It pushes exploring areas and fresh light views. Many stay lit after, good for December nights.
8. Doggy Christmas Ugly Sweater Contest
- Date: December 7, 2025
- Location: Local parks or event spaces (check city listings)
- Tickets: Usually free or a small donation
This sweet event has owners dressing pups in ugly sweaters. Fun for pet fans and families with contests, prizes, and pics. Supports shelters, adding a kind touch.
9. Reindeer Games at Yerba Buena
- Dates: December 17 – 28, 2025
- Location: Yerba Buena Gardens, 750 Folsom St, San Francisco
- Tickets: Free admission
Reindeer Games brings family activities like crafts, painting, and entertainment to a downtown park. Kids dig it, adults chill in the holiday setup. Adds magic to your SF visit.
Christmas Day Activities for Couples in San Francisco
Christmas Day in San Francisco can be even more special to those couples who had good plans. The following are romantic daytime activities of couples on Christmas Day in San Francisco that will ensure your holiday is hot and memorable.
- Festive Brunch at the Fairmont Hotel: Start your Christmas with brunch in the historic Fairmont Hotel. The lobby is decorated with a large ginger-tree house and tree to create a fairy-tale feel. Savour seasonal eats in elegance, great for couples chilling stylishly. Reserve early – it’s a hit.
- Ice Skating at Yerba Buena Gardens: To do something active, go ice skating at the rink of Yerba Buena Gardens. It is pleasant to take a walk around with lights in your hand. Beginner or pro, the music and cheer make it festive. Rentals on-site make it simple.
- Sunset Hike at Lands End: Skip the crowds for a quiet sunset hike on the Lands End trail. Views of the bridge, ocean, and coast make it personal. Watch the sun set in colours – pack a jacket for the December chill by the water.
- Dinner Cruise or Holiday Pop-Up Bar: Evening-wise, book a bay dinner cruise for skyline and bridge views with good food and drinks. Or try a pop-up like Holiday Cocktail Bar at Cirque for cosy setups and creative sips – sets a romantic tone.
- Cosy Picnic in Golden Gate Park: Bring Christmas to an end in the park with a picnic. Go to the place in the shade of trees, take blankets, holiday snacks, and hot drinks. The quiet nature is ideal for connecting sans crowds.
Dining on Christmas Day: Brunches, Dinners, and Feasts in San Francisco
Picking up something to eat is one of the activities that are popular during Christmas Day in SF, as restaurants serve delicious holiday dishes. Christmas Day in San Francisco is augmented with a good meal. In the year 2025, it will be possible to celebrate with brunches and dinners.
- Seafood Dining at Fog Harbour Fish House, Pier 39: Fresh sustainable seafood and a view of the bay at Fog Harbour Fish House. Open Christmas Day, which served chowder, crab and grilled fish. Festive decor makes it cosy for meals. Stroll Pier 39 after for lights and lions.
- Elegant Holiday Brunch at the Fairmont Hotel: Fairmont’s Christmas brunch is luxe in a classic spot. Decor like gingerbread and a tree, a menu with Benedict, salmon, breads, and pastries. Music boosts the cheer. Fits couples, families, and friends for stylish vibes.
- Lavish Christmas Buffet at the Palace Hotel: Palace Hotel’s buffet covers tastes with turkey, rib, salads, cheeses, and desserts like pie, cake. An elegant room with wreaths, lights, and seating groups for traditional feasts.
- Upscale Dinner at Mastro’s Steakhouse: Mastro’s is sophisticated for Christmas dinner. Premium steaks, seafood, and sides like truffle potatoes, spinach. Warm setup, service, and decor make it cosy for pairs or small crews.
- Casual and Flavorful Meals in Chinatown: Chinatown offers a fun Christmas twist with Chinese eats. Spots open for duck, dim sum, and pots. Some mix flavours with holiday menus. Vibrant for cultural diversity.
Getting Around San Francisco at Christmas: Your Best Travel Tip
To max out things to do on Christmas Day in SF, plan rides ahead for hassle-free fun. Christmas in San Francisco is magical but packed, especially at key spots. For Pier 39 holiday events, the Union Square Christmas tree, or Fisherman’s Wharf at Christmas, solid transport matters.
Golden State Limo offers smooth, comfy rides to all Christmas events. Drivers know routes, handle traffic, and park easily. More time for lights, less car stress. For SF Christmas tourism transport tips, book a limo early. Ensures timely arrivals, no parking woes, and stylish holiday enjoyment.