November brings crisp air and holiday cheer to San Francisco. With mild days around 60°F and cool nights near 50°F, it’s easy to layer up and enjoy outdoor fun. This guide spotlights real events in the city from November 3, 2025, onward—pulled from official calendars and trusted spots like SF Travel. Chase San Francisco November events with family or friends, from dances to feasts. Discover live music and performances near the Marina District, or snap evening light reflections of the Palace of Fine Arts. Plan ahead for tickets and stay until November dips before the holiday rush. Let’s light up your month with top picks for things to do in San Francisco at night and beyond.
SOMA Nights
SOMA Nights sparks South of Market with free art, bites, and beats. Local makers pop up in alleys, turning streets into a creative playground. It’s a simple way to connect with Bay Area talent amid cool fall vibes.
- When: Thursday, November 27, 2025, 5-9 p.m.
- Where: Folsom Street between 6th and 12th Streets.
- Highlights: DJ sets, food trucks, and surprise shows—perfect for romantic night spots in San Francisco.
- Easy Tip: Grab a blanket for sidewalk hangs; it’s all free and low-key.
This spot addresses the “what’s fun downtown?” question with zero cost. Wander, eat, and feel the neighborhood pulse great for solo explorers or couples seeking local art and food festivals in San Francisco.
Downtown First Thursdays
Downtown First Thursdays wakes up the city core with free music and markets. DJs, drag acts, and pop-ups combine to create a fun experience for all ages, making it a quick hit of energy.
- When: Thursday, November 6, 2025, 5-10 p.m.
- Where: Second Street between Market and Howard Streets, plus alleys.
- Key Fun: Street dances, fashion stalls, and 21+ bars on Minna and Natoma.
- All Welcome: Kid areas keep it family-ready.
Right after early November, this party nails San Francisco events today. Hop on BART, stay an hour or all night—it’s hassle-free joy that sparks downtown love.
Day of the Dead Procession
The Day of the Dead Procession honors its roots in the Mission with altars, marches, and music. Families build ofrendas, blending quiet thanks with lively dances under marigold glows.
- When: Sunday, November 2, 2025, 6-9 p.m. (gather at 6 p.m., start at 7 p.m.).
- Where: Starts at 22nd and Bryant Streets, winds through 24th Street.
- Must-Sees: Aztec dancers, lowriders, and community poetry.
- Heartfelt Note: Add your own photo to a shared altar for connection.
This tradition fills the holiday celebrations and parades in November with genuine culture. It’s a gentle pause to remember amid the city’s buzz—ideal for meaningful San Francisco festivals and cultural events during fall season.
San Francisco Hip-Hop Dance Festival
San Francisco Hip-Hop Dance Festival brings global moves to the Palace of Fine Arts San Francisco. Crews from afar share routines and tips, turning seats into a rhythm hub.
- When: Saturday-Sunday, November 8-9, 2025; 7 p.m. Saturday, noon and 5 p.m. Sunday.
- Where: Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, 3601 Lyon Street.
- Stars: Belgium, Netherlands, and local acts in krump, waacking, and more.
- Join In: A freestyle contest will follow Saturday’s show, and anyone can step up.
It offers live music and performances near the Marina District, complemented by professional classes. Leave pumped, try a step top fix for dance lovers in San Francisco’s November festivals.
Find a Hotel in San Francisco
Select a location near the action for smooth travel. From Marina gems to Union Square hubs, choices match budgets and styles.
- Smart Stays: Argonaut by the Wharf for easy Palace access, or Beacon Grand near events.
- Deal Hack: November mid-week saves 15-25%; add transit perks.
- Book Tip: Sites like Hotels.com link to San Francisco events November 8 maps.
The right lodging eases stress, freeing you up for weekend getaway ideas in the San Francisco Bay Area. Focus on joy, not logistics—secure now for best rates.
Bhangra and Beats Night Market
Bhangra and Beats Night Market mixes Punjabi drums with Bay tunes in a free street feast. Vendors sling global eats while crowds sway under city lights.
- When: No November 2025 date confirmed; check for updates (past series on select Fridays).
- Where: Front and Sacramento Streets, Financial District.
- Vibes: Dance lessons, cocktails, and artisan shops for all ages.
- Quick Add: Pair with nearby waterfront walks.
This bash meets diverse celebrations needs with easy fusion fun. Short on time? It’s a one-stop cultural lift—great for spontaneous San Francisco November events.
Golden Gate Trail Classic by Spartan
Golden Gate Trail Classic by Spartan tests trails from Marin to the city. Sunrise bridge crossings reward sea views and finisher medals.
- When: Saturday-Sunday, November 22-23, 2025; starts 5 a.m.
- Where: Rodeo Beach start, Presidio finishes.
- Options: 15K, 25K, 50K, or 50-mile ultra.
- Recovery: Aid spots and post-race grub.
For fitness enthusiasts, it transforms November weather in San Francisco into epic wins for travelers. Build grit while eyeing landmarks and pure Bay adventure.
FAN EXPO San Francisco 2025
FAN EXPO San Francisco 2025 packs Moscone with cosplay, comics, and stars. Panels and games fuel fandom dreams over three days.
- When: Friday-Sunday, November 28-30, 2025; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily.
- Where: Moscone Center West.
- Guests: Celebs like Jared Padalecki; add-ons for meets.
- Play: Tourneys, artist alleys, and costume contests.
It crushes big events in San Francisco today with endless energy. Dress up, connect—ideal escape for where to take night photos of Palace of Fine Arts in November? Skip that; geek out here.
San Francisco Street Food Festival
San Francisco Street Food Festival honors 20 years of bold eats from women-led spots. Over 25 vendors serve tacos and sweets, accompanied by live music, in a park-like atmosphere.
- When: Saturday-Sunday, November 8-9, 2025; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
- Where: China Basin Park, Mission Rock.
- Tastes: Global bites, kid zones, and artisan stalls.
- Good Cause: Boosts new entrepreneurs via La Cocina.
This fest hits local art and food festivals in San Francisco sweet spots with heart. Sample wide, support strong—flavor-packed day out.
Embarcadero Center Building Lighting Ceremony
Embarcadero Center Building Lighting Ceremony starts sparkle season with a free fair and tower glow. Santa, bands, and crafts warm the waterfront.
- When: Friday, November 21, 2025, 4-7 p.m. (lighting at dusk).
- Where: Embarcadero Plaza.
- Joy: Games, choirs, and 17,000 lights on four towers.
- View Spot: Bay edge for fireworks pops.
It launches San Francisco landmarks illuminated at night in a simple way. Bundle up for family cheer holiday kickoff done right.
Turkey Trail Trot
Turkey Trail Trot shakes off Thanksgiving sleep with park runs in silly hats. Jog or stroll Golden Gate paths, then pie up.
- When: Thursday, November 27, 2025, 8 a.m. start.
- Where: Polo Fields, Golden Gate Park.
- Paths: 5-mile run or 3-mile walk.
- Fun End: Group cheers and snack shares.
This trot fits San Francisco festivals and cultural events during fall season with active thanks. Fuel your feast—grateful and glowing.
Illuminate SF Festival of Light
Illuminate SF Festival of Light paints streets with 60+ green art pieces. Projections and sculptures turn dusk walks into wonder.
- When: Starts Monday, November 24, 2025, through January 31, 2026; dusk-10 p.m.
- Where: Citywide trails, like alleys to icons.
- New Twists: Interactive eco-lights and guided tours.
- Snap Tip: Use online maps for the best photo locations in San Francisco.
It amps evening photography at the Palace of Fine Arts with city shine. Stroll free, spark awe—fall nights redefined.
Union Square Tree Lighting Ceremony
Union Square Tree Lighting Ceremony crowns an 83-foot fir with 33,000 bulbs and choirs. Fireworks cap the shopping district glow.
- When: Friday, November 28, 2025, 6 p.m. (events from 4 p.m.).
- Where: Union Square Park.
- Merry Bits: Parade, Santa, and ornament shine.
- Pro View: Early spot for the full sparkle.
This rite fits events in San Francisco November 2025 perfectly. Shared warmth in a bustling heart—timeless city charm.
Ghirardelli Square Tree Lighting Ceremony
Ghirardelli Square Tree Lighting Ceremony blends cocoa scents with a 50-foot tree reveal. Elves, songs, and s’mores sweeten the Wharf.
- When: Friday, November 28, 2025, 4:30-8 p.m.
- Where: Ghirardelli Square, 900 North Point Street.
- Delights: SF Boys Chorus, crafts, and hot drinks.
- Date Idea: Link to best romantic spots near Palace of Fine Arts after dark.
Cozy and quick, it meets family needs with a touch of whimsy. Treat yourself—lights and laughs by the bay.
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair dives into Victorian tales with pubs, plays, and markets. 500+ costumed folks bring Dickens alive.
- When: Weekends November 22-December 21, 2025 (plus Friday, November 28); 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Where: Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Avenue.
- Worlds: Ghost stories, tea dances, and outfit rentals.
- Tickets: $45 adults, $25 kids; military free weekends 1-2.
This fair showcases San Francisco’s festivals and cultural events during the fall season. Step in, suit up—storybook holidays await.
Free Programs in Union Square Plaza
Free Programs in Union Square Plaza drops easy weekly fun like games and grooves. Second Saturdays spotlight cultures with crafts.
- When: Saturdays November 8, 15, 22, 29, 2025; 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Where: Union Square Park.
- Mix: Jazz, chess, holiday makes—all gratis.
- Chill Vibe: Picnic-style for relaxed bonds.
These hit tackle events in San Francisco’s November 2025 budgets. Pop in for community sparks—one free hour changes the day.
Bonus: Palace of Fine Arts Evening Magic
The Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco shines at dusk with lagoon glows and a calm rotunda. November’s light makes it a quiet gem near events.
- Photo Hack: Colonnade Twilight for Evening Light Reflections at the Palace of Fine Arts.
- Tie-Ins: Hip-Hop Fest nearby, or Sumo + Sushi November 13-16, 21-23.
- Peace Pick: Soft nod to San Francisco landmarks illuminated at night in the mix.
This beauty boosts trips, inspiring where to take night photos of the Palace of Fine Arts in November. Breathe, capture, carry the calm.
Getting Around San Francisco Festivals and Events in November 2025
Getting to San Francisco’s November 2025 events is a breeze with smart transport options. Our shuttle service offers comfy, eco-friendly rides to spots like Union Square or the Palace of Fine Arts.