The Ultimate Moms’ Guide to San Francisco Holiday Events, Shopping, & More
Holiday season is upon us, and while it’s absolutely magical to experience through our kids’ eyes, it’s also completely overwhelming. Between school closures, family travel, gifting, and honestly, thinking about parking, we know your time is limited when it comes to researching every show and lighting ceremony.
This guide is for San Francisco moms, listing the shows, events, and outings that we (the Green Street Social crew) have personally tried and loved with our own kids—or had rave reviews from trusted friends. Just glance through, bookmark your favorites, and add the dates straight to your calendar. Let us do the scrolling so you can enjoy the carols and cookies.
Shows
Sing You a Merry Christmas at Grace Cathedral
December 13, 20, 22, & 23
I took my then-2-year-old twins to see this show at Grace Cathedral and it was adorable. The interactive show just about held their attention for 45 minutes and we struggled a bit with the last 15, but it was still well worth it. The show is not religious, though you get to enjoy the absolutely gorgeous cathedral venue. The theme is the holidays being a time for love, and it’s really so cute. Afterward, we walked across to The Fairmont to see the gingerbread house and enjoy a glass of champagne. More info/tickets
The Velveteen Rabbit
November 29 - December 7
I haven’t been to this one yet but the show was voted San Francisco Magazine's Best Dance Experience and it’s been going for 39 years, so it must be worth seeing! Based on the beloved classic children’s book by Margery Williams, The Velveteen Rabbit brims with wit, festive costumes, madcap characters, and the perfect amount of holiday cheer! More info/tickets
The Nutcracker
December 5-28
Seeing The Nutcracker with my daughter is one of those weird pre-kid fantasies I’ve always held about being a mom. We’re not there yet (she’s two and tickets are expensive) but I love the idea of dressing up and enjoying this timeless holiday classic as a family. More info/tickets
Smuin Ballet’s The Christmas Ballet
November 22 - December 28
Smuin Ballet’s The Christmas Ballet is joyful, funny, a little cheeky, and still totally heart-melting. People love that it’s not your traditional ballet: one minute it’s sweeping and elegant, the next it’s tap, jazz, or something delightfully unexpected, which makes it such an easy pick for families or friends who want something festive without the formality. It’s also a much more affordable alternative to the SF Ballet’s Nutcracker, while still delivering all the holiday cheer and spirit you want from a December tradition. More info/tickets.
The SF Symphony
We’re so excited to partner with the SF Symphony this year for an exciting giveaway to a live performance of A Charlie Brown Christmas.
The SF Symphony offers something for everyone this holiday season from Christmas classics like Handel’s Messiah to festive holiday film screenings like Disney’s Frozen or The Holiday with live orchestra. See if there’s something for your family here.
Places
The Fairmont
The Fairmont is a must-see for SF holiday magic. Walk through their spectacular two-story Gingerbread House and toast to the season with a glass of champagne in the festively decorated lobby. Don’t miss their Holiday Tea (November 22 - January 4), a festive experience with live music and delicious, seasonal flavors. Kids can also enjoy cookie decorating and a visit from one of Santa’s elves. For the ultimate holiday splurge, book the legendary Santa Suite, complete with a candy and hot chocolate bar, gingerbread house kit, and holiday movie.
The Ritz Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton brings more classic San Francisco holiday traditions. Their beloved Teddy Bear Tea is a festive experience for little ones that includes a lively show, sweet treats, Santa visits, a keepsake bear, and it supports Make-A-Wish and UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals. The annual Tree Lighting on December 3rd, offers carolers, hot chocolate, and Santa photos. And if you’re looking for a place to drop off a letter to Santa, visit their lobby mailbox between December 3 and December 25, where kids receive complimentary candy canes on Fridays and Saturdays.
Union Square
Union Square is the iconic SF holiday spot (and the one time of year I’ll brave the tourist traps). Between the ice rink (it's been open since November 5) the Christmas tree, and the SPCA puppies and kittens in the Macy’s windows, it’s a festive spot to either walk around for 30 minutes or spend a whole afternoon.
Thrive City
If you need a holiday vibe that’s a little less downtown traffic and a lot more modern fun, put Thrive City on your list. The Winter Wonderland Lighting Ceremony will take place on Sunday, November 30, 2025 (4-6 PM)—there will be live music and Warriors fun. Also taking place at Thrive City this year is the family-friendly Hanukkah Celebration on December 18 and the noon Year's Eve party (yes please) on December 31.
Tree/menorah lightings
Pier 39
Honestly, Pier 39 is *kind of* charming this time of year. A huge 60-foot tree comes to life every night with a light and music show every half hour from 5 to 10 PM all the way through January 11. If you want the big party, the official lighting is Wednesday, December 4, with live music and Santa, but honestly, we prefer going on a quiet weeknight when you can stroll and watch the quick shows without the crowds.
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park offers two very different options for lights. The McLaren Lodge Tree Lighting is the free, full-on kids’ party—think carnival rides and crafts—and the lighting on Sunday, December 7 (4-8 PM). For a date night or family splurge, check out Lightscape at the Botanical Garden (Nov 21 - Jan 4). It’s a ticketed, mile-long, immersive light trail. Lightscape ticket info.
Noe Valley Tree Lighting
December 1, 5-7 pm
If you’re looking something a little more low key and super family friendly, ring in the holiday season at the Noe Valley Town Square’s annual tree lighting. The event will feature food and drink from local vendors, caroling, face painting, balloon animals, and an LED acrobatic show! It’s our go-to spot for holiday cheer! Also don’t forget to check out the Noe Valley night markets. More info here.
Civic Center
December 3 (4-7 PM)
This action-packed tree lighting has it all—tap dancing Christmas trees, a Grinch cameo, and a toy giveaway for the first 500 children. Plus, you get to watch the 50-foot tree light up against the beautiful backdrop of City Hall.
Ghirardelli Square
The Ghirardelli Square lighting is a bit smaller and less overwhelming than its Civic Center or Union Square counterparts. They host two great events: The tree lighting, Santa Lights the Square, on Friday, November 28 (4:30-8 PM) with Santa and the SF Boys Chorus. Next is the Glowing Hanukkah pop-up on Sunday, November 30 (4:30-8 PM) with crafts, hot donuts, and the Menorah lighting around 4:30. It's the perfect manageable spot to celebrate both holidays with the littles.
Union Square (Bill Graham Menorah)
December 14, 5:00 PM
The iconic Bill Graham Menorah is a must-see that lights up every night of Hanukkah. The main First Night ceremony is Sunday, December 14, with gathering and music beforehand. The best day to go if you have little kids is definitely the big Bill Graham Menorah Day (usually the last Sunday, December 21—always double-check!), which features the famous Dreidel House with kids' crafts and entertainment starting early in the afternoon. Grab some sufganiyot and enjoy the live music! View the full schedule here.
Volunteer opportunities
Sort toys for the Salvation Army (December 15-17)
Deliver meals and spread holiday cheer to our city’s older residents with Little Brothers: Friends of the Elderly (Christmas Day)
Prep and Serve Christmas Meals with GLIDE (Christmas Eve/Christmas Day)
Assemble Grocery Boxes for Seniors with Project Open Hand (Christmas Eve/Christmas Day)
Host a Collection Drive (diapers, socks, hygiene kits) for GLIDE (Flexible Dates)
Volunteer in the Warehouse for the SF-Marin Food Bank (Ages 11+) (Ongoing December)
Distribute Toys at a Pop-Up Shop with the Salvation Army (December 18–20)
Adopt-a-Family with Raphael House (Shop for gifts or e-gift cards for families experiencing homelessness)
Adopt-a-Family with Compass Family Services (Fulfill wishlists for homeless families in SoMa, gifts due Dec 9–13)
Adopt-A-Shelter Program with Urban Angels SF (Shop for children in local shelters; coordinate drop-off with the shelter)
Holiday Markets & Shopping
Noe Valley Wine Walk
December 4, 4 - 7pm
The Noe Valley Winter Wine Walk is a neighborhood tradition where you grab a reusable souvenir wine glass and stroll along 24th Street, connecting with neighbors and sampling pours from 20 local shops while enjoying the cozy, festive neighborhood. It’s the perfect way to support small businesses (check out our list below!), share a glass with friends, and soak up holiday cheer. More info/tickets.
Hayes Valley Holiday Stroll
December 5, 5-9pm
The Hayes Valley Holiday Stroll is a free community celebration. Local bands and performers will bring the holiday spirit, while boutiques and restaurants spread the joy with special treats and promotions. Featuring festive food and drink, live music, local shopping pop-ups, face painting, the abominable snowman, and more, there’s something for the whole family. Check out the participants and special offers here.
Sunset Holiday Mercantile
December 6–7, 2025, Golden Gate Park
Held in the County Fair Building in Golden Gate Park, this is a community-focused event that feels welcoming and low-stress for families. The Mercantile features a mix of local makers, food trucks, craft beer, and most importantly: dedicated children's activities and storytelling.
SFMOMA Holiday Makers Market
December 7, SFMOMA
This market is hosted in the gorgeous, free public space on the second floor of SFMOMA and features a curated selection of Bay Area artists and designers. You'll find things like sculptural soaps, contemporary jewelry, watercolor art kits, and sleek ceramics. It's free to enter, so you can pop in, shop local, and be back on your way without buying a museum ticket.
Sunset Mercantile Holiday Night Bazaar
Friday, December 12, 5pm-10pm, Irving Street between 22nd & 25th
Irving Street’s Holiday Night Bazaar brings dozens of local vendors, food & drink, games, and crafts in a warm, lively street-market atmosphere.It’s a fun, family-friendly evening of shopping small, connecting with neighbors, and enjoying seasonal festivities.Winter Walk at Union Square
Union Square Winter Walk
December 13–24, 2025, Union Square
The Winter Walk transforms two full blocks into a car-free, turf-covered festive zone. You can walk freely between the ice rink, the giant Christmas tree, and the Macy's windows without dodging traffic. This temporary pop-up includes local food trucks, shopping kiosks, and live entertainment.
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair & Victorian Holiday Party
November 22–December 21, 10am-6pm
The Dickens Fair is truly one of a kind! A fully immersive holiday world that whisks you straight into Victorian London, be transported to the world of Charles Dickens as performers, shopkeepers, and carolers bring Victorian-era London to life. Enjoy live shows, hands-on craft stalls, and holiday shopping while enjoying festive food and drinks (mulled wine!). It’s a magical, time-traveling experience that feels like stepping onto a movie set. Learn more and buy tickets here.
Other Events & Celebrations
Bay Area Discovery Museum’s Noon Year’s Eve
Wednesday, December 31, 9am-2pm
Looking for a way to ring in the New Year with the whole family and without exhausted kiddos who stayed up too late? The Bay Area Discovery Museum’s Noon Year’s Eve party is the perfect way to skip that late-night chaos and celebrate together. The entire museum transforms into a festive wonderland with a dance party, hands-on crafts and a kid-friendly countdown to the ball drop. Learn more and grab tickets here.
Shop Local
We asked our community members for your favorite places to shop small this season. Here are just some of the thoughtful responses:
Book stores
City Lights (North Beach)
Green Apple Books (Inner Sunset, Inner Richmond)
Booksmith (Haight)
Browser Books (Pacific Heights)
Black Bird Bookstore and Cafe (Outer Sunset - bonus, there’s 1) coffee, 2) an outdoor area, and 3) a small children’s play area)
Dog Eared Books (Mission)
Noe Valley Books (Noe Valley)
Toys
Just For Fun (Cow Hollow, Pac Heights)
Small Frys (Noe Valley)
Fiddlesticks (Hayes Valley)
Aldea (Mission)
Picky Monday (Presidio Heights)
NOOMOON (Inner Sunset)
Mudpie (Pac Heights)
Chloe’s Closet (Bernal Heights + Inner Sunset)
Tantrum (Inner Sunset & Mill Valley)
Sweets/food
Christopher Elbow (Hayes Valley)
Dandelion Chocolate (Mission, Pac Heights) - don’t miss their factory tour and events
Oaktown Spice Shop (Pac Heights)
Boutiques/for the grown-ups
Two Birds (Noe Valley)
Gravel and Gold (Mission)
The Perish Trust (NOPA)
Stationery/design-centric
Park Life (Inner Richmond)
Post Script (Pac Heights)
Rare Device (NOPA)
Pepperjack Provisions (Inner Sunset)
Broader Bay Area
While this guide is focused on San Francisco, there are so many amazing holiday experiences throughout the Bay Area. Here are some of our favorite places and events to check out if you’re looking for fun further afield:
Filoli Gardens (Woodside) - Filoli becomes an enchanted winter wonderland with glowing trees, tunnels of lights, cozy fire pits, and festive drinks.
Glowfari (Oakland Zoo) - The Oakland Zoo is transformed by hundreds of larger-than-life animal lanterns in a magical, family-friendly night walk.
Winterfest (Mill Valley) - Winterfest features a downtown tree lighting, live music, an electric train ride, and festive children’s activities.
Christmas in the Park (San Jose) - Downtown San Jose’s Plaza de César Chávez fills with hundreds of decorated trees, animated exhibits, and a towering community Christmas tree in a free, family-friendly celebration.
Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train (Santa Cruz Boardwalk) - Vintage train cars adorned with thousands of lights roll through Santa Cruz, with holiday carols, hot cider, and a visit from Santa.
Garden of d'Lights (Walnut Creek) - The Ruth Bancroft Garden glows after dark with illuminated succulents, lasers, and sculptures in a self-guided, plant-filled light display.
Holiday lights and free movie nights (San Rafael) - Downtown San Rafael hosts a Winter Wonderland tree lighting with twinkling lights, warm drinks, music, and community cheer.
Claremont tree lighting and holiday tea (Berkeley) - Check out the Claremont’s annual tree lighting on wednesday, December 3, and enjoy hot cocoa and photos with Santa.
Kivelstadt Cellars Winegarden Holiday Market (Sonoma) - Sonoma’s Kivelstadt Cellars Winegarden becomes a charming European-style holiday market with artisan vendors, crafts, and festive food and drink.
Did we miss any of your family’s favorite traditions? Let us know your must-dos in the comments! 👇