As we settle into December, San Francisco transforms into a winter wonderland, with festive lights adorning every corner and a joyful spirit in the air. This month brings countless opportunities to celebrate, whether it’s ice skating in Union Square, savoring a seasonal libation at PCH, or caroling with Boyz II Men at the Symphony. December is a time to come together with loved ones, give thanks for the year that’s passed, and embrace the magic of the holidays in our vibrant city. Let’s dive into some happenings that are sure to make your spirit bright!
Festive Experiences
Sunset Holiday Mercantile
[Photo Source: @sunsetmercantile]
Shop local at the Sunset Holiday Mercantile, a lively market on December 7 and 8, at the San Francisco County Fair Building. Explore artisan makers, live music, food trucks, beer and wine tasting, storytelling, activities for the whole family and more. This family-friendly event celebrates community spirit and sustainable shopping to help you check off your gift list.
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
[Photo Source: dickensfair.com | Photo by Rich Yee]
Immerse yourself in Victorian London at the Dickens Christmas Fair, running weekends now through December 22. The exhibition halls at Cow Palace are magically transformed into Charles Dickens’s lamp-lit city of theatres, pubs, dance parties, and charming shops featuring costumed actors, live music, hearty food, and unique shops selling treasures, some old, some new. Step back in time, and revel in this one-of-a-kind experience for all ages. Victorian costumes optional. [Photos by Rich Yee]
Holidays at Filoli
[Photo Source: Filoli.org | Photo by @jeffbarteephotography]
Step into a winter wonderland at Filoli Estate & Gardens, running through January 12. This historic property sparkles with over 25 miles of lights, a dazzling 210-foot light tunnel, and rooms decked with festive décor. Explore magical gardens, sip mulled wine by cozy fire pits, and enjoy themed events like holiday teas and ballroom lounges. This experience blends elegance with holiday cheer, offering the perfect escape into seasonal beauty.
Holiday Entertainment
Miracle at Pacific Cocktail Haven
[Photo Source: pacificcocktailsf.com]
Sip on whimsical, holiday-inspired cocktails at Miracle at Pacific Cocktail Haven, a pop-up bar delivering serious Christmas vibes. With over-the-top décor, playful drinks like Snowball Old-Fashioneds and festive favorite eggnog in themed glassware, and a jolly atmosphere to boot, it’s a perfect stop for holiday cheer(s). Runs through December.
Boyz II Men with the SF Symphony
[Photo Source: sfsymphony.org]
On December 17 and 18, celebrate the season with an unforgettable collaboration of Boyz II Men accompanied by the San Francisco Symphony. These evening performances at Davies Symphony Hall promise soulful harmonies and symphonic splendor. Whether you're a long-time fan or discovering their music anew, this combination of R&B and orchestral sounds will get you in the holiday spirit.
Ho-Ho-Hotels
Find your home away from home at hotels around the Bay Area ready to support your holiday mood with Tree lightings, High Tea, signature décor and more.
December 4 marks the start of The Ritz-Carlton holiday when they light their legendary tree. Join Dickens-era carolers and trumpeters and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Through December 23, step into a winter wonderland for Teddy Bear Tea featuring hot chocolate, scones, teddy bear sweet treats and assorted sandwiches, plus sing-a-longs, storytelling, and keepsakes. Children are invited to place an unwrapped new toy under the holiday tree to be donated.
The signature life-size Gingerbread House returns to Fairmont San Francisco, available for unforgettable dine-in reservation. Stick around with other holiday revelers and grab a glass of Champagne at the pop-up lobby bar. Or head to Laurel Court for a Holiday Tea. Cirque Holiday Bar serves festive cocktails, a night-before-Christmas-cap.
Take a seat in the historic and breathtaking Garden Court at Palace Hotel for the traditional Holiday Afternoon Tea, or pop into the Pied Pier Lounge for the Piper Heidsieck pop-up Champagne bar.
Head south to find yourself in a cozy mountain lodge atmosphere at Four Seasons Palo Alto’s Après Village. Featuring charming private chalets, an Italian menu, warm seasonal beverages and photo opps through January 7.
Cross the Bay Bridge for December weekends at Claremont in the Berkeley Hills. On Saturdays and Sundays, cozy in at the Lobby Lounge for a classic high tea amidst the holiday decor. Or keep it chill every Friday with chef-prepared pizzas, Pinot Noir pairings, and communal puzzles at Pizza, Pinot and Puzzles.