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San Francisco Events in December 2021: Festivals, Lighting Ceremonies, & Christmas Activities
by Jill Loeffler •
Updated: December 22, 2021
San Francisco events in December 2021 include several tree lighting ceremonies, Christmas activities, and other fun things to do. You can head to the theater to see A Christmas Carol, catch one of the SF Ballet's popular Nutcracker performances, or visit Santa Claus at one of several locations around town.
Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.
Most Popular San Francisco Events in December 2021
Click the links below to jump to the section with more information on these top December events.
SF Broadway Theater in December: A Christmas Carol
Dates: 11/26 - 12/26 (Performances from 12/22 - 12/26 are canceled due to COVID within the cast)
Location: Golden Gate Theater
This year, you will find this classic show on stage at the Golden Gate Theater. A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens, tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge.
He's a cranky old man that doesn't want anything to do with helping others or the spirit of Christmas. When his late business partner returns to tell him he will be visited by three ghosts, Scrooge sits up and takes notice.
They tell him about the past, present and future. It changes his life forever and the lives of those around him.
It's on stage from Thanksgiving Weekend through the day after Christmas.
It's one of the best San Francisco events in December.
>> Click here for a full calendar of theater productions in SF in December
Cruises Around the SF Bay
One of the best San Francisco events in December is a cruise around the SF Bay. You will find about two dozens cruise each day of the year.
Top options offer you the chance to spend an hour or two on the SF Bay as you soak in the sights along the shoreline.
Almost all of them cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge - twice! You will also cruise near Alcatraz. Many of them leave from the piers in or near Fisherman's Wharf.
Some offer a few drinks, others offer some light appetizers, and all of them will give you time to relax and unwind. They are all an experience you will never forget!
Golden State Warriors Basketball
Dates: 12/3, 12/4, 12/6, 12/8, 12/20, 12/23 & 12/28
Tickets: Available for all games
Don't miss your chance to see the 2021/2022 Golden State Warriors on the court this month.
It's one of the hottest San Francisco events in December. This month, they play more than a half dozen games at home at the Chase Center in SF.
Top opponents this month include teams such as the Phoenix Suns, Denver Nuggets, and the Portland Trail Blazers.
Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Dates: Saturdays & Sundays from Thanksgiving Weekend to Christmas
This year, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair will look quite a bit different than in normal years. They will be offering most of their shopping and events in a virtual setting.
However, they will also be offering up a drive through option, so you can sample some of their tasty treats. Tickets are on sale now.
They plan to have their full in person event again in 2022.
SF Ballet: The Nutcracker
Dates: 12/10 - 12/30
Tickets: Find tickets for all performances in December
The SF Ballet will perform The Nutcracker again this December at the War Memorial Opera House.
It was performed in San Francisco for the first time in the US on Christmas Eve, 1944.
Although it's now performed all around the county, this one is a popular ticket so make sure to get yours early.
It's one of the best family-friendly San Francisco events in December. Shows run from December 10 - 30.
SF Opera
Dates: 12/1 & 12/3
Location: War Memorial Opera House
Don't miss this month's SF Opera performance of Cosi fan tutte.
This classic performance by Mozart follows the story of three men. The first is a philosopher. He tries to convince his two friends that women are never to be trusted.
Both friends disagree, so they do everything they can to prove that their fiancés are both trustworthy. They set up a plan to try to trap them.
Will they fall for the trap or will the women stay faithful to their loved ones?
All shows are at the War Memorial Opera House in the Civic Center district.
Free Museum Days
Dates: Several in December
Whether your interest is art, history, technology, or gardening, you are sure to be delighted by SF's variety of world-class museums, including the Asian Art Museum, Conservatory of Flowers, de Young Fine Arts, Legion of Honor, and more.
Even better, you don't have to break the bank to visit them!
Many of them offer you the chance to take a look at their permanent collection. Some of them also allow you to view their temporary collections and others require separate tickets.
>> Click the link below to find out which museums offer free admission on which days in December
Live Music & Concerts in SF
Dates: Several
Lucky for live music fans, San Francisco is a city with lots of great concert venues. They range from large auditoriums to more intimate spaces, and they welcome big and small names from all different genres.
This month, catch top performances at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, the Nob Hill Masonic Center or The Fillmore. You will also find several top shows around the SF Bay Area.
One of the biggest concerts this month is Metallica. They are playing two nights at the Chase Center (12/17 & 12/19) and will be around SF for the entire week for a "San Francisco Metallica Takeover."
>> See a full list of the top upcoming shows as well as ticketing information
Top Places to Stay
If you plan to check out some of these great San Francisco events in December, then I recommend staying a few nights as well. The best places to stay are in SF's Union Square and Fisherman's Wharf.
Both offer great access to the rest of the city. You might also want to try one of our lovely boutique hotels or splurge on a five star gem.
Check out recent guest reviews and great deals today!
Booking: Find great deals all around San Francisco for your upcoming stay!
TripAdvisor: What's the #1 hotel in San Francisco? Read reviews & find hotel deals on TripAdvisor!
Tree Lighting Celebrations & Other Holiday Festivals
Dates: Several in December
The whole city is getting into the holiday spirit.
Tree and Menorah lighting ceremonies continue to illuminate San Francisco this month as the holidays draw near, and it doesn't stop there!
Union Street's beautiful Victorian homes, the Embarcadero, and even the SF Zoo will all come to life with lights, and you can be a part of it!
>> Check out the full schedule of ceremonies and holiday festivals
Ice Skating in SF
Dates: Throughout the month
Without a white Christmas, San Francisco still manages to bring the wintry magic of the holidays right to the heart of downtown.
While you're out shopping, eating, and taking in the urban holiday décor of Union Square, take a break to catch a nice breeze on one of the outdoor skating rinks that only appear during this season.
One hour to 90-minute sessions are affordable and skate rentals are available.
>> Get more details about session times and rentals at Union Square
Nightlife at the California Academy of Sciences
One of the hottest San Francisco events in December at our local museums is Nightlife. This 21+ event is at the California Academy of Sciences.
Every Thursday night in December, they throw a huge party. Each one evolves around a theme. Previous themes include Animal Behavior, Beyond Human, and Fermented. All activities for the evening will have something to do with that night's theme.
You can explore the museum, grab a drink in their cocktail area, and meet other nature and science lovers. The event starts at 6 pm and runs until 9:30 pm.
SantaCon
Date: 12/11
NOTE: This year's event is not an officially sanctioned event. Attend at your own risk and no additional activities will be included in 2021.
This is what you will find on normal years for this event, when it's officially scheduled.
SantaCon is huge annual event held in large cities all over the country and world, in which thousands of everyday people dress up as Santa and walk through the streets together spreading holiday cheer.
Either put on your jolly red suit to join in, or head towards downtown to take in the unique sight.
The event starts with a gathering in Union Square. All santas will then head to one of several designated districts around SF for drink specials and other holiday merriment.
Parol Lantern Festival & Parade
Date: 12/11
Don't miss the 19th Annual Parol Lantern Festival and Parade, a Filipino-American tradition in San Francisco showcasing the beautiful colors of their culture.
This year's theme is "Light Tomorrow with Today." Festivities start at 4 pm and the parade of star-shaped lanterns and dozens of local organizations takes off from Yerba Buena Gardens at 6:15 pm.
Leading up to the event, you can make your own parol lantern at the Bayanihan Community Center.
Santa Skivvies Run
Date: 12/12
This is not your average run to raise awareness and fight HIV/AIDS.
This is a festive and fun tradition in San Francisco's Castro district, where you get to jog approximately one mile through this neighborhood among hundreds of other Santas in their underwear!
You can wear your skivvies, underwear, bras, speedos or other red undergarments. You can also wear a fun holiday costume. The entire run is in the Castro district and a fun way to raise awareness and money to fight HIV/AIDS.
Click the link below to register today!
SF City Pass
Want to save big this holiday season? Check out the San Francisco City Pass discount card.
This pass includes admission into the California Academy of Sciences, the Aquarium of the Bay and either the Exploratorium or the SF Museum of Modern Art.
It also includes one ride on a Blue and Gold Fleet Bay Cruise plus other discounts around SF.
It's a great way to save during your visit and enjoy some of SF's top museums.
Santa Claus in SF
Dates: Several in December
Another one of the top San Francisco events in December is when Santa Claus starts to make his rounds.
You can find him and take pictures with him at the Westfield, Japantown and Stonestown malls, as well as at the SF Zoo, the Fairmont's life-sized gingerbread house, the Ritz Carlton, Ghirardelli Square, and more!
>> Click here for details on how to track down the man in the big red suit
Lighted Boat Parade
Date: TBD
The Lighted Boat Parade has been a holiday tradition and one of the popular San Francisco events in December since 1994.
It is a unique event that brings the holiday spirit out onto the bay and invites everyone to enjoy San Francisco's waterfront.
Watch the decorated boats parade past Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, Fort Mason, and Crissy Field. It runs from 6pm to 8pm.
SF 49ers at Home
Date: 12/19
The SF 49ers have one home games this month at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara.
They play host to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, December 19. The game starts at 1:05 pm.
Head down early for pre-game tailgating and to check out their new stadium.
>> Find the 49ers full schedule + details on attending a game at Levi's Stadium
Christmas Eve & Day
Dates: 12/24 & 12/25
If you're planning to be in town for Christmas Eve and/or Day, don't worry; you'll find plenty of things to do and see. Christmas Eve is full of fun shows and performances. Many of our top attractions and museums are open, but close early.
On Christmas Day, you will find several museums and attractions open. You will also find that many tours offer several options all day long.
Check out the list of attractions, tours, and restaurants that remain open on this holiday and even offer special menus and services. In addition, you may want to catch a holiday performance of The Nutcracker or A Christmas Carol.
>> Discover the full list of what to do on Christmas Eve and Day
New Year's Eve
Date: 12/31
Whether you prefer getting dressed up for a fancy dinner, having a night out dancing, watching fireworks, or attending a special performance of the SF Symphony, you will love New Years Eve in San Francisco.
You will find many attractions are open on NYE, but close a little early. You will also find several tours and activities running regular schedules that day.
In addition, I've included a few ideas and fun things to do on New Year's Day.
Ring in your 2022 in the City by the Bay!
What to Pack for December
Are you looking for ideas on what to pack for your visit? My weather guide for December will give you information on the average temperatures, what to expect during your stay and some ideas on what to bring along. It's a great way to help you prepare for your visit.
>> Tips to prepare for your visit in December
December Events Around the SF Bay Area
Jack London Square Tree Lighting Ceremony (12/11): If you are looking for a tree lighting in the city of Oakland, Jack London Square is the place to be! Their 55 foot Mount Shasta Fir tree will be adorned with over 5,000 beautiful sparkling lights to be seen by all. This event is free for all to attend and is located on the Oakland waterfront so you can enjoy views of the bay as well as live music and so much more. There are many restaurants and local stores to explore before or after the tree is lit if you want to spend some time enjoying this wonderful location.
Christmas in the Park in San Jose (Opens 11/26 and runs through the holidays): Starting in the early 1950s, Christmas in the Park has been a holiday tradition in San Jose. This wonderful event runs for two weeks and includes a traditional tree lighting, a dog day in the park, breakfast with Santa, and more. This event is free and there is food and drink available for all to enjoy. Santa has a special booth in the park so you and your family can make sure to visit him and get a photo or two.
Winterfest at Great America in Santa Clara (Select dates 11/26 - 1/2): Winterfest is another one of the top SF Bay Area events in December. This family-friendly activity includes live shows, the chance to bake cookies with Mrs. Claus, and enjoy the snowfall in Hometown Square. Make sure to spend some time admiring one of the largest SF Bay Area Christmas trees and checking out the great rides here.
Craneway Crafts Fair (12/27 & 12/28): Head over to Richmond for one of the Bay Area's largest holiday craft fairs. The Craneway Crafts Fair features more than 180 artists from the Bay Area and beyond. It's the perfect place to shop for holiday goodies including jewelry, ceramics, woodwork, photography, gourmet goodies, and so much more. The event benefits KPFA public radio. Craneway Pavilion (1414 Harbour Way South in Richmond, CA) is where you will find this event.
San Jose Sharks (12/7, 12/9, 12/11, 12/14, 12/16, 12/21, 12/23, 12/28, & 12/30): The San Jose Sharks are another one of the top SF Bay Area events in December 2021. This month, they take on teams such as the Calgary Flames, Minnesota Wild, and the Dallas Stars. All games are at the SAP Center in San Jose. More on attending a game this month.
First Night Monterey (12/31): Even though it is titled, "First Night Monterey", it is actually held on New Year's Eve, the last day of the year, in the historic downtown of Monterey. Starting at 3 pm with the Kids' Night Event and the always joyous twilight parade, kids of all ages will have a blast.
First Night continues with The Main Event which includes music and over 65 different dance performances located all around the area. These range from Latin, to ballet, to modern and to other world dances. The Finale Performance includes live music as the countdown to the first day of 2022 arrives at 12:00 am.
>> More things to do this month in Monterey
Snow Day in the Berkeley Gourmet Ghetto (TBD): Located in the Gourmet Ghetto district of North Berkeley, you and yours can enjoy FRESH SNOW while you check out this cute area of the city. You can also meet the Snow Queen (don't worry, she's a friendly Snow Queen), make crafts and even ride ponies! There will be vendors selling their best, live music and lots of great food to eat. There is also a bunch of "ice" around the area, and if you open up your ice you just might find a REAL diamond in it!
Sonoma Events in December
This December, spend some time in Sonoma and sample their amazing wines. This month, you will find plenty of craft fairs, wine tasting events, and the annual Lighting of the Snowmen.
>> Discover a full calendar of events in Sonoma this month
Napa Events in December
Other top SF Bay Area event in December are in Napa. This month, you will find plenty to do including the Calistoga Christmas Faire, Winter in the Wineries, and the Holidays in Yountville. You will also find several wineries with open houses and other holiday events.