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San Francisco Events in December 2019: Festivals, Lighting Ceremonies, & Christmas Activities
San Francisco events in December 2019 include several tree lighting ceremonies, Christmas activities, and other fun things to do. You can head to the theater to see Hamilton, 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 2019
Click the links below to jump to the section with more information on these top December events.
SF Broadway Theater in December: Hamilton
Dates: 2/9/2019 - 5/30/2020
Location: Orpheum Theater
In December 2019, you will have the chance to see Hamilton on stage at the Orpheum Theater.
It follows the story of Alexander Hamilton. This high-energy performance offers you the chance to learn about the history of one of our interesting founding fathers.
It's one of the best San Francisco events in December.
Other Broadway Shows this December
Summer: The Donna Summer Musical (12/3 - 12/29): Another top Broadway show this month in San Francisco is Summer, The Donna Summer Musical. It follows what it took for her to move from an unknown Gospel singer in Boston to one of the most celebrated singers of our time. All shows are at the Golden Gate Theater. Find tickets to all performances.
Harry Potter & The Cursed Child (10/23 - 5/17): This is another top show this December in San Francisco. Harry Potter is now a husband and a father. Unfortunately, his oldest son struggles with many of the same issues that Harry had when he was young. See how he works through these issues with the help of his father. All shows are at the Curran Theater. Find tickets for all performances.
>> Click here for a full calendar of theater productions in SF in December
>> Learn more about SF's theater district
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!
SF Theater: A Christmas Carol
Dates: 11/29 - 12/24
Location: SF's American Conservatory Theater
A Christmas Carol is a beloved San Francisco tradition this time of year.
For more than 40 years, the SF American Conservatory Theater has performed this musical version of Charles Dickens' classic tale with a lively cast, colorful costumes, and spooky ghosts.
You can catch this holiday favorite at the Geary Theater all month long, even on Christmas Eve. Make sure to plan ahead as tickets sell out quickly!
Golden State Warriors Basketball
Dates: 12/9, 12/11, 12/15, 12/20, 12/23, 12/25, 12/27 & 12/28
Don't miss your chance to see the 2019/2020 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 Houston Rockets, Memphis Grizzlies, and New Orleans Pelicans.
More: Find additional information on seeing a game
Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Dates: Saturdays & Sundays from November 23 - December 22
For the first four weekends of December in San Francisco, you have the unique opportunity of immersing yourself in a world centuries and half a globe away, to Charles Dickens' Victorian London, where it's always Christmas Eve.
Here you'll find hundreds of costumed guests, as well as lamplit lanes, pubs, theaters, music halls, and shops, like a Victorian Christmas card come to life.
Cirque du Soleil's Amaluna
Dates: 11/14 - 1/12
Location: Under the Big Top near Oracle Park
Cirque du Soleil's Amaluna returns to SF with performances Under the Big Top near Oracle Park. It follows the story of a young queen's daughter who falls in love with an unlikely young man.
The story takes place on an island with all females. After the queen performances a coming of age ceremony for her daughter, a violent storm breaks out. Several young men wash ashore and her daughter falls in love with one of them.
Cirque du Soleil offers high-energy and fun performances. With colorful costumes and daring acrobatics, you are in for a treat. This performance is also praised as it has a cast of more than 70% females.
Click the links below for ticketing information.
SF Ballet: The Nutcracker
Dates: 12/11 - 12/29
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 11 - 29.
>> Find out more about these shows
Additional Holiday Ballet & Dance Performances with Discounted Tickets
Click the links below for discounted tickets on Goldstar for these holiday ballet and dance performances. Tickets are limited so pick yours up today!
12/12 - 12/23: Smuin's Christmas Ballet at the Blue Shield of California Theater at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
SF Opera
Dates: 11/17 - 12/9
Location: War Memorial Opera House
Don't miss this month's SF Opera performance of Hansel & Gretel
It's based on the classic German fairy tale. This version is composed by Engelbert Humperdinck.
It follows the story of two young children, brother and sister, that head into the forest to forge for food and are kidnapped by an evil witch. See how they are able to survive in her house and then outsmart her to return home to their family.
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.
Here are some of the top San Francisco events in December on stage at our local venues.
>> 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 decor of Union Square or the Embarcadero, take a break to catch a nice breeze on one of the outdoor skating rinks that only appear during this season. 90-minute sessions are affordable and skate rentals are available.
>> Get more details about session times and rentals at Union Square
>> Find out more about the Bay Area's largest outdoor rink at the Embarcadero
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 6pm and runs until 9:30pm.
SantaCon
Date: 12/7
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: 12/14
Don't miss the 18th 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 "Let Tradition Be Our Light." Festivities start at 5pm and the parade of star-shaped lanterns and dozens of local organizations takes off from Yerba Buena Gardens at 6:15pm.
Leading up to the event, you can make your own parol lantern at the Bayanihan Community Center.
Santa Skivvies Run
Date: 12/8
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: 12/13
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: 12/15, & 12/21
The SF 49ers have two home games this month at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara.
They play host to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, December 15. The second game is on December 21 against the Los Angeles Rams.
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 2020 in the City by the Bay!
NYE Parties: Discounted Tickets
Here are just a few of the NYE parties and activities that are currently offering discounted tickets. Click the links below for details.
NYE International Ball at Palace Hotel, starts at 9pm and runs until 2am, premium open bar, 4 rooms of music and more - SOLD OUT
Moonlight NYE Fireworks Party Cruise, party aboard the SF Spirit Yacht, leaves from SF at 8:30pm and returns after the fireworks show on the SF Bay - SOLD OUT
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
Christmas in the Park in San Jose
Dates: 1/29 - 1/5
Hours: 9 am - 12 am (midnight)
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
Dates: Select dates 11/29-12/31
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.
Snow Day in the Berkeley Gourmet Ghetto
Date: 12/8
Hours: 10 am - 3 pm
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!
Craneway Crafts Fair
Date: 12/21 & 12/22
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
The San Jose Sharks are another one of the top SF Bay Area events in December 2019. This month, they take on teams such as the Dallas Stars, Los Angeles, the Anaheim Ducks at home. All games are at the SAP Center in San Jose.
>> More on attending a game this month
Shen Yun in San Jose
Dates: 12/26 - 12/29
An experience unlike any others, Shen Yun brings together 5,000 years of classic Chinese culture and history and combines it with the latest technological to amaze and delight all that see it. This event includes dancing, music, extraordinary costumes to enhance your experience and let you feel like you've traveled in time with beauty and elegance. This show has earned rave reviews as it travels throughout the world by well known critics and famous dancers and choreographers.
First Night Monterey
Date: 12/31
Hours: 3 pm - 12 am (midnight)
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 2019 arrives at 12:00 am.
>> More things to do this month in Monterey
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.