02 Dec Top 2019 Holiday Activity Ideas in San Francisco
While San Francisco may not transform into a literal winter wonderland during the holidays, it sure does a nice job of celebrating. There are plenty of secret, and not-so-secret, spots and events around the City by the Bay that are sure to bring some joy and excitement into your holiday season.
Many of these great activities and events are within walking distance or just a short ride away from Z & Y Restaurant. If you’re in the area for the holidays, remember that we are open 365 days a year! Here are some other top holiday ideas in San Francisco to put at the top of your list.
See A Tree
It’s not really the holidays until you’ve stared at a giant, lit Christmas tree – or three. San Francisco gives you at least that many choices. You can start with the official nondenominational tree at City Hall, and then make your way over to the massive Macy’s tree in Union Square. The one at Pier 39 is equally stunning.
Lighted Boat Parade
San Francisco has a spectacular lighted holiday boat parade every year that includes members of the Fisherman’s Wharf Fishing Fleet, Pier 39 Marina, Golden Gate Yacht Club, St. Francis Yacht Club, and the Sea Scouts.
This year, the parade takes place on Dec. 13, beginning at 6 p.m., where boats will head from Pier 39 towards Crissy Field. You can watch from the shore anywhere in between.
Experience SantaCon
If you’re 21 or older, Noon on Dec. 7 will be a good time to check out Union Square for something truly unique. SantaCon is an annual event that brings thousands of revelers to the square – all dressed up as Santa (or some creative interpretation of St. Nick). Once all of the Santa’s have gathered, there will be a mass pub crawl through various city neighborhoods.
Enjoy a Performance
When the holidays roll around, you’re going to have more performance choices than your wallet can handle (there are some free options as well). The SF Symphony has several holiday shows this season, including It’s A Wonderful Life, ‘Twas the Night, and A Charlie Brown Christmas. ACT’s Geary Theater is hosting performances of A Christmas Carol, and you can enjoy The Nutcracker at the SF Ballet.
If you’re looking for some free performances, head over to Union Square for nightly events through December, which will include entertainment and dancing.
Visit Chinatown
Did you know that Chinese food on Christmas and during the holiday season has become a nationwide tradition? Eating Chinese cuisine over the holidays is now so popular that online searches for “Chinese food” have spiked each year around Christmas. This is the perfect opportunity to head down to San Francisco’s famed Chinatown and enjoy some award-winning Sichuan classics and other popular Chinese dishes.
Meet Live Reindeer
If you’re in the neighborhood of Golden Gate Park, head over to the California Academy of Sciences before Jan. 5 for the annual holiday exhibit called “‘Tis the Season for Science: Life on Ice.” This year, you’ll get the chance to learn more about how animals adapt to and survive in extreme ecosystems. One of the features is the “Reindeer Rendezvous” with live reindeer.
Go Ice Skating
Even though you aren’t likely to see snow in San Francisco, you can still celebrate the holidays by ice skating in several places. A few options are Embarcadero Center and Union Square.
The holiday season is an amazing time to visit or live in San Francisco. This already beautiful city assumes an extra sparkle, and this list of 2019 activity ideas can help you and your loved ones make it extra special.
