The holidays in San Francisco have a way of bringing the city together, and nowhere is that more apparent than Union Square.
From November through January, downtown transforms into a seasonal hub filled with twinkling lights, holiday shopping, outdoor ice skating, festive performances, and beloved local traditions. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway, holiday shopping trip, or winter vacation, Union Square offers easy access to some of San Francisco's most iconic holiday experiences.
Here's what to look forward to this holiday season.
The Great Tree & Holiday Lights
Each year, the Union Square holiday season officially begins with the arrival of the Great Tree. Towering above the plaza, the tree serves as the centerpiece for seasonal celebrations and creates one of the city's most photographed holiday scenes.
The annual tree lighting ceremony typically takes place in mid-November and features live entertainment, festive programming, and a countdown to kick off the season. Visitors can also experience the Bill Graham Menorah, a long-standing Union Square tradition that is illuminated nightly during Hanukkah.
For the latest event dates and holiday programming, be sure to check the Union Square annual events calendar before your visit.
Ice Skating in the Heart of San Francisco
Nothing says winter in San Francisco quite like skating beneath the lights of Union Square.
The Union Square Ice Rink returns November 4 through January 18, offering visitors a uniquely San Francisco holiday experience. Located at 333 Post Street, the outdoor rink welcomes skaters of all ages and sits just steps from shopping, dining, and many of the city's most popular seasonal attractions.
Sessions run throughout the day and include skate rental with admission. December weekends often sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.
Throughout the season, the rink also hosts themed experiences such as Silent Skate and Drag On Ice, offering a fun twist on the traditional skating experience.
With holiday lights overhead, cable cars nearby, and the city skyline surrounding the plaza, it's a winter tradition that's distinctly San Francisco.
The Macy's Holiday Windows
One of San Francisco's most beloved holiday traditions returns each year to Union Square.
In partnership with the San Francisco SPCA, Macy's transforms its display windows into temporary homes for adoptable puppies and kittens. The annual Holiday Windows program has helped thousands of animals find permanent homes while becoming a must-see attraction for visitors and locals alike.
The displays typically open prior to Thanksgiving and continue through the holiday season. Viewing is free, though weekend crowds can be significant, making weekday visits a great option.
Winter Walk Returns to Stockton Street
For several weeks in December, Stockton Street transforms into Winter Walk, a festive pedestrian promenade filled with holiday programming, seasonal treats, and family-friendly entertainment.
Visitors can enjoy food vendors, holiday décor, live performances, seasonal beverages, and pop-up experiences throughout the corridor. The event creates a lively atmosphere that feels more like a holiday market than a city street.
Families can also participate in seasonal activities and interactive experiences throughout the neighborhood, making Winter Walk one of the most enjoyable ways to experience downtown during the holidays.
More Holiday Events Around San Francisco
While Union Square serves as the center of the season, holiday festivities can be found throughout the city.
San Francisco Ballet's Nutcracker
A treasured holiday tradition, The Nutcracker returns to the War Memorial Opera House throughout December. The San Francisco Ballet was the first company to perform the full-length ballet in the United States, making this production a special part of the city's cultural history.
Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Taking place at the Cow Palace in nearby Daly City, this immersive Victorian-themed event transports visitors back to 19th-century London with costumed performers, entertainment, shopping, and dining.
Lightscape
The San Francisco Botanical Garden comes alive with illuminated installations and artistic light displays, creating one of the city's most memorable evening experiences.
Let's Glow SF
This annual downtown event transforms San Francisco buildings into giant canvases through large-scale projection art. Best of all, it's free and easily accessible from Union Square.
New Year's Eve Fireworks
Ring in the new year with fireworks over the San Francisco Bay, visible from numerous locations near the Embarcadero and Ferry Building.
Stay in the Center of the Holiday Action
When it comes to experiencing the holidays in San Francisco, location makes all the difference.
Axiom Hotel is located just steps from Union Square, the Powell Street Cable Car Turnaround, world-class shopping, and many of the city's top seasonal attractions. That means less time navigating transportation and more time enjoying everything the season has to offer.
Spend the afternoon skating at Union Square Ice Rink, browse holiday displays along Stockton Street, explore festive city attractions, and return to Axiom to recharge. Grab a coffee from Turn Café, unwind in the Cloud Lounge, or relax in your room after a day of holiday adventures.
Whether you're planning a family getaway, a shopping weekend, or a seasonal escape to the city, Axiom puts you in the heart of San Francisco's most festive neighborhood.
Ready to experience the holidays in Union Square? Explore our current offers and start planning your stay today.