CALL US! 1-415-851-9190
LetsGo@Lucky-Tuk-Tuk.com
As the holiday season descends upon San Francisco, City Hall and the surrounding Civic Center transform into a mesmerizing spectacle of festive lights and joyous celebrations. This iconic landmark, already stunning in its Beaux-Arts grandeur, takes on an even more enchanting glow with its vibrant holiday display, making it a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.
Each December, San Francisco City Hall transitions from its usual soft white illumination to a brilliant red and green glow. More than 220 state-of-the-art LED lighting fixtures wash the building’s grand façade and golden dome in festive colors, creating a stunning visual against the cool winter night sky. This breathtaking display celebrates not only Christmas but also Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the New Year, embracing the city’s diverse holiday traditions.
The LED system, installed in 2016, replaced older incandescent bulbs that required a labor-intensive process to change colors. With modern technology, City Hall can now shift its hues effortlessly, reducing energy consumption while enhancing its holiday brilliance.
For those looking to capture the magic of the season, the best viewing location is Civic Center Plaza, directly east of City Hall. Here, visitors can marvel at the illuminated structure while enjoying the added charm of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, twinkling holiday lights, and festive decorations. Whether you’re snapping pictures or simply soaking in the ambiance, this spot offers an unforgettable experience.
Mark your calendars for Early December, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, as the Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting event brings holiday cheer to the heart of San Francisco. This free, family-friendly celebration features:
A Grand Tree Lighting Ceremony: A stunning 50-foot noble fir takes center stage in Civic Center Plaza, officially lit at 5:30 PM.
Live Performances: (for 2024) Enjoy festive entertainment led by Boxcar Theatre’s Artistic Director Nick A. Olivero, including appearances by the San Francisco Boys Choir, singer Doris Bumpus, magician Josh Farenbaugh, and actors Shaneen Black, Katie Baritell, and Gregg Geoffrey.
Holiday-Themed Activities: SF Etsy’s Makers Village invites visitors to craft their own holiday keepsakes, write letters to Santa, and create festive ornaments.
Snow Flurries & Santa Sightings: Experience the magic of winter with artificial snow flurries and a special visit from Santa Claus.
Toy Giveaway: The first 500 children (ages 12 and under) will receive a free toy, courtesy of Another Planet Entertainment, the San Francisco Police Department, and the Civic Center Community Benefit District.
Festive Food & Drinks: Savor seasonal treats from an Off the Grid food truck, enjoy warm kettle corn, or sip on holiday cocktails and hot beverages.
A Stunning Visual Experience: The glowing red and green lights on City Hall create a breathtaking holiday atmosphere.
Perfect for Families & Friends: The Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting event offers fun activities, live entertainment, and festive treats for all ages.
Easily Accessible: Located in the heart of San Francisco, City Hall and Civic Center Plaza are easily reached by public transit, including BART and Muni Light Rail via Civic Center Station.
Celebrate the Season in Style: Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this dazzling display is one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit in San Francisco.
Photo By: Winter Park at Civic Center
San Francisco City Hall’s holiday lights shine every evening throughout December, illuminating the city’s commitment to festive joy and community celebration. Don’t miss the Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting early December – 4:00-7:00 PM, and immerse yourself in a true winter wonderland.
For the full schedule of City Hall’s holiday lighting and other events, visit the San Francisco City Hall website.
Make your holiday visit even more magical by booking a Private Holiday Lights Tour with Lucky Tuk Tuk. Cruise through San Francisco’s most dazzling holiday displays in a cozy, festively decorated Tuk Tuk, complete with hot chocolate and holiday tunes. It’s the perfect way to experience the city’s winter wonderland in style!
PIER 39 Holiday Tree with Nightly Tree Lighting Shows Experience the holiday magic at PIER 39 in San Francisco, where a towering Christmas tree lights up the waterfront, offering a festive backdrop to a season full of joy, shopping, dining, and the famous sea lions
Fisherman’s Wharf for the Holidays -Fisherman’s Wharf celebrates with lighted fishing boats in the harbor, a Boat parade, and the Crab wheel sign light for the holidays
Experience the holiday magic at the Fairmont San Francisco with its life-sized Gingerbread House, crafted from thousands of gingerbread bricks and adorned with candy. A festive tradition that delights visitors of all ages.
Union Square Christmas Tree, Ice Skating Rink, and more – Take in one of the largest holiday displays in San Francisco including the 83-foot tree at the center of Union Square
Cable Cars are decorated for the Holiday Season: open to the public since 1873, this fascinating mode of transportation conveys visitors from Market Street to Beach Street, where Fisherman’s Wharf is less than a ten-minute walk away. Be sure to watch operators move the cable car on a turntable to point it in the right direction for the return trip to Market Street!
Experience the magic of the holiday season at San Francisco’s City Hall and Civic Center. 50′ Tall Holiday Tree with City Hall light up in holiday colors as the perfect backdrop.
Holiday Magic at Ghirardelli Square, San Francisco’s historic landmark, where festive lights, holiday movies, and the aroma of chocolate create a perfect holiday escape
Umbrella Alley – All Holiday Lights and Sights Tours start at Umbrella Alley in Fisheman’s Wharf. Mural-filled alley with perfect backdrops for Instagram and Tik Tok. Located at 757 Beach Street near Hyde St.
