Your Complete Guide to Holiday Light Displays Around San Francisco, California
Prepare for brilliance at Let's Glow SF, the nation's largest free holiday projection arts festival. For 10 nights, iconic buildings across downtown San Francisco will be transformed into colossal canvases by 19 international artists. Experience a captivating blend of technology and art, creating an unforgettable celebration of creativity and community spirit.
Learn More & View Details →Experience Lightscape, an internationally acclaimed after-dark installation transforming the San Francisco Botanical Garden into a mesmerizing world of wonder. Wander a mile-long trail illuminated by over a million twinkling lights, dramatic colors, and otherworldly sculptures. Enjoy festive food and beverages available along the path, making for an unforgettable evening of light and music.
Learn More & View Details →Experience the magic of the holidays at PIER 39's annual Tree Lighting Holiday Show. Witness the breathtaking illumination of a 60-foot live Christmas tree, adorned with thousands of lights. Enjoy live music, festive decorations, and a special visit from Santa Claus. The tree performs nightly with a dazzling synchronized light and music show.
Learn More & View Details →The Fisherman's Wharf Lighted Boat Parade is a unique San Francisco holiday spectacle. Dozens of boats, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, cruise along the waterfront, creating a magical maritime display. This event offers a festive way to experience the city's holiday cheer from the scenic Aquatic Park to Crissy Field.
Learn More & View Details →San Francisco comes alive with holiday spirit every December, and this guide showcases the most spectacular Christmas light displays the city has to offer. From waterfront spectacles to neighborhood traditions, San Francisco, California offers a diverse range of holiday light experiences.
What makes San Francisco unique is the variety of experiences available. You can explore free citywide festivals, visit iconic landmarks transformed by lights, or discover charming neighborhood displays. Each experience offers something different, making San Francisco a perfect destination for holiday light enthusiasts.
Most major displays in San Francisco, California begin the weekend after Thanksgiving, around November 28, 2025. Neighborhood displays typically start around mid-December and run through New Year's Eve.
San Francisco offers several fantastic free displays including neighborhood light shows, downtown tree lightings, and community celebrations. Check our events list for the complete guide to free holiday experiences!
Yes! San Francisco has both drive-through and walkable options. Drive-through displays are perfect for staying warm in your car, while walkable displays offer a more immersive experience.
Most displays in San Francisco, California run through late December or early January. Check individual event listings for specific dates and times.
Planning your route? Our interactive map shows you exactly where every light display is located around San Francisco!
View Interactive Map →🎄 From the Editor: I created this guide to help you discover the best Christmas lights in San Francisco, California. This carefully curated resource will help you make the most of your holiday light adventures in San Francisco!