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Looking for holiday events near San Francisco or wondering what to do in the Bay Area for the holidays? The holiday season in the San Francisco Bay Area brings together festive traditions, sparkling decorations, and a lively calendar of celebrations, from downtown San Francisco to East Bay.
Discover holiday events in the Bay Area that are perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone hoping to celebrate the holiday season with live entertainment, unique gift shopping, and classic traditions. This guide highlights top holiday activities happening between December 13th and 23rd, and makes it easy to plan your holiday celebration.
Table of contents
- Santa Beer Crawl
- A Chanticleer Christmas
- Walnut Creek Art Fair
- Ballet of Lights
- Fort Mason Night Market
- The Nutcracker by SSF Civic Ballet
- Home Alone with the SF Symphony
1. Santa Beer Crawl
Date: December 13, 2025
Location: Martinez, CA
Join the Santa Beer Crawl for a lively holiday event in downtown Martinez, where local businesses serve up craft brews and seasonal cheer. Don your Santa suit or ugly sweater and celebrate as Main Street transforms into a festive tasting trail. This is a can’t-miss holiday event in the Bay Area for those looking to celebrate the holiday season with friends.
Enjoy a holiday costume party and discover new favorite craft beers along Main Street. Downtown Martinez offers seasonal cheer and the chance to meet fellow Santas. The event supports local businesses and creates a truly festive atmosphere.
2. A Chanticleer Christmas
Date: December 13-23, 2025
Location: Multiple Bay Area Locations (Petaluma, Oakland, Sacramento, San Francisco, Berkeley, Carmel)
A Chanticleer Christmas is a cherished Bay Area holiday tradition featuring the Grammy-winning Chanticleer ensemble. Enjoy stunning choral performances that blend classical music and Christmas carols in venues across the San Francisco Bay Area. This beloved concert series captures the spirit of the holidays for audiences of all ages. Experience the magic of live music and classic holiday songs this December.
This is a chance to hear world-class choral music in some of the Bay Area's most beautiful venues. The program's mix of classical pieces and traditional carols offers a moving and memorable holiday experience.
3. Walnut Creek Art Fair
Date: December 14, 2025
Location: Walnut Creek, CA
Shop unique, handcrafted gifts at this free pop-up art fair on December 14, featuring local East Bay artists. Discover one-of-a-kind holiday presents in a festive downtown Walnut Creek setting. This holiday event is perfect for gift shopping in the Bay Area.
This is a great spot to do holiday shopping while supporting East Bay artists. Find unique pieces from paintings to ceramics and other handmade crafts. Gifts here are personal—perfect for anyone looking for something different on December 14. Enjoy the lively fair atmosphere and connect with the local creative community.
4. Ballet of Lights
Date: December 18, 2025
Location: San Francisco, CA
Experience a dazzling holiday event as Ballet of Lights reimagines Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty with stunning LED-lit costumes. This downtown San Francisco performance blends classic ballet and modern technology for a captivating holiday tradition.
The Sleeping Beauty at the Brava Theater Center. This performance reimagines the classic ballet with elegant choreography and dazzling LED-lit costumes that illuminate the stage. It's a modern twist on a timeless story, creating a truly unique visual spectacle.
5. Fort Mason Night Market
Date: December 19, 2025
Location: San Francisco, CA
Don’t miss this vibrant holiday event, where West Coast Craft vendors and local food trucks bring festive energy to Fort Mason. It’s ideal for last-minute holiday shopping and tasting Bay Area flavors. Enjoy unique gifts, holiday lights, and a true San Francisco community vibe—all in one fun night.
Browse handmade goods from local crafters and enjoy delicious bites from some of the Bay's top food trucks. Enjoy holiday lights and the bustling community vibe. This is a fun way to celebrate the holiday season in San Francisco.
6. The Nutcracker by SSF Civic Ballet
Date: December 20, 2025
Location: South San Francisco, CA
Celebrate the holiday season with The Nutcracker by SSF Civic Ballet, a festive favorite in South San Francisco. Enjoy beautiful choreography brought to life by talented local dancers. This timeless production is perfect for families and tradition lovers alike. Experience one of the Bay Area’s best holiday events and support community arts.
This performance brings Clara's magical dream to life with graceful choreography, stunning costumes, and the iconic score. It's a festive favorite that celebrates the talent of local dancers.
This family-friendly holiday event is the perfect way to support local arts and celebrate a cherished tradition. Enjoy beautiful dancing, memorable music, and the timeless story of Clara's magical journey. The production offers festive fun for audiences of all ages. Make it part of your Bay Area holiday celebration this year.
7. Home Alone with the SF Symphony
Date: December 19-20, 2025
Location: San Francisco, CA
Celebrate the holidays with Home Alone at Davies Symphony Hall, where the SF Symphony performs John Williams’s score live alongside the film. This one-of-a-kind experience brings film, live entertainment, and holiday tradition together in downtown San Francisco. It's a standout holiday event for families and movie lovers alike.
Home Alone on the big screen as John Williams’s exuberant score is performed live by the San Francisco Symphony. This unique event brings film and music together inside the festive setting of Davies Symphony Hall, complete with seasonal decorations and treats.
Experience a classic holiday movie with a new twist as the score comes to life through the SF Symphony. Enjoy seasonal decorations, treats, and a festive atmosphere at Davies Symphony Hall.
Conclusion
The Bay Area offers a wonderful variety of ways to celebrate the holiday season and start new holiday traditions. From festive brews to unique gift shopping and live entertainment, these holiday events in the Bay Area help make every holiday celebration memorable. No matter your age or interest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as you explore the best holiday events near San Francisco and throughout the region. Make the most of these seasonal gatherings to create lasting memories with friends and family this December.
