What better way to kick off the festivities than by attending a magical tree lighting ceremony? If your family has the opportunity to venture beyond Monterey Bay this holiday season, there are a variety of tree lightings that could make for a perfect holiday kick off.
Enjoy this list of Christmas tree and Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremonies and celebrations in Santa Clara and throughout the San Francisco Bay area.
- Event: Macy's Great Tree
- Date: November 9, 2023-January 1, 2024
- Time: all day
- Location: Union Square, San Francisco
- Description: There is no official tree lighting ceremony this year but the "Great Tree"
- For more info
- Event: Pier 39 Nightly Holiday Tree Lighting
- Date: November 21, 2023-January 7, 2024
- Time: 5 pm
- Location: Pier 39, San Francisco
- Description: Enjoy nightly tree lighting musical entertainment.
- For more info
- Event: Santa Lights the Square
- Date: November 24, 2023
- Time: 4:30 PM - 8:00 PM
- Location: Ghirardelli Square, 900 North Point Street, San Francisco
- Description: Sing along to a collection of Holiday Tunes with the SF Boys Chorus, just before Santa comes to officially illuminate Ghirardelli Square with Christmas Lights. Afterwards, visit Santa in the carillon to take a photo receive a Ghirardelli Chocolate chocolate square.
- For more info
- Event: Jack London Square Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Date: December 2, 2023
- Time: 5:45 PM - 8:00 PM
- Location: Jack London Square, Oakland
- Description: The iconic Jack London Square transforms into a winter wonderland with its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Bring the whole family for a festive evening featuring live entertainment, holiday crafts, and the lighting of a magnificent tree.
- For more info
- Event: Union Square Tree Lighting
- Date: December 2, 2023
- Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Location: Union Square, San Francisco
- Description: Witness the heart of San Francisco come alive with the lighting of the Union Square Christmas tree. This iconic event features a dazzling display of lights, live performances, and the chance to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus. Don't miss the magical snowfall!
- For more info
- Event: Civic Center Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting
- Date: December 6, 2023
- Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Location: San Francisco Civic Center Plaza, San Francisco
- Description: Add this fun, free, family-friendly event to your holiday calendar; featuring festive performances, snow flurries, toy giveaway, and a Makers Village of activities. The lighting is at 5:30 pm.
- For more info
- Event: Bill Graham Menorah Lighting
- Date: December 7-14, 2023
- Time: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
- Location: Union Square, San Francisco
- Description: Gathering with live music and lighting of the menorah.
- For more info