Discover the top 10 holiday events for kids in San Francisco! From trains to concerts, find festive fun for the whole family this season.
The holiday season is a magical time for families, and San Francisco offers a variety of festive events that kids will love. Whether your little ones are excited for Christmas, Hanukkah, or simply looking for fun during their school break, there’s something for everyone. From vintage train rides to dazzling light shows, these holiday events will fill your family’s calendar with joy.
Here’s a guide to the top 10 holiday events for kids in and around San Francisco.
1. Holiday voyages aboard Roaring Camp’s vintage train
Roaring Camp Railroads turns into a holiday wonderland each year, offering enchanting train rides through Santa Cruz’s festive landscape. Kids can experience the magic of vintage trains decorated with twinkling lights and holiday cheer. This year, families can enjoy not only the Holiday Lights Train but also a special Chanukah-themed ride with stories, dreidel games, and kosher treats.
🗓️ Dates:
- Holiday Lights Train: Dec. 14-23, 2024
- New Year’s Train: Dec. 26-31, 2024
- Chanukah Train: Jan. 2, 2024
Location: Roaring Camp Railroads, Santa Cruz
2. Holiday Craft Making at the Ferry Building
Bring out your child’s creative side at the Ferry Building’s free crafting workshops. These holiday craft sessions provide the perfect break from shopping and are a great way to make homemade ornaments, terrariums, and other festive decorations.
🗓️ Dates: Sundays in December until Christmas
Location: Ferry Building, San Francisco
3. Sing you a Merry Christmas at Grace Cathedral
Grace Cathedral’s “Sing You a Merry Christmas” event is a delightful sing-along that brings toys to life in a performance straight from Santa’s workshop. This family-friendly event invites kids to join in the fun and spread holiday cheer.
🗓️ Dates: Dec. 21 and 23, 2024
Location: Grace Cathedral, San Francisco
4. The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Step back in time to Victorian London at The Great Dickens Christmas Fair. With costumed characters, lively performances, and hands-on activities, kids will feel like they’ve traveled to another era. Enjoy everything from pantomime shows to holiday craft stations.
🗓️ Dates: Weekends, Nov. 23 – Dec. 22, 2024
Location: Cow Palace Exhibition Halls, Daly City
5. Candlelight Holiday Concerts
Introduce kids to classical music with Candlelight Holiday Concerts. Surrounded by hundreds of glowing candles, families can enjoy popular holiday tunes performed by talented musicians. The ambiance creates a peaceful yet festive atmosphere perfect for the season.
🗓️ Dates: Throughout December 2024
Location: Various venues across San Francisco
6. 22-foot gingerbread house at the Fairmont Hotel
A must-see holiday attraction, the Fairmont Hotel’s two-story gingerbread house is a breathtaking sight. Standing 22 feet tall and made from real gingerbread bricks, this massive structure captivates children and adults alike.
🗓️ Dates: Open now through New Year
Location: Fairmont Hotel, San Francisco
7. Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s at Thrive City
Thrive City hosts a series of holiday events celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s. Kids will love the 90-foot Christmas tree, nightly snowfalls, and the opportunity to send letters to Santa at the North Pole mailbox. Special events and free entertainment are offered throughout the season.
🗓️ Dates: Nov. 30 – Dec. 31, 2024
Location: Thrive City, Chase Center, San Francisco
8. Giant menorah lightings at Union Square
Celebrate Hanukkah at Union Square with the lighting of the 25-foot menorah. The Bill Graham Menorah Project hosts nightly ceremonies, and kids can enjoy music, crafts, and treats during Bill Graham Menorah Day.
🗓️ Dates: Dec. 25, 2024 – Jan. 2, 2025
Location: Union Square, San Francisco
9. Christmas in the Park in San Jose
Christmas in the Park transforms San Jose into a festive wonderland with dazzling light displays and decorations. At History Park, families can drive through a light tunnel synchronized to holiday music. Don’t forget to visit Cesar Chavez Plaza for even more holiday fun.
🗓️ Dates: Open now
Location: History Park and Cesar Chavez Plaza, San Jose
10. Special events at Union Square Ice Rink
Union Square Ice Rink offers fun skating events throughout the holiday season. From the Polar Bear Skate to flashback music nights, there’s something for everyone. Free skating lessons are also available, making it a perfect family outing.
🗓️ Dates: Nov. 6, 2024 – Jan. 20, 2025
- Jan. 1: Polar Bear Skate
- Saturdays and Sundays: Free Skate Lessons
- Wednesdays: Whynot Wednesdays
- Fridays: Flashback Fridays
- Sundays: Classical Sundays
Location: Union Square, San Francisco
Why These Events Are Perfect for Families
These holiday events offer a mix of entertainment, education, and cultural enrichment, ensuring kids stay engaged and joyful throughout the season. Whether your family prefers hands-on crafts, live performances, or outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of exciting activities in the Bay Area.
Plan ahead to make the most of these festive experiences and create lasting holiday memories with your children.
