Fall & Holiday Fun in San Francisco: October–December
Crisp air, golden light, and neighborhood buzz, fall into winter is one of the best times to be in San Francisco. From free music in the park to holiday traditions, here’s your guide to what’s happening across the city from October through December plus where to go before/after each event. (Psst: if you’re apartment hunting, our new site has real-time availability and neighborhood guides to make exploring easy.)
October: Peak “Only-in-SF” Season
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass – Fri-Sun, Oct 3-5
A beloved free festival in Golden Gate Park with dozens of artists. Bring a blanket, layers, and low chairs.
Grab & go: Sandwiches en route from Hayes Valley or the Richmond.
Fleet Week – Sat & Sun, Oct 11-12
Jets over the Bay, the Parade of Ships, and waterfront concerts. Best viewing along Marina Green and Aquatic Park.
Pre/post hangout: Stroll Chestnut Street in the Marina for coffee and dinner.
Halloween Week (late Oct)
Family block parties, themed bar nights, and neighborhood trick-or-treating. Noe’s Fair Oaks Street, Mission’s Shotwell Street and Castro Street are unbeatable.
Tip: Carve pumpkins 3–5 days before the 31st; they last longer in our cool climate.
November: Traditions Begin, Lights Turn On
Día de los Muertos – Sun, Nov 2
Community altars at Garfield Park and a neighborhood procession in the Mission. Respectful, beautiful, and powerful.
While you’re there: Explore murals and taquerias in the Mission.
Union Square Ice Rink (opens early Nov)
Classic downtown skating with holiday music and theme nights. Book your time slot in advance.
Pair it with: Ferry Building snacks or tea at the Westin St. Francis.
Embarcadero Center Building Lighting (mid Nov)
The four towers sparkle to kick off the holidays; some years add fireworks and a street fair feel.
Pre/post walk: Stroll North Beach and take the charming Filbert Steps to walk the Embarcadero for views of the Bay Lights.
Fairmont San Francisco Gingerbread House Opening – Sat, Nov 22
The Fairmont’s life-size gingerbread house returns in Laurel Court, built from thousands of cookies and candies. An instant-holiday moment for families and photo lovers.
Tip: Go early to beat lobby lines and make a reservation if you’re doing afternoon tea.
December: Full Holiday Mode
Great Dickens Christmas Fair (early–late Dec)
Victorian London at the Cow Palace. Enjoy food, shops, performances.
“Nutcracker” at the War Memorial Opera House (early–late Dec)
A local tradition since 1944. Perfect for a dress-up night downtown.
Preload: Dinner in Hayes Valley before the show.
Lighted Boat Parade (mid Dec)
Decorated boats cruise along the northern waterfront; great vantage points near Fisherman’s Wharf and the Marina.
Make a night of it: Warm drinks on Ghirardelli Square; sunset at Fort Mason.
Haas–Lilienthal House: Holiday Hello – Fri, Dec 20, 4:00–7:00 PM
Step inside this 1886 Queen Anne Victorian decked out for the season. Live music and festive treats are included.
Architectural detour: Walk over to Russian Hill for postcard streets and views.
From October’s blue skies to December’s twinkle lights, SF’s season is stacked with memory-makers. Whether you’re sipping cocoa under the Embarcadero towers or taking holiday photos in front of one of SF’s iconic lit tress, the city feels extra close-knit this time of year. If you’re visiting neighborhoods between events, our refreshed site makes it easy to check real-time availability, explore nearby cafés and parks, and book a tour so you can make these holiday moments your everyday.