SF Christmas Lights – Brightest Spots and Best Holiday Tours in 2025
Twinkling rooftops, glowing cable cars, and neighborhoods that go full Clark Griswold, oh my! From classic charm to next-level LED spectacle, Christmas lights San Francisco are bringing the festive vibes hard in 2025.
If you’re mapping out where to see the brightest and best SF Christmas lights, you’ve landed in the right place. We’re talking iconic hotels, massive trees, art-meets-light installations, and even boats decked out in tinsel.
Plus, we’ve got the scoop on the most unforgettable holiday light tours. Stay tuned, because your 2025 holiday season is about to get seriously lit!
Where Are the Best Spots to See Christmas Lights San Francisco in 2025?
When it comes to dazzling displays and festive cheer, few cities do Christmas Lights San Francisco quite like this one. The iconic 68 Castro Street Christmas House has sadly turned off its lights for good. But, there are still plenty of spots that deliver the best Christmas lights San Francisco has to offer in 2025.
From the over-the-top sugar wonderland inside the Fairmont to the Civic Center’s glowing community tree, the city knows how to shine. Union Square dazzles with its massive Macy’s tree and classic decorations. Meanwhile, Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf add a coastal sparkle with lights and sea breeze.
Don’t miss Nob Hill’s elegant historic glow or the Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade floating into view mid-December. Keep reading to explore the full list of can’t-miss displays and insider tips for planning your most festive night out.
Let’s Glow SF 2025
Let’s Glow SF 2025 promises to transform downtown San Francisco into a living canvas of light, though official dates and featured buildings haven’t yet been announced. In previous years, this holiday projection mapping event took over landmarks like the Ferry Building and One Bush Plaza with animated art shows synced to music.
Produced by the Downtown SF Partnership, it’s billed as the largest holiday projection event in the U.S., and features works by local and international artists. Keep your eyes peeled for updates—this one’s a future selfie goldmine.
Civic Center
The SF Christmas Lights scene wouldn’t be complete without the Civic Center Community Tree Lighting Celebration. Scheduled for early December (previously held on December 6), this event takes place outside San Francisco City Hall and features a 50+ foot noble fir adorned with ornaments and LED lights.
The celebration typically includes live performances, free holiday treats, and a visit from Santa, with support from the Civic Center Community Benefit District. While the exact 2025 date hasn’t been confirmed, this longstanding tradition is expected to light up the Civic Center Plaza once again—stay tuned for official updates.
Fairmont San Francisco
One of the most beloved holiday traditions, the Fairmont San Francisco unveils its life-sized Gingerbread House on November 22, 2025, kicking off the festive season in sugary style. Crafted with thousands of real gingerbread bricks and gallons of royal icing, this two-story edible display is located in the hotel’s lobby and stands nearly 25 feet tall.
It’s not just for looking—guests can walk through it and admire candy-coated details while enjoying the Fairmont’s famously extravagant holiday décor. This annual marvel is a must-see if you love your Christmas lights San Francisco display with a side of whimsy.
Sugar Castle at Westin St. Francis
A dreamy staple of San Francisco Christmas lights, the Sugar Castle at the Westin St. Francis is like stepping into a Nutcracker fantasy. Towering over 12 feet high, this rotating sugar sculpture is handcrafted by the hotel’s pastry team. It’s typically displayed in the Landmark Lobby starting mid-November.
While 2025 details haven’t been released yet, past versions included tiny trains, sugar-spun towers, and enough sparkle to make Mariah Carey weep. Stay tuned for this sweet spectacle—it’s pure holiday magic in edible form.
Pier 39/Fisherman’s Wharf
One of the most festive waterfront destinations, Christmas lights in San Francisco shine bright at Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf. The 60-foot tree at Pier 39 gets decked out in synchronized lights and music. Meanwhile, the surrounding area sparkles with nautical-themed décor and garland-draped lampposts.
Though 2025 dates haven’t been posted, past light shows have run nightly from late November through early January. Whether you’re watching sea lions or sipping cocoa by the bay, this spot delivers full-on holiday cheer.
Illuminate SF Festival of Light
Every December, the Christmas lights SF experience levels up thanks to the Illuminate SF Festival of Light, a celebration of public light art. Spread across 17 neighborhoods, this citywide festival features over 60 installations by artists like Jim Campbell and Leo Villareal.
Although 2025’s lineup and schedule haven’t been announced yet, the festival traditionally runs from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure glow fest—watch for updates so you can plan your luminous route.
Embarcadero Center
At the Embarcadero Center, the Christmas light displays wrap the façades of four downtown towers in over 17,000 LED lights. This twinkling corridor is also home to the city’s iconic Holiday Ice Rink, typically open from early November through early January.
2025 specifics haven’t been announced yet, but the opening usually kicks off with a family-friendly carnival, live performances, and rooftop views of the Bay Bridge lights. Bundle up—it’s one of the most atmospheric holiday experiences in San Francisco.
Nob Hill
Nob Hill brings the holiday glow with its charming Holiday Lighting Celebration, typically hosted by the Top of the Mark and the Fairmont San Francisco. Though 2025 details remain under wraps, previous celebrations featured carolers, cocoa, and tree lightings across the neighborhood’s iconic hotels and historic buildings.
The area’s hilltop views and festive architecture make it a classic stop on any light-hunting itinerary. Keep your calendar open—this elegant tradition is worth the uphill walk.
Union Square
Every holiday season, Christmas decorations in Union Square go all out, from the giant Macy’s tree to the glowing hearts above Powell Street. In previous years, the lighting ceremony took place around Thanksgiving and was accompanied by live music, festive treats, and skating at the Union Square Ice Rink.
2025 updates haven’t been shared yet, but you can expect the square to transform into San Francisco’s version of a snow globe once again. Grab a peppermint mocha and take it all in—it’s the city’s holiday hub for a reason.
Sausalito 38th Annual Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks
The 38th Annual Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks in Sausalito is set for December 13 and 14, 2025, and yes—it’s as extra as it sounds. Dozens of boats sail through Richardson Bay wrapped in lights, inflatable snowmen, and synchronized music, followed by a waterfront fireworks show.
Locals line up along the marina early to catch the view, with prime spots at Gabrielson Park and Spinnaker Restaurant. It’s a glowing, nautical twist on traditional holiday cheer that’s worth the short trip from SF.
Which Tours Show SF Christmas Lights Around the City in 2025?
Seeing SF Christmas Lights from a moving, music-filled vehicle is half the fun of the holiday season in 2025. Whether you’re after cozy, quirky, or classic, there are tours that showcase the Christmas lights in SF in style.
The San Francisco Lights at Night Tour takes you through glittering landmarks in a heated electric Tuk Tuk, with stops at spots like Lombard Street and the Bay Bridge light show. For a retro spin, the VW Hippie Bus Holiday Lights Tour hits all the city’s festive hot spots—including the Fairmont and Union Square—with Christmas tunes and candy canes to match.
And if you’re craving full nostalgia, the Fire Engine Holiday Lights Tour delivers the best Christmas lights in San Francisco from the back of a real red fire truck, complete with caroling. Read on to find the perfect ride to match your holiday vibe!
San Francisco Lights at Night Tour
The San Francisco Lights at Night Tour offers a cozy, two-hour city adventure aboard an electric Tuk Tuk outfitted with heated seats and blankets. Departing from 2870 Hyde Street (near Umbrella Alley), this narrated tour takes you past illuminated landmarks like Coit Tower, the Palace of Fine Arts, Lombard Street, and the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset.
Stops are built in for photo ops at key viewpoints including Fisherman’s Wharf, North Beach, and the Embarcadero’s Bay Bridge light show. With a max of five passengers per Tuk Tuk, this intimate tour mixes city charm with serious sparkle.
VW Hippie Bus Holiday Lights Tour
The VW Hippie Bus Holiday Lights Tour is a groovy ride through San Francisco’s festive side, running nightly from November 25 to December 30, with departures at 5 PM and 7 PM. Tours depart from 2899 Hyde Street, near the Maritime Museum sign, and include two photo stops, Santa hats, and plenty of cheer.
You’ll cruise past major holiday displays like the Fairmont Gingerbread House, Westin St. Francis Sugar Castle, Union Square Tree, and the Fisherman’s Wharf Christmas tree. The route is flexible and updated regularly to capture the most over-the-top decorations in the city.
Fire Engine Holiday Lights Tour
The Fire Engine Holiday Lights Tour brings a vintage twist to holiday sightseeing with a 90-minute open-air ride in a classic red fire truck. While 2025 dates and times are still TBA, previous years included routes through Downtown San Francisco, The Embarcadero, and Union Square, all decked out in seasonal lights.
Riders are treated to Christmas carols and city trivia as they bundle up in cozy jackets (provided by the tour). Departures are from Fisherman’s Wharf, and while the tour skips the Golden Gate Bridge, it more than makes up for it with twinkling cityscapes and festive vibes.
Pssst… From the San Francisco SantaCon 2025 on December 13 to the San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker on December 5 to 28, 2025, and The Great Dickens Christmas Fair running five weekends from Nov. 22 to Dec. 21, the city is packed with can’t-miss holiday events.
Don’t stop at the lights—check out San Francisco Christmas: Your 2025 Ultimate Holiday Guide! for the full festive lineup.
What Are The Christmas Lights San Francisco FAQs?
Will I get to see something unique if I include Let’s Glow SF 2025 in my holiday plans?
Let’s Glow SF 2025 is one of the most innovative light shows in the city, featuring large-scale projection art on downtown San Francisco buildings. Though dates haven’t been announced yet, past events illuminated spots like the Ferry Building and One Bush Plaza with animated art synced to music.
Can I bring my family to see the tree lighting at Civic Center during the holidays?
Yes, Civic Center hosts a large, family-friendly community Tree Lighting Celebration that’s part of the Christmas Lights San Francisco experience. It typically includes live music, festive treats, and a giant noble fir lit outside City Hall in early December.
Is it worth visiting the Fairmont San Francisco just for the holiday decor?
Absolutely, the Fairmont San Francisco is known for its life-sized Gingerbread House, opening November 22, 2025. Visitors can walk through the structure and enjoy intricate candy details in the hotel’s grand lobby.
If I’m near the waterfront, will Pier 39/Fisherman’s Wharf have lights too?
Yes, Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf light up with nautical-themed displays and a towering Christmas tree synced to music. The decorations run nightly from late November through early January, offering views alongside sea lions and holiday performers.
What makes the Sugar Castle at Westin St Francis worth a visit?
The Sugar Castle at Westin St. Francis is a rotating confectionary sculpture made by the hotel’s pastry team. It usually stands over 12 feet tall and includes sugar towers, trains, and glowing decor, starting mid-November.
What’s included in the Illuminate SF Festival of Light during the holidays?
The Illuminate SF Festival of Light spreads over 17 neighborhoods and includes more than 60 public light installations. Though 2025 details aren’t out yet, the festival traditionally runs from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day with works by artists like Leo Villareal.
Will I find holiday decorations at the Embarcadero Center?
Yes, Embarcadero Center wraps its towers in over 17,000 LED lights and also hosts the city’s famous ice rink. While 2025 dates aren’t confirmed yet, the experience includes family-friendly events and festive views of the Bay Bridge lights.
What kind of atmosphere does Nob Hill offer during the holidays?
Nob Hill features an elegant holiday vibe with lights draped across historic hotels and rooftops. Its Holiday Lighting Celebration typically includes carolers, cocoa, and tree lightings at places like Top of the Mark and the Fairmont.
Can I watch the Sausalito 38th Annual Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks in December?
Yes, the Sausalito 38th Annual Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks is scheduled for December 13 and 14, 2025. Visitors can enjoy a floating parade of decorated boats and a fireworks show along Richardson Bay.
Where can I see the best SF Christmas Lights from a guided tour?
SF Christmas Lights are best experienced through immersive night tours that visit top-decorated neighborhoods and landmarks. Options like Tuk Tuk rides, VW buses, and even fire engines take you directly to the sparkle.
What can I expect on the San Francisco Lights at Night Tour?
The San Francisco Lights at Night Tour is a 2-hour guided ride in a heated electric Tuk Tuk that departs from 2870 Hyde Street. It includes stops at spots like the Palace of Fine Arts, Lombard Street, and Coit Tower, all dressed in lights.
Will I get holiday vibes on the VW Hippie Bus Holiday Lights Tour?
Definitely! The VW Hippie Bus Holiday Lights Tour runs nightly from November 25 to December 30, departing at 5 PM and 7 PM from 2899 Hyde Street. Riders enjoy Christmas songs, photo stops, and a ride past decorated landmarks like the Fairmont and Union Square.
Is the Fire Engine Holiday Lights Tour more nostalgic or scenic?
The Fire Engine Holiday Lights Tour brings both, offering a 90-minute ride through downtown and Union Square in a classic red fire truck. Guests enjoy caroling, trivia, and panoramic views of holiday displays without crossing the Golden Gate Bridge.
How do Christmas San Francisco Hotel Packages help me save during the holidays?
Christmas San Francisco Hotel Packages let you bundle hotels with attractions for big savings and less stress. Tripster offers deals like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! + Hotel at 39% off, Go City + Hotel at 30%, and Skyline Hop-On Hop-Off + Hotel at 27%.
Can I save money by using Christmas San Francisco Vacation Packages?
Yes, Christmas San Francisco Vacation Packages let you bundle two attractions and save up to 9% on your itinerary. Options include combos like San Francisco Museum of Modern Art + California Academy of Sciences or LEGOLAND Discovery Center + Academy of Sciences.
Are There Any Christmas San Francisco Hotel Packages?
Planning Christmas San Francisco hotel packages doesn’t have to be a budgeting headache! Tripster makes it easy to save without sacrificing any sparkle. With exclusive bundle deals, you can score up to 39% off when you pair top attractions with hand-picked hotels.
Grab the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! San Francisco + Hotel Package and save a whopping 39% on a quirky, unforgettable experience. The Go City San Francisco Hotel Package offers 30% off and access to dozens of must-see spots across the city.
Prefer flexibility and iconic views? The Skyline Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off + Hotel Package gives you a breezy 27% off and full control of your sightseeing schedule. It’s smart, seamless, and seriously festive.
What Christmas San Francisco Vacation Packages Are Available?
Scoring the best Christmas San Francisco vacation packages is a breeze when you bundle two attractions with Tripster. You can save up to 9% just by booking your experiences together—no extra codes or effort needed.
Tripster lets you customize your holiday plans while keeping costs in check. Don’t miss the chance to double your fun and trim your budget at the same time!
San Francisco Half-Day Guided City Tour + Go San Francisco Explorer Pass
Save up to 9% with this San Francisco Half-Day Guided City Tour + Go San Francisco Explorer Pass combo that covers iconic landmarks and flexible sightseeing across the city. It’s the perfect pairing for first-timers who want structure and freedom in one unforgettable day.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art + California Academy of Sciences
Save up to 7% when you book this art-meets-science San Francisco Museum of Modern Art + California Academy of Sciences duo that’s equal parts inspiring and mind-blowing. It’s a brilliant way to spend a full day exploring two of the city’s cultural gems.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Bay Area + California Academy of Sciences
Save up to 6% with this kid-approved LEGOLAND Discovery Center Bay Area + California Academy of Sciences package that mixes hands-on learning with endless play. Great for families looking to keep the little ones entertained and sneak in some brainy fun.
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So, What’s My Next Move?
Christmas Lights San Francisco are calling, and honestly, missing them in 2025 should be considered a seasonal crime. The SF Christmas Lights scene is brighter, bolder, and more photo-worthy than ever.
Start planning now so you can lock in the best hotel deals, attraction tickets, and vacation packages with Tripster before they’re gone. Booking early also means snagging prime spots on the most popular holiday tours and events.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or making it a full-blown holiday escape, you’ll want every twinkle mapped out. This is your sign to chase the glow and make 2025 your most festive season yet!
2 comments about “SF Christmas Lights – Brightest Spots and Best Holiday Tours in 2025”
I visited all of these intersections and there were hardly any lights.
Hi Nicki, thank you for sharing your experience. We are disappointed to learn that there were minimal lights to see while checking out these recommended festive spots in San Francisco. Time for us to do some deeper digging to uncover where to find them!