San Francisco Events January 19–25: Things To Do This Week

If you need a reason to step out this week, San Francisco Events January 19–25 offers a mix of comedy shows, museum exhibitions, live music, and farmers markets. From a major manga exhibit to Symphony performances and one last day at the ice rink, there’s plenty to explore.

Top San Francisco Events January 19–25

1. IlluminOdyssey — immersive winter light experience at CuriOdyssey

CuriOdyssey’s IlluminOdyssey transforms the space into a glowing forest of lights and reflections. It’s a playful, interactive experience blending art and science, ideal for families, friends, or anyone curious about light installations. The exhibit runs through January 25, so this could be your last window to catch it.

• Location: CuriOdyssey, San Mateo (38 Aquarium Way, San Mateo, CA)
• Vibe: Interactive, family‑friendly, visually striking
• Dates: Runs through January 25, 2026
• Website: https://curiodyssey.org/ 

2. FOG Design+Art 2026 — Contemporary art and design fair

Running January 21–25 this fair gathers galleries from around the world to show contemporary art, furniture, design pieces and installations. It is a great way to explore fresh design ideas, discover emerging artists and maybe pick up a piece of art or a conversation piece or simply just soak in the creativity.

• Location: Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture, Piers 2 & 3, 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94123
• Admission: Single day tickets or multi day passes available
• Experience: Exhibits, design installations, talks, emerging artist showcases
• Website: https://www.fogfair.com/ 

3. Explore “Art of Manga” at the de Young Museum

The “Art of Manga” exhibit at de Young offers a deep dive into the history and artistry of manga, perfect if you want art that resonates beyond traditional museum fare. It runs through January 25 making this week one of your last chances to visit. A thoughtful visually rich experience good for a daytime museum outing or cultural treat.

• Location: de Young Museum, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
• Specialty: Original manga works spanning early influences to modern storytelling
• Deadline: Exhibit ends January 25, 2026
• Website: https://www.famsf.org/ 

4. The Box SF Artists & Makers Fair — local makers market (Jan 24–25)

A weekend pop‑up market inside the historic building of The Box SF offers handmade goods, art prints, crafts and maybe some unique finds. It’s a laid‑back, local‑oriented way to support creatives and browse interesting pieces. Free entry, no ticket required, and good for a casual Sunday stroll.

• Location: The Box SF, San Francisco (historic warehouse building)
• Admission: Free (no ticket required)
• Offerings: Handmade goods, art, crafts, local makers
• Website: https://theboxsf.com/ 

5. Catch a concert with San Francisco Symphony at Davies Symphony Hall

On January 21 and January 22–24 the Symphony performs selections ranging from piano recitals to full orchestral works. It is a classy relaxed escape perfect for midweek culture. A well timed evening with music and ambience ideal if you want to wind down with something refined but not over the top.

• Location: Davies Symphony Hall, San Francisco, CA
• Dates & Time: Jan 21 piano recital and Jan 22 to 24 concerts generally starting 7:30 PM
• Mood: Refined classical music perfect for a quiet night out
• Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/ 

6. Stroll around Ferry Plaza Farmers Market on Saturday morning

This Saturday January 24 the farmers market opens early with fresh produce, artisan foods and local offerings. It is a nice relaxed way to start the weekend. Grab breakfast or snacks, wander along the Embarcadero and enjoy a quieter side of San Francisco before crowds hit.

• Location: Ferry Building, Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA
• Time: Typically early morning around 8 AM
• Offerings: Local produce, prepared foods, small vendors, great for breakfast or casual lunch
• Website: https://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/ 

7. San Francisco Ballet: Eugene Onegin — ballet performance (starting Jan 23)

For a refined night out, the SF Ballet’s production of Eugene Onegin offers dramatic dance, emotion, and classical storytelling in an elegant setting. It’s a solid option if you’re looking for cultural depth, ideal date night or a classy solo evening. Tickets start at the end of January and the season opening begins Jan 23.

• Location: War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco, CA
• Type: Full‑length ballet performance, classical dance, theatrical production
• Dates: Performances start January 23, 2026
• Website: https://www.sfballet.org/ 

8. Combine art and cafe culture — enjoy galleries and local coffee spots around arts districts

If you want a lighter pace consider mixing short gallery visits like at SFMOMA or nearby boutique galleries with time at local cafés. It is a casual way to experience local art, meet creatives or just observe. Perfect if you want to stay flexible and avoid a fixed schedule.

• Location: Arts districts and downtown SF, multiple venues
• Flexibility: Self guided, on your own schedule
• Vibe: Chill, casual, ideal for solo wandering or relaxed hangouts
• Website: Check individual gallery or café sites

9. Plan a half day itinerary: museum visit plus lunch plus ride along the Embarcadero

You can combine a morning at SFMOMA or the botanical garden, grab lunch near the Ferry Building, then stroll the Embarcadero waterfront. This gives you a blend of art, food, and scenery. A compact but fulfilling San Francisco experience in just a few hours.

• Structure: Museum then lunch then waterfront walk
• Ease: Works even on a tight schedule or for short visits
• Variety: Art, food, scenery with minimal planning
• Website: Use museum and Ferry Building sites for details

10. Use public transit or rideshare to link multiple spots instead of driving

With many events spread across the city from Fort Mason to downtown theaters and museums, using public transit or rideshare can save time and avoid parking hassles. It is a smart move when your schedule involves multiple stops.

• Transport: Muni, BART, rideshare
• Convenience: Avoid parking stress, optimize outing schedule
• Accessibility: Most venues are transit friendly
• Website: Use official Muni and BART apps or websites

San Francisco Events January 19–25 offer a mix of culture, live performances, food, and seasonal experiences. From comedy shows and museum exhibits to the final day at Union Square Ice Rink, this week is perfect for planning a few must-see activities and enjoying the city at your pace.

More…

• https://www.sftourismtips.com/san-francisco-events-in-january.html 
• https://theboxsf.com/ 
• https://museemecanique.com/