Thanksgiving Day Parade Events in San Francisco

Gobble up the fun this year. San Francisco’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Events scene is full of local flavor and community spirit. While the city doesn’t have a massive balloon parade, it makes up for it with a weekend packed with lively events, festive processions, and waterfront celebrations. Whether you’re into costumed runs, holiday markets, or scenic waterfront walks, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Thanksgiving Day Parade Events in San Francisco

Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot

Kick off the holiday with the San Francisco Turkey Trot at Golden Gate Park. This annual event brings together runners and walkers of all ages for a festive morning of movement and costumes. The 5-mile and 3-mile routes are perfect for families, and there’s even a kids’ dash.

• Where: Polo Field, Golden Gate Park
• When: November 27, 2025
• Website: www.SFTurkeyTrot.com
• Other info: Registration recommended; costumes encouraged

Union Square Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting

The Union Square Holiday Celebration is the city’s main Thanksgiving event. The parade features marching bands, performers, and a special appearance by Santa. The evening ends with the lighting of the giant tree, marking the start of the holiday season.

• Where: Union Square, San Francisco
• Website: visitunionsquaresf.com
• Other info: Free entry; best views on Post Street or Powell Street

Fisherman’s Wharf Holiday Celebration

Fisherman’s Wharf hosts a holiday celebration with boat parades, carolers, and waterfront fireworks. Families can enjoy festive decor and live entertainment by the water.

• Where: Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
• When: Thanksgiving weekend, evening fireworks
• Website: https://www.fishermanswharf.org/
• Other info: Free entry; boat parade and fireworks are highlights

Ghirardelli Square Holiday Market

The Ghirardelli Square Holiday Market is a great spot for holiday shopping and treats. The historic setting adds to the festive atmosphere, and there are plenty of artisan crafts and live performances.

• Where: Ghirardelli Square, San Francisco
• When: Thanksgiving weekend
• Website: ghirardellisquare.com
• Other info: Kid-friendly; good for last-minute gifts

Pier 39 Holiday Kickoff

Pier 39’s Holiday Kickoff features live entertainment, street performers, and the lighting of the 60-foot Christmas tree. Families can meet holiday characters and enjoy waterfront dining before the fireworks.

• Where: Pier 39, San Francisco
• When: Thanksgiving weekend
• Website: pier39.com
• Other info: Free admission; close to sea lions and shops

Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise

Take a Thanksgiving dinner cruise on the San Francisco Bay. Companies like Hornblower and Blue & Gold Fleet offer gourmet meals and live entertainment, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and skyline.

• Where: Fisherman’s Wharf launch
• When: Thanksgiving Day
• Website: https://www.cityexperiences.com/san-francisco/city-cruises/thanksgiving-premier-dinner-cruise/
• Other info: Reservations required; combo of dinner and dancing

San Francisco Symphony Holiday Performances

The San Francisco Symphony hosts a holiday program with classic and contemporary music. It’s a great outing for families and music lovers.

• Where: Davies Symphony Hall, San Francisco
• When: Thanksgiving weekend
• Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2025-26/BARBIE-IN-CONCERT
• Other info: Tickets required; dress up for an elegant evening

Great Dickens Christmas Fair

Step back in time at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair, held over Thanksgiving weekend at the Cow Palace just south of San Francisco. Wander through Victorian London-themed streets, watch live performances, and browse for handmade gifts.

• Where: Cow Palace, Daly City
• When: Weekends, Nov. 22 – Dec. 21, 2025
• Website: dickensfair.com
• Other info: Costumed performers, shops, food, festive atmosphere

Crissy Field Picnic & Walk

Enjoy a relaxing picnic or a scenic walk at Crissy Field, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay. The area is perfect for an outdoor family gathering.

• Where: Crissy Field, San Francisco
• When: Thanksgiving Day
• Website: https://www.parksconservancy.org/parks/crissy-field
• Other info: Free, pet-friendly, and spacious

Alcatraz Thanksgiving Indigenous People’s Sunrise Gathering

Early Thanksgiving morning, the Indigenous People’s Sunrise Gathering offers a meaningful start to the holiday. The event takes place on Alcatraz Island, with a sunrise ceremony focused on honoring Native American heritage and advocacy.

• Where: Alcatraz Island, San Francisco
• When: November 27, 2025; sunrise
• Other info: Tickets required for ferry; ceremony, drumming, prayer

San Francisco’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Events create a festive atmosphere that stretches well beyond the family dinner table. Whether you’re into parades, live performances, or scenic waterfront walks, there’s plenty to celebrate the spirit of gratitude and community across the city. These events make the holiday season memorable for locals and visitors alike.

More…

• https://www.eventbrite.ca/d/ca–san-francisco/thanksgiving-parade/
• https://www.celebrateinsanfrancisco.com/san-francisco-thanksgiving-events-and-parades-2025
• https://www.overheresf.com/family-friendly-thanksgiving-activities-san-francisco/