Things To Do December 22-28 in San Francisco

San Francisco is buzzing with holiday energy this week, and there’s no shortage of ways to get into the spirit. From classic performances to quirky local traditions, the city is full of options for anyone looking to make the most of the season. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, here’s a rundown of what’s happening from December 22 to 28.

Things To Do in San Francisco This Week (December 22-28)

San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker

The Nutcracker is a December tradition, and the San Francisco Ballet’s production is a highlight. The show runs through December 28, with a special sensory-friendly performance on the last day. It’s a festive take on the classic story, set in 1915 San Francisco.

• Where: War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave
• Website: sfballet.org
• Tickets: Available online; sensory-friendly show on December 28 at 11 am

SFJazz Holiday Concerts

SFJazz is hosting a series of jazz concerts this week. Terence Blanchard’s UpSwing Series takes the stage on December 27, followed by Benny Green’s solo piano show on December 28. Both are at the Miner Auditorium and offer a relaxed, classy night out.

• Where: SFJazz Center, 201 Franklin St
• Website: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/seasons-series/2025-26-season/?month=DEC
• Tickets: Available online; performances at 7:30 pm

Union Square Ice Skating

Put on some skates and enjoy the outdoor ice rink right in the middle of Union Square. The rink offers hourly sessions, with all ages and skill levels welcome. Special themed nights add a twist throughout the week.

• Where: 333 Post St, Union Square
• When: Daily sessions during the week
• Website: unionsquareicerink.com

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

This Tony-winning musical brings its high-energy spectacle to the Orpheum Theatre. Shows run every day this week, combining music, romance, and showstopping sets for theater-goers. The production is recommended for ages 12 and up.

• Where: Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St
• When: December 16–28; multiple times
• Website: broadwaysf.com

Golden State Warriors NBA Games

Basketball fans can see the Warriors play two home games: against the Orlando Magic (Dec 22) and Dallas Mavericks (Dec 25). Both games promise a buzzed atmosphere at the Chase Center.

• Where: Chase Center, 1 Warriors Way
• When: Dec 22 (Orlando Magic), Dec 25 (Dallas Mavericks)
• Website: https://www.chasecenter.com/events/?artist=GSW

San Francisco Christmas Tree & Santa Visits

The huge tree in Union Square remains lit the entire week, and Santa pops up for photo opportunities at popular spots. Macy’s and Westfield SF Centre host Santa visits, so kids can get those holiday snapshots before the season wraps.

• Where: Union Square, Macy’s, Westfield SF Centre
• When: Tree lit nightly; Santa visits vary
• Main site: downtownsf.org

Punch Line Comedy Club

Catch sharp stand-up at SF’s classic comedy club—this week features Comedy Allstars (Dec 23) and Mike E. Winfield (Dec 26). Comics at Punch Line are known for bringing big laughs in an intimate setting.

• Where: 444 Battery St
• When: Dec 23 (Comedy Allstars), Dec 26 (Mike E. Winfield), showtimes vary
• Website: punchlinecomedyclub.com

Art of Manga Exhibition at de Young Museum

Explore a sweeping new exhibition that traces the history of manga with more than 600 original works. The show is on display every day, and attracts fans of art, storytelling, and Japanese culture.

• Where: de Young Museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr
• When: Daily, 9:30am–5:15pm
• Website: famsf.org

Lightscape at San Francisco Botanical Garden

From December through early January, the Botanical Garden transforms into a nighttime wonderland with an illuminated trail, music, and holiday-themed installations. The walk-through experience is kid-friendly and ticketed, offering a twist on the typical garden visit.

• Where: San Francisco Botanical Garden, Golden Gate Park (Main entrance: 1199 9th Ave)
• When: Open nightly, including December 22–28, 2025
• Website: https://gggp.org/lightscape/
• Ticket required; advance booking recommended

Special Holiday Art at Asian Art Museum

Visit new and rotating exhibitions celebrating Asian art and culture. The museum is open during the week and provides a quiet retreat from the holiday buzz with remarkable collections.

• Where: Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin St
• When: Daily, 10am–5pm, closed Mondays
• Website: asianart.org

This week in San Francisco is full of ways to celebrate, wind down, and squeeze more out of the holiday season. Whether you’re watching a stage show, skating outdoors, visiting markets or walking through nighttime lights, there’s plenty to fill the last week of December.

More…

• https://www.sftravel.com/article/san-francisco-festivals-events-december
• https://traveltriangle.com/blog/san-francisco-in-december/
• https://www.overheresf.com/instagrammable-christmas-trees-in-san-francisco-this-holiday/