Things To Do December 29 – January 4 in San Francisco

San Francisco kicks off the new year with a lineup that’s equal parts relaxed and lively. Whether it’s catching the last glow of holiday lights, trying something new, or just soaking up the city’s energy, there’s plenty to keep things interesting between December 29 and January 4.

Things To Do in San Francisco This Week (December 29-January 4)

Lightscape at the Botanical Garden

The San Francisco Botanical Garden’s Lightscape is a nighttime trail lit up with colorful installations and music. It’s a peaceful way to unwind and enjoy the city’s green spaces.

• Location: San Francisco Botanical Garden, Golden Gate Park
• Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
• Website: https://gggp.org/lightscape/

Union Square Winter WanderLand & Ice Rink

Union Square’s Winter WanderLand is a festive spot with an outdoor ice rink, food trucks, and live music. It’s a classic for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.

• Location: Union Square, 333 Post St, San Francisco
• Dates: Ongoing through January
• Hours: Varies daily, check website for skating times
• Website: https://unionsquareicerink.com/

Asian Art Museum Free Admission

The Asian Art Museum opens its doors for free on the first Sunday of January. It’s a chance to check out rotating exhibits and the museum’s permanent collection.

• Location: Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin St, San Francisco
• Date: January 4, 2026
• Website: https://about.asianart.org/ticketing/free-and-reduced-museum-admission/

SFMOMA: People Make This Place Exhibit

SFMOMA’s “People Make This Place: SFAI Stories” exhibit dives into the history of the San Francisco Art Institute. The display mixes photography, personal stories, and community art.

• Location: SFMOMA, 151 3rd St, San Francisco
• Dates: On display through January
• Website: https://www.sfmoma.org/exhibition/people-make-this-place-sfai-stories/

New Year’s Day Collaborative Beach Art

Start the year by helping craft a giant collective artwork in the sand. Ocean Beach becomes a group canvas—bring your ideas and creative spirit.

• Where: Ocean Beach, 704 Great Hwy
• When: January 1, 2026, 1 PM
• Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-years-day-collaborative-beach-art-tickets-1607402005669

Mirthquake: Monday Live Comedy

The Abbey Tavern’s weekly comedy show brings local stand-up acts to the stage. It’s a laid-back night out with laughs and drinks.

• Location: Abbey Tavern, 1601 Fillmore St, San Francisco
• Date: December 29 and January 5, 2026
• Time: 7–10 PM
• Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mirthquake-monday-live-comedy-in-the-richmond-tickets-595066579157#:~:text=Location,San%20Francisco%2C%20CA%2094118

SF Playhouse: “Into the Woods”

Enjoy a modern twist on the classic musical, staged live at San Francisco Playhouse right downtown. This show blends well-known fairy tales and sharp humor and runs through the first week of January.

• Location: SF Playhouse, 450 Post St
• Dates: November 20, 2025 – January 17, 2026
• Genre: Musical theater, family-friendly
• Info: https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

Candlelight: Tribute to Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s biggest hits played by a string quartet in a candlelit, retro-style theater. A modern musical twist for fans of all ages.

• Venue: Gray Area / Grand Theater, Mission District
• Dates: Multiple showings, select your session
• Program: Love Story, Red Medley, Shake It Off, and more
• Tickets/info: feverup.com/m/494939

Holiday Tree and Light Displays

San Francisco’s streets are still lit up with holiday displays. Union Square’s giant tree, Pier 39’s light show, and the Macy’s Holiday Windows are popular spots.

• Key Locations: Union Square, Pier 39, Embarcadero, Macy’s at Union Square
• Dates: Up to January, 2026

Cartoon Art Museum

Step into the world of comics, animation, and interactive art. Features classic cartoon panels and immersive digital displays, with changing exhibits throughout the week.

• Where: 781 Beach St, San Francisco
• Info: cartoonart.org

San Francisco keeps things lively for the last days of December and the first days of 2026, offering art walks, live music, circus shows, ballet, pop culture, and beach art. Mix it up, make new memories, and kick off the year your way.

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/