Where to See the Best Christmas Light Displays in SF (2025)

San Francisco’s holiday lights bring a different kind of glow to the city—one that cuts through the winter fog and turns quiet streets into something worth slowing down for. The 2025 season is packed with displays that mix tradition, tech, and neighborhood pride. Whether you’re chasing photo moments, planning a family outing, or just want to see the city dressed up for the holidays, here are ten spots that stand out.

Where to See the Best Christmas Light Displays in San Francisco (2025)

Lightscape at the San Francisco Botanical Garden

This isn’t just a light walk—it’s a full sensory experience. The one-mile trail through the garden uses sound, color, and motion to create something that feels both natural and otherworldly. The Singing Tree reacts to your voice, and the Cathedral of Light stretches high above the redwoods.

• When: November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
• Where: San Francisco Botanical Garden, Golden Gate Park
• Tickets: $32–$42, timed entry
• Website: gggp.org/lightscape​

Union Square Christmas Tree & Plaza

The city’s official tree goes up in late November and stays lit through early January. It’s surrounded by a holiday market, ice skating rink, and photo ops. The Macy’s windows next door feature animated scenes, often spotlighting rescue animals from the SF SPCA.

• Tree lighting: November 28, 2025
• Where: Union Square, Geary & Powell
• Cost: Free (skating rink has separate fee)
• Website: visitunionsquaresf.com​

Pier 39’s Musical Light Show

A 60-foot tree at the waterfront plays a synchronized light-and-music show every 30 minutes after dark. The performance runs through early January and draws crowds, so showing up before 7 PM helps avoid the worst of the foot traffic.

• When: November 29, 2025 – January 5, 2026
• Where: Pier 39 Embarcadero
• Cost: Free
• Website: http://pier39.com/events​

The Tom & Jerry House (Castro)

This residential display at 3650 21st Street has been a holiday staple for years. It’s packed with moving figures, themed sections, and a full light-and-sound show that plays on a loop. The street gets crowded, so weekdays are quieter.

• When: Early December – January 5
• Where: 3650 21st Street, Castro
• Cost: Free

Illuminate SF Festival of Light

This citywide art project turns buildings and public spaces into light canvases. Look for the crown on Salesforce Tower, projections on City Hall, and smaller installations in neighborhoods like SoMa and the Mission. It runs from late November to early January.

• When: November 27, 2025 – January 5, 2026
• Where: Various locations
• Cost: Free
• Website: sftravel.com/illuminate-sf​

Fisherman’s Wharf Lighted Boat Parade

Decorated boats sail through the bay on December 12, 2025, starting at 6:30 PM. The best viewing spots are along the waterfront—Aquatic Park, Crissy Field, and Marina Green. No tickets needed, but arrive early for a good spot.

• When: December 12, 2025
• Where: Northern waterfront
• Cost: Free
• Website: fishermanswharf.org/events​

Cable Cars in Holiday Mode

The city’s iconic cable cars get wrapped in greenery and lights during the season. Riding one gives you a moving view of holiday decor, especially along the Powell lines. It’s a low-key way to see the city without committing to a full tour.

• When: Late November – early January
• Where: Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines
• Cost: Regular Muni fare
• Website: sfmta.com​

Let’s Glow SF Light Art Event

A ten-day festival with animated projections on buildings downtown. The main events are centered around 1 Market Street, with additional displays stretching toward the Embarcadero. The December 13 Neon Block Party adds music and interactive elements.

• When: Early to Mid December , 2025
• Where: Downtown and SoMa
• Cost: Free
• Website: downtownsf.org​

Presidio Holiday Tree Lighting

The Presidio’s 55-foot tree lighting is a community-focused event with caroling, hot drinks, and a lantern walk. It usually happens in early December and draws families looking for a quieter alternative to the downtown crowds.

• When: Early December 2025 (date TBA)
• Where: Presidio Main Post, 20 Yorba Avenue
• Cost: Free
• Website: presidio.gov/events​

Noe Valley & Bernal Heights Neighborhood Displays

These residential areas offer a mix of classic and quirky. Noe Valley leans into traditional wreaths and white lights, while Bernal Heights has more creative setups—think disco Santas, rooftop reindeer, and light tunnels. Both are best seen on foot during early evening hours.

• When: Early December – January 5
• Where: Noe Valley (24th Street corridor), Bernal Heights (top of Bernal Hill)
• Cost: Free

The city’s holiday lights aren’t just about brightness—they’re about moments. Whether it’s catching the reflection of a glowing tree in a foggy window or hearing carols echo through a quiet park, the season has a way of making the familiar feel new. With a little planning and the right layers, it’s easy to find your own version of holiday calm in the middle of the city’s buzz.

More…

• https://www.celebrateinsanfrancisco.com/san-francisco-christmas-lights
• https://secretsanfrancisco.com/sf-christmas-trees/
• https://www.overheresf.com/christmas-things-to-do-in-san-francisco/