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Pier 39 at the Holidays

Events, Lights & Winter Charm

San Francisco Holiday + Christmas Events

Holiday Magic Steps from Fisherman's Wharf

Celebrate the season with a magical holiday in San Francisco, where winter charm meets holiday sparkle. From brilliant lights to beloved traditions, family and pet-friendly Kimpton Alton sets the stage for your festive getaway. Explore our curated guide of events and photo-worthy moments to make this holiday or New Year's Eve stay unforgettable.

Hotel Holiday Cheer Awaits in San Francisco


San Francisco Holiday Events + Things to Do


Pier 39 Nightly Tree Lighting

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Pier 39 at the Holidays

Pier 39 Nightly Tree Lighting

San Francisco tradition since 1983 of a nightly tree lighting experience.

Union Square Ice Rink & Holiday Tree

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Union Square Ice Rink & Holiday Tree

Skate beneath dazzling lights in San Francisco’s iconic holiday hub.

Great Dickens Christmas Fair

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Great Dickens Christmas Fair

Step into Victorian London for festive shopping, live performances, and immersive holiday experiences.

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Let’s Glow SF

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Let’s Glow SF

Witness stunning projection art lighting up downtown buildings.

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Holidays Events at Fisherman's Wharf

Discover the joy of the holidays at Fisherman's Wharf, where waterfront festivities, local traditions, and family-friendly moments create a season to remember.

  • Dec 4-Jan 11 - From sparkling lights and photo ops to gifts for everyone on your list, we hope you’ll make PIER 39 a must-visit destination this holiday season. Click Here for a full list of programming, including free photos with Santa Claus every weekend in our California Welcome Center, presented by Big Bus!
Couple taking a photo at Pier 39 in San Francisco

Santa Visits the Square

Santa Claus will be visiting from the North Pole during these dates and times:

  • Friday, Dec. 12th from 6PM – 8PM
  • Saturday, Dec. 13th from 6PM – 8PM
  • Friday, Dec. 19th from 6PM – 8PM
  • Saturday, Dec. 20th from 6PM – 8PM
Santa Claus sitting in a red chair flanked by christmas trees

Picture-Perfect Holiday Spots

  • Fisherman’s Wharf Holiday Lights: Capture the sparkling Wharf, just steps from your luxury Kimpton Alton stay.
  • Palace of Fine Arts: Snap magical winter sunset shots for unforgettable travel memories.
  • Golden Gate Bridge Vista Points: Iconic holiday backdrop for family travel photos.
  • San Francisco Cable Cars: Festively decorated, offering classic city charm and Instagram-worthy moments.
  • Pier 39 Christmas Tree: One of the Bay Area’s largest holiday trees, glowing with thousands of lights.
Christmas Ornaments

Holiday Traditions & Experiences

    • Union Square Holiday Shopping: Explore designer stores, Macy’s holiday windows, and seasonal pop-ups for curated holiday finds.
    • Sea Lion Sightings at Pier 39: A quirky San Francisco winter tradition to delight all ages.
    • Hot Chocolate & Ghirardelli Square Treats: Indulge in rich cocoa and festive sweets for a true holiday foodie experience.
    • Glow at the Exploratorium Interactive light exhibits perfect for family holiday travel.
    • New Year’s Eve Fireworks Over the Bay: Ring in the new year with unforgettable waterfront views and the largest holiday trees, glowing with thousands of lights.
girl holding candy canes

Christmas + Holiday Hotel Offers

a man and a woman enjoying cocoa outside in cold weather

4th Night Free

4th Night Free

From whimsical shops to esteemed restaurants to activities that are fun for the whole family, this area has something for everyone. Linger longer in Fisherman's Wharf and get your 4th night on us!

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woman putting santa hat on man

Book Direct & Save

Stay Flexible. Save More.

Book Now. Pay Later.

  • More Savings + Flexibility for your travel plans
  • Members Save up to 15% off
  • Flexible rate, no-deposit required, and no penalty cancellation up to 3 days before stay.
  • 1 night cancellation penalty if cancelled within 3 days of arrival.
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Holiday Lights

Holiday Getaway

Deck The Halls

Your Perfect Holiday Stay in San Francisco

Why leave the holiday magic behind when you can stay and savor it? With this offer, you’ll go straight from party mode to relaxation in no time. Skip the commute and enjoy the luxury of a hassle-free holiday celebration—because your perfect night deserves the perfect end.

Offer Includes:

  • Discounted nightly rate, starting at $109/night
  • Waived Daily Urban Destination Fee ($35 value)
  • 25% Discount on Parking
  • Blackout Dates Apply (11/20/2025, 01/08/26 – 01/11/26)

Book by November 30, 2025 for stays November 1, 2025 through January 18, 2026.

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