The holidays are a magical time of year, and there’s no better place to embrace the seasonal cheer than Pier 39 in San Francisco. Here at Crab House, we love seeing the holiday magic unfold all around us. Pier 39 is truly transformed into a winter wonderland during this holiday season, with a range of HapPIER Holidays activities you can find listed on the website.
Whether you’re here for a family outing, a romantic date, or a fun get-together with friends, there’s something special for everyone. Here are five festive things to do on Pier 39 in San Francisco this holiday season that you won’t want to miss!
Tip: From now through January 5th, pay a $10 flat rate in PIER 39’s Parking Garage from 5 to 10 pm. To obtain this flat rate, parking must be booked in advance. Limited number of $10 parking spots available.
Five Holiday Activities
1. Take Pictures with Santa Claus
Our first choice in festive things to do on Pier 39 in San Francisco is, of course, Santa. No holiday season is complete without a Visit to Santa, and Pier 39 makes it easy to make your holiday wishes come true! Santa will be available for photos and fun visits throughout the season at his festive winter wonderland setup. Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, Santa is always ready with a smile and a cheerful “Ho ho ho!”
Additional Info:
Santa Claus will be stationed at the California Welcome Center, spreading holiday cheer and offering a joyful experience for families. This special activity is perfect for kids and adults, making it one of the most beloved festive things to do on Pier 39 in San Francisco.
Schedule:
- Friday, November 28th:
- 6 PM – 8 PM
- Saturday, November 29th:
- 6 PM – 8 PM
- SPECIAL APPEARANCE: Thursday, December 4th:
- 5 PM – 9 PM
- Friday, December 5th:
- 6 PM – 8 PM
- Saturday, December 6th:
- 6 PM – 8 PM
- Friday, December 12th:
- 6 PM – 8 PM
- Saturday, December 13th:
- 6 PM – 8 PM
- Friday, December 19th:
- 6 PM – 8 PM
- Saturday, December 20th:
- 6 PM – 8 PM
2. Experience the Tree Lighting Show Every 30 Minutes
The moment you step onto Pier 39 for this holiday activity, you’ll be greeted by a dazzling display of holiday lights and decorations. The iconic Christmas tree takes center stage, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and ornaments. Walking along the pier, you’ll encounter festive garlands, wreaths, and twinkling lights strung above, creating a picturesque setting for holiday photos.
Additional Info:
Every year, hundreds of San Francisco locals and visitors come out to Pier 39 to see our 60-foot Christmas tree. It’s one of their favorite things to do during the holiday season. What makes it so festive? 15,000 energy-efficient LED lights are perfectly synchronized with a musical light show to craft those nostalgic, lasting memories.
Hours:
Be sure to check out the nightly Tree Lighting Show from Dec. 4 until January 11th. Music and colorful lights fill the air every 30 minutes starting at 5 pm and ending at 10 pm.
3. Watch Live Entertainment
(Visit the SmartWater & Pepsi Stages)
The holiday season at Pier 39 means more than just shopping; it’s a celebration of Live Entertainment! The rotating bands of carolers singing your favorite Christmas songs will surely get you in the spirit, while our special live performance acts will take your holiday up a notch.
Additional Info:
The Bay End Stage has been transformed into the LIFEWTR stage, and it’s where you can catch live music every weekend leading up to Christmas. The musicians are there to play a variety of musical styles for your holiday entertainment. And if you’re looking for more fun and festive things to do on Pier 39 in San Francisco, check out the free comedy, juggling, and magic shows we host every day.
Schedule:
- Death and Taxes Swing Band
- Friday, November 28th & Friday, December 5th, 6pm – 8 pm
- The Mistletones
- Friday, December 12th, 6pm – 8pm
- Tonic
- Friday, December 19th, 6pm – 8pm
4. Holiday Kids Crafts
(Visit the San Francisco Carousel at the Bay End of The Pier, next to the giant claw machine)
The free Arts and Crafts station lets visitors create festive crafts, perfect for getting your little ones into the holiday spirit. This interactive activity adds a personal touch to Pier 39’s list of fun things to do in San Francisco during the holiday season.
Hours:
- December 6th from 12pm – 3pm
Celebrate the Holidays with Us!
Pier 39 offers even more holiday attractions and activities like playful sea lions, scenic sailing tours, the Aquarium of the Bay, a family-friendly carousel, and so much more! Once you’ve visited Santa, pet some furry friends, and stopped by the carolers, join us for a festive, warm meal.
After all, the holidays are about good company, great food, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s your first time visiting Fisherman’s Wharf during the holidays or you’re a local planning a special celebration, book a table at Crab House today and enjoy all the festive things to do on Pier 39 in San Francisco.