As the world renews its love of holiday travel, San Francisco is an energizing destination for a Thanksgiving weekend getaway. This month, the Bay Area is glowing with holiday festivities, music, art, theater, events, and cultural experiences. From the annual tree lighting in Union Square to holiday shows in the Theater District, San Francisco's spirit glows this season.
The concierge at Hotel Nikko San Francisco has a few ideas to get you in the holiday mood. Whether a California local looking for a weekend out of the house or travelers craving a holiday adventure (we didn't get many last year), start planning your perfect San Francisco getaway for the Thanksgiving weekend.
San Francisco Holiday Events
Discover all the fun festivities happening over Thanksgiving weekend in San Francisco. Explore SF's eclectic neighborhoods and seasonal events for a true taste of the holidays on the West Coast.
- Annual San Francisco Turkey Trot – November 25 - Golden Gate Park
Burn 600 calories as you run or walk a 10K through the beautiful scenery of Golden Gate Park. The San Francisco Turkey Trot is an annual Thanksgiving Day tradition and an incredible way to explore the sights of the San Francisco Bay. - Union Square Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony – November 29th
Kick off the holiday season at the Annual Tree Lighting ceremony in San Francisco's iconic Union Square, from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm. The giant Christmas tree will tinkle with thousands of LED lights and lavish ornaments in front of Macy's.
Discover San Francisco's Theater and Arts
Enjoy a weekend of live theater, music, and interactive arts at the historic theaters and cultural venues of San Francisco. Take the kids to see A Christmas Carol at the Golden Gate Theater on Thanksgiving Day. Be blown away by Immersive Van Gogh, a stunning experience with projections and moving images animating the works of the genius. Dance to the tunes of the BratPack at Feinstein's, an exhilarating concert of your favorite 80's music every weekend in November and December.
- My Fair Lady - Nov 3 – 28 - Golden Gate Theatre, San Francisco
- Storm Large – November 13-14 – Nikko Ballroom, San Francisco
- A Christmas Carol – Nov. 25 – Dec. 25 - Golden Gate Theatre, San Francisco
- Immersive Van Gogh - Nov 25th - SVN West, San Francisco
- Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 – Nov. 25 – 28 - Davies Symphony Hall, San Francisco
- Marilu Henner: Music & Memories - November 19 & 20 - Nikko Ballroom, San Francisco
- BratPack – Nov. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 and Dec. 3, 4, 9 – Feinstein's at The Nikko, San Francisco
- An Evening with Lena Hall – November 26 & 27 - Nikko Ballroom, San Francisco
San Francisco Restaurants with Unique Thanksgiving Dinners
For foodies looking for something off the "eaten" path, San Francisco offers a mix of unique restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner in a modern way. Gather with family at Restaurant ANZU, serving modern California and Japanese fare, like the warm roasted heirloom squash, in Union Square.
Break away from tradition this Thanksgiving with dinner at Z & Y Restaurant, the famous Sichuan eatery in Chinatown. Expand your culinary horizons with dishes like chicken with explosive chili peppers and Peking roasted duck (how very Christmas Story of you).
SF's Hottest Holiday Shopping
Union Square – San Francisco's luxury shopping destination, Union Square is lined with departments stores, shops, boutiques, and the city's largest mall. Enjoy holiday and Black Friday shopping at Macy's, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus., Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom or hit the stores at the Westfield SF Centre.
Westfield San Francisco Centre – Shop at this high-style shopping center just off Union Square, with luxury stores that include Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Rolex. Westfield San Francisco Centre also offers popular stores such as Banana Republic, J. Crew and Ray Ban, so it's easy to find that perfect holiday gift.
The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market – Saturday, Tuesday & Thursday – This certified farmer's market features 100+ vendors around the Ferry Building, selling fresh California produce, craft food products, and cooked dishes showcasing SF's culinary spirit. The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is the perfect spot to pick up artisan cheeses and sauces for your holiday party.
Get Away to Hotel Nikko San Francisco
Hotel Nikko San Francisco is a relaxing oasis just steps from Union Square, the Theater District, and the city's festivities. After a day of shopping, sightseeing, and cultural activities, come relax in Asian-inspired rooms and suites with postcard views of San Francisco. Enjoy dining at Restaurant ANZU, see a musical show at Feinstein's, and soak up the breathtaking sights and holiday lights all around us.
Hotel Nikko offers a collection of specials and packages that make holiday travel better As San Francisco's original pet friendly hotel, we welcome the entire family to join us this Thanksgiving weekend.