Where to See Holiday Lights in San Francisco

Photo by Chris Martin on Flickr, under Creative Commons license

The holiday season is here, and San Francisco is ready to sparkle! From towering, commercially lit trees to whimsical, independently decorated houses and entire "Christmas Tree Lanes," the Bay Area offers a dazzling array of lights to explore. Here is where to find the most magical holiday light displays this year:

Part 1: Dazzling Public & Commercial Displays in SF

These iconic San Francisco locations are professionally curated, offering grand spectacles and easy-to-find festive cheer.

• Union Square
  The heart of SF's holiday scene features an impressive 83-foot Christmas tree from Macy's, an ice skating rink, and festive window displays that have been a tradition for decades.

• Embarcadero Center
  The center's four buildings are illuminated with over 17,000 twinkling lights, creating a beautiful backdrop along the waterfront.

• Golden Gate Park
  A true urban oasis of light, featuring three main attractions:

  • Lightscape

    : A ticketed, immersive experience in the

    San Francisco Botanical Garden

    with a mile-long trail of light and sound installations.

  • Entwined: A free, whimsical outdoor light art installation in Peacock Meadow with glowing sculptural trees.

  • Uncle John's Tree

    : The city's official 100-foot-tall Christmas tree in front of McLaren Lodge.

• Let's Glow SF
  Billed as the nation's largest free holiday projection arts festival, this event transforms the facades of several iconic downtown buildings, including the Ferry Building and Salesforce Tower, into massive, animated canvases.

Part 2: Notable Houses & Residential Streets

For a more intimate, neighborhood experience, these homeowners go above and beyond to share their holiday spirit.

San Francisco

• 68 Castro Street
  A must-see home known for its exuberant, classic Christmas decorations, including giant candy canes and tinsel.

• The Light Tunnel House (Outer Sunset)
  Located at 43rd & Riviera, this house features a captivating archway of lights that visitors can walk under for a unique photo opportunity.

• 45 Upper Terrace
  Famous for its playful and whimsical theme, including elves that appear to be climbing the roof.

• Merced Heights Houses
  A cluster of three homes at the corner of Garfield and Monticello Avenue that work together to create an impressive, extensive display with inflatables and nativity scenes.

Wider Bay Area

If you are up for a short drive, these are worth the trip:

• Eucalyptus Avenue, San Carlos
  The most famous "Christmas Tree Lane" on the Peninsula, this is an entire two-block stretch where every home participates. Park nearby and walk to fully enjoy the ambiance.

• Thompson Avenue, Alameda
  A dense, family-friendly street where each house often has a unique theme, and you might even find locals selling hot chocolate.

• Fulton Street, Palo Alto
  One of the oldest "Christmas Tree Lanes" in the area, offering a nostalgic look at holiday decorations since 1940.

• Crippsmas Place, Fremont
  An entire neighborhood street known for its handcrafted displays and strong community spirit.