in Union Square
Winter Wander-land
Cable Car Bells are Ringing! San Francisco’s beloved variety of Winter traditions return for the 2nd Annual Winter Wander-land campaign – a seasonally perfect reason to explore all that the district has to offer.
Gump’s Holiday Store now open at 240 & 250 Post Street in the heart of San Francisco. Come see a magical winter wonderland of joy and delight, brimming with hundreds of mouthblown glass ornaments, enchanting holiday décor, mesmerizing jewelry designs and gifts galore.
Skate through the holidays at The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square presented by Kaiser Permanente! San Francisco’s favorite outdoor rink is back with daily ice skating for all ages and special events.
General admission is $20, and children 8 and under are $15, including skate rental. Purchase tickets in advance and online. We’ll see you on the ice!
Come experience the glittering lights of Macy’s Great Tree in Union Square Plaza!
Macy’s Great Tree in Union Square, San Francisco’s most recognized Christmas tree typically stands more than 83-feet tall, decorated with 43,000 twinkling energy-efficient LED lights and 700 shining ornaments.
The Macy’s Annual SFSPCA Window displays have returned to Union Square for their 37th year! For almost 3 decades, The Macy’s store in Union Square has partnered with the SF SPCA to showcase adoptable cats and dogs in the windows. The main goal of the event is to help loving homes for as many animals as possible.
From 12/7 – 12/15 come to Union Square Plaza to enjoy the Bill Graham Menorah for its 48th year!
The eight day event draws many civic and community leaders and variety of artists from the Bay Area music community. Celebrities from Carlos Santana to George Zimmer have participated in lighting the Menorah. Bill Graham Menorah Day Festival concerts have included a wide variety of performers including; Matisyahu, Perry Farrell, Merl Saunders, Peter Albin, the Moshav Band from Israel and Rebbe Soul, performing a mixture of traditional and contemporary music.
Jingle, shop, and mingle at Union Square’s 10-day Winter Walk presented by Amazon, a modern arctic adventure featuring giant glaciers, a family of penguins, and a polar bear (oh my). Along the 2-block pedestrian-only street party, discover a larger-than-life Ornament Trail, an indoor holiday marketplace curated by Sunset Mercantile, two bar gardens featuring festive specialty cocktails and beverages, diverse Off the Grid food trucks with themed days such as Noodle Night and Breakfast All Day, Animal Assisted Therapy Dogs, Santa, live music including a salsa band and carolers, and more! In partnership with the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development and Office of Mayor London N. Breed.
Friday, December 15th – Sunday, December 24th
M-W 12 – 7:00 pm, Thurs – Sun 10 am – 9 pm
Miracle at Pacific Cocktail Haven is returning to SF for its 8th year. This sparkling holiday pop-up bar is a San Francisco favorite this time of year, as it offers the best in seasonal cocktails, festive photo ops, and holiday cheer.
Friday, November 24th – Sunday, December 31st
The grand Sugar Castle in San Francisco, a creation by Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Francois Houdré, and his team, is set to be revealed in the Landmark Lobby on Wednesday, November 22. This awe-inspiring, 12-feet-tall revolving work of art, which was originally conceptualized in 2005, becomes even more expansive and captivating with each passing year. This year, visitors will enjoy the unique opportunity to see the “inside” the castle through an innovative augmented reality experience. Now thru January 2nd.
Oh what fun it is to walk the #WinterWanderlandSF Ornament Trail!
Looking for a holiday spirited outing for the whole family? Larger-than-life ornaments are popping up on Powell Street along the Cable Car route. Wander from Ellis to Geary Street to experience the Ornament Trail created by talented local artists.
Those seeking a luxurious respite from Union Square shopping can toast to the holidays at POP! Lounge, a glamorous pop-up champagne bar tucked away just off the Landmark Lobby. This sophisticated space is the perfect spot to enjoy a view of the Macy’s Holiday Tree, the ice rink, and the iconic cable cars going by. The menu features Moet and Chandon champagne, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, California Caviar, and small bites available for purchase. Guests can order at the bar and then settle into one of the cozy communal areas or social tables.
Dollie + Me Holiday Tea
Get all “dolled” up this holiday season & join Kit & Sis™ for a mother-daughter afternoon of tea, crafting, and fa-la-la-la fun! This special experience includes a lively holiday dollie crafting event accompanied by assorted teas, hot chocolate, sweet treats, and tea sandwiches (plus a glass of champagne for adults). Recommended for children ages 4+. December 16 & 17, 12-2 pm.
Come take a stroll down the historic Maiden Lane and experience the illuminated snowflakes lighting your way!
Just in time for the holidays, Miller and Lux Provisions the newest concept from celebrity chef Tyler Florence is taking over Union Square Plaza.
The savory spot features rotisserie chicken, charcuterie boards, a selection of beer and wine on tap, and, in the future, an outdoor oyster bar. Meanwhile, the sweet haven will be curated by the talented pastry chef Karla Marro, offering a delightful array of petits gâteaux, croissants, and pain au chocolat, complemented by exceptional craft coffee.
An iconic place to purchase your holiday toys, Jeffrey’s Toys! Established in 1938 as Birdie’s Variety Store, which later transformed into Birdie’s Toy House in 1953, Jeffrey’s Toys stands as San Francisco’s oldest toy store. Undergoing a significant rebranding in 1966, it became Jeffrey’s Toys and expanded to four locations in the city. Today, at 45 Kearny Street, Jeffrey’s Toys remains a cherished legacy business, showcasing a commitment to the city’s cultural fabric for over 80 years. Just in time for the holiday season, experience the enduring charm and find timeless gifts at this iconic establishment.
Take a peek inside Macy’s in Union Square to see an array of wonderful Toys R Us toys on multiple floors, perfect for checking everyone off of your holiday shopping list!
Here’s your chance to visit the busiest man of the season on the 6th floor of the Macy’s Union Square store! Book your time to join the line—it’s the only way to meet & take a photo with Santa.
Reservations open now – he’s only here from 11/24 to 12/24!
If you are a hotel, restaurant, retail, or business located in Union Square, please inform us about your winter promotions by sending an email to [email protected]. We are delighted to promote your offerings on our social media, website, and newsletter.
We’re also excited to offer sponsorship opportunities for Winter Walk, presenting compelling statistics and unprecedented visibility. In 2018, Winter Walk was the second most popular reason for visiting Union Square during the holiday season, drawing an astounding 2.2 million attendees in a single year. With its prime location and robust marketing, Winter Walk consistently attracts thousands of attendees, offering sponsors unparalleled exposure. Sponsorship levels range from $2500 – $50,000.