San Francisco Christmas Guide › San Francisco Christmas Activities 2026
Yerba Buena Gardens rings in the holiday season with a community tree lighting from the Yerba Buena Partnership. Grab a hot cocoa, find a spot, and watch the tree light up.
The extras make it an easy sell for families. Carousel rides are free, ice skating is free during the celebration, and skate rentals are discounted, so the kiddos can take a spin or two (on the carousel, the ice, or both).
It's a festive, community-focused event for all ages, and best for families with children. Skaters, note that rentals are discounted rather than free, so budget a little for those. Between the tree, the carousel, and the rink, the kiddos will have plenty to do.
Questions
Is ice skating included?
Yes. Skating is free during the celebration, and skate rentals are discounted.
What else is there besides the tree lighting?
There's hot cocoa, free carousel rides, and free ice skating.
Is it a good outing for families?
Yes. It's a family-fun event with a tree lighting, carousel rides, and skating.