Ah, December. The turkey’s been carved, lights have been strung and now all there is to do is obsess over the recipe for your holiday party’s specialty cocktail. But while you tinker with bitters and fiddle with garnish, why not think bigger and head to the sparkling City by the Bay to see how SF gets in the holiday spirit (spoiler alert: way more sparkles). Here are four “only-in-SF” reasons to be joyful in San Francisco:
Reason #1: Illuminique Under the Dome
Why it made Santa’s good list: After a frenzied day of holiday shopping downtown, Illuminique is the perfect (free!) way to remind yourself why you love the holidays. Beginning at 5pm and playing every half-hour, the rotunda at the Westfield mall is transformed into a winter wonderland. Huddle close to your friends and family and look straight up for a one-of-a-kind light show projected on the surface of the stunning 1908 dome.
Reason #2: Pier 39
Why it made Santa’s good list: Pier 39 is as quintessentially SF as the clam chowder bread bowls you’ll likely be noshing on there. This time of year it gets a full holiday makeover including an impressive Christmas tree right on the dock. And here’s a little extra something to help stuff your stocking: sign up for free to become a Local Advantage member and receive 50% off select merchandise, menu items or attraction tickets at participating pier merchants.
Reason #3: The Nutcracker at SF Ballet
Why it made Santa’s good list: You haven’t truly seen the Sugar Plum Fairy get her groove on until you’ve attended this enchanting event. The unique version is set right in the City by the Bay, and you’ll only fall deeper in love with SF as you marvel at the flawless dancers in the company. This piece has been a tradition of SF Ballet since 1944, but it’s never too late to jump in. Runs Dec. 11-29.
Reason #4: Holiday travel just got a whole lot easier
Why it made Santa’s naughty list: This deal is just so nice that it’s actually a bit naughty. San Francisco Travel knows you’ll adore all that SF has to offer this season–so much so that you won’t want to leave. Well now you don’t have to. If you book 3+ nights, booking.com will knock off up to 25% off your entire hotel bill. Book at any participating hotel and experience some San Francisco magic.
And while you’re out there discovering SF’s unique charm (like this totally insane and amazing Christmas getup in the Castro), snap a photo and tag it #magichoursf on Instagram, facebook or twitter and be entered to win magical holiday San Francisco packages. One grand prize winner will receive a two-night stay at the Hotel Diva, $100 Levi’s gift certificate, one family four-pack from the Exploratorium, a pair of tickets and a $50 gift certificate to the Asian Art Museum, two CityPASS Booklets and two tickets to Giselle from the San Francisco Ballet.