The tree lighting, the ice rink, and the holiday market that turn Union Square into San Francisco’s seasonal centerpiece.
Union Square transforms every winter into San Francisco’s holiday hub — a towering tree, an outdoor ice rink, and a holiday market, all within the same few blocks you’re probably already staying near. Here’s what to expect and how to make the most of it.
Quick answer: The tree lighting happens the day after Thanksgiving, kicking off a season that runs through mid-January. The ice rink and holiday market stay open the entire time. Since it’s right in Union Square, you likely don’t need to plan any special transportation — you’re probably already staying nearby.
The Union Square Tree Lighting
An 80-Foot Tree and a Festive Ceremony
The Union Square Tree Lighting takes place the day after Thanksgiving each year, officially opening San Francisco’s holiday season. The tree itself is massive — typically around 80 feet tall — and the lighting ceremony includes live performances in a genuinely festive atmosphere right in the heart of downtown.
The Ice Rink
Union Square’s outdoor ice rink is a beloved seasonal tradition, open daily from around 10am to 11pm (with an earlier close around 9:30pm on some days) from late November through mid-January. It’s presented as a partnership with local sponsors each year and has run for nearly two decades, making it one of San Francisco’s most established holiday traditions.
Holiday Market
Alongside the tree and ice rink, Union Square hosts a holiday market running for several weekends through late November and December — vendor booths, gourmet food samples, and gift shopping in an outdoor market setting, right in the square itself.
Getting There
You’re probably already there. Given how central Union Square is, if you’re staying anywhere downtown you likely don’t need special transportation planning — it’s walkable from most Union Square, Financial District, or Nob Hill hotels, and Powell Street BART drops you directly into the square.
See our Union Square neighborhood guide for the full picture of hotels and walkability in the area.
Parking During the Holiday Season
Union Square parking gets more expensive and competitive during the holiday season given the combination of shopping traffic and the tree/rink drawing crowds. Book ahead through a parking app rather than counting on walk-up availability, especially on weekends.
Book Union Square Parking in Advance
Holiday season rates are higher — reserve ahead for the best price.
Where to Stay
Staying in Union Square during the holiday season puts the tree, ice rink, and market right outside your door. See our Union Square neighborhood guide, including a real stay report at The Barnes hotel, for recommendations.
Book Your Holiday Season Stay in Union Square
This is a high-demand season for Union Square hotels — book early.
Combining With the Rest of the City
Union Square’s holiday season pairs naturally with other San Francisco winter traditions — the PIER 39 holiday lights and tree, Illuminate SF’s light installations along the Embarcadero, and holiday windows at nearby department stores. It’s an easy full day or weekend without needing to travel far.
Quick Reference: Union Square Holiday Season
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When does the tree lighting happen? | Day after Thanksgiving |
| How long does the season run? | Through mid-January |
| Ice rink hours | Roughly 10am–11pm daily (varies) |
| Do I need special transportation? | No — walkable from most downtown hotels, Powell St BART direct |
| Is parking harder during the holidays? | Yes — book ahead |
| Where to book discount parking | SpotHero San Francisco |
| Union Square neighborhood guide | Union Square San Francisco |
Union Square’s holiday season is one of the easiest San Francisco traditions to enjoy — if you’re staying downtown, it’s likely right outside your hotel. Tree lighting, ice skating, and holiday shopping, all within a few blocks.
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