Illustration of neighbours admiring a cottage yard full of lit snowmen and candy canes (36th Annual Building Lighting Ceremony & Carnival)

36th Annual Building Lighting Ceremony & Carnival

Visitors can browse a marketplace featuring local retailers, enjoy live music, and take part in family-friendly activities. Seasonal bites and festive drinks are available throughout the market. The evening culminates in a grand finale as Embarcadero Center lights up with thousands of sparkling lights.

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

Free.

Hours

4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Embarcadero

Food & Drink

Seasonal bites and festive drinks are available; guests must be at least 21 and show valid ID to consume alcohol.

Parking

Paid parking is available at Embarcadero Center garages.

Going?

Location

Three Embarcadero Center · 3 Embarcadero Center, San Francisco, CA 94111 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and holiday shoppers

Vibe

Festive and lively

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early because admission is first come, first served, and the first 400 guests receive a complimentary drink token or food voucher.
  • Bring valid identification if you plan to drink alcohol; guests must be at least 21 to consume it.
  • If you drive, use Embarcadero Center garages and budget for paid parking, which is available at the complex.
  • Tell event staff or photographers if you prefer not to appear in event photos or promotional videos.
  • Bring a warm layer for the outdoor lighting portion of the evening, while the event also uses adjacent retail space.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Admission is free, on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • The first 400 guests receive a complimentary drink token or food voucher.

Links & Contact

Run by BXP, Inc.

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is admission limited or should I RSVP?

Admission is free and first come, first served; an RSVP option is available.

What can visitors do at the market?

Browse local shops, listen to live music and enjoy family-friendly activities before the building lighting finale.

Are food and drinks available?

Seasonal bites and festive drinks are offered. Alcohol is only for guests aged 21 or older, who must show valid ID.

Where can I park?

Paid parking is available in Embarcadero Center garages.

What should I know about event photography?

Photos and videos may be used for promotional purposes. Tell event staff or photographers if you prefer not to be photographed or filmed.

Browse Christmas in San Francisco

Always check the official website for the most current information.

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Contributors & Updates

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