Bay Area Holiday Traditions: places to go this holiday season
Towards the end of each year, when celebrating the holidays and being surrounded by the warm Christmas cheers is at the top of everyone’s list, there seems to be no better time to get outside to enjoy all the outdoor festivities. Being back home this year to spend the holiday season in my home state with all my friends and family, has been absolutely fulfilling. The last few years, after moving to Texas, I was only able to come home for 2-3 days each Christmas, which made it difficult to pick what I could do and who I could see which that time. To say I missed these small traditions would be an understatement.
Like most people I know; Christmas time is just a magical, serendipitous time of year that also can be filled with such deep sadness as we reflect upon memories we spend with our loved ones we no longer have with us. Through the years I have dearly held on to the moments that make me feel closer to those who have passed, reconnecting us through the memories shared, while also choosing to stay present in making new memories with those who are still here.
I wanted to take this time to share with you my favorite festive locations and events of the season. Whether you chose to use this as a guide for yourself when it comes towards making your plans the rest of the season, yes I know we are cutting it close or you chose to revisit this list next year, it is my hope that you find value in this information.
"Christmas is the day that holds all time together."
- Alexander Smith
I want to share the Bay Area locations that I absolutely adore. Now before going into this much further let me first acknowledge that things around California are still very much built around the deep considerations of COVID-19 still ravaging. Things are not throughly decorated or as largely organized as previous years, however, they still deserve their moments to be appreciated fully.
Christmas In The Park - San Jose, CA
Downtown San Jose has a dedicated park which is transformed to a winter wonderland right after Thanksgiving. The park is filled with hundreds of live Christmas trees which are individually decorated in their own theme. Various groups in the community, ranging from schools and community centers, to sports organizations and religious groups. It is also very common to see memorial trees decorated to celebrate the beautiful lives of our loved ones who are no longer with us.
As you walk through the park, you will see creative interpretations of classical Christmas movies and themes, which are brought to life through the creation of ornaments from small children, on the trees. Combined with animated scenes and large photo op areas with large lit trees, Santa and other signage throughout the set up.
Many vendors set up along side the perimeter of the park to sell your holiday favorite drinks, snacks and even souvenirs. The snow man hot chocolate with a fresh churro is my personal favorite combination each year. The outdoor iceskating rink is located right across the street from the park as well as the other rides one can enjoy. Due to COVID-19, this year there were not any of the rides set up.
Location: Plaza de Cesar Chaves at 194 S Market St. San Jose, CA 95113
Cost: Free
Nutcracker Ballet - San Francisco, CA
Nothing screams, “It’s the holidays!” quite like the Nutcracker Ballet.
A dream of mine was to attend a ballet for Christmas. This year my sister treated my mom and me. Who knows, this may become a new yearly tradition.
This year's version of the Nutcracker had an artistic spin which had the set take place in none other than the beloved San Francisco of 1915. This charming performance lasted about 2 hours
From December 10th - 30th, there are two showings a day. The first, at 2 pm, followed by another showing at 7 pm, down in the Civic Center district. With COVID-19 still ravaging, all guests in attendance need to show proof of full vaccination. The Opera House accepts vaccination proof by a digital QR scan and the physical copy, accompanied by a valid ID.
Location: War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco
Cost: Price varies. All tickets are available for purchase online.
Union Square - San Francisco, CA
Heading into the City during the holidays is easily one of my favorite traditions that I began in college. It is as easy as taking BART in and being dropped off in front of your destination.
In Union Square outside of Macy's, this enormous Christmas tree that stands tall between the skyscrapers glistens with magic and the hope of a blissful holiday season. Whether it's day or night, this is an Instagram-able spot that you do not want to miss!
Location: In the heart of Union Square near the corner of Geary and Powell streets.
Cost: Free
Iceskating In The Square
This may not be Rockefeller Center but, this sure does come in a close second. Next to the tree is the Union Square ice skating rink! Open daily from 10 is - 11:30 pm till after the new year! The last day to skate is January 17th, 2022. Tickets need to be purchased online to limit the amount of contact between workers and attendees. Be sure to dress warmly for the icy temperatures of the city and the ice.
Location: 333 Post St. San Francisco, CA
Cost: $5 - $19 per person including skate rental.
Catch up on what you may have missed.
