San Francisco's Christmas shows bring the holiday season to life with theater, ballet, symphony performances, choral concerts, and family friendly productions across the city. From The Nutcracker and holiday concerts to seasonal stage shows and live performances, this guide features the best Christmas shows in San Francisco for 2026.
The Best Christmas Shows in San Francisco This Season
Explore the best Christmas performances in San Francisco, including holiday concerts, dance productions, theater shows, and live entertainment happening throughout the 2026 holiday season.
1. Grace Cathedral's A Cathedral Christmas — San Francisco
Ring in the holiday season with one of San Francisco’s most cherished musical traditions inside the magnificent acoustics of Grace Cathedral. Performing since 1947, the nationally recognized Grace Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys presents an exquisite program of classic carols and sacred masterpieces. This performance features rich choral harmonies accompanied by a full orchestra and the cathedral's historic pipe organ. Spanning 90 minutes without an intermission, it serves as a deeply moving celebration of spirit, art, and timeless holiday music in the heart of Nob Hill.
- Dates: Tuesday, December 1st, 2026
- Admission: Paid
- Street Address: Grace Cathedral, 1100 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108
- Kid-Friendly: Yes (Children are welcome if they can quietly enjoy a 90 minute performance without intermission)
- Pet-Friendly: No
- Parking: Paid parking available at the Grace Cathedral Garage below the cathedral; street parking in Nob Hill is limited
- Website: https://gracecathedral.org/calendar-events/a-cathedral-christmas/2026-12-01/
Insider Tip: Sit in the center nave about halfway back from the altar. This sweet spot provides the ideal acoustic mix where the choir, orchestra, and 7,466-pipe organ blend perfectly without echoing off the stone walls.
2. San Francisco Symphony Handel's Messiah — San Francisco
Experience George Frideric Handel’s timeless holiday masterpiece performed live by the San Francisco Symphony and Chorus at Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall. First premiered in 1742, Messiah has remained a beloved worldwide tradition for centuries. Through a dramatic series of inspiring arias, recitatives, and triumphant chorus numbers, the piece offers a powerful musical meditation on redemption and hope. Guest conductor Ruben Valenzuela leads the orchestra alongside celebrated vocal soloists and the acclaimed symphony chorus. This grand annual concert stands as a quintessential San Francisco holiday tradition for classical music lovers.
- Dates: Friday, December 4th, 2026 and Saturday, December 5th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes (Recommended for older children comfortable with full length classical music performances)
- Pet-Friendly: No
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Civic Center Garage and Performing Arts Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Handel-Messiah
Insider Tip: Book seats in the First Tier or Center Terrace for the absolute best vantage point. These elevated seats give you a crystal clear view of both the guest vocal soloists and the entire choir, allowing the full power of the "Hallelujah" chorus to wash over you naturally.
3. San Francisco Symphony's Deck the Hall — San Francisco
Treat your family to a bright seasonal morning inside Davies Symphony Hall as conductor Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser takes the podium. The performance pairs members of the San Francisco Symphony with energetic guest vocalists and costumed holiday figures. Audiences can sing along to a cheerful lineup of classic carols and popular orchestral arrangements. Grand evergreen trees, oversized wreaths, and photo stations in the lobby spaces provide the perfect photo backdrop for visiting families. It delivers a kid friendly musical tradition right in the heart of the city's performing arts district.
- Dates: Sunday, December 6th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Deck-The-Hall
Insider Tip: Skip the main floor lines by heading straight to the Second Tier lobby, where costumed characters often wander before showtime for photo ops without the massive crowds waiting by the main entrance tree.
4. San Francisco Symphony's Home for the Holidays — San Francisco
Pay tribute to the legacy of vocal icon Peabo Bryson through a soulful evening of pop hits and seasonal classics at Davies Symphony Hall. A powerhouse lineup featuring All-4-One, Sheena Easton, Ruben Studdard, and Lindsey Webster takes center stage to belt out timeless holiday anthems. Backing musicians provide rich musical arrangements for the guest vocalists throughout the night. Guests can wander through illuminated hall concourses stocked with specialty cocktail bars and dessert stations. Please note that the San Francisco Symphony orchestra does not appear during this featured guest performance.
- Dates: Wednesday, December 9th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Home-for-the-Holidays
Insider Tip: Head up to the Second Tier lobby right after doors open for significantly shorter bar lines and sweet treats before settled crowds arrive on the main floor.
5. San Francisco Symphony's Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas — San Francisco
Watch Jim Carrey’s iconic portrayal of the Grinch on a high definition screen suspended above the Davies Symphony Hall stage. Conductor Joshua Gersen leads the San Francisco Symphony in a live to picture performance of James Horner’s complete cinematic score. The seamless sync between the live orchestra and the film brings extra depth to Whoville's holiday mischief. Interactive lobby displays and winter greenery set a cheerful tone as moviegoers arrive. It offers a captivating blend of live symphonic power and nostalgic holiday cinema.
- Dates: Thursday, December 10th and Friday, December 11th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Grinch
Insider Tip: Book seats in the First Tier Center for the ultimate line of sight, which places you level with the screen so you can watch the conductor's baton and the film without tilting your neck upward.
6. San Francisco Symphony's Holiday Brass — San Francisco
Feel the floor vibrate as the San Francisco Symphony’s brass and percussion sections take over Davies Symphony Hall for an exclusive showcase. Conductor Edwin Outwater guides the ensemble through crisp fanfares, traditional carols, and complex symphonic arrangements. The concert highlights the sheer volume, brilliance, and intricate technique of the orchestra's horn and percussion masters. Between sets, attendees can stroll through halls decked out in giant lit garlands and seasonal decor. It remains one of the most powerful acoustic performances on the Bay Area's seasonal calendar.
- Dates: Sunday, December 6th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Holiday-Brass
Insider Tip: Grab seats in the Side Boxes right along the stage perimeter. You'll get an unbelievable angle watching the percussionists swap mallets and manage dozens of instruments mid song.
7. San Francisco Symphony's Holidays with Bernadette Peters — San Francisco
Spend an unforgettable evening with Broadway royalty as three time Tony Award winner Bernadette Peters commands the Davies Symphony Hall stage. Conductor Tedd Firth leads the San Francisco Symphony through dramatic orchestrations of theatrical hits, festive standards, and beloved album cuts. Peters brings signature star power, witty stage banter, and soaring vocals to the concert hall. Guests can drop by the lobby lounges before the show for sparkling wine and seasonal sweet treats. The performance blends the essence of Broadway with the sophistication of a world class orchestra.
- Dates: Tuesday, December 15th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Bernadette-Peters
Insider Tip: Take BART or Muni Metro directly to the Civic Center / UN Plaza Station and walk three short blocks west down Grove Street to bypass pre-show traffic and garage delays altogether.
8. San Francisco Symphony's Holiday Gaiety — San Francisco
Kick off a night of unabashed camp and laughter co-hosted by conductor Edwin Outwater and San Francisco drag legend Peaches Christ. This adult oriented variety show pairs the full San Francisco Symphony with burlesque stars, vocalists, and surprise celebrity guests. Expect outrageous costumes, hilarious holiday parodies, and top tier orchestral playing throughout the evening. Davies Symphony Hall sets the mood with glowing winter decor and specialty holiday cocktail pop ups. It stands out as the city's boldest and most vibrant night out for adult concertgoers.
- Dates: Thursday, December 17th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: No
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Holiday-Gaiety
Insider Tip: Dress in your glitziest holiday attire as the crowd goes all out! Peaches Christ often calls out the best dressed audience members in the orchestra section during the show!
9. San Francisco Symphony's Elf In Concert — San Francisco
Relive every line of the modern classic Elf while the San Francisco Symphony performs the original score live to picture. Original film composer John Debney steps up to the podium to direct the orchestra as Buddy’s journey unfolds on the big screen. This live brass and strings performance lends incredible warmth and comic timing to the movie's iconic scenes. Families can also snap holiday cards in front of the lobby's giant lit trees before grab and go treats. It serves as a joyful cinematic celebration that appeals equally to kids and nostalgic adults.
- Dates: Friday, December 18th through Sunday, December 20th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Elf
Insider Tip: Arrive when doors open 45 minutes before showtime to take family holiday photos in front of the lobby's giant decorated trees on the main floor before line queues build up near performance time.
10. San Francisco Symphony's A Very Merry-Achi Christmas — San Francisco
Immerse yourself in rich Mexican holiday traditions as Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernández takes over Davies Symphony Hall. This platinum selling ensemble performs a vibrant program of traditional Christmas carols, regional folk songs, and dual language holiday tunes. Decked out in intricate charro suits, the musicians bring brilliant trumpet solos and stirring string arrangements to the stage. Illuminated greenery and seasonal treats await attendees throughout the concert hall concourses. Note that the San Francisco Symphony orchestra does not perform during this featured guest engagement.
- Dates: Sunday, December 13th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/A-Merry-Achi-Christmas
Insider Tip: Sit on the aisle in the lower Orchestra section. The band members often serenade fans along the pathways during their grand entrance into the hall.
11. San Francisco Symphony's Holidays with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra — San Francisco
Transport yourself to the golden age of swing as the world famous Tommy Dorsey Orchestra fills Davies Symphony Hall with big band charm. Guided by music director Jeff Bush and featured crooner Hayden Grove, this band delivers soaring brass ballads and upbeat dance standards. This performance recaptures the smooth mid century arrangements that topped music charts for decades. Guests can enjoy a gingerbread old fashioned from the lobby bars while taking in the venue's glowing holiday greenery. Please note that the San Francisco Symphony orchestra does not appear during this big band event.
- Dates: Tuesday, December 22nd, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Tommy-Dorsey-Orchestra
Insider Tip: Grab a seat in the Terrace directly behind the stage. You’ll get an incredible bird’s eye view looking straight down at the rhythm and brass sections, and a front row view of the conductor facing you.
12. San Francisco Symphony's Holly Jolly Pops — San Francisco
Celebrate the final countdown to Christmas alongside conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez, the San Francisco Symphony, and the Symphony Chorus. Vocal powerhouses Ashley Brown and Christian Dante White join forces with the full ensemble for a lush, grand scale pops concert. The program ranges from holiday instrumental medleys to soaring choral renditions of winter favorites. Guests can explore photo arches and cozy beverage stations spread throughout the festively decorated building. It delivers a heartwarming, full sound musical event designed for multi generational family outings.
- Dates: Wednesday, December 23rd, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking available nearby at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2026-27/Holly-Jolly-Pops
Insider Tip: Head to the curved glass window walls on the 2nd Tier wrap around promenade before the show for a sweeping, illuminated view of San Francisco City Hall’s famous dome lit up in red and green holiday lights.
13. San Francisco Ballet's The Nutcracker — San Francisco
Experience the legendary production that introduced America to a timeless holiday story inside the historic War Memorial Opera House. Set to Tchaikovsky’s brilliant score played live by the Grammy winning San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, Helgi Tomasson’s choreography shines from start to finish. Audiences follow Clara through 1915 San Francisco streetscapes, whimsical blizzards, and the glittering Kingdom of the Sweets. The theater's grand chandeliers and ornate velvet interiors offer an unmatched backdrop for seasonal photo traditions. It stands as the premier cultural cornerstone of the Bay Area's winter calendar.
- Dates: Friday, December 4th through Sunday, December 27th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid parking available at the Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St) and Civic Center Garage
- Website: https://www.sfballet.org/productions/nutcracker/
Insider Tip: If you're attending with a child who gets overwhelmed by loud sounds or crowds, book the dedicated Sensory Friendly Performance on December 27th at 11:00 AM, which features adjusted lighting and quiet spaces.
14. Straight No Chaser's Making Spirits Bright Concert — San Francisco
Experience the breathtaking vocal harmonies of the world renowned a cappella group Straight No Chaser inside the historic Palace Of Fine Arts Theatre. Known for bringing a fresh, modern twist to classic holiday songs and pop hits, their live performance delivers high energy entertainment packed with humor and vocal precision. Without a single backing instrument on stage, nine distinct voices weave together sophisticated arrangements that captivate audiences of all ages. The grand classical architecture of the venue provides an unforgettable backdrop for an evening of holiday musical mastery.
- Dates: Tuesday, November 17th, 2026
- Admission: Paid
- Street Address: 3301 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only inside the theater)
- Parking: Paid surface parking lot located directly adjacent to the theater off Lyon Street
- Website: https://www.bandsintown.com/e/108404145
Insider Tip: Grab a drink at the lobby bar as soon as doors open. The Palace allows bar beverages inside the auditorium (just make sure to grab a lid!), so you can sip during the show.
15. A Chanticleer Christmas — San Francisco, Oakland, & Petaluma
Celebrate the beauty and wonder of the holiday season with the Grammy Award winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer. Set against the ambient glow of candlelight in magnificent Bay Area cathedrals and churches, twelve male voices soar in seamless harmony across centuries of sacred and seasonal music. This program moves effortlessly from hushed classical reverence to uplifting holiday spirituals, creating a deeply resonant musical experience. With regional performances spanning San Francisco, Oakland, Petaluma, and beyond, Bay Area audiences can experience this treasured 49th season tradition close to home.
- Dates: Friday, December 11th through Wednesday, December 23rd, 2026
- Admission: Paid
- Street Address: 2450 Fulton St, San Francisco, CA 94118 (St. Ignatius Church)
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Street parking available surrounding local venues, with garage options nearby at major city sanctuaries
- Website: https://www.chanticleer.org/bay-area-season-2627
Insider Tip: Purchase your tickets well in advance for signature cathedral stops like St. Ignatius in San Francisco or Cathedral of Christ the Light in Oakland, as these acoustic venues consistently sell out early.
Tips for Attending Christmas Shows in San Francisco
- Book early: Popular Christmas shows in San Francisco sell out weeks, if not months, in advance. The closer to Christmas, the harder it becomes to get seats.
- Consider weekday matinees: Weekday afternoon performances often have better seat availability and lower prices than weekend evening shows.
- Check for family discounts: Many venues offer family packages, student rush tickets, or matinee pricing that can significantly reduce the cost of attending with kids.
- Take transit: Many of San Francisco's theaters are near BART and Muni lines. Taking transit avoids downtown parking costs and traffic on busy show nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed San Francisco shows this season.
When do Christmas shows start in San Francisco?
Most Christmas shows in San Francisco begin running in late November or early December and continue through Christmas Eve or early January. The most popular productions, including The Nutcracker, typically open the weekend after Thanksgiving.
How much do Christmas shows cost in San Francisco?
Ticket prices vary widely. Family friendly productions and community choir concerts can start under $20, while marquee ballet and symphony performances at major venues can run $75 to $300 or more. Check individual listings for pricing.
Are Christmas shows in San Francisco kid friendly?
Most holiday productions are family friendly, especially The Nutcracker, holiday pops concerts, and family stage shows. Weekend matinees are often the most family oriented. Check individual listings for age recommendations.
Do I need to book Christmas show tickets in advance?
Yes! The most popular Christmas shows in San Francisco sell out weeks, if not months, in advance, particularly for the final weekends before Christmas. Book as early as you can for the best seat selection and pricing.
Can I add my event to this guide?
We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!
Christmas Shows Worth the Drive from San Francisco
San Francisco isn't the only place worth visiting for Christmas shows this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own marquee holiday performances worth the trip.
Monterey, California — 2 Hours from San Francisco
Catch a beloved holiday tradition with the Monterey Peninsula Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker, where dancers bring the classic Christmas story to the stage in a family friendly performance. Then, soak in in the sounds of the season, and the sea, at Christmas on the Wharf, where visitors can delight in choir performances and community caroling, festive holiday lights and decorations, a 23-foot Christmas tree, free sweet treats, and a chance to meet Santa!
Lake Tahoe, California — 3 Hours 20 Minutes from San Francisco
Make the trip to Lake Tahoe for the Lake Tahoe Dance Collective’s Tahoe Nutcracker, where talented dancers bring the beloved Christmas ballet to life with a stunning mountain backdrop. Pair it with TOCCATA Tahoe Symphony Orchestra & Chorus’ Messiah & Holiday Favorites, featuring timeless choral works and seasonal selections for a memorable holiday concert experience.
Plan Your Complete San Francisco Christmas Experience
San Francisco's Christmas shows are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to San Francisco Christmas lights, Christmas festivals and parades, Christmas markets and holiday shopping, and Christmas attractions and experiences in San Francisco. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our San Francisco Christmas guide has you covered.
