The countdown to Christmas has already started. The next weeks will bring lots of hustle and bustle, so we recommend taking some relaxing time out to explore a few areas around San Francisco that are pure magic during Christmastime. Many of these 10 Christmas-y streets are within easy reach of San Francisco. Note: Most, if not all, Christmas displays should be currently up, but we can’t guarantee the lights will be on all the time. Heading out before or after dinner is probably a good time to check out these 10 festive main streets.
Head to the South Bay and check out this 1.5-mile drive-through holiday lights and display spectacle. Be warned, cars line up and long lines of one hour or more can be expected during prime time on the weekends. This holiday drive is called Fantasy of Lights.
Thompson Avenue in Alameda is also known as Christmas Tree Lane. This street draws people from all over the Bay Area with its extravagant light displays and loads of holiday spirit. Each home has its own unique lights, decorations, and spin on the holiday season.
The magical holiday light display will be open every evening in December through New Year’s Day. Take advantage and catch this highly impressive set of lights.
This is a special place to get into the holiday spirit. The Mickey Mouse Christmas House in San Rafael is has become a holiday tradition for many families spanning multiple generations. Check out and see what the fuss is about!
Drive on Lakeside Drive, Lakeshore Avenue, or Lake Merritt Blvd for the best Christmas lights circling Lake Merritt. The lake is illuminated this time of year with spectacular lights bouncing off the lake. A must-see if you're driving through Oakland or nearby.
Just south of Fog City, check out South San Francisco’s Parkway Estates neighborhood for some of the most dazzling lights around in the Bay. Each year, around 100 residents of the Chestnut Street area get together to showcase and feature varied Christmas and holiday displays.
This is a more charming display of generosity from a local couple. The lights are vivid and feature free candy canes we hear as well! The backstory of the couple putting on the Christmas lights is heartwarming.
9. Fulton Street (Embarcadero Rd & Seale Ave): Palo Alto
Started in the 1940s, this part of Palo Alto has been dubbed Christmas Tree Lane. Ever since, the residents of this part of Palo Alto carried on the tradition, providing a strip of lighted trees and showcasing decorated homes this is unsurpassed on the Peninsula. Note the lights are on display starting December 13.
10. Market Street & Sacramento Street: San Francisco
Explore the beauty and dazzle of Market Street before Christmas, and also check out Sacramento Street around the Embarcadero Center for more pretty lights.
