The Gryphon Gazette

By Allison H. ‘25 and Romy S. ‘25

This year, Santa’s not the only one with a list. We have compiled our own list, filled with the best holiday activities. And the best part? They’re all local, right here in the Bay Area. From ice skating to ballet performances and everything in between, these events are sure to fill you with joy this holiday season. 

Ice Skating at Union Square, San Francisco

Go ice skating with your friends and family at one of the most known and loved San Francisco outdoor ice skating rinks! The prices range from $15 to $20 and you can also take lessons if you need extra practice. It is the perfect place to spend time with the ones you love most and see the Macy’s Tree lighting up Union Square. 

Filoli

Experience the lively holiday atmosphere at Filoli this Winter! Beautifully decorated with lights and wreaths, Filoli is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit. After taking a stroll through the sprawling gardens, you can enjoy a delicious meal at the Quail Café, offering a seasonal menu of hearty soups and stews, quiches, salads, and sandwiches. With additional activities ranging from “Holiday Tea in the Garden House” to “Evening Light Shows,” Filoli offers an unforgettable experience to all.

Shopping at Stanford Mall

Immerse yourself within a winter wonderland at the Stanford Shopping Center! In addition to its quaint cafes where you can grab a warm mug of hot chocolate, and its plethora of stores where you can finalize your last-minute holiday shopping, the mall itself has been transformed into a picturesque world of festivity. Decked out with wreaths, banners, ornaments, and a towering Christmas tree, visitors are encouraged to bring their entire families (pets included!) to take photos with Santa Claus throughout the month of December. 

San Francisco’s Holiday Lights Tours

Live the magic of San Francisco’s festive holiday season through a Holiday Lights Tour! From cozy buses to classic cable cars, the variety of tours offered in SF will offer a completely personalized experience as you ride through the city. Showcasing some of San Francisco’s most iconic areas including Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, the Embarcadero, and Union Square, these tours are certain to imbue you with the cheerful holiday spirit.

SF Nutcracker

Experience the whimsical world of The Nutcracker, a ballet full of sugary sweets, exhilarating battles, and of course, Tchaikovsky’s iconic musical score. The San Francisco Ballet will hold showing times all throughout the month of December, with seating prices ranging from $25 to $249. Featuring characters such as the youthful Clara, the majestic Sugar Plum Fairy, and the malicious Rat King, this classic festive ballet is sure to dazzle and create unforgettable memories. 

With the winter holidays right around the corner, there’s no better way to foster holiday cheer than by spending time with friends and family. We are sure this extensive list of events will fill your calendar with festive and cheerful activities, making this holiday season the best yet! Happy Holidays!