Like many, you might be looking for things to do this holiday season on the San Francisco Peninsula. Look beyond traditional gifts this year and give an experience that will last! From adventurous outdoor activities to hands-on arts & crafts, these local experiences on the Peninsula will make an impression and show you care without the hassle of wrapping presents. These activities are great to gift on their own, or you can join in on the fun with your loved one!


Après Village at Four Seasons Silicon Valley 

If you're looking to visit a European-style winter festival right here on the Peninsula, look no further than the Four Seasons Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto! You'll be delighted to hear that the seasonal event, Après Village, runs from November 22 to January 7 and includes (synthetic) ice skating, seasonal pop-ups, and more. Of course, the holiday season wouldn't be complete without the alpine-inspired menu complete with house-made signature s’mores and hot beverages.

Après Village

Beach Break Film Festival

Calling all film lovers! Beach Break Entertainment is putting on their second annual Beach Break Film Festival on December 28-30, and this is certainly something you won't want to miss. The festival will showcase local California filmmakers and have screenings of these unique films at the Coastal Repertory Theater in Half Moon Bay. Reserve your seats and see the lineup, here!

Beach Break Film Festival

San Francisco Bay Sail

Head out on the water with Spinnaker Sailing! Located at the Port of Redwood City Marina, this sailing school offers a variety of experiences with experienced instructors and skippers. Enjoy an afternoon sail and take a tour around the San Francisco Bay, or—for those looking to learn to sail— take a class! Spinnaker Sailing also offers courses in which you can earn an American Sailing Association certification.
 

Sailing-boat-on-the-san-francisco-bay



Wine Classes at San Francisco Wine School

San Francisco Wine School is located in South San Francisco and offers one of the most distinctly authentic wine experiences anywhere. Interestingly, it is the largest wine school in the United States! The institution is founded and run by David Glancy, one of 12 people in the entire world who holds both credentials of being a master sommelier and a certified wine instructor. The school has reached its prestigious status by offering the most thoughtful approach to wine study respected industry Certification Programs, unique Workshops on today's most important topics, Special Events, and Private Experiences. An experience here would be appreciated by wine enthusiasts of any level!

Friends enjoying a wine tasting class

Glass Blowing Class in Half Moon Bay 

Tap into your creative side at Half Moon Bay Art Glass. Their classes will teach you how to shape, blow, and color your own glass project to take home and cherish for a lifetime. Choose from a variety of pieces, such as glass pumpkins, terrariums, or jellyfish! When you register for a class online, be sure to mention code “LEMON40” for a 40% discount.
 

HMB Art Glass Owner



 
Wine Tasting Class at San Francisco Wine School

For the wine lover in your circle, the San Francisco Wine School in South San Francisco has multiple in-person and virtual courses focusing on different aspects and regions of wine. The class instructors are highly skilled, friendly, and welcoming to guests of all viticulture knowledge levels. Participants can participate in a variety of themed classes, such as blind tasting, food pairing, or tastings of wines from a particular region of the world. It's as fun as it is educational!
 

Group of friends cheering with wine glasses at a local winery

Museum and Garden Memberships

There are several different museums and gardens in the area that offer annual memberships for individuals or entire families. These memberships offer exclusive benefits including free entry, discounts, and events. The Hiller Aviation Museum in San Carlos celebrates the innovation of aviation pioneers and features hands-on exhibits to learn more about flight. In the town of WoodsideFiloli includes hundreds of acres of gardens to explore and hosts seasonal events throughout the year.

Brick building and trees adorned with holiday lights at Filoli Gardens
Holidays at Filoli

Kayaking on the San Francisco Peninsula

Up for an adventure? Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore the San Francisco Bay Area. See the coastside and paddle with marine wildlife at Half Moon Bay Kayak. On the bayside, rent a kayak or take a class at California Canoe & Kayak in Redwood City.
 

Man-kayaking-on-the-bay-during-the-sunset


 
Escape Rooms

For those who enjoy solving puzzles, give them an immersive escape experience! The Red Door Escape Room in San Mateo challenges groups to solve hidden clues and exit a series of rooms in less than 60 minutes. There are a variety of episodes to choose from with different difficulties. Do you think you're clever enough to find your way out?
 

Red Door Escape Room in San Mateo inside the Hillsdale Shopping Center
 



Celebrate the Holidays on The San Francisco Peninsula! See the top things to do and start planning your holiday vacation.