‘Tis the season for exploring! With crackling fires by the ocean, dazzling light displays, and local farms growing Christmas trees, the holidays are a special time here on The San Francisco Peninsula. Read on for ten festive activities to add to your holiday bucket list!
1. Experience Après Village
Each year, the Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley transforms its restaurant, Quattro, into an outdoor winter wonderland at their Après Village! Open November 22 - January 7, 2025, this enchanting retreat featuring private chalets, festive lights, and seasonal decor that evoke the charm of an alpine getaway. This year, the village is designed to bring friends, families, and colleagues together to enjoy gourmet mountain cuisine, innovative cocktails, and holiday-inspired experiences, all with the signature Four Seasons touch.
Holiday Afternoon Tea – A Festive Treat for the Senses: Four Seasons’ seasonal Holiday Afternoon Tea at [esc] lobby lounge invites guests to indulge in an assortment of finely crafted teas, freshly baked scones, delicate pastries, and savory bites. Set against the backdrop of the beautifully decorated lounge, this holiday tradition is the perfect way to make special memories.
Reservations: Festive Dining & Events Silicon Valley | Four Seasons Palo Alto
For groups of four, consider reserving your own semi-private, wooden chalet for the ultimate cozy experience. On Sunday evenings, enjoy fireside movies featuring holiday favorites and recent releases. Reserve your tickets for weekend evenings from 4:00 - 9:00 PM or book a private event from Monday through Thursday.
2. Explore Holidays at Filoli
Take a stroll through thousands of twinkling lights during Holidays at Filoli. From November 16, 2024, to January 12, 2025, explore the extensive gardens of this beautiful estate in Woodside, shop for unique gifts, and relax by the fire while enjoying spiced cider or mulled wine. Whether you attend during the daytime, evening, or on a themed night, each offers a unique experience. During the daytime, you can experience all of the beautiful lights with the perks of a coffee bar and the Estate Trail open to exploring.
3. Skate at San Mateo on Ice
Grab your skates and head over to San Mateo’s Central Park from November 15, 2024, through January 12, 2025, for outdoor ice skating. For those looking to throw a private party, you can even book the rink all to yourself! In addition, there will be free, community skate days on November 18, December 10, and December 17.
4. Visit a Local Farm
The beginning of the holiday season is a great time to see the bounty produced on The San Francisco Peninsula, and some of our local farms offer unique behind-the-scenes tours. For a perfect day trip with the whole family, visit the goats at Harley Farms Goat Dairy in Pescadero and purchase fresh cheese for your holiday spread!
5. Cut Your Own Christmas Tree
Choose and cut your own Christmas tree at one of our local tree farms! In Half Moon Bay, Santa’s Tree Farm & Village has been operating for almost 50 years and grows six different types of lush trees. Running from November 23 through December 23, 2024, you can expect a unique holiday experience featuring train rides and festive activities. Another great option along the California coast in Pescadero is Rancho Siempre Verde (RSV Trees), where you can find your perfect tree, make a fragrant wreath, and take a tractor ride.
6. Taste Wine at San Francisco Wine School
If you equate the holidays with wine, you may be interested in taking a wine class. The San Francisco Wine School has multiple in-person and virtual courses for complete beginners or more experienced wine connoisseurs. Learn how to taste and talk about wine at your next party!
7. See the Winter Festival at Gamble Garden
The Winter Festival at Gamble Garden is a sight for all ages. On December 5-7, 2024, experience a wonderland of holiday trees and twinkling lights. The event includes wine, hors d’oeuvres, a holiday tree lighting ceremony, and holiday shopping with 20 vendors. Children 8 and under enter for free.
8. Attend The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Visit Victorian London at the Cow Palace! Enjoy street scenes, lively music, English foods, and handcrafted holiday gifts at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair on weekends from November 23 - December 22, 2024. You’ll also be able to purchase one-of-a-kind treasures directly from Dickens Fair artisans.
9. Cozy Up by the Fire
Cozy up next to a crackling fire while sipping on spiced cider or hot chocolate. Many restaurants and hotels in the area feature fire pits for you to enjoy. Half Moon Bay Brewing Company and Jettywave Distillery are great choices for a warm fire and delicious food. Nearby, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay also has outdoor fire pits overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
10. Blow Your Own Glass Ornament
Learn how to create two, one-of-a-kind glass ornaments to take home at Half Moon Bay Art Glass. Their classes are taught by skilled instructors and are perfect for adults and children ages 6 and up.
Looking for more travel ideas? Check out all the great holiday activities on the Peninsula!