‘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 through February 25, 2023, this event goes all out with festive decorations to replicate a picturesque mountainside retreat, including a sleigh and life-sized snow globe. Guests can indulge in a winter-themed menu with warming cocktails and delicious meals like cheese fondue, French onion soup, and family-style s’mores. New this year is an outdoor synthetic rink adorned with twinkling lights and lots of "snow"! This activity can be reserved separately and is perfect for kids.

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.


Four-Seasons-Apres-Holiday-Event


2. Explore Holidays at Filoli


Take a stroll through thousands of twinkling lights during Holidays at Filoli. From November 19, 2022, to January 8, 2023, 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. For groups of 15 or more, Filoli has a special package that includes discounted rates, a group welcome and orientation, a visitor guide, and a Filoli ornament to take home.
 

Christmas trees at Holidays at Filoli outdoor garden


3. Skate at San Mateo on Ice


Grab your skates and head over to San Mateo’s Central Park from November 11, 2022, through January 8, 2023, 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 16, November 30, December 7, December 13, and January 5.

San Mateo on Ice


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 19 through December 23, 2022, 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.
 

Family picking and cutting a Christmas Tree at a Tree Farm in Half Moon Bay


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!
 

Friends enjoying a wine tasting class
 

7. See the Winter Festival at Gamble Garden


The Winter Festival at Gamble Garden is a sight for all ages. On December 1 and 2, 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. 

 

Christmas tress with lights on


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 19 - December 18, 2022. 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.
 

View of the outdoor fireplace at the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay Resort.


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. Be sure to mention Lemon40 for a 40% discount.

 

Looking for more travel ideas? Check out all the great holiday activities on the Peninsula! 


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