Daly City Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Daly City and nearby
The San Francisco Ballet's iconic Nutcracker production anchors the holiday season for many, drawing crowds from Daly City and beyond. Throughout the Bay Area, communities embrace the spirit with dazzling light displays, charming holiday markets, and lively tree lighting ceremonies, all culminating in grand New Year's Eve celebrations.
Beyond the Nutcracker, experience the unique harmonies of Chanticleer, or enjoy the San Francisco Symphony's special holiday concerts. Families can explore themed events like Glowfari at the Oakland Zoo or find unique gifts at local markets, all listed below to help you plan your festive excursions.
Browse Christmas Near Daly City by Category
Christmas Shows
Traditional Irish music, dance, song, and storytelling set in 1950s Ireland.
Christmas Markets
Indoor and outdoor craft fair featuring local makers and Irish goods.
Christmas Lights
Immersive one-mile trail illuminated by one million lights and sculptures.
Christmas Parties
Holiday bar crawl through San Francisco's Mission District with festive costumes.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Downtown celebration featuring festive lights, snow, live entertainment, and Santa visits.
Editor's Picks
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San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker
· San Francisco
Helgi Tomasson's classic San Francisco holiday production set to Tchaikovsky's score.
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A Grand Night at the Nutcracker Day Trip
· San Francisco
Day trip to San Francisco Ballet's Nutcracker with round-trip transit included.
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Graham Lustig's The Nutcracker
· Oakland
Features live accompaniment by the Oakland Symphony and children's choir.
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36th Annual Building Lighting Ceremony & Carnival
· San Francisco
Annual building lighting ceremony and carnival
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Holidays at Filoli
· Woodside
Historic estate transformed by holiday lights and decor
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Lightscape at San Francisco Botanical Garden
· San Francisco
Immersive one-mile trail illuminated by one million lights and sculptures.
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Daly City Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Daly City Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Daly City?
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair at the Cow Palace is one of the largest annual holiday events in Daly City, offering a Victorian-themed market and entertainment. Other community events and neighborhood light displays also contribute to the festive season.
What holiday traditions are unique to Daly City?
Daly City’s holiday traditions include the Victorian-style Dickens Fair and community-driven neighborhood light displays. The city’s proximity to San Francisco also brings a blend of cultural holiday celebrations unique to the Bay Area.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Daly City?
Several residential neighborhoods in Daly City are known for their festive holiday lights and decorations, especially areas close to the Cow Palace and along main residential streets where families participate enthusiastically each year.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Daly City?
Local makers and Christmas markets can be found at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair at the Cow Palace and smaller artisan markets held at community centers or nearby parks throughout the season.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Daly City?
Visiting neighborhood Christmas light displays and attending free artisan markets are great budget-friendly options. Walking through decorated streets and enjoying community events provide festive experiences without cost.
What are good picks for families with kids in Daly City?
Families can enjoy the immersive Victorian atmosphere of the Great Dickens Christmas Fair, along with local light displays and seasonal markets that often include kid-friendly crafts and performances.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
Cavalcade of Lights
📍 Toronto , ON , Canada
Annual tree lighting ceremony and festive light displays
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