Illustration of a light display scene (Glow)
Christmas Lights

Glow

Visitors can experience a seasonal expansion of the museum's iconic exhibits with light. The exhibition features illuminated spaces and luminous light sculptures created by invited artists.

What to Expect

Annual winter exhibition illuminating Pier 15 with dazzling light sculptures.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Northern Waterfront

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Exploratorium

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Visitors who enjoy light art

Vibe

Luminous and surprising

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

Exploratorium
Pier 15, Embarcadero at Green Street, San Francisco, CA 94111
San Francisco, CA
94111

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Free with museum admission; free for Daytime members during 10 a.m.–5 p.m., After Dark members during 6–10 p.m., and donors. Members must bring their membership card and ID. – Get tickets
  • Hours: 10am on the opening date; 5pm on the closing date.

Tips & Advice

  • Daytime members, After Dark members, and donors should bring their membership card and ID to receive free admission.
  • If visiting Sunday morning, arrive after noon unless you are a Daytime member or donor, since public admission begins at noon.
  • Consider Thursday evening hours, 6–10 p.m., for a later visit; Glow is free with regular museum admission.
  • Check the museum’s hours before choosing a day: it is closed Mondays, and Sunday public admission starts at noon.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Daytime members receive free admission during daytime museum hours.
  • After Dark members receive free admission during the Thursday evening session.
  • Donors receive free admission.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Glow included with museum admission?

Yes. One admission to Glow is included with museum admission.

What can visitors see at Glow?

Artists’ luminous light sculptures illuminate Pier 15, expanding the museum’s experiences with light.

What should members and donors bring for free admission?

Daytime members, After Dark members, and donors should bring their membership card and ID.

Can visitors see the exhibition during the museum’s Thursday evening session?

Yes. The museum lists Thursday evening hours for After Dark; After Dark members receive free admission during that session.

Tags

holiday light displaysfestive decorationsinteractive displaysseasonal activitiesfamily friendlylight displaysartistic installationswinter activitiescommunity celebration

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 4, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team