Illustration of a light display scene (Let's Glow SF)
Christmas Lights

Let's Glow SF

Visitors can explore downtown to see architectural icons transformed into colorful, colossal canvases with animated light projections. Featured landmarks include the Ferry Building, Salesforce Tower, 101 California St, and the Hobart Building. The visual displays showcase creative digital works by acclaimed international artists.

What to Expect

The nation's largest holiday projection arts festival.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Financial District, Yerba Buena

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Downtown SF Partnership

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and fans of large-scale light art

Vibe

Colorful and festive

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

San Francisco, CA

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Free.

Tips & Advice

  • View the Ferry Building projection from Harry Bridges Plaza, the event’s listed best viewing spot for this installation.
  • Watch the 101 California St projection from inside 101 California Plaza for the recommended view.
  • Head to 300 Pine Street for the Pacific Exchange projection, the listed best viewing location.
  • Look up from anywhere downtown to catch Salesforce Tower’s projection while moving between display sites.
  • Choose 1 Post Street for the Hobart Building projection, the event’s recommended viewing location.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Countdown to Glow launch party kicks off the festival. Details go out to mailing list subscribers.
  • A new audio walking tour and event map are coming for this year.
  • Downtown businesses will offer specials during the festival.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best spots to watch each projection?

Watch the Ferry Building from Harry Bridges Plaza and the Pacific Exchange from 300 Pine Street. Watch the Hobart Building from 1 Post Street, and see 101 California from inside 101 California Plaza. For Yerba Buena Lane, watch from the lane off Market Street. Salesforce Tower can be seen from anywhere downtown.

Is it suitable for families?

Yes. It's a free, family-friendly holiday celebration.

Who creates the projections?

The animated projections are works by acclaimed international artists. Artist reveals go out to mailing list subscribers.

Is there a map or tour?

Artist information, an event map, an audio walking tour and business specials are all coming soon for this year.

How do I find out about the launch party?

Join the Downtown SF Partnership mailing list for details on the Countdown to Glow launch party, plus location and artist reveals and event specials.

Tags

holiday light displaysfree eventfamily friendlyanimated displayssynchronized lightscommunity celebrationfestive atmosphereholiday seasonseasonal activitieslight displays

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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: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team