NightLife: Santa Claude's Workshop
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Artistic rendering – Event may differ

NightLife: Santa Claude's Workshop

Experience the magic of Santa Claude's Workshop at the California Academy of Sciences. This adult-only NightLife event transforms the Academy into a festive marketplace, perfect for finding unique holiday gifts. Browse a curated selection of local vendors offering handcrafted treasures, enjoy seasonal cocktails, and soak in the merry atmosphere with live music.

What to Expect

Adult-only holiday market with local artisans and live music

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
  • Parking: The Music Concourse Garage is available for a fee ($5/hour weekdays, $6/hour weekends). Free street parking is available throughout Golden Gate Park, though it can be limited on busy days. Lockers are available for rent.
  • Accessibility: The Academy encourages guests to stay up-to-date on vaccinations and consider masking indoors. If feeling sick, it is recommended to visit another time. Specific accessibility details for the venue can be found on their health and safety page.
  • Pets: No pets allowed inside the Academy (service animals welcome)

Other Christmas Events Near San Francisco

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 (1/5)

Best For

Adults, shoppers, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, lively, sophisticated, community-focused

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Special Events & Promotions

  • Buy 3+ tickets and save 10%
  • NightLife Plus upgrade available
  • Advance purchase savings reflected in ticket price

Tags

holiday marketChristmas marketadults onlylive musicartisanal productshandmade craftslocal vendorsfestive foodseasonal activitiescommunity celebration

Location

California Academy of Sciences
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA
94118

Event Details

Duration

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM (NightLife event)

Ages

21+

Neighborhood

Golden Gate Park

Timed Entry

Yes

Featured Performers

  • RIETA

Organizer

California Academy of Sciences

Food & Drink

Food and drink available for purchase, but not permitted in certain exhibit areas like the Osher Rainforest or Swamp.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Purchase tickets in advance to save money and skip the line, as prices increase closer to the event date.
  • Arrive early, especially on busy nights, to secure parking and avoid potential sell-outs for popular exhibits like the Planetarium shows.
  • Check the Academy's website for the most up-to-date information on any health and safety guidelines or recommendations before your visit.
  • Consider utilizing public transportation or rideshare services to navigate Golden Gate Park, as parking can be challenging.
  • Explore the different vendor areas, the African Hall Shop and the Swamp Shop, to discover a wide variety of unique artisanal goods.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for NightLife: Santa Claude's Workshop?

NightLife events, including Santa Claude's Workshop, typically run from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Is this event suitable for children?

No, NightLife events are exclusively for adults aged 21 and over, and a valid physical photo ID is required for entry.

Can I purchase items from the vendors?

Yes, the event features a marketplace with numerous local vendors selling unique gifts and artisanal products, perfect for holiday shopping.

Are there food and drinks available?

Yes, food and drinks are available for purchase, though they are not permitted in certain exhibit areas like the Osher Rainforest or the Swamp.

How can I get to the California Academy of Sciences?

The Academy is accessible by MUNI bus and Metro lines, the Golden Gate Park Shuttle, bicycle, rideshare, and car. Parking is available in the Music Concourse Garage or on surrounding streets.

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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 30, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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