The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square
Visitors glide across an open-air ice rink set against the festive backdrop of downtown San Francisco. Skaters can hit the ice using rented figure or hockey skates, while beginning children can balance with polar bear skate helpers. The rink also hosts special themed events throughout the season, including Drag On Ice, Silent Skate, and Polar Bear Skate.
See more other Christmas activities near San Francisco
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
General admission is $22; kids 8 and under are $17. Prices include skate rental. The Learn To Skate lottery offers one free ice skating lesson.
Hours
Hour-long sessions start every 90 minutes.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Union Square
Parking
Area parking garages provide plentiful parking options.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Book a session online and allow for its 60-minute duration; sessions begin every 90 minutes.
- Wear layers and bring gloves and a hat, since temperatures on the ice can vary.
- Use the restroom before putting on skates, as skates cannot be worn outside the rink and restrooms are in the parking garage.
- Bring your own skates if you have them; the rink returns a credit to the card used for the original order.
- Rent a Skate Helper early if needed, as quantities are limited and rentals are first come, first served.
Special Events & Promotions
- Children 8 and under have a discounted admission ticket.
- Skaters bringing their own skates receive money back on the card used for their order.
- Special events during the season include Drag On Ice, Silent Skate and Polar Bear Skate.
- A random lottery offers one free Learn To Skate lesson; December–January lottery entry is open November 2–23.
- Private parties are available on select Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays; unavailable November 23–25 and December 21–January 3.
Links & Contact
Run by Willy Bietak Productions
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can use the Polar Bear Skate Helpers?
They are for beginning skaters who are 48 inches tall or shorter and can stand independently and push the helper without assistance. One skater can use a helper at a time.
Should I reserve a skating session ahead of time?
Tickets are on sale online. Sessions last an hour, start every 90 minutes, and rebooking can only be done online.
What is included with general admission, and what else can I do?
Skate rental is included. Skate Helpers, lockers, gloves and socks are available to rent or buy separately; special sessions include Drag On Ice, Silent Skate and Polar Bear Skate.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear layers; gloves and a hat are helpful. You may bring your own skates, and the rink returns a credit to the original payment card when you do.
What are the options for getting to the rink?
Muni and BART serve the area, and walking, biking and ridesharing are encouraged. Area parking garages are available for drivers.
Browse Christmas in San Francisco
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.