Every holiday season, my wife and I dive into the magic of the holidays with a blend of city sophistication and small-town charm. This year’s adventure took us from the festive streets of downtown San Francisco to the artisan haven of Sebastopol. Here’s a look at our joyful journey, filled with lights, laughter, and delicious treats.

Holiday Splendor in Downtown San Francisco

Our tradition began at the In-Circle Holiday Party at Neiman Marcus. Greeted by carolers and surrounded by stunning decorations, we sipped specialty coffee drinks and champagne, nibbled on holiday cookies, and even met Santa himself. The atmosphere was filled with holiday cheer.

We followed this with a lovely lunch at The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus. Beneath its iconic stained-glass dome, we savored a Cobb Salad and Chicken Salad, the perfect blend of elegance and comfort.

Exploring Winter Walk and Union Square

Next, we strolled through the Winter Walk, a seasonal promenade filled with live music and the jingling bells of the Salvation Army. The Macy’s holiday window displays stole our hearts, especially the SPCA’s adorable cats and dogs available for adoption.

From there, we wandered Maiden Lane, decked out in festive decor, and stepped into Gump’s to admire their stunning seasonal displays. At Williams Sonoma, we ventured to the top floor, where wreath-adorned windows and cozy holiday decor created a true winter wonderland.

We also made our way to the top of Macy’s for a breathtaking view of Union Square. The giant Christmas tree and the bustling ice-skating rink below were picture-perfect holiday scenes.

We also visited Gump’s, a beloved San Francisco shop, where we took in the delightful and tasteful Christmas decorations. We then ventured to the Westin St. Francis hotel to marvel at its annual Christmas decor.

Chinatown and North Beach Adventures at Vesuvio

After soaking in the beauty of Union Square, we wandered into Chinatown, where vibrant murals and holiday decorations lined the streets. The festive spirit blended seamlessly with the neighborhood’s colorful culture, creating a truly unique holiday experience.

From Chinatown, we strolled over to Vesuvio, a historic North Beach bar known for its literary legacy and cozy charm. We enjoyed a drink in the warm, inviting ambiance, which offered a perfect escape from the bustling city streets.

Dinner followed at Hi-Way Burger in North Beach, where we savored juicy burgers that hit the spot after a day of exploring.

Fairmont Hotel and Ghirardelli Square

No holiday tradition is complete without a visit to the Fairmont Hotel. Its grand lobby dazzled with gingerbread houses and festive decorations, a hallmark of San Francisco’s holiday season.

Afterward, we headed to the Buena Vista Café for our first Irish Coffee. Known as the birthplace of this iconic cocktail in the U.S., Buena Vista has been a San Francisco institution since 1952. The warm, frothy blend of coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream was a delightful way to toast the season.

Finally, we stopped by Ghirardelli Square to see its holiday decorations. The twinkling lights and chocolate-scented air added a sweet ending to our day in the city.

A Festive Escape to Sebastopol

The next day, we took our tradition to the countryside, visiting the charming town of Sebastopol.

We started with lunch at Goldfinch, a cozy restaurant serving fresh, seasonal dishes that embodied the local vibe.

Afterward, we explored The Barlow, a vibrant outdoor marketplace set on 12 acres of former apple-packing warehouses. Now home to local artisans, wineries, breweries, and shops, The Barlow is a haven for unique finds and flavorful experiences. We spent hours browsing the shops, discovering handcrafted goods, and soaking in the creative energy.

To cap off our Sebastopol visit, we enjoyed a drink at Crooked Goat Brewery, a laid-back spot with an excellent selection of craft beers.

A Tradition Worth Keeping

From the grand holiday displays of downtown San Francisco to the artisanal charm of Sebastopol, this year’s Christmas adventure was nothing short of magical. Each moment, whether it was sipping an Irish Coffee at Buena Vista or exploring the festive shops at The Barlow, added a special touch to our holiday tradition.

We’re already counting down the days until next year, when we can continue this journey of holiday magic, cherished memories, and festive cheer.

Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

A Merry San Francisco Tradition: Exploring the City and Sebastopol for the Holidays