FreeEmbarcadero Center Building Lighting & Holiday Carnival
Wed, Nov 184:00 PM – 7:00 PM · Wednesday, Nov 18, 2026 (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM; lighting ceremony & fireworks at 6:00 PM). Towers remain illuminated nightly through Jan 3, 2027.
Embarcadero Center1 Embarcadero Ctr, San Francisco, CA 94111 · 1.8 mi approx. from San FranciscoDirections
All ages (free family carnival; flat pedestrian shopping promenade with wide stroller walkways)
FreeFree admission (open public outdoor community celebration)
About this adventure
San Francisco's holiday season kicks off with the illumination of Embarcadero Center's four iconic high-rise towers, outlined with 17,000 brilliant lights that brighten the waterfront skyline through New Year's. The celebration begins with an afternoon family carnival featuring interactive carnival games, face painters, balloon artists, cookie decorating, and visits with Santa Claus. The evening culminates in the ceremonial lighting countdown and a pyrotechnic fireworks show reflecting over San Francisco Bay. The pedestrian plazas are spacious and fully stroller accessible. All carnival festivities and building light viewings are free for the community.
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