SF fire stations, including the new floating fire station #35 and their fire boats, compete in the annual holiday decorating contest for charity

San Francisco fire stations are lighting up once again for the holidays, bringing festive cheer with creative decorations and even snow machines! The city’s beloved Fire Station Community Holiday Decorations Competition is back for its fifth year, spreading joy and raising funds for local charities.

What to Expect in 2024

While official details from the San Francisco Fire Department are still pending, past years give us a good idea of what to anticipate. Typically, more than 20 fire stations participate, showcasing their creativity and community spirit. One of the most unique entries is Floating Fire Station #35 on the Embarcadero, which features two lighted fireboats adding extra sparkle to the bay.

According to a recent SF Chronicle article, last year’s contest featured dazzling displays such as:

• Station 39 (Mount Davidson): A forest of lighted trees, snow machines, and a fireman mascot with an animated face, reminiscent of Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion technology.
• Station 12 (Haight-Ashbury): A towering 15-foot live Christmas tree adorned with lights and a Grateful Dead-themed logo projection.

How the Contest Works

The competition encourages fire stations to decorate creatively, with prizes sponsored by the SF Fire Credit Union in the past totaling $4,000. Winning stations donate their prizes to local charities of their choice.

Block Parties & Judging on December 23rd

Traditionally, block parties at participating stations happen on December 23, 2024, with winners announced on December 24. The decorations typically stay up through the end of December, offering plenty of time to visit.

Typically the fire departments will light up around sundown with block parties at a few of the fire stations typically around 7-10p. More details to come.

Stay Tuned for Official Announcements

While we haven’t received formal word from the San Francisco Fire Department yet, we expect details to be released closer to the event. The best way to get updates is typically to follow @SFFDPIO on X. If you’re looking for some festive fun, keep an eye out for announcements and plan your holiday station tour!

For more information please visit the links below:

https://sf.funcheap.com/city-guide/fire-stations-san-francisco-lights-holidays/

https://www.sfchronicle.com/totalsf/article/fire-stations-sf-holiday-lights-19978665.php