Glide into the holiday season at Winter Wonderland Ice Skating in Thrive City! Join us for a smooth synthetic ice skating experience in the heart of Mission Bay.
Ice skating sessions are between 20-30 minutes. Space is limited to first-come, first-served. Eventbrite registrations will receive priority admission until capacity is reached. A limited amount of walk-ups may be available. All ice skaters age 6 and under must be supervised at all times by their parents or guardian.
Don’t worry if you don’t have skates! Complimentary rentals (child size one through adult size 12) will be available for a $5 suggested donation to the Warriors Community Foundation in support of education and youth development to promote thriving students, schools and communities.
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After going dark in March 2023, the iconic Bay Bridge lights are making a highly anticipated comeback. Workers have begun installing 50,000 new custom-engineered LED lights on the western span of the bridge, according to Illuminate, the arts nonprofit spearheading the project.
The revamped light display, known as The Bay Lights, will soon brighten the San Francisco Bay Area skyline once more. Illuminate announced that testing for the new system is slated to start in early 2025, with the lights expected to return later this winter. While a specific launch date hasn’t been confirmed, the nonprofit encouraged the public to “stay tuned” for further updates.
Originally lit in 2013, the lights adorned the north side of the western span for a decade before being turned off in early 2023. The old LED system, overwhelmed by San Francisco’s harsh bay conditions, had begun failing faster than repairs could keep up.
“The return of The Bay Lights is something we’re all looking forward to,” the nonprofit shared on Instagram. “We hope you will join us on the waterfront to celebrate!”
The project’s revival was made possible through a successful crowdfunding campaign, demonstrating the community’s commitment to restoring one of San Francisco’s most beloved landmarks.
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!
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