BARTable This Weekend: Nov. 29–Dec. 1
The Glow exhibit at the Exploratorium is fun for the entire family. Photo courtesy of the Exploratorium.
Looking to make the most of your Thanksgiving weekend? From dazzling performances and holiday markets to tree-lighting ceremonies and free museum days, this weekend is packed with BARTable activities. In San Francisco, gather with friends and family and join a free walking tour, see “Hamilton” at the Orpheum Theatre or spin on the ice in Union Square. In the East Bay, browse local goods at holiday fairs or savor seasonal sips at a festive pop-up bar. Whatever you decide to do, we hope you have a joyful Thanksgiving weekend in the Bay Area.
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Nov. 26–Dec. 24 | Powell St
Times Vary | 415 Geary St.
Head to the American Conservatory Theater this weekend for a funny adaptation of this Charles Dickens classic. The story follows a small theater group from the first rehearsal to opening night as they prepare for their director’s new version of "A Christmas Carol." From Obie-winning playwright Craig Lucas, Tony Award winner and A.C.T. Artistic Director Pam MacKinnon and costume design by Tony Award winner David Zinn, "A Whynot Christmas Carol" is full of festive joy. Catch the show 0.3 miles from Powell St.
"Hamilton" at the Orpheum Theatre
Nov. 27–Jan. 5 | Civic Center/UN Plaza
Times Vary | 1192 Market St.
"Hamilton" is the epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love, and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation. Based on Ron Chernow's acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, "Hamilton" has profoundly impacted culture, politics and education. See this revolutionary story of passion, unstoppable ambition and the dawn of a new nation 0.2 miles from Civic Center/UN Plaza.
Nov. 29 | Civic Center/UN Plaza
7:30 p.m. | 201 Franklin St.
Modern blues greats will come together on the Miner stage for a special event. Expect to see Diunna Greenleaf, Anson Funderburgh, Oscar Wilson, Junior Watson and Mark Hummel. The music, described as the living soul of Texas, the deep Chicago blues tradition and the signature sound of West Coast blues, is sure to impress. Hear the tunes 0.3 miles from Civic Center/UN Plaza.
Through Dec. 22 | Ashby
Times Vary | 1901 Ashby Ave.
Don’t miss this world premiere play inspired by the Modern Love article from The New York Times. Given the choice of anyone in the world, whom would you want as a dinner guest? Is there something that you've dreamed of doing for a long time? Why haven't you done it? Tell your partner something you like about them, and more in this exploration of online dating, friendship, and its different approaches. This play by Shotgun Players at Ashby Stage is a must-see, and it’s only 0.1 miles from Ashby.
Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square
Through Jan. 20 | Powell St, Montgomery St
10 a.m.-11 p.m. | Union Square
The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in SF's Union Square is back for another magical season of outdoor skating and festivities in the heart of San Francisco. Hour-long sessions start every 90 minutes, so plan ahead! No skates? No problem! The ticket price includes skate rental. Hit the ice 0.4 miles away from Powell St and Montgomery St stations.
Through Jan. 26 | Embarcadero
10 a.m.-11 p.m. | Pier 15 Embarcadero at Green St.
Learn about science and light at this winter wonderland exhibit at San Francisco’s Exploratorium. Here, you can see dazzling artwork, play experimental LED dungeon crawlers, paint the walls with digital light and shadow, walk inside hypnotic 3D illusions and more. Find delightful surprises around every corner 0.6 miles from Embarcadero.
You needn’t pay a dime – or even a pretty penny! – to enjoy the breadth of the Bay Area’s offerings. Below you’ll find a roundup of free local events, including festivals, markets, museum admission-free days and more!
Head to Oakland this weekend for handmade arts and crafts. Photo courtesy of Fellowship of Craft.
Fellowship of Craft 2024 Holiday Fair
Nov. 30–Dec. 1 | Lake Merritt
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | 10 10th St.
Formerly the Craneway Craft Fair, this fun event near BART is back. With over 200 arts and crafts vendors, this is the perfect place for handmade holiday gifts for loved ones. Enjoy the art, the crafts and the people who make them this weekend in Oakland. Take BART to Lake Merritt for the holiday arts and crafts fair 0.3 miles away at the Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts.
Head West Marketplace at the Ferry Building
Dec. 1 | Embarcadero
11 a.m.–4 p.m. | 1 Ferry Building
This market celebrates creators and artists. It pops up in locations around the Bay Area throughout the holiday season. This weekend, they’ll be at the Ferry Building. Expect jewelry, pottery, candles and more from small brands, local shops and local non-profits. Shop and mingle 0.3 miles from Embarcadero.
Thanksgiving Walking Tours in SF
Nov. 29–Dec. 1 | Multiple
10 a.m.– 3 p.m. | Locations Vary
Explore San Francisco this Thanksgiving weekend. Stroll through neighborhoods, see cityscapes, witness architectural gems and spend time in the best public places on a free walking tour. This is a fun thing to do with visiting relatives! Whatever tour you choose, enjoy the city.
Holiday Tree-Lighting Ceremonies
Nov. 30, Dec.1 | Multiple stations
Times Vary | Locations Vary
There are a few tree-lighting ceremonies in the Bay Area this weekend. Sunday is also the first day to see Grace Cathedral’s Origami Tree of Hope. On this tree, you'll see origami cranes inscribed with wishes for the future of the world.
Thrive City “Winter Wonderland” Lighting Ceremony
Nov. 30 | Powell St
3:30–5:30 p.m. | 1 Warriors Way
Take BART to Powell St and walk or hop on the Muni T to the Chase Center.
Holiday Tree Lighting at Yerba Buena Gardens
Nov. 30 | Montgomery St
6–7:30 p.m. | 750 Howard St.
Take BART to Montgomery St and head 0.4 miles to Yerba Buena Gardens.
World’s Largest Origami Tree, the “Tree of Hope” at Grace Cathedral
Dec. 1 | Powell St
9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. | 1100 California St.
Take BART to Powell St and head up Nob Hill 0.7 miles away.
Free Museum Days
Dec. 1 | Multiple stations
Times Vary | Locations Vary
This weekend is the first Sunday of the month, which means there is free admission at both the Asian Art Museum and the Oakland Museum of California. Take a break from holiday festivities and visit one of these fascinating museums in the Bay Area.
- Asian Art Museum: Take BART to Civic Center/UN Plaza to witness artwork from all major cultures in Asia only 0.1 miles away at 200 Larkin St.
- Oakland Museum of California: Take BART to Lake Merritt to enjoy OMCA’s Galleries of California Art, History and Natural Sciences 0.1 miles away at 1000 Oak St.
Through Dec. 15 | Powell St
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | 736 Mission St.
The Contemporary Jewish Museum (CJM) welcomes visitors daily for free to allow everyone to experience its current exhibitions before it closes its doors on Dec. 15. Explore the dynamic culture of contemporary Jewish life through curated art. Five exhibits are currently on display, including the "California Jewish Open," which includes works from 47 Jewish-identifying artists. Spend the day exploring them all 0.4 miles away from Powell St.
New events have just arrived in the Bay Area! New shows, one-time events, unique workshops, annual events or anything that's just popped up on our radar. Learn more about what qualifies as "BARTable" or use hashtag #sfbartable for the chance to be featured!
The ultimate meeting spot for fans of comics, anime and more — the Fan Expo San Francisco. Photo courtesy of Fan Expo San Francisco.
Nov. 29-Dec. 1 | Montgomery St
Times vary | 747 Howard St.
The Fan Expo is the perfect event if you’re into comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, gaming or cosplay. Celebrities present include Hayden Christensen, Charlie Cox and Grand Gustin, to name a few! Expect celebrity Q&As, autographs, photo ops, gaming, panels, demos, workshops and much more. Find your fandom family 0.5 miles from Montgomery St.
"A Merry-Achi Christmas" Holiday Concert
Dec. 1 | Civic Center/UN Plaza
7:30 p.m. | 201 Van Ness Ave.
José Hernández returns to Davies Symphony Hall to lead the annual musical tribute to Mexico’s Christmas traditions. This multicultural celebration includes holiday favorites from both Mexico and the United States. As an added holiday bonus, the Davies Symphony Hall is beautifully decorated with trees, wreaths and garlands. Don’t miss the hot chocolate cart! Experience this vibrant performance 0.4 miles from Civic Center/UN Plaza.
Nov. 29-30 | 19th St/Oakland
11 a.m.–5 p.m. | 2323 Broadway
The Blackout Holiday Market is a two-day market on Black Friday weekend supporting small Black-owned businesses. Hosted by BRASH and Hella Plants, expect a vibrant celebration of community and creativity. General admission tickets start at $5. Take BART to 19th St/Oakland to shop for thoughtful, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts 0.3 miles from 19th St/Oakland.
Nov. 29 | Montgomery St & 19th St/Oakland
5 p.m. | 580 Sutter St. & 2424 Telegraph Ave.
Miracle is the ultimate Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar. This weekend is opening night, so you can be the first to sip seasonal spirits in a super festive setting. Get in the holiday spirit at two BARTable locations. The first is at Pacific Cocktail Haven, 0.4 miles from Montgomery St in San Francisco. The second location is at The Double Standard, 0.4 miles from 19th St/Oakland.
Looking for more BARTable things to do? Grab some trinkets for stocking stuffers. Stay warm at these indoor attractions and museums. Or plan a HoliDATE night with someone special. Don't forget to use BART's Trip Planner to plan your outing!
What are you doing this weekend?
Tell us about your weekend activities! Show us on social media at @SFBARTable and #SFBARTable! Keep up with us on Instagram and Facebook to see all of the best BARTable events, places to eat and where to have fun around the Bay.
by Nicole Findlay
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