2025 San Francisco Bay Area Thanksgiving Event Guide

As the crisp fall air returns, the Bay Area is once again gearing up to celebrate Thanksgiving with an abundance of vibrant events. Whether you’re planning quality family time or looking to enjoy the holiday season with friends, this guide to the 2025 Thanksgiving happenings around San Francisco will help you plan a warm, festive, and memorable holiday.

Turkey Trots and Fun Runs

Thanksgiving morning in the Bay Area wouldn’t be complete without the beloved Turkey Trot tradition. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park will host one of the most popular family-friendly races, offering 5-mile and 3-mile routes for runners and walkers alike. Many other neighborhoods and cities, such as South San Francisco and the South Bay, will also organize their own themed runs and kids’ dashes. These events are a great way to kickstart the day with energy while supporting local charities and building community spirit.

Holiday Celebrations Around the City

While San Francisco hasn’t hosted a major Thanksgiving Day parade in recent years, many local communities and business districts still put on their own smaller-scale festivities. These include mini-floats, balloon displays, and pop-up performances. You can expect to find live music, festive decor, and cultural showcases in areas like Union Square, Market Street, and Chinatown. The spontaneous charm of these events often adds a delightful surprise to your Thanksgiving stroll through the city.

Dining Out and Open Venues

For those looking to dine out, many restaurants across the Bay Area—from waterfront eateries at Fisherman’s Wharf to the Ferry Building and SoMa districts—will remain open on Thanksgiving Day with prix fixe menus featuring roasted turkey, pumpkin pie, and festive cocktails. Several establishments also offer curated takeout Thanksgiving boxes, perfect for a relaxed, at-home feast. Notably, major museums and cultural venues like the de Young Museum and California Academy of Sciences are open during the long weekend, making it ideal to blend food with art and science.

Giving Back: Community Service Opportunities

Thanksgiving is just as much about gratitude as it is about giving. In true Bay Area spirit, numerous local organizations offer opportunities to volunteer or donate. Groups like the SF Rescue Mission and Bay Area Food Banks are expected to serve over 5,000 free holiday meals to those in need this season. You can sign up online to assist in meal prep or distribution. Many grocery stores and community centers will also be collecting non-perishable food donations throughout November, and monetary donations are encouraged as well—just $1 can provide up to two meals. Additionally, environmental groups are organizing post-holiday cleanup events at parks and beaches, offering a great way to give back to nature.

Outdoor & Nature-Based Activities

If you prefer to spend the holiday outdoors, there are countless scenic options in and around San Francisco. Join a Thanksgiving sunrise yoga session at Crissy Field on the morning of November 27 to start your day with mindfulness and views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Popular hiking trails like the Presidio-to-Baker Beach route or nature walks at Tilden Regional Park offer opportunities to enjoy coastal views and crisp fall air. For something unique, consider a Thanksgiving dinner cruise on the San Francisco Bay—featuring full-course meals and unbeatable skyline views. Be sure to reserve your spot early, as these cruises often sell out months in advance.

Thanksgiving Travel Tips for the Holiday Weekend

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel weekends in the Bay Area. If you're heading to the city for events or shopping, public transit—such as BART, Muni, and Caltrain—is strongly recommended to avoid traffic congestion and parking struggles. For those who must drive, apps like SpotAngel or ParkMobile can help reserve parking spots in advance. Weather-wise, San Francisco typically sees temperatures between 46°F and 59°F (8°C to 15°C) in late November, with a chance of rain—so dressing in layers and carrying a compact umbrella is advised. Popular events and restaurants fill up quickly, so early reservations are highly encouraged.