As fall ends, Christmas and the New Year are just around the corner. There are lots of fun activities that one can partake in during this time of the year. While it sadly does not snow in Oakland, there are still many things to do to accentuate the winter feel.

San Francisco is a festive place to visit this time of year. All around the city, there are colorful lights and many things to signify Christmas. Union Square is a prime example of this. There is a huge ice rink that is very fun to skate around with your friends. There is also a gigantic Christmas tree that is decorated with what looks like a billion tiny lights. This cavernous contraption is topped with an almost blinding gold star. Additionally, there are many other festivals for Christmas tree lighting. One of the most popular tree-lighting lighting takes place in Ghiradelli Square. 

As said earlier, it does not snow in the Bay, but it still does get quite cold. During this time it may be most comfortable for some to stay inside and take advantage of the cozy environment. A fun binge of favorite movies with a warm cup of hot chocolate is a snug and enjoyable pastime. Another thing to do is have friends over and have a soup night! Have everyone make their favorite soup dish and share it with the rest of the group. Or something of the sort with any of your favorite kinds of foods.

For those who enjoy the outdoors in the winter, there are also many tasks to take on. Most of the crowds surrounding the sights in the bay come with summer. Meaning that there will be a more serene experience in the winter. For example, hiking in the redwoods can be a fun and relaxing activity without many tourists obstructing the trails. Another beautiful setting that can be crowded during the summer is the Golden Gate Bridge. That view is definitely something to see during the stilled winter season. The sunsets are something to take advantage of in the bay and are most enjoyable without a surplus of people around. 

There are many places to visit in the city when it is too cold outside. There are countless museums, but a common favorite is the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, also known as the SFMOMA. Another favorite is the Nutcracker show that SF Ballet puts on every year that never fails to impress.

Although the Bay Area isn’t the most Christmas-consumed place in the world, there are still many activities to spotlight the wintery sense!