Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, the historic Palace Hotel is ready to transform your holiday season into something truly magical. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a romantic evening, or just some festive cheer, the Palace offers an enchanting array of experiences designed to create lasting memories.
If you’re searching for a way to make Thanksgiving unforgettable, Palace Hotel offers not just one but two outstanding dining options. You can enjoy a grand Thanksgiving brunch in the iconic Garden Court (Thursday, November 28th, seatings at 1 – 3 p.m. & 4 – 6 p.m.), where traditional favorites blend with global flavors in a lavish feast featuring a meat carving station with roasted turkey, Cantonese-style dim sum, a live sushi bar, and more, set amidst an extraordinary setting. For a more intimate experience, consider a prix fixe dinner at the Pied Piper Bar and Lounge (Thursday, November 28th, from 5 – 10 p.m.)—a warm, historic venue where each seasonal dish can be paired with handcrafted cocktails to enhance your meal.
As December arrives, the festive spirit only intensifies at Palace Hotel. The holiday tree lighting at the Garden Court (Sunday, December 1st, from 6 – 8 p.m.) is an iconic San Francisco event that offers something special for the whole family. Imagine sipping on complimentary hot wine or hot chocolate while watching the city’s most beautiful Christmas tree light up, surrounded by the joyful hum of live entertainment, ginger cookies, and the elegant charm of this breathtaking setting.
For those looking to embrace time-honored festivities, the hotel’s Holiday Afternoon Tea (every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday in December, from 12 – 4 p.m.) offers the perfect setting. Amid the sparkle of holiday decorations, guests can sip on a selection of fine teas while indulging in freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and exquisite pastries—all in the timeless beauty of the Garden Court adorned with sparkling lights. And for families with little ones, Santa himself joins in the magic during the weekend afternoon tea events (Saturdays and Sundays from November 30th throughout December), surrounded by joyful seasonal décor, creating cherished holiday memories for the children.
If you’re feeling creative, join the adults-only gingerbread house-making workshop at the Pied Piper Bar and Lounge (Fridays in December from 4 – 5 p.m.). Led by the hotel’s talented pastry chef, this workshop allows guests to learn the art of crafting the perfect display while sipping on a glass of wine, or warm mulled wine. It’s a fun and festive way to celebrate with friends, let your imagination run wild, and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere.
Looking for a chic way to end a day of shopping or sightseeing? Throughout December, the Palace’s Piper Heidsieck pop-up Champagne Bar (from 5 – 10 p.m.) awaits at the Market Street entrance lounge of the Pied Piper. This cheerful locale offers a chance to enjoy a sip of Piper Heidsieck along with delicious bar bites, providing a great way to relax and treat yourself during the holidays.
The celebrations continue right through to the year’s end, with elegant prix fixe dinners on Christmas Eve (Tuesday, December 24th, from 5 – 10 p.m.) and New Year’s Eve (Tuesday, December 31st, from 5 – 10 p.m., with the bar open until 12:30 am), each highlighting the finest holiday flavors served in the cozy, historic ambiance of the Pied Piper. On Christmas Day, indulge in a spectacular brunch at the Garden Court (Wednesday, December 25th, with seatings at 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., 12:30 – 2:30 p.m., 3 – 5 p.m.), complete with a carving station, festive dim sum, a live sushi bar, and Christmas-themed patisseries, all accompanied by live entertainment that sets the perfect holiday mood.
And for those who believe in starting the year in style, the New Year’s Day Late Breakfast Buffet at the Garden Court (Wednesday, January 1st, from 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.) offers an elegant way to begin 2025. Surrounded by beautiful decorations, you’ll enjoy a delightful selection of international flavors and seasonal classics perfectly paired with free-flowing champagne and craft mimosas, along with live entertainment.
Whether you come for a family celebration, a romantic holiday retreat, or simply to soak in the festive atmosphere, the Palace Hotel promises an unforgettable experience this holiday season.