SF’s 2025 Macy’s Union Square Great Christmas Tree (Nov. 11 – Jan. 1)

This iconic landmark, Macy’s Great Tree in Union Square, returns decorated in an abundance of festive ornaments and glimmering lights to light up Union Square throughout the holidays.

2025 update – The official lighting quietly took place on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

San Francisco’s most recognized Christmas tree typically stands more than 83 feet tall, decorated with 43,000 twinkling energy-efficient LED lights and 700 shining ornaments.

Although the tree will make another grand appearance in Union Square and will be lit throughout the holidays, there wasn’t a big, festive tree lighting ceremony in 2025. Sadly, there hasn’t been a big, official tree lighting ceremony with performances since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Check out Macy’s gift to the city of San Francisco, the Great Tree, which will shine brightly in Union Square Park, right across the street from their flagship location (which previously was set to close has thankfully recently announced that it will stay open and undergo a makeover. Read more).

36th Annual Macy’s Great Tree Lighting
Visible Tuesday, November 11 – Thursday, January 1, 2026* (we’re not entirely sure when the tree will come down, but typically New Year’s Day is the final day for lights).
Union Square Park | Geary and Powell, San Francisco, CA
FREE to watch

Related Story: SF’s Iconic Union Square Macy’s Will Stay Open & Get a Major Makeover – 11/6/2025

 

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