New Year’s Eve Celebrations in San Francisco
Thinking about ringing in the New Year in San Francisco style? Well there are tons of options to suit every taste and budget.
Free and Family Friendly
For the city’s official New Year’s Eve fireworks show, head down to the Embarcadero. Although the fireworks set off near Pier 14 and the Ferry Building, the city says the best viewing is Crissy Field, Aquatic Park, the Embarcadero, Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39. The event is alcohol-free and open to the public and large restaurants in the area are open for pre-fireworks wining and dining. Make your reservations early!
For the Party People
Numerous clubs around San Francisco host New Year’s Eve parties, and prices can range from $10-40 for venues like Elbo Room, Aura, Mist or more. For tickets and more options, visit ClubZone.com.
Feeling Glitzy?
For the first time this year, the Ritz-Carlton is hosting a black tie affair called Putting on the Glitz. Themed party rooms will include a martini lounge, comedy cabaret, salsa, swing, and more.
Another Union Square option, Westin St. Francis again offers its black-tie elective Passport to the World NYE Ball this year. 15 DJs will help you dance the night away!
Adding a touch of culture and class to your evening, the San Francisco Symphony is putting on a masquerade ball this year at the Davies Symphony Hall. Free champagne and masks will be provided so that you can enjoy the festivities.
Other Ideas
Comedian Greg Behrendt, of He’s Just Not That into You fame, hosts the 14th yearly record Comedy Countdown 2009 at the Palace of Fine Arts. Seven comedians will have you laughing all night long, plus there’s a balloon drop at midnight!
Enjoying a fine meal with subdivision of an order and friends is always a nice option for ringing in the New Year and can often be more internal and low-key. For Bay Area restaurant reservations and specials, visit OpenTable.com.
Thinking of escaping the crowds in the city altogether? Why not head north to Wine Country? Many restaurants and hotels in Napa, Sonoma, and surrounding areas offer packages for a New Year’s getaway and you can wage the champagne will flow freely!
Whatever you choose, San Francisco is an exciting place to welcome in 2010. Whether you’re looking for a good party, live music, world-class fireworks, a of fine texture meal, or an intimate evening, you’ll be sure to find it in San Francisco.
Top 5 Francisco Hotels for New Year’s Eve
- Holiday Inn Express San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf – From $161
- Hotel Queen Anne – from $99
- Hotel Best Western Carriage Inn – from $69
- Cornell Hotel de France – from $110
- Good Hotel – from $69
Photo of New Year’s Eve fireworks show in San Francisco, CA by John Curley