San Francisco Lights Up Union Square for Holiday Season
San Francisco officially kicked off the holiday season with the annual lighting of the Union Square Christmas Tree, attracting thousands of residents and tourists to the heart of the city. The 83-foot-tall tree, adorned with over 30,000 LED lights and hundreds of ornaments, took center stage in a festive celebration that included live music, dance performances, and a visit from Santa Claus.
“This tree lighting is a beloved tradition that brings our community together,” said Mayor London Breed, who flipped the switch to thunderous applause. The event marked the start of a month-long series of holiday markets, ice skating, and charity drives designed to invigorate downtown and support local businesses.
Retailers reported a boost in foot traffic as attendees visited shops and restaurants after the event. City officials hope the festivities will revitalize the Union Square area, which has struggled with declining tourism and retail closures in recent years.
