San Francisco’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are usually launched over the bay near the Ferry Building at midnight, and the Embarcadero fills with people from late evening. The city had not announced its 2026 plans when we published this, so treat the details below as what usually happens and check official channels in December.
In this guide
This page is part of our San Francisco events calendar.
New Year’s Eve at a glance
- Date Thursday, December 31, 2026
- Fireworks Usually at midnight over the bay near the Ferry Building
- Free viewing The Embarcadero, Rincon Park and the waterfront piers
- Getting there Muni Metro or BART to Embarcadero Station
- Weather Often cold and damp by the water
Where to watch the fireworks
The Embarcadero between the Ferry Building and the Bay Bridge is the main free viewing area, with the clock tower and the bridge behind the fireworks. Rincon Park, by the Cupid’s Span sculpture, gives a slightly less crowded view. Crowds build after 10pm, and sidewalks near the Ferry Building can get very packed close to midnight.
For a quieter view, some people watch from higher ground such as Telegraph Hill, or from across the bay on the Oakland side. See the best views in San Francisco.
Getting there and home
Driving and parking near the Embarcadero on New Year’s Eve is hard, and streets close around the waterfront. Muni Metro and BART both stop at Embarcadero Station. Check SFMTA and BART in late December for any extra late night service.
Other ways to celebrate
- Dinner and a show. The nightlife guide and things to do at night list bars, music venues and late spots.
- Skate in Union Square. The holiday rink is open through January 18, 2027.
- See the lights. Lightscape in Golden Gate Park runs through January 3. See our Christmas lights guide.
What to bring
Dress warmly in layers. Bring a fully charged phone, and agree on a meeting point in case you get separated in the crowd.
New Year’s Day
Some museums and shops close on January 1. A walk on Ocean Beach or at Lands End is a popular way to start the year. See San Francisco events in January.
Official resources: SFMTA, BART, San Francisco Travel.
Frequently asked questions
Does San Francisco have fireworks on New Year’s Eve?
Yes. They are usually set off at midnight over the bay near the Ferry Building. Check official city announcements for 2026 details.
Where is the best place to watch New Year’s fireworks in San Francisco?
The Embarcadero near the Ferry Building and Rincon Park are the main free viewing areas.
Is Muni free on New Year’s Eve?
That depends on the year. Check SFMTA in late December.
Photo credits
Featured image: Mike Norton / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.