24 events to ring in the new year in San Francisco

Party like its 1996 with indie greats Yo La Tengo and Luna doing three nights at a legendary SF venue.

Their New Year’s Eve show is sold out, but you can kick off the week with the sounds of Swedish House Mafia and a DJ set by Disclosure. 

If you’re still in need of an electronic music fix, return to Pier 80 the following evening and lose yourself during Skrillex and Four Tet’s sets. 

Ring in the new year early and celebrate the traditions of Kwanzaa with craft stations, treats, and performances by the Diamano Coura West African Dance Company.

Producer TOKiMONSTA and friends Sam Binga and Leonce will bring the high-voltage energy to keep you dancing all night long.

Whip out the glittery fits and catch disco fever at this ’70s-inspired dance party.

Whether you know Greg Proops’ comedy from “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” or his voice from “Bob the Builder,” you’ll be laughing your way into 2026.

Terrene is serving up a luxurious menu, a midnight Champagne toast, and prime fireworks viewing for those looking to celebrate with class.

Join the Dirty Dozen Brass Band for an evening of funky tunes, free bubbly, and a balloon drop. 

SantaCon 2.0? This North Beach crawl features more than a dozen participating bars offering drink deals all night long.

Pay one final visit to the legendary venue for a night of groovy tracks hosted by Juanita MORE!

Sometimes, the best NYE plans are free. Bundle up and head to the Embarcadero for a fireworks show that will glitter across the bay.

There’s no party in the city like New Bohemia, a two-level extravaganza with a silent disco, rave cave, photo booth, and rooms full of surprises.

Get a freezing start to 2026 with this community cold plunge benefitting GLIDE SF. Brave swimmers will be rewarded with hot coffee and bagels.

Diving into the ocean is an underrated hangover cure. Take the plunge for this New Year’s Day tradition (nudity optional). If it’s not raining, the bravest souls will then hop on a bike and ride to the Cliff House. Others may opt for warm libations at The Riptide.

The party doesn’t stop Wednesday night. Kick your year into high gear at one of the city’s biggest New Year’s Day parties, with Boris, Claude Vonstroke, Coco & Breezy, and many more.

Fresh Start goes feral with this late-night bash. Think of it as an after-party for Swedish House Mafia on Dec. 31, or a pregame to Fresh Start on Jan. 1. 

This year’s Fresh Start looks a little different, with the main New Year’s Day festivities spread across venues around Pier 80. Ring in the new year with John Summit, Purple Disco Machine, Walker & Royce, and more.

The days may be short, but this edition of After Dark brings Pier 15 to light. Watch Akiko Nakayama paint, meet the glowing Doloresaurus T. Rex, and learn about bioluminescent bugs.

Why not turn NYE into a three-day bender? Keep the celebratory vibes going with DJ sets from Wax Motif, AC Slater, Techno Tupac, Jay Bird, and others. 

Catch a flick with the city skyline as your backdrop. “The Princess Diaries” screens Friday, and it’s “Back to the Future” Saturday, with indoor or outdoor seating, hot drinks, cocktails, and popcorn.

Join the comedian and writer for an evening of clever crowd work and queer comedy.

For a wholesome New Year’s weekend, spend a day at Lands End planting species native to the sand dunes. There will be hot tea, snacks, and prompts for setting intentions for the new year.

If you haven’t caught this impressive display in Golden Gate Park, this is your last chance. Wander the mile-long path of light and color, drink in hand.

Tickets may not be available, but these great events are happening too. Congrats to all who are going, and happy ticket hunting!