Media contact: DP&A, Inc., David Perry / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com 

Winter Walk in Union Square, a Cherished Tradition, Makes a Triumphant Return to San Francisco’s Heart
www.visitunionsquaresf.com

21 November 2023, San Francisco, CA: Winter Walk, a tradition beloved by both San Francisco locals and Bay Area visitors, is poised for a triumphant return to the City’s heart. Presented by Amazon and the Union Square Alliance (www.visitunionsquaresf.com) and sponsored by the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development and the Office of Mayor London N. Breed, this highly anticipated event pledges an enchanting fusion of contemporary arctic wonderland aesthetics, captivating performances, and festive offerings of food, drink, activities and shops.

“Winter Walk holds a special place in the heart of our city, a timeless tradition that brings joy to all who experience it,” said Marisa Rodriguez, CEO of the Union Square Alliance. “As the Union Square Alliance eagerly anticipates its return, let us embrace the enchanting blend of a modern arctic wonderland, the warmth of community, and the holiday spirit that makes Winter Walk a celebration of life’s beautiful moments. It’s not just an event; it’s a cherished tradition that unites us all in the heart of Union Square.”

“Union Square attracts residents and visitors from all over the world who want to enjoy our exceptional retail, art, and cultural experiences,” said San Francisco Mayor London N. Breed. “The Winter Walk is a wonderful experience that celebrates Union Square as an amazing holiday destination for the whole family.  The City will continue to bring forward programs and initiatives to support Union Square and boost Downtown’s economy.”  

“Amazon is proud to be the presenting sponsor of Winter Walk 2023. This festive event in the heart of the city is one of the ways valuable organizations like Union Square Alliance work to create magic in San Francisco,” said Sally Kay, Regional Head of Public Policy and External Affairs for Amazon. “We look forward to seeing city residents and visitors alike experience the joy that Winter Walk brings to Union Square as we come together to celebrate the season.”

Having been an annual gathering place for people to jingle, shop, and mingle between 2015 and 2018, Winter Walk reached its peak 2018 with an impressive turnout of 2.2 million attendees. Serving as a holiday respite during the Central Subway construction hiatus, Stockton Street in Union Square, which symbolizes a lively link between Chinatown and Market Street, was activated annually during the festive season. Transforming it into a welcoming public space adorned with artificial grass, illuminated seating, and a festive ambiance, Winter Walk became an enduring tradition.

Even with the Central Subway officially opening its doors in January 2023, seamlessly linking communities from Chinatown to the newly revealed Chase Center and fully reopening Stockton Street to traffic, the triumphant return of Winter Walk is a testament to the enduring spirit of community enthusiasm for this event. This revival is the result of collaborative efforts by City and community partners, including Mayor London Breed, SFMTA, Office of Economic and Workforce Development, Chinatown, SFPD, SFFP, and the Union Square Alliance. The event is poised to continue bringing joy and fostering a sense of togetherness, encapsulating the spirit of the holidays in San Francisco.

“Winter Walk has been such a strong joyous program in a moment when we need this as a city,” said Malcolm Yeung, Executive Director of Chinatown Community Development Center. “I am grateful to Union Square Alliance for continuing to forward this program – and in particular, doing so in way that values the partnership of neighboring communities like Chinatown.”

“There’s nowhere more magical during the holidays than Union Square’s Winter Walk,” said Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin. “It’s not just the shopping, although many of us have fond childhood memories of visiting Macy’s gift displays wide-eyed and giddy with anticipation. There’s something nostalgic and new for everyone, including performances curated by District 3’s own BoxCar Theatre, ice-skating for all ages, and my personal favorite, the return of the SFSPCA window displays of kittens & puppies in need of good homes. Bring your family to Union Square this holiday season and get ready to make some new memories together.”

The Union Square Alliance has worked closely with SFMTA to ensure minimal traffic interruptions during this 10-day activation.

In addition, Safety continues to be a top priority. 24/7 private security by Legion will be in place within Winter Walk, in addition to the popular retired Police Officers Program, augmented by active-duty members of the SFPD, SF Travel Welcome Ambassadors, and Union Square Ambassadors throughout the district team-up to support a welcoming outdoor environment for all to enjoy. 

“The San Francisco Police Department will have officers out in force to ensure this holiday season is fun and safe for everyone,” said Police Chief Bill Scott. “We’re collaborating closely with our city partners so we’re able to deter crime and respond quickly when necessary. I want to thank our officers who have been working hard and will continue to keep people safe as we begin this holiday shopping season.” 

Winter Walk has long been associated with its most recognizable feature – the vibrant green faux grass. This year, however, get ready for a fresh and bold statement as the Union Square Alliance introduces a new color palette. Brace yourself for a spectacle filled with glaciers, penguins, and polar bears (oh my) as you step into a wonderland designed to captivate audiences of all ages (kids from 1 to 92). Enjoy Instagrammable moments in a modern arctic adventure brought to you by some of the best decorators in the District.

“Gump’s is delighted to be a sponsor of Winter Walk in downtown San Francisco’s beautiful Union Square. We invite you to visit our legendary holiday shop while enjoying all that Union Square and Winter Walk have to offer,” said Marc Capalbo, Gump’s – Vice President of Retail Operations. “Gump’s, like Union Square, has been a holiday destination for generations of Bay Area families. Happy Holidays – we look forward to seeing you.”

“We are delighted to be a proud sponsor of Winter Walk, contributing to the festive spirit of the holiday season in Union Square,” said Clif Clark, General Manager of Westin St. Francis and Area General Manager of San Francisco. “Our seasonal immersive lobby decor has become a hallmark, and Winter Walk provides the perfect platform for us to extend that experience beyond our hotel walls. We invite everyone to stop by our holiday windows at 100 Stockton and to visit our lobby to share in the holiday magic that we bring to the heart of San Francisco.”

The Union Square Alliance continues its newer tradition of the great Ornament Trail. Giant, larger than life Ornaments designed by local artists. Download or pick up an Ornament Trail coloring sheet at our Winter Walk Info booth and wander the neighborhood for a fun activity for the whole family.  Find them all and redeem for a prize on the Winter Walk on select days.

Moreover, Union Square stands out as a premier destination for seasonal shopping, and The Alliance is introducing an indoor holiday marketplace at 100 Stockton, curated by Sunset Mercantile which will showcase a rotating selection of over 60 local vendors daily, representing the rich diversity of both the City and the Bay Area. This includes a vibrant mix of vendors from nearby Chinatown and the Tenderloin district. Attendees will have the chance to discover unique stocking stuffers while actively supporting small, local businesses. Sunset Mercantile has also planned family-friendly arts and crafts activities, along with optional indoor activities for an additional fee, ensuring a festive and engaging experience for all.

Additionally, the Union Square Alliance announces its collaboration with Off the Grid, offering an array of fantastic food trucks on themed days. Make it a daily tradition to explore diverse cultures and flavors, ranging from Noodle Night and Breakfast All Day to Football Fever (*subject to change). Alongside these delectable offerings, Winter Walk will host multiple Bars serving an extensive variety of festive specialty cocktails and beverages, ensuring there’s something for every palate to savor.

“Off the Grid is delighted to be a key partner in the return of Winter Walk, an event close to our hearts,” said Matt Cohen, Founder & CEO. “At Off the Grid, we believe food is the center of community, fostering connections between neighbors, friends, and families. Infused with our passion for diverse culinary experiences, we are excited to bring an array of flavors to Winter Walk at Union Square, a central and welcoming gathering place where people come together to commemorate cherished holiday moments in an iconic San Francisco setting.”

This event wouldn’t be complete without a visit from Santa. So, in conjunction with Boswick the Clown, We Are the Kind and Dottie Lux, Winter Walk will have a complete schedule of performances on stage, sit-downs with Santa and a variety of roaming performers, with something to entertain and delight every audience. *Performance schedule to come*

Winter Walk is delighted to highlight two esteemed charities as our community non-profit partners: The Salvation Army and the San Francisco SPCA. The iconic sound of Salvation Army bells will resonate, urging guests to contribute to holiday meals for families, provide food for the unhoused, and support a range of crucial services throughout the entire year. Adding to the festive spirit, the San Francisco SPCA, known for their charming Macy’s windows, will bring their lovable furry friends onto the turf for attendees to interact with, donate to, and even adopt. It truly embodies the spirit of the Season of Giving.

“The San Francisco SPCA is honored to join the enchanting return of Winter Walk festivities, bringing warmth and joy to Union Square. The San Francisco SPCA is excited to host a Shelter Animal Toy Drive in partnership with KTVU FOX 2, offer personalized animal themed key chains, and have our amazing Animal Assisted Therapy Dogs spreading cheer,” said Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, CEO of San Francisco SPCA. “Don’t miss the chance to meet our adoptable animals at Macy’s Union Square windows from November 17 to December 31, Thursday to Sunday, noon to 5 pm. It’s a season of compassion, and we can’t wait to share it with the community.”

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Union Square Alliance and standing kettles at Winter Walk!,” said Major Matthew Madsen, Divisional Secretary for The Salvation Army in San Francisco. “As one of our most successful and longest standing efforts, the Red Kettle Campaign started at the San Francisco Ferry Building in 1891. Donations to the kettles at Christmas time support holiday meals for families, food for the unhoused, as well as a myriad of other critical services all year long. And donations made to a Salvation Army kettle, stay in the community.”

Ribbon Cutting & Press Conference: Friday, December 15  from 5pm – 5:30pm Kick-Off Party with VIP Area: Friday, December 15 from 5:30pm – 9pm

Winter Walk is a pedestrian only event and will be held on Stockton Street from Post – Geary Street and Geary – O’Farrell Street and Maiden Lane between Stockton – Grant. Driving lanes will be affected – please review the street closure map on our website for more information. It will feature ten days of activations starting from Friday, December 15 to Sunday, December 24. The Winter Walk will be open from Monday to Wednesday from 12pm to 7pm and Thursday to Sunday from 10am to 9pm. Entry is free. Food, drinks, and activities are an additional cost. For more information and updated schedules, go online to www.visitunionsquaresf.com

media contact: DP&A, Inc/ David Perry (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

Michael Holmes’ Purple Room Kicks Off the New Year with Christine Andreas in “Paris to Broadway” January 5 & 6

Month Continues with Amanda McBroom,  Jonathan Karrant,
and Cheryl Bentyne plus Palm Springs JUMP and The Judy Show!

15 November 2023 – Palm Springs, CA:   Now celebrating the 10^th year of its rebirth, the iconic Purple Room (www.purpleroompalmsprings.com) — birthplace of the Rat Pack — heads into a new decade with a New Year of classics spanning generations and genres. Broadway Baby Christine Andreas channels the era of Piaf and Porter January 5 & 6 followed January 12 & 13 by singer / composer Amanda McBroom known for The Rose.  Suave crooner Jonathan Karrant brings The Tony Bennett Songbook January 19 & 20 and Cheryl Bentyne of Manhattan Transfer fame says Let’s Misbehave! with An Evening of Cole Porter January 26 & 27. Along the way, Palm Springs icons are given voice in Palm Spring JUMP on January 7 with The Judy Show! bringing crowds to their feet Sundays January 14, 21 & 28. And, of course, weeknights are always a hit. Enjoy jazz legend Rose Mallett on Tuesdays with Michael Holmes, Darci Daniels & Charles Herrera serving up classic Rat Pack Era stylings on Wednesdays and the sexy songstress 

Sharon Sills every Thursday. Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, the Desert’s best Happy Hour rules at with no cover, 4pm – 6pm. 

“I think the ‘20s are fully roaring,” said Michael Holmes, owner and manager of the iconic Desert hot spot, having bought and refurbished the storied venue in 2015. “After a challenging last three years, we are fully up-to-speed and doubling down on the type of world class entertainment that has made the Purple Room synonymous with music and class.”

The full schedule of January shows at the Purple Room follows:

Christine Andreas PARIS TO BROADWAY
Friday and Saturday, January 5 & 6

With songs by Piaf, Charles Trenet, R&H, Kern, Porter, Berlin, Bacharach & David, L&L (and Silvestri!) you will be transported from wherever you are, to the City of Light, Paris; to the Champs Elysees, a Parisian café, the streets of Pigalle that gave the world Edith Piaf….then back again, trans-Atlantic to the glittering lights of Manhattan and onto the Broadway stages that Christine and Martin Silvestri know so well!  It will be an evening to remember. Featuring Martin Silvestri on piano (and accordion)

“Christine Andreas feels everything, and all of those feelings are present for all to see.  They are on her face, they are in her posture, they are patently and plainly presented in pristine vocal performances that make a person laugh, then cry, and then laugh through tears. Nobody is like Christine Andreas and no show comes close to being this brand of special.  Christine Andreas is Magical.”   – Stephen Mosher, Broadway World

“Snapping emotional electricity….a cry of the kind of grand, all-or-nothing passion that has all but disappeared from popular music.”  Stephen Holden, The New York Times

“With her thrilling voice and startling grasp of character, the golden age of musicals is brought back to vibrant life….”  Jerry Herman, composer

Martin Silvestri has provided Ms. Andreas with brilliant arrangements; moments of simplicity are rendered more sublime by his expert skill at the piano, which is considerable. Silvestri is equally proficient with his accordion.  When an artist has another artist like Martin Silvestri sharing the stage with them, it is difficult to be anything but the best in the business.” – Stephen Mosher, Broadway World

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Palm Springs Jump!
Sunday, January 7

A raucous variety show that takes audiences on a wild ride through the glamour and excitement of Palm Springs’ most famous faces. “Palm Springs JUMP! is a zesty, high-energy performance that showcases the iconic glamour of Palm Springs.” – Desert Sun. “It’s a rollicking journey through the star-studded past of Palm Springs. An absolute must-see!” – Palm Springs Life

*   *   *   *   *

Amanda McBroom
SUCH GOOD FRIENDS, with Michele Brourman
Friday and Saturday, January 12 & 13

An evening of Amanda singing songs by her favorite female songwriter friends…Ann Hampton Callaway, Dorothy Fields,  Marilyn Bergman, Carol Hall, Michele Brourman, and of course…Amanda McBroom! Accompanied by her Musical Director and writing partner, Michele Brourman, Amanda takes us an a sublime evening of song and stories sure to delight.

Amanda McBroom has been called “…the greatest cabaret performer of her generation, an urban poet who writes like an angel and has a voice to match.”  Her name first came to the attention of the music public when Bette Midler’s version of Amanda’s song THE ROSE hit number one all over the world in 1979. But it was Amanda’s performance of her own song on the Golden Globes (she won), Grammys (she didn’t) and The Tonight Show that launched her career as a singer as well as songwriter.

*   *   *   *   *

The Judy Show!
Sundays January 14, 21 & 28

The longest-running show in Purple Room history, featuring Michael Holmes channeling Judy Garland in a spot-on tribute, filled with laughter (much of it inappropriate) and song. “Holmes’ spot-on embodiment of Garland is hilariously entertaining, yet there’s a depth of feeling there too… This is great cabaret.” – Palm Springs Life

“Michael Holmes channels Judy Garland with humor and haunting accuracy.” – LA Times

Jonathan Karrant 
The Tony Bennett Songbook 
Friday and Saturday, January 19 & 20

Acclaimed singer Jonathan Karrant returns to The Purple Room to pay tribute to one of America’s most iconic and beloved gentlemen, Tony Bennett. Bennett’s career spanned over 8 decades and gained him countless awards, including 19 Grammys, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His recordings mostly consist of selections from the Great American Songbook. Jonathan Karrant will honor Bennett with stories of his legacy, and perform some of his most popular songs. 

Jonathan Karrant’s album, “On and On” hit #4 on the Billboard Jazz charts and his album Live hit #2 on the iTunes Jazz Charts. He has received honors throughout the states including; the New York City Cabaret Jazz Honors, “Best Singer” for the Bravo California Awards and was named one of the top 10 rising vocalists by Downbeat. “A voice, romantic without being cloying, warm but not forced, Jonathan carries songs with an emotional weight that reaches your soul. At the same time he can swing with the kind of jazz suave that was patented by Mel Torme.” – Jazz Corner 

*   *   *   *   *

Cheryl Bentyne
Let’s Misbehave! An Evening of Cole Porter
Friday and Saturday, January 26 & 27

Oh, darlings, have you heard the news? The inimitable Cheryl Bentyne of The Manhattan Transfer is back and ready to cause a commotion with her upcoming performance of “Let’s Misbehave.”

Miss Bentyne, a dame of impeccable taste, talent and with pipes that could charm the pants off the devil himself, is gracing The Purple Room with her presence once again. This siren of song is set to light up the stage with her upcoming tribute to the king of wit and romance, Cole Porter.

With a voice that drips with honey and a style that is pure sophistication, Cheryl brings to life the timeless melodies of Porter’s classics, from “Love For Sale” “You’d Be So Nice To Come Home To,” and “So In Love,” She’s the perfect embodiment of the jazz age, a time when the music was smart and sultry, and the lyrics were clever and flirtatious. And let me tell you, my dears, with Cheryl at the mic, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a smoky speakeasy and you just never know who’ll take you home.

Born and raised in the wilds of Seattle, Cheryl has been wooing audiences with her voice for as long as she can remember. She cut her teeth performing in local clubs and theaters, and soon enough, the world took notice. In 1979, she became a member of the Manhattan Transfer, a multi-GRAMMY winning vocal group that remains one of the most influential in the history of jazz.  But make no mistake, this chanteuse is a star in her own right, with awards to prove it, and her upcoming show is not to be missed.

With a voice that’s as smooth as gin and a style that’s as sharp as a well-turned quip, Cheryl is the perfect entertainer for an evening of misbehavior. She’ll have you under her spell with every note she sings, and you’ll be hard-pressed to resist tapping your feet and swaying to the rhythm.

Accompanying Miss Bentyne will be her musical director, Josh Nelson. The jazz pianist has fingers as nimble as a cat burglar, with a touch that can make the ivories purr like a satisfied kitten. He plays with the kind of finesse that would make even the driest martini sing with delight.

So come along, won’t you? Let’s raise a glass to Cole Porter and let Cheryl Bentyne lead us down the path of sin and delight. Let’s Misbehave. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

And of course, weeknights are the best nights to enjoy the Desert’s Best Happy Hour and fine local talent. Jazz legend Rose Mallett holds sway on Tuesdays with Michael Holmes, Darci Daniels & Charles Herrera serving up classic Rat Pack Era stylings on Wednesdays. Thursdays, it’s truly a night of va va voom with the sensational and slinky stylings of Sharon Sills.

About Michael Holmes’ Purple Room:
The sophistication and glamour of the Rat Pack era comes alive at Michael Holmes’ Purple Room, the desert’s premier supper club.  Tucked away in the Club Trinidad Hotel, The Purple Room is where Frank, Sammy, Dean, and their pals cavorted on and off the stage in the swinging 60s. Step in and you’ll be transported back to the elegance of the era:  an intimate and inviting room, classic cocktails with a modern twist, world-class cuisine, and the best in live entertainment – six nights a week!  Hobnob with celebrities, locals, and visitors alike at Michael Holmes’ Purple Room — where Palm Springs plays!  Michael Holmes’ Purple Room Supper Club can accommodate any type of event from Birthday celebrations to Anniversary parties to corporate buyouts. For parties of 10 or more, please call (760) 322-4422.

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Contact: Mayor’s Press Office, mayorspressoffice@sfgov.org

MAYOR BREED AND SEATTLE MAYOR HARRELL URGE CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS TO SUPPORT INCREASED FUNDING TO COMBAT FENTANYL CRISIS  

37 mayors ask Congress to support Biden Administration’s efforts to prevent overdose deaths 

San Francisco, CA — Today, San Francisco Mayor London N. Breed, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, and 35 other U.S. mayors sent a letter to congressional leaders urging them to pass President Joe Biden’s supplemental funding request, which includes critical resources to address the fentanyl and synthetic opioid crisis.  

According to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drug-related deaths hit a new record in 2022 with over 100,000 Americans dying from fatal overdoses. Approximately 70% of those deaths involved fentanyl or other synthetic opioids. 

“Fentanyl is devastating communities in cities all across our country like no other drug we’ve ever experienced before and this crisis demands additional urgent intervention efforts,” said Mayor London Breed. “President Biden’s funding request gets at the heart of what we need — more funding for treatment to help those struggling with addiction and to prevent overdoses, and support for public safety and enforcement efforts to hold those accountable who are profiting off this deadly drug. This crisis requires partnerships at all levels of government, and I’m grateful for President Biden’s call for more support.”

“Cities across America are facing a deadly drug crisis driven by fentanyl and synthetic opioids, and we need all levels of government engaged in the fight against this epidemic that is taking too many lives and devastating our communities,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. “President’s Biden supplemental funding request takes a much-needed dual public health and public safety approach, helping those with substance use disorder access life-saving treatment options, while also deploying more resources to stop narcotics from entering our communities and holding traffickers accountable. This is the balance we need to save American lives and keep our cities safe, and I strongly urge congressional leaders to support this additional funding.”  

President Biden’s supplemental funding request includes the following:

• $1.5 billion in grant funding to localities through the Department of Health and Human Services’ State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program

This critical program provides funding for opioid use disorder treatment, evidence-based harm reduction services, overdose prevention measures like naloxone, and recovery support services in all states and territories. Since 2018, the SOR grant program has provided treatment services to over 1.2 million people, and states have purchased nearly 9 million overdose reversal medication kits using SOR grant funds and helped reverse approximately 500,000 overdoses.

• $1.2 billion to crack down on the trafficking of illicit fentanyl and halt its passage through U.S. borders with additional enforcement and investigative personnel and cutting-edge detection technology.  

In Fiscal Year 2023, Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted more than 5,000 fentanyl-related arrests. The funds in President Biden’s supplemental funding request will enable both agencies to apply the lessons learned and keep up with the tactics of the transnational criminal organizations that control the fentanyl trade. Read the full letter here.

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media contacts: DP&A, Inc / David Perry / (415) 676-7007/ news@davidperry.com  

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Winter Wander-land in San Francisco’s Union Square   

www.visitunionsquaresf.com 

10 November 2023, San Francisco, CA: Cable Car Bells are Ringing! San Francisco’s beloved variety of Winter traditions return for the 2nd Annual Winter Wander-land campaign – a seasonally perfect reason to explore all that the district has to offer via the Union Square Alliance website: www.VisitUnionSquareSF.com. 
 
“Union Square is where we come to celebrate life’s greatest moments, and the holidays have always been a big part of that,” said Marisa Rodriguez, CEO of the Union Square Alliance. “This year, we are thrilled to announce the return of our Winter Wander-land campaign that will encompass all holiday programming and activities in the Union Square District, inviting locals and tourists alike to ‘wander’ throughout the district, exploring all the holiday activations, old and new, while re-discovering the heart of the City, Union Square, this holiday season” 
 
Not just a “good time” but also a “good for business” endeavor, Union Square’s Winter Wander-land draws praise from other city leaders and partners, emphasizing the importance of such events for the City’s economic vitality.   
 
“Union Square attracts residents and visitors from all over the world who want to enjoy our exceptional retail, art, and cultural experiences,” said Mayor Breed. “Winter Wander-land is a wonderful experience that celebrates Union Square as an amazing holiday destination for the whole family.  The City will continue to bring forward programs and initiatives to support Union Square and boost Downtown’s economy.”  
 
“The Winter Wander-land campaign is a great opportunity for businesses of all sizes in San Francisco to showcase their products and services,” said Rodney Fong, President and CEO of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a time when people come together to celebrate the holidays and support local businesses.”  
 
“At the Westin St. Francis, we take great pride in our role as a grand contributor to Union Square traditions,” said General Manager Clif Clark. “Our iconic Sugar Castle, Pop! Lounge, Breakfast with Santa, and the many other delights we offer are our way of showcasing our commitment to creating unforgettable holiday experiences. Located directly on Union Square, the hotel is right in the heart of the Winter Wander-land activities and is the ideal getaway to celebrate the magic of San Francisco’s festivities.”  
 
“Gump’s celebrates another season of our legendary Holiday Shop in downtown San Francisco’s beautiful Union Square. We thank our customers, employees and many partners including the Union Square Alliance for their steadfast support,” said Marc Capalbo, Gump’s – Vice President of Retail Operations. “Union Square is in full holiday spirit – come enjoy our amazing collections. Gump’s has been a holiday destination for generations of Bay Area families and we look forward to continuing that tradition here in Union Square.” 
 
Additionally, hospitality leaders welcome the impact of all the activations and events.  
 
“The holidays in San Francisco are magical, and we are thrilled to be welcoming back visitors who love to enjoy Union Square’s holiday traditions,” said Cassandra Costello, San Francisco Travel Association EVP, Chief Policy and External Affairs Officer. “From the ice-skating rink and larger-than-life beautifully decorated tree and menorah to shopping and dining, there are so many festive things to do and see in Union Square.”   
 
“The Winter Wander-land campaign is a fantastic way for visitors to experience all that San Francisco has to offer during the holiday season,” said Alex Bastian, President and CEO of the Hotel Council of San Francisco. “It’s also a great opportunity for our hotels and hospitality community to showcase their services and amenities.”  
 
While there walking Wander-land, enjoy the many options for food and beverage – new and old.  
 
“What an amazing opportunity to reinvigorate one of the most iconic places in San Francisco. Union Square is the heart of the City, and the home of our two new café experiences Miller & Lux Provisions,” said Tyler Florence. “Through our cafés, we are looking forward to welcoming our community and our City’s visitors back to Union Square.”  

“We’ve been witnessing some monumental steps to bring life back to downtown and it’s been great to see the Union Square community come together. At Johnny Foley’s, we’re pumped to deck the halls for the Holidays, continuing our 26-year tradition,” said Martin Connely, Owner of Johnny Foleys . “Being part of Union Square for over two decades, we’ve faced tough times before, but we’re proud to stand alongside the other businesses continuing to bet on the enduring spirit and continued vibrancy of Union Square.”  

“We’re proud to be located in Union Square,” said Andrew Chun of P.C.H.  “The neighborhood has always been a destination for the Bay Area, especially around the Holidays.  Whether you’re grabbing a cocktail at our Miracle Cocktail Pop-up at P.C.H or taking a picture in front of the tree, there’s no better place to be during December.”   
 
Safety continues to be a top priority. 24/7 private security will be in place within Winter Walk, in addition to the popular retired Police Officers Program, augmented by active-duty members of the SFPD, SF Travel Welcome Ambassadors, and Union Square Ambassadors throughout the district team-up to support a welcoming outdoor environment for all to enjoy.  

“The San Francisco Police Department will have officers out in force to ensure this holiday season is fun and safe for everyone,” said Police Chief Bill Scott. “We’re collaborating closely with our city partners so we’re able to deter crime and respond quickly when necessary. I want to thank our officers who have been working hard and will continue to keep people safe as we begin this holiday shopping season.”   

This year’s Winter Wander-land campaign will feature a plethora of events and activities that will keep visitors and locals entertained throughout the holiday season. The activations include: 
 
Gump’s Holiday Shop,Now Open: 
Gump’s Holiday Shop now open at 240 & 250 Post Street in the heart of San Francisco. Come see a magical winter wonderland of joy and delight, brimming with hundreds of glass-blown glass ornaments, enchanting holiday décor, mesmerizing jewelry designs and gifts galore. 

The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink, Now – January 12: 
Set in San Francisco’s iconic Union Square, the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink is the only outdoor ice rink in the City and is one of the Bay Area’s favorite annual holiday traditions. The season of outdoor skating and special on-ice events kicks off with an Opening Celebration on Wednesday, November 1 at 5 p.m. The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink’s roster of events includes the return of the highly anticipated Drag Queens On Ice, Learn to Skate presented by Kaiser Permanente, Simba Saturdays presented by Disney’s The Lion King, Flashback Fridays presented by 80s+, Silent Skate, and Polar Bear Skate. Tickets are on sale now at www.unionsquareicerink.com. 
 
Macy’s Great Tree now lit through the Holidays: This year as in countless past, Macy’swill be gifting to the City of San Francisco, the Great Holiday Tree.  This 83’ tall tree is a twinkling beacon of the holidays and a true highlight for locals and visitors alike. 
 
Macy’s SFSPCA Holiday Windows Return November 17: Macy’s much beloved SFSPCA Holiday Windows features live rescue animals in its 36th annual Holiday Windows display. The main goal of the event is to help loving homes for as many animals as possible. 

Westin St. Francis Sugar Castle, November 22 – January 2:  The grand Sugar Castle in San Francisco, a creation by Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Francois Houdré, and his team, is set to be revealed in the Landmark Lobby on Wednesday, November 22. This awe-inspiring, 12-feet-tall revolving work of art, which was originally conceptualized in 2005, becomes even more expansive and captivating with each passing year. This year, visitors will enjoy the unique opportunity to see the “inside” the castle through an innovative augmented reality experience. 

Westin St. Francis Pop! Lounge, November 24 – December 31 (1pm – 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays; 12pm – 6pm on Sundays): Those seeking a luxurious respite from Union Square shopping can toast to the holidays at POP! Lounge, a glamorous pop-up champagne bar tucked away just off the Landmark Lobby. This sophisticated space is the perfect spot to enjoy a view of the Macy’s Holiday Tree, the ice rink, and the iconic cable cars going by. The menu features Moet and Chandon champagne, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, California Caviar, and small bites available for purchase. Guests can order at the bar and then settle into one of the cozy communal areas or social tables. 

The Bill Graham Menorah, December 7 – 15: Bill Graham Menorah is an annual Chanukah Menorah Lighting, in 2023 marking its 48th year! The First Giant Public Menorah outside of Israel has inspired thousands of Menorahs around the world.  The eight-day event draws many civic and community leaders and a variety of artists from the Bay Area music community. Celebrities from Carlos Santana to George Zimmer have participated in lighting the Menorah. 

Christmas Illuminations Dog Walk, December 8 – 15:  Join Hotel Nikko’s fabulously furry canine team (and their pawrents) for a Christmas Iluminations Dog Walk! This pawsome event is all about celebrating the joy of the season with our beloved furbabies. Starting with a holiday beverage at Hotel Nikko, we’ll embark on a magical stroll through the enchantingly illuminated Union Square.  
 
Miracle at PCH, November 24 – December 31: Miracle at Pacific Cocktail Haven is returning to SF for its 8th year. This sparkling holiday pop-up bar is a San Francisco favorite this time of year, as it offers the best in seasonal cocktails, festive photo ops, and holiday cheer. 
 
Winter Walk presented by Amazon,  and sponsored by the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development and Office of Mayor London N. Breed: December 15 – 24:  The highly anticipated return of Winter Walk! Winter Walk, presented by Amazon and the Union Square Alliance is a festive holiday extravaganza featuring two blocks closed off to vehicles as a lively pedestrian plaza adorned with turf, a tempting array of food trucks and bar options, instagrammable moments with modern artic décor, and an assortment of captivating live performances. Winter Walk became a cherished tradition for both San Francisco locals and visitors from the Bay Area between 2015 and 2018, drawing a staggering 2.2 million attendees in a single year. Based on current data, it is anticipated that 1-2 million people will “wander” through the Union Square Winter Wander-land this Holiday Season. 

Winter Walk will be held on Stockton Street from Post – Geary Street and Geary – O’Farrell Street and Maiden Lane between Stockton – Grant. It will feature ten days of activations starting from Friday, December 15 to Sunday, December 24. The Winter Walk will be open from Monday to Wednesdayfrom 12pm to 7pm and Thursday to Sunday from 10am to 9pm. For more information and updated schedules, go online to www.visitunionsquaresf.com  
 

Fun Facts About MSC Cruises

• MSC Cruises is the largest privately-owned cruise line in the world and has been a leading global cruise line for over 30 years.
• In 1970 Mr Gianluigi Aponte founds the Mediterranean Shipping Company, MSC, with the acquisition of its first cargo ship, Patricia.
• MSC first entered the cruise market in 1988 when it purchased the former Matson liner Monterey.
• MSC Cruises was then established in 2002 when it became a subsidiary of the MSC Group.
• Since then, MSC Cruises has become the third biggest cruise line worldwide, with a fleet of over 19 ships.
• In 2019, MSC Cruises served nearly 2.7 million passengers and 185 nationalities worldwide.
• It is now expanding heavily in the US and Caribbean market. And part of this was the launch in 2019 of the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
• The cruise brand is the leader in Europe, South Africa and South America. MSC Cruises appeals to passengers that are seeking a Mediterranean feel and a cruise line focused on the destination.

• The fleet also attracts a slightly younger crowd, 45 years on average vs the rest of the industry at 46 years (CLIA).