San Francisco Fireworks 2026: Rain-or-Shine NYE Spectacle Draws 200,000 to Waterfront

San Francisco’s iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks will light up the Bay at midnight tonight. The massive 15-20 minute display proceeds despite ongoing rain, launching from a barge near the Ferry Building. Organizers expect over 200,000 attendees to brave the wet weather for the Embarcadero celebration.This annual tradition is a rain-or-shine event, confirmed by the pyrotechnics company handling the show. The spectacle remains the Bay Area’s largest public New Year’s gathering, a defining moment for the region.

Prime Viewing Locations Along the Embarcadero

The area surrounding the Ferry Building offers the most direct and popular views. The fireworks barge is positioned directly south of this landmark. Arriving by 11:30 PM is crucial for securing a good spot in this central zone.For slightly less crowded vistas, Rincon Park provides excellent sightlines. Elevated spots like Telegraph Hill or Corona Heights Park deliver panoramic views of the entire Bay. Adventurous viewers can watch from Treasure Island for a uniquely close perspective across the water.The entire Embarcadero waterfront from the Ferry Building to the Bay Bridge will be packed. Any position along this eastern shoreline should provide a clear view of the dazzling pyrotechnics filling the sky.

Navigating Wet Weather and Massive Crowds

According to official sources, the steady rain will not cancel the show. Temperatures will be chilly, in the mid-40s Fahrenheit, with possible wind. Attendees should dress in warm, waterproof layers and wear sturdy shoes.While umbrellas can block views in dense crowds, rain jackets and hats are highly recommended. The wet conditions may actually enhance the visual display, with rain particles creating shimmering halos around the bright explosions. The key is preparation for a long, damp wait.Public transportation is strongly advised. MUNI and BART are offering free rides all night, with direct service to Embarcadero stations. Street closures and limited parking make driving downtown highly impractical for the event.

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The San Francisco fireworks at midnight promise a memorable, wet, and wonderful start to 2026 for hundreds of thousands of revelers.

Info at your fingertips

Will the rain cancel the fireworks?

No. The pyrotechnics company has confirmed the show is a rain-or-shine event. The display will proceed as scheduled despite the wet weather conditions.

What is the best place to watch?

The Ferry Building waterfront offers the most direct views. For less crowding, try Rincon Park or an elevated spot like Telegraph Hill for a wider panorama of the Bay.

What time should I arrive?

To secure a good spot near the Ferry Building, aim to arrive by 11:30 PM. Crowds build significantly in the final hour before the midnight start time.

Is public transportation available?

Yes. MUNI and BART are offering free rides all night on New Year’s Eve. This is the best way to reach the Embarcadero due to street closures and limited parking.

How long do the fireworks last?

The show is scheduled for a continuous 15 to 20 minute duration. It begins precisely at midnight to ring in the new year.