San Francisco, December 6, 2025
San Francisco’s annual ‘Let’s Glow’ holiday light festival has brightened downtown, showcasing illuminated artwork from 19 artists on notable buildings. Amid this festive atmosphere, the city faces challenges such as a contentious housing up-zoning plan, rising public safety concerns, and a groundbreaking lawsuit against food manufacturers. The festival runs nightly until December 14, 2025, providing a vibrant space for community engagement amidst significant city developments.
San Francisco, CA – December 5, 2025
San Francisco’s ‘Let’s Glow’ Festival Returns Amidst City Developments and Challenges
San Francisco’s annual “Let’s Glow” holiday light festival has returned to downtown, transforming the area into a vibrant nighttime light gallery. The event, which began on December 5, 2025, features illuminated artwork by 19 artists projected onto eight notable buildings, including Salesforce Tower and the Ferry Building. This 10-day spectacle runs nightly from 5:30 to 10 p.m. through December 14, 2025. The opening ceremony at Harry Bridges Plaza includes a silent disco, drag performances, and a festive cocktail bar. Last year, the festival attracted over 87,000 visitors and contributed $13.2 million to the city’s economy.
Contentious Up-Zoning Plan Approved
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors approved a contentious up-zoning plan in a 7-4 vote, allowing increased housing density in traditionally low-density neighborhoods. This decision aims to address California’s mandate for San Francisco to build at least 82,000 new homes by 2031. While the rezoning permits taller and denser development, a city economist’s analysis projects only 14,600 housing units might be built over the next two decades. The proposal has polarized residents, with concerns about displacement and altered neighborhood character. Key amendments, such as preventing demolition of rent-controlled units and protecting small businesses, were rejected. Opponents are considering a 2026 ballot measure to repeal the reform.
Public Safety Concerns in District 6
Residents of San Francisco’s District 6, encompassing areas like SoMa and Mid-Market, have expressed growing frustration over persistent issues of public safety, homelessness, and open-air drug use. At a recent town hall, Supervisor Matt Dorsey, Mayor Daniel Lurie, and public safety officials faced intense questioning from community members. Despite a reported 30% drop in overall city crime, residents argue that these improvements are not reflected in their daily experiences. Dorsey plans to introduce a ballot measure titled “Drug Free Sidewalks” in June, aiming to increase law enforcement’s authority to address public drug use more aggressively.
Groundbreaking Lawsuit Against Food Manufacturers
San Francisco has filed a groundbreaking lawsuit against major food manufacturers, including Kraft, Mondelez, and Coca-Cola, accusing them of knowingly manufacturing and marketing ultra-processed foods that harm consumers’ health. The lawsuit alleges that these companies employed strategies akin to those of the tobacco industry to create addictive products contributing to rising rates of obesity, cancer, and diabetes, particularly impacting low-income and minority communities. The city seeks civil penalties, a ban on deceptive advertising, and altered marketing practices. This is the first legal action of its kind by a municipality.
Federal Law Enforcement Activity Declines
Despite promises of a major crackdown on crime in San Francisco, President Donald Trump’s administration has significantly reduced federal law enforcement activity in the city. Federal prosecutions fell by 40% in 2025 compared to the previous year, with drug-related charges dropping 50%. This decrease occurred even as Trump criticized the city and pledged aggressive federal intervention. Federal agents were redirected to immigration enforcement, limiting their capacity to pursue drug traffickers and gun crimes. The reallocation of federal law enforcement to immigration appears to have diminished the government’s ability to pursue major criminal activities, exacerbating an already strained local system amid rising public drug use and ongoing violence.
Injury Concerns for the 49ers
San Francisco 49ers left guard Ben Bartch is likely out for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season due to a sprained foot. Bartch sustained the injury during the team’s 26-8 win over the Cleveland Browns, marking the 49ers’ third consecutive victory. Already having missed seven games earlier in the season with a high ankle sprain, Bartch had appeared in six games and started twice. The 49ers also suffered additional injuries during the Cleveland game: rookie linebacker Nick Martin is in concussion protocol, and veteran fullback Kyle Juszczyk fractured a rib. Despite these setbacks, the team enters a bye week with a 9-4 record, trailing the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks by half a game in the NFC West standings.
Upcoming Weather Advisory
The National Weather Service issued a cold weather advisory for San Benito County and the Cholame Hills in Southeast Monterey County, as well as the Southern Salinas Valley/Arroyo Seco and Lake San Antonio. The advisory, effective from midnight to 8 a.m. PST on December 4, 2025, warns of very cold conditions with temperatures as low as 34°F. Residents are advised to take precautions to protect sensitive populations, pets, livestock, and crops. The advisory also recommends ensuring portable heaters are working properly and used correctly to avoid indoor fires.
New Women’s Sports Bar Opening
Rikki’s, a new bar dedicated exclusively to women’s sports, is set to open in mid-June in San Francisco’s Castro district. This launch aligns with a nationwide trend of increasing support for women’s sports, including the addition of San Francisco’s first WNBA team. Rikki’s aims to serve as an inclusive and community-centered space, honoring a prominent LGBTQ+ rights activist’s legacy. The establishment will be located at 2223 Market Street.
Celebrating the Holiday Season
San Francisco is gearing up for a vibrant holiday season with several events. The Hayes Valley Holiday Stroll will take place on December 5, 2025, featuring caroling, shopping, and community celebrations. PIER 39 will showcase a dazzling 60-foot Christmas tree from December 5 to January 11, 2026, marking the start of the season. Additionally, the Gap Inc. and Nest’s 2nd Annual Holiday Market is set for December 5 and 6, highlighting local creative talents with unique holiday gifts and crafts.
Conclusion
As the “Let’s Glow” festival brightens the streets of San Francisco, the city also faces significant developments and challenges regarding housing, public safety, and community health. Residents and city leaders continue to navigate these intricate issues while supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth. Engaging in community events and advocating for local initiatives can enhance San Francisco’s landscape, creating a resilient and vibrant city for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dates does the “Let’s Glow” holiday light festival run?
The event runs nightly from December 5 to December 14, 2025.
How many new homes does San Francisco need to build by 2031?
San Francisco must build at least 82,000 new homes by 2031.
What is the purpose of the “Drug Free Sidewalks” ballot measure?
The measure aims to increase law enforcement’s authority to address public drug use more aggressively.
Which companies is San Francisco suing regarding ultra-processed foods?
San Francisco is suing major food manufacturers, including Kraft, Mondelez, and Coca-Cola.
What is Rikki’s women’s sports bar?
Rikki’s is a new bar dedicated exclusively to women’s sports, set to open in mid-June in the Castro district.
Now Happening on X
- @News4SA (December 5, 2025, 4:33 AM) A fatal shooting in broad daylight has left one man dead, with law enforcement and emergency services responding swiftly on scene. View on X
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
