The crowds never reach the same epic size of Manhattan's gigantic Times Square celebration, but upwards of 250,000 people still turn out for the annual public gathering centered around the Ferry Building at the Embarcadero to ring in the New Year with revelry and a free fireworks display at midnight.
         
Despite concerns about recent wet weather and the possibility of sprinkles on New Year's Eve Monday, locals are expected to turn out in force once again. Even without any entertainment being offered to the public in the area outside of the numerous Embarcadero bars, hotels and restaurants hosting  parties, the masses are still drawn to the spectacle of the annual 15 minute fireworks spectacular put on by the same pyrotechnics company that provides the show for KFOG's annual Ka-Boom! event.

People heading down to the festivities should keep in mind one thing; the San Francisco Police Department has promised to strictly enforcing prohibitions on drinking in public during the event, so any imbibing should be done at drinking establishments and not on the street. With the big crowds expected at the event, taking public transportation (BART or MUNI Metro to the Embarcadero station) is recommended.

San Francisco New Year's Eve Celebration
Monday, Dec. 31, crowds start gathering as early as 8 p.m. Free
The Ferry Building at the Embarcadero