SF SPCA Holiday Windows Bring Adoptable Pets to Macy’s Union Square

San Francisco’s favorite holiday tradition is back! From November 20 to December 31, 2026, Macy’s Union Square will host the SF SPCA Holiday Windows, showcasing adorable adoptable puppies and kittens looking for loving homes.

The holiday season in San Francisco is filled with traditions, but few are as beloved or meaningful as the SF SPCA Holiday Windows at Macy’s Union Square. This annual event, running from November 20 through December 31, 2026, transforms the iconic Macy’s storefront at 170 O’Farrell Street into a vibrant display of hope, joy, and companionship. The event, as listed by the San Francisco SPCA, features adoptable puppies and kittens in beautifully decorated windows, inviting the public to witness firsthand the love that shelter animals bring to our lives.

Since its inception, the Holiday Windows have drawn crowds of locals and tourists alike, all eager to catch a glimpse of the playful animals and perhaps even meet a future family member. The San Francisco SPCA, the event organizer, describes the tradition as a celebration of the bond between people and pets, and a chance to showcase the unique personalities of shelter animals. Each puppy and kitten featured in the display is available for adoption, and the event’s primary goal is to help these animals find permanent, loving homes during the season of giving.

Visitors to Macy’s Union Square will find the windows alive with the twinkling eyes and playful antics of the animals, each one hoping to bring a little holiday magic into someone’s home. The festive decorations and joyful atmosphere make it a must-see destination for families, animal lovers, and anyone looking to experience the spirit of the city during the holidays. According to the San Francisco SPCA, the Holiday Windows not only raise awareness about pet adoption but also highlight the importance of animal welfare in the community.

The event is carefully coordinated by the San Francisco SPCA, whose staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of the animals on display and to provide information to prospective adopters. They are available throughout the event to answer questions, share insights about each animal’s temperament and needs, and guide families through the adoption process. The organization emphasizes that adopting a pet is a lifelong commitment, and they strive to make every match a happy and lasting one.

Macy’s Union Square, centrally located in San Francisco, provides the perfect backdrop for this festive initiative. The partnership between Macy’s and the SF SPCA has become a cherished part of the city’s holiday celebrations, bringing together the community in support of animals in need. The event is part of a broader effort by the SF SPCA to promote adoption and provide essential services to pet guardians across San Francisco. Their year-round programs include mobile vaccine clinics, free spay/neuter events, and support groups for pet guardians coping with loss, all aimed at keeping pets healthy and strengthening the human-animal bond.

For those who may not be ready to adopt, the Holiday Windows still offer a wonderful opportunity to support the SF SPCA’s mission. Visitors can donate toys for shelter animals, learn about volunteer opportunities, or simply share the joy of the season by spreading the word about pet adoption. Every interaction helps raise awareness and brings the community closer to the goal of ensuring that every companion animal has a place to call home.

The San Francisco SPCA encourages everyone to visit the Holiday Windows between November 20 and December 31, 2026, and to consider opening their hearts and homes to a pet in need. Whether you’re looking to adopt, volunteer, or just enjoy the festive atmosphere, the event is a celebration of the love, laughter, and companionship that animals bring to our lives.

What this means for pet owners

The SF SPCA Holiday Windows at Macy’s Union Square are a reminder of the joy that pets add to our lives and the importance of adopting animals in need. If you’re thinking about welcoming a new pet, visiting the event is a great way to meet adoptable animals and learn more about responsible pet ownership. Remember, adoption is a lifelong commitment—take time to discuss the decision with your family and consult with shelter staff or your veterinarian to ensure a good match. Even if you’re not adopting, supporting local shelters through donations or volunteering makes a meaningful difference in the lives of animals.