Exploring holiday light displays is one of our favorite seasonal activities, and the Bay Area is full of dazzling options. From twinkling neighborhoods to immersive light experiences, these destinations promise a brilliant holiday adventure for all ages. Imagine walking or driving through a wonderland of millions of lights, riding a train surrounded by festive decorations, marveling at Christmas lights amidst a snowy scene, or joining a menorah lighting ceremony.
Beyond the lights, you'll find tasty treats (including hot chocolate!), entertainment, and even opportunities to meet Santa. We've included areas renowned for homes decked out in holiday splendor. Whether you love sophisticated displays or vibrant LED extravaganzas, these are our top picks for savoring the holiday spirit and soaking in the joyous atmosphere!
Check out my blog post Silicon Valley's Best Christmas Tree Farms and my events page for more holiday fun!
Santa Claus is coming to town! Catch him at various Bay Area locations this seasons. Reserve your spot at this link.
Fairmont San Francisco Christmas Gingerbread House
Every year, the lobby of the Fairmont Hotel on Nob Hill is beautifully lit with a giant Christmas tree and life-sized Gingerbread House on display from Thanksgiving through the New Year. With hundreds of bricks of real gingerbread baked by their pastry team and many pounds of See’s Candies, their Gingerbread House display is a sight to behold! For a truly unique experience, consider booking a private dining session inside the Gingerbread House, accommodating up to 8 guests. Immerse yourself in the rich aromas and festive sounds of the holiday season.
Start a new holiday tradition with the Fairmont San Francisco’s Holiday Tea. Immerse yourself in the elegant ambiance of Laurel Court while enjoying steaming pots of exquisite loose-leaf tea, freshly baked scones, delightful tea sandwiches, and an array of decadent pastries and sweets (view their menu).
Embark on a new holiday tradition with the Fairmont San Francisco’s Holiday Tea. Revel in the elegant ambiance of Laurel Court, savoring steaming pots of exquisite loose-leaf tea, freshly baked scones, delightful tea sandwiches, and an array of sumptuous pastries and sweets (see their menu). Gather your family and friends for this unforgettable experience—reserve your table now on OpenTable.
- Address: 950 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA 94108
- Date: Starts November 23rd to December 31st, 2024
- Price: Free to look around the lobby. The Fairmont Holiday Tea is priced between $80.00 and $199.41 per person. Special buffets on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Eve.
Begin a delightful new holiday tradition with Holidays at Filoli! Experience the wonder of the House, beautifully adorned in holiday cheer, and meander through the enchanting winter garden, aglow with twinkling festive lights and decorations.
- Ballroom Signature Lounge: Step back in time as a guest of the Bourn and Roth families, sipping Chandon sparkling wine to the sound of live piano music in the Filoli's grand Ballroom. This exclusive event is the perfect start (or finish) to your Holidays at Filoli visit, blending historic grandeur with festive charm.
- Private Fire Pit Experiences: Create cherished memories with loved ones in a cozy, private setting. Enjoy mulled wine or hot cider by the fire, surrounded by the twinkling lights of festive holiday décor.
- Holiday Teas: Delight in the Holiday Tea at Filoli's Garden House, a serene retreat where elegance and nature blend harmoniously. Enjoy a range of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and exquisite patisseries, all paired beautifully with fine tea and champagne in this tranquil and elegant setting.
- Gilded Guide: Discover behind-the-scenes Filoli with a tour of Curatorial offices, historic bedrooms, and the family library’s stunning views. Learn how the House transforms into a holiday wonderland, and enjoy sparkling wine with a sweet treat to take home.
On select dates, Santa will be making special appearances in the charming Woodland Garden Court. Guests have a unique opportunity to capture a memorable photo with Santa on his festive golden throne. Complete your visit with a delightful hot drink and a holiday treat!
To secure your magical moment, reserve your spot in advance on the Filoli website, as spaces are limited.
- Address: 86 Cañada Road, Woodside, CA
- Date: November 16, 2024 – January 12, 2025 from 10am – 9pm
- Price: $39-43 (adult), $29-33 (child 5-17 yrs old), Free (under 5 yrs old); members receive 20% off
Christmas Tree Lane has been a beloved Palo Alto tradition for decades, but details for this year's festivities are yet to be confirmed. Typically, this enchanting event features carolers, vintage lawn displays, and thousands of sparkling holiday lights, creating a magical experience for both pedestrians and drivers. Be sure to check back soon for updates on whether this year’s event will light up the season once again!
- Address: 1700 – 1800 Fulton Street, Palo Alto, CA
- Date: CHECK BACK SOON FOR UPDATES
- Price: Free
Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade
A cherished annual tradition in Los Altos, the parade features local school marching bands, an array of floats including the Teddy Bear, Mother Goose, and Ferris Wheel, alongside dancing elves, and, of course, Santa Claus. If you can’t make it in person this year, you can still watch the parade via livestream.
- Address: Downtown Los Altos, Los Altos, CA
- Date: December 1, 2024, 6pm
- Price: Free
The Carriage Ride Program has concluded following the operator's retirement. In its place, Los Gatos introduces its newest tradition: Magical Memories Holiday, featuring complimentary hop-on, hop-off trolley rides and visits with Santa at Old Town. Open to residents and visitors alike, no reservations are required. Learn more here.
- Address: Downtown Los Gatos, Los Gatos, CA
- Date: Trolley Rides: December 6 (debut), December 13–15 (hop-on, hop-off loop); Visits with Santa: December 12–15
- Price: Complimentary (Donations welcome)
Celebrating 26 years, Fantasy of Lights has become a cherished holiday tradition. This enchanting event invites you to a magical evening either from the comfort of your vehicle or on a leisurely walk through the park. As you drive, tune into holiday music on your car radio to accompany the large animated displays, or enjoy the festive lights on a stroll with family and friends. Highlights include the thrilling Dinosaur Den with an erupting volcano, Santa playing basketball, playful penguins, blazing pirate cannons, and tunnels of moving lights. With over 50 themed displays and a magnificent 90-foot twinkling tree, you’re sure to be captivated at every turn during this festive adventure. Enjoy food trucks and beverages from Moveable Feast, along with festive holiday photo opportunities! New for 2024: enjoy a drone show on walk-through nights at 6:15 PM! Tickets for both Drive-thru and Walk-thru experiences must be purchased online in advance.
- Address: Vasona Lake County Park, Los Gatos, CA
- Date: The Walk-Thru is open for two days only: Saturday, December 7, and Sunday, December 8, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The Drive-Thru runs from Tuesday, December 10, to Thursday, January 5 (closed December 25, 31, and January 1).
- Price: $32.34 for REGULAR vehicle, $53.24 for LARGE vehicle (13-20 passenger), $105.49 for OVERSIZED vehicle (21-50 passenger)
California's Great America WINTERFEST
WinterFest at California’s Great America returns, shining brighter than ever as the park transforms into a festive winter wonderland. Guests at WinterFest can ice-skate on Snow Flake Lake, stroll down festive Candy Cane Lane, and be dazzled by stunning lights while enjoying crafted hot chocolate and spectacular live shows. With over 60 rides and attractions, there's plenty to do, from writing letters to the North Pole and exploring Santa’s workshop to baking cookies in Mrs. Claus’ kitchen. The event also features live entertainment and a delicious holiday menu, offering savory mains, delectable desserts, and tempting snacks. The highlight is one of the Bay Area’s tallest Christmas trees, glowing with thousands of lights and flanked by giant toy soldiers. This captivating event, with its millions of lights, promises a memorable family Christmas experience.
- Address: 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA
- Date: Select nights November 29, 2024 to January 5, 2025
- Price: From $32.99
Enchant Christmas, billed as the World’s Most Magical Christmas Light Maze & Village, is set to illuminate PayPal Park, home of the San Jose Earthquakes, once again. From trees that sparkle 80 ft. in the air, to enormous Christmas ornaments, a narrative-driven maze adventure and millions of shimmering lights, Enchant offers an array of holiday activities, ensuring a memorable experience for all:
- All New Light Maze: Embark on a fully-immersive sensory journey with Santa’s Magic Timepiece, where you'll hunt for eight missing star fragments to save Christmas.
- The Village: Sample seasonal delights while shopping for holiday gifts from dozens of local vendors, showcasing home décor, jewelry, gourmet foods, and more.
- Santa's Landing: Stop by Santa’s Landing in the Enchant Village to meet Santa and discover if you're on the naughty or nice list! Don't miss the chance for your annual photo with Santa, with professional photography options available.
- Ice-Skating Trail: Glide through a sparkling forest of Christmas lights on real ice. Skates are provided for a memorable ice skating experience.
- Little Elves Play Space: Enchant offers a special area for families, away from the main festivities. Included with any admission ticket, this area is designed for children aged 0-7 years old, offering a variety of fun activities tailored to their enjoyment.
Enjoy holiday-themed food and beverages that are sure to surprise and delight the foodies in your family. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Enchant Christmas.
- Address: PayPal Park, 1123 Coleman Ave, San Jose, CA 95110
- Date: November 22nd – December 29th
- Price: Tickets starting at $34 Adult and $24 Junior. Night Owl Tickets $30.
Explore the unique holiday decorations while enjoying all that Santana Row has to offer this holiday season:
- Santana Snow Showers: It’s snowing on The Row every Tuesday & Saturday from 6pm to 8 pm in December! Santana Row brings the North Pole to San Jose for a festive, holiday celebration.
- Spirit of the Row: Get into the Spirit of The Row, every Tuesday in December leading up to Christmas from 6 pm to 8 pm. Enjoy performances by local community groups on the main stage in Santana Row Park as well as photos with Santa.
- Santa Paws: Pets are invited to Park Valencia at Santana Row for photos with Santa Claus on Sunday, December 8th, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. All proceeds will benefit Humane Society Silicon Valley, with a minimum donation of $10 for each pet photo. The event will also feature fun games and prizes for everyone to enjoy.
- Hannukah Celebrations: Celebrate Hanukkah at Santana Row’s Park Valencia on Sunday, December 29, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Enjoy a menorah lighting, kids’ activities, live music, and more!
For more information, see the Santana Row Holiday Events or contact the Santana Row Concierge at 408-551-4611.
- Address: Santana Row, San Jose, CA
- Date: December 3rd – December 31st
- Price: Free
Christmas in the Park is an annual holiday tradition in the heart of Downtown San Jose at the Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Each year, the two-acre park transforms into a holiday wonderland with over 40 musical and animated exhibits, glittering lights, and a 50-foot illuminated Christmas Tree. The festive season kicks off with the Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 29th at 6:00 PM. Stroll through an enchanted forest of community-decorated trees, enjoy a winter wonderland of lights, songs, and daily local entertainment.
After a long summer at the North Pole, Santa returns to Christmas in the Park from November 29th to December 24th. Bring your camera to capture magical moments with jolly Old Saint Nick!
- Address: Plaza de Cesar Chavez, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA 95113
- Date: Open November 29th to January 1st
- Price: Free
"Christmas in the Park" Drive Thru Light Show
Cruise through dazzling light tunnels, festive buildings, and giant candy canes in a spectacular drive-through light show synchronized to your favorite holiday tunes. Your ticket purchase supports Christmas in the Park, a nonprofit organization. For more information and to book your timeslot, visit the their website.
- Address: History Park San Jose, 635 Phelan Ave, San Jose, CA 95112
- Date: November 29th to January 1st
- Price: $25-$35 per car
Dave's Christmas Lights Benefiting Make-a-Wish
For almost 20 years, this Willow Glen house at 1851 Cherry Ave has been displaying Christmas Lights to raise money to support sick children. You're invited to see the Christmas display, and leave a tax-deductible donation at one of the curbside bins or online at Make-a-Wish Foundation. Mr. and Mrs. Claus usually make an appearance!
Plan to make a night of it! Willow Glen is known for its holiday light displays and Christmas trees so take some time to tour this San Jose neighborhood.
- Address: 1851 Cherry Ave, San Jose, CA
- Date: Daily from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm starting December 1st. Check their Facebook page for special visits by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
- Price: Free
Roaring Camp Railroads Holiday Lights Trains
Holiday Tree Walk: Embrace the holiday spirit with a 75-minute roundtrip ride aboard the Redwood Forest Steam Train through the wintry redwoods to Bear Mountain. Meet Santa Claus, sip hot cocoa, and enjoy winter-themed activities in town. View the full schedule and book your tickets online.
- Address: 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA
- Date: The Redwood Forest Steam Train departs daily. Special Holiday Tree Walks are available on November 29 to December 1, December 7–8, 14–15, and 21–22.
- Price: $47.65 adult (13 and up), $26.45 child (2-12 yrs old). Special Event Rates: $44.95 adult, $29.95 child; group tickets available.
Holiday Lights Train: Alternatively, hop aboard the Santa Cruz Beach Train departing from the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Ride in train cars adorned with thousands of colorful lights as you pass through Santa Cruz neighborhoods. Enjoy a visit from Santa, hot-spiced cider, live music, and a festive holiday sing-along. Check the schedule and purchase tickets online.
- Address: Santa Cruz Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, CA
- Date: November 29-30, December 7-8, 14-23
- Price: Standard Class Canopy Cars: $52.95 adult (13 and up), $38.11 children (2-12 yrs old); First Class Coach Cars: $68.85 adult, $48.71 child; group tickets available
Chanukah Train: Share in a new Chanukah tradition with a train ride through Santa Cruz, where you'll enjoy Chanukah stories, play dreidel, and savor kosher refreshments provided by Chabad by the Sea. There will be a lighting of the Menorah 15 mins before departure.
- Address: Santa Cruz Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, CA
- Date: January 2, 2025
- Price: $47.65 adult, $34.93 child
New Year's Train: Ring in the New Year aboard the New Year’s Holiday Lights Train! Ride vintage train cars adorned with dazzling holiday lights through the streets of Santa Cruz. Enjoy live music from a DJ and light-up hula hoop performers as they set the festive tone to welcome 2025 in style.
- Address: Santa Cruz Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, CA
- Date: December 26-31
- Price: Standard Class Canopy Cars: $38.11 – $52.95; First Class Coach Cars: $48.71 – $68.85
Holiday Lights | Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds
This holiday season, explore over a half-mile of dazzling displays at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. Marvel at towering Christmas trees, Santa, reindeer, snowmen, illuminated tunnels, and more—all from the comfort of your car with holiday carols playing on your radio. After the light show, visit the Holiday Food Stands for your favorite fair treats. Get your tickets for Holiday Lights here.
Find the perfect gift for your loved ones at the Heritage Holiday Craft and Gift Fair on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, from noon to 9 PM. Explore three buildings filled with handmade crafts, unique gifts, antiques, toys, and more—including offerings from long-time favorite crafters. Enjoy delicious food from the Heritage Holiday Kitchens, then stroll through the enchanting Holiday Lights display for a festive family outing! Tickets include the Holiday Light walk-thru each evening at 5:30 PM.
- Address: Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Ave Watsonville, CA 95076
- Date: Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening from Thanksgiving to Christmas, plus two bonus nights on December 23 and 24!
- Price: $20 - $40 per vehicle (depending on size)
The magic returns to Gilroy Gardens in the form of North Pole Nights where the entire park is transformed into the North Pole, with new friends and new adventures throughout. Explore Santa's Workshop, write a letter to Santa, and take a stroll through the animated musical Light Tunnel. Enhance your visit with ice-skating, cookie baking in Mrs. Claus' Cookie Corner, or savor a holiday feast.
New for 2024: Explore the Reindeer Roundup Trail, where Santa's nine reindeer have surprises, toys, and treats waiting for you. Don’t miss this magical addition to North Pole Nights!
North Pole Nights at Gilroy Gardens features the musical show "The Magic of Santa," featuring delightful characters such as Rudy the polar bear, Skitter the mouse, and Tinsel the dancing Christmas tree. Keep an eye out for a special appearance by Santa himself! This vibrant, family-oriented performance is included with park admission and occurs multiple times each evening. Join in the singing and dancing to help the characters convey their wishes to Santa, creating holiday magic in the process!
- Address: 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy CA
- Date: Select dates November 29th to December 31st
- Price: Single Day Admission: $45 - $55
