Novato Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Step into a winter wonderland at The Lights at Northgate Mall, Marin's captivating indoor holiday light walk-through. This enchanting experience transforms the mall into a festive spectacle, perfect for creating cherished holiday memories.

Embark on a magical holiday adventure with Santa Claus aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train's Santa Train Jolly Journeys. This festive excursion through Napa Valley offers a delightful experience for all ages, complete with caroling, hot cider, and a special visit from Santa himself. Choose from four unique journeys, each...

Step into a magical holiday wonderland at the Solano Christmas Village. This festive event features a spectacular Christmas Lantern Parade, bringing a dazzling display of light and color to the community. The opening and lighting ceremony officially kicks off the season, transforming the village into a breathtaking spectacle of holiday...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Fourth Street's Dazzling Holiday Lights event. Stroll through three blocks of sparkling lights, enjoy complimentary hot beverages and cookies, and be entertained by live music and captivating magic shows. Encounter whimsical costumed characters and participate in a fun art project, marking the...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square, San Francisco's premier outdoor skating destination. Glide under the stars surrounded by festive lights and iconic city views. This beloved tradition offers hour-long sessions daily, with special events like Drag on Ice and Silent...

Experience a magical winter evening at the California Academy of Sciences' Welcome Winter Night. This family-friendly event features live reindeer, festive cookie decorating, enchanting magic shows, and late-night access to the museum's captivating exhibits. It's the perfect opportunity to create cherished holiday memories.

Let's Glow SF returns to downtown San Francisco as the nation's largest holiday projection event. This free festival transforms 8 locations with large-scale animated light installations by 16 international artists. Experience nightly shows from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM, including a special 'Glow on Front' Neon Block Party. The event...

Step into a world of enchantment at Lightscape, an immersive light and music experience transforming the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Wander a mile-long trail illuminated by over a million twinkling lights, showcasing dramatic colors, otherworldly sculptures, and captivating water features. It's a magical winter landscape perfect for creating lasting memories...

The Flamingo Resort transforms into a Tropical Winter Wonderland, blending retro tiki vibes with festive holiday charm from November 23rd to January 6th. Guests can enjoy a unique Hawaiian holiday display, vintage-inspired decor, and the lively Sippin' Santa cocktail pop-up featuring live music on Thursdays. Complimentary warm cider and Santa...

Get ready for the enchanting Winter Wonderland Lighting Ceremony, a beloved event that officially kicks off the holiday season. This magical occasion transforms the area into a festive spectacle, perfect for families and individuals looking to embrace the spirit of the holidays. Prepare for a dazzling display that will fill...

Experience the magic of 'Northern Lights: A Winter Lights Art Walk,' a captivating free event at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts. Wander through the transformed Sculpture Garden, where local artists illuminate the winter night with fantastical scenes and twinkling displays. This enchanting, self-guided walk is perfect for all...

Discover unique holiday treasures at the Novato Holiday Crafts Faire. This festive event features over 50 artisans showcasing handmade crafts like jewelry, ceramics, specialty foods, and ornaments. Enjoy live entertainment and delicious food while finding the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Admission is free, making it an accessible...

Discover unique handmade treasures and festive holiday spirit at the Christmas Craft Fair hosted by Faith Lutheran Church of Sonoma Valley. Browse a delightful array of crafts from local artisans, perfect for finding that special gift. Enjoy seasonal treats and soak in the community atmosphere.

Step into a whimsical winter wonderland at the Mad Hatter Holiday Festival & Parade. This beloved annual tradition transforms Historic Downtown Vallejo into a festive hub of art, music, and community spirit. Prepare to be delighted by a vibrant parade showcasing local creativity, followed by the magical lighting of the...

Experience a cherished San Francisco holiday tradition at The Guardsmen Tree Lot. Since 1947, this all-volunteer organization has offered a wide selection of fresh-cut Noble Fir Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands, with all proceeds benefiting at-risk youth in the Bay Area. It's a festive way to kick off the holiday...

Discover unique holiday treasures and festive cheer at the Mission Bay Christmas Market. This event offers a delightful opportunity to find handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations, and artisanal goods from local vendors. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a charming market atmosphere.

Experience the magic of the season at the Downtown Alameda Winter Market. This festive event brings together local vendors, offering unique crafts and seasonal delights. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, festive sips, and delicious bites, creating a joyful atmosphere for all.

Experience the magic of the holiday season with Transcendence Theatre Company's Broadway Holiday. This cherished tradition returns with dazzling performances by Broadway stars, featuring festive favorites and heartwarming moments. Attend at Sonoma Country Day School in Santa Rosa or the historic Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma for an unforgettable theatrical celebration.

Step into a world of enchantment with San Francisco Ballet's historic Nutcracker. Transport yourself to 1915 San Francisco and witness a timeless story unfold through breathtaking dance. Experience the magic of snowflakes, flowers, and dreams coming to life in this iconic holiday tradition.

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with the San Francisco Symphony's festive concert series. They offer a magical blend of live orchestral performances, beloved holiday films accompanied by a symphony, and special guest artists. From 'A Merry-Achi Christmas' to 'Disney's Frozen in Concert,' there's a performance to delight every member...

Celebrate six decades of dance with Graham Lustig's enchanting production of The Nutcracker. This beloved holiday classic features stunning choreography, magnificent sets, and imaginative costumes, all brought to life by the Oakland Symphony and the Piedmont East Bay Children's Choir performing Tchaikovsky's iconic score. Follow Marie's adventure as she rescues...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with 'A Chanticleer Christmas,' a beloved tradition. This acclaimed vocal ensemble, known as an 'Orchestra of Voices,' will fill the air with centuries of music, from hushed reverence to joyous celebration. Performed by candlelight, their harmonies illuminate the spirit of Christmas, offering a...

Experience the magic of The Nutcracker, celebrating its 37th year! Join Clara on a whimsical journey through a land of giant mice and toy soldiers, culminating in the delightful Candy Kingdom. This festive production features colorful costumes, enchanting sets, and the talents of young dancers, offering an elegant and captivating...

Celebrate Chanukah with the Novato community at a vibrant party filled with warmth and joy. This free event features a delicious dinner of Chinese food and Kosher fortune cookies, alongside engaging dreidel games and festive singing. Experience a traditional Menorah lighting and enjoy sweet treats like donuts and latkes. It's...

Get ready for a culinary showdown at the Masterchef Community Latke Cook-off! This exciting adult social event invites participants to showcase their latke-making skills in a friendly competition. Sample a variety of delicious creations and enjoy a festive evening celebrating Chanukah.

Ring in the New Year with an unforgettable culinary journey aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train's 'Midnight In Paris: A Legacy NYE Celebration.' This six-hour excursion pays homage to Napa's history with a special wine selection and a three-course gourmet meal served on vintage 1915 Pullman cars. The celebration culminates...

Experience an exclusive culinary event at the world-renowned French Laundry, a 3-Michelin-star restaurant. This fundraiser features a decadent Seven-Course Chef’s Tasting Menu, expertly paired with premium Napa Valley wines. Throughout the afternoon, the talented VOENA choir will enchant guests with festive holiday music, dressed in charming Victorian costumes. All proceeds...

Novato, California, invites you to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a series of festive events. From crafting with local police to shopping for unique handmade gifts at the Holiday Crafts Faire, there's something for everyone. Experience the magic of Santa visits, the warmth of the Annual Tree Lighting,...

Celebrate the Jewish eight-day festival of lights, Chanukah, with the Chabad Jewish Center of Novato. They are hosting a series of events from December 14-22, 2025, including a Grand Menorah Lighting, a Chanukah Community Party, and a Latke Cook-off. Families can also enjoy a hands-on Challah Bake and participate in...

Witness the Petaluma River come alive with holiday spirit during the annual Lighted Boat Parade. Organized by the Petaluma Yacht Club, this enchanting event features a dazzling procession of decorated boats of all types, from power and sail to human-powered vessels. Thousands of spectators line the shores to enjoy this...

Thousands of spectators line the shores to witness the Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade, a cherished tradition that marks the start of the holiday season. Vessels of all types, from large yachts to smaller craft, are invited to join the illuminated flotilla. Participants are encouraged to decorate their boats with festive...

Experience the magic of the holiday season in Downtown San Rafael with a festive array of events. They host a traditional Tree Lighting ceremony and a meaningful Menorah Lighting with a Gelt Drop. Engage in the fun of the annual Elf Hunt, admire creative holiday window displays, and find unique...

Sausalito Winterfest transforms the waterfront into a holiday wonderland with two days of festive events. Kick off the celebration with the dazzling Lighted Boat Parade and a spectacular fireworks show on Saturday evening. Sunday brings the energetic Jingle Bell 5K Run and a Kids Fun Run, followed by a delightful...

Experience the magic of the holiday season in Yountville, known as the Brightest Town in Napa Valley. From late November through early January, the town glows with thousands of twinkling lights, filling the air with festive music and delicious aromas from its renowned restaurants. Explore charmingly decorated shops, hotels, and...

Immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Christmastime with Posada Navideña by Calidanza Dance Company. This joyous celebration transports audiences to various regions of Mexico, showcasing unique holiday festivities through colorful costumes and distinct dances. Experience the rich cultural blend of influences from Jalisco, Sinaloa, Oaxaca, Michoacán, and Tabasco, all...