San Jose Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Embark on a dazzling holiday journey at Blinky's Drive Thru Light Show, now at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds. Cruise through over a mile of spectacular light tunnels, festive buildings, and giant candy canes, all synchronized to your favorite holiday tunes. This unforgettable experience offers breathtaking displays and millions of...

Prepare for a magical holiday season with Christmas in the Park and Blinky's Drive Thru! This beloved event returns to San Jose, transforming Plaza de Cesar Chavez into a festive wonderland with dazzling lights and animated exhibits. Experience the spectacular Blinky's Drive Thru Light Show, a mesmerizing journey through millions...

Immerse yourself in a festive holiday fantasy at Downtown Ice and Winter Wonderland. This beloved San Jose tradition transforms the Plaza de Cesar Chavez into a winter wonderland with dazzling lights, animated exhibits, and a towering Christmas tree. Enjoy family-friendly rides, ice skating, and special events like Santa visits and...

Join the City of Santa Clara for its beloved Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, a tradition spanning over a century. This festive evening in Central Park features live entertainment, delightful food options, and engaging children's activities. Capture cherished memories with a photo alongside Santa, and enjoy the magical moment of the...

Step into a world of enchantment at San Jose Holiday Lights, a dazzling experience spread across 5 acres. Explore six magical zones, from a 'White Christmas wonderland' to an 'Enchanted jungle' and a sweet 'Candy wonderland'. Marvel at over 40 light sculptures, iconic Christmas trees, and synchronized light displays that...

Embark on a magical journey through the Fantasy of Lights Drive-Thru, a beloved holiday tradition. Glide through 1.5 miles of dazzling animated displays, all while enjoying festive holiday music broadcast directly to your car radio. From a roaring dinosaur den to playful penguins and a spectacular 90-foot twinkling tree, this...

Join the Town of Los Gatos for their annual 'Los Gatos in Lights' Winter Celebration. This festive event kicks off the holiday season with the traditional lighting of the town tree. Enjoy enchanting musical performances, a captivating Winter Wonderland Light Show, and a delightful Story Walk. Santa Claus will also...

Embark on an enchanting holiday journey aboard the Niles Canyon Railway's Train of Lights. This beloved annual tradition offers a magical 1.5-hour round trip through Niles Canyon, adorned with festive lights and decorations. Experience the thrill of a nighttime train ride, complete with music and refreshments, making it a perfect...

Step into a winter wonderland at the 15th Annual San Carlos Night of Holiday Lights! This free community event transforms downtown San Carlos into a festive spectacle with dazzling lights, enchanting music, and a touch of magical snowfall. Enjoy family fun, kids' activities, caroling, arts and crafts, and delicious holiday...

Experience a memorable holiday tradition with the Lights of Livermore tour. Begin with a wine tasting at Concannon Vineyards, then board a festive trolley adorned with holiday lights. Enjoy an hour-long tour of Livermore's most dazzling displays, complete with holiday music and carols, and a special stop at the enchanting...

Embark on a memorable holiday tradition with the Lights of Livermore tour. This popular event includes an elegant wine tasting at Concannon Vineyard, followed by a festive trolley ride through the city's most dazzling light displays. Sing carols, enjoy holiday music, and capture photos at the famous snow house for...

Experience the magic of Winter Wonderland in Downtown San Jose, a festive celebration running from November 28 to January 4, 2026. This beloved holiday event features a thrilling arcade with rides like a towering Ferris wheel and classic carousel, alongside a bustling Winter Gift Fair showcasing local artisans. Indulge in...

Discover the magic of the season at the 3rd Annual San José Winter Wonder Market. This expansive indoor event brings together over 250 local makers, artists, and culinary talents for a festive shopping experience. Find unique gifts, artisanal treats, and holiday cheer.

Step into a world of the strange and unusual at the Yuletide Oddities Market, hosted at the iconic Winchester Mystery House. This highly anticipated holiday event offers a unique shopping experience with over 100 vendors selling everything from taxidermy and alternative jewelry to occult items and dark art. Discover peculiar...

Discover a delightful Christmas Market in Cupertino, offering a festive shopping experience. Browse a curated selection of unique handmade crafts, artisanal goods, and seasonal treats. It's the perfect place to find special holiday gifts and soak in the festive spirit.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the German Holiday Market in Mountain View. This cherished tradition brings a European Christmas market experience to California, featuring over 100 artisan vendors offering handmade crafts, unique gifts, and traditional German holiday items. Savor delicious seasonal treats and warm beverages while enjoying the...

Experience the magic of the 22nd Annual Holiday Stroll in Downtown Los Altos. This festive evening event invites visitors to explore unique gifts, enjoy sparkling lights, and listen to strolling carolers. Local shops and restaurants will offer special promotions, making it the perfect opportunity to find holiday treasures and enjoy...

Discover unique, handcrafted holiday gifts from local artisans at Domenico Winery's Annual Holiday Boutique + Craft Fair. Sip on delicious wines and enjoy festive bites while you shop for presents that can't be found on Amazon. The event also features a full-service restaurant and a special donation to The Samaritan...

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with Symphony San Jose's Holiday Spectacular at the historic California Theatre. This festive concert features beloved holiday classics, audience sing-alongs, and a special performance of '12 Days of Silicon Valley.' Before the show, immerse yourself in pre-concert festivities, including a chance to...

Discover the magic of The Nutcracker with 'Once Upon A Nutcracker,' a special, abbreviated production by San Jose Dance Theatre. Designed specifically for families with toddlers, preschoolers, and young children, this enchanting performance offers a delightful introduction to the beloved ballet. Experience key excerpts of the full production in an...

The Original San José Nutcracker returns for its 60th anniversary, bringing timeless holiday magic to the stage. This beloved production features alumna Crystal Campbell, who, after decades away, returns to a production that has shaped her family's traditions for generations. Experience Tchaikovsky's enchanting score performed live by the Cambrian Symphony,...

Experience the magic of Broadway this holiday season with 'Let It Show,' a spectacular 90-minute concert. Local singers will perform beloved holiday classics and Broadway favorites, including 'We Need a Little Christmas' and 'White Christmas.' The event features a special visit from Santa Claus and a festive sing-along, promising a...

Experience the uplifting sounds of the 17th Annual South Bay Holiday Gospel Concert, featuring the renowned Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir. This multicultural, interfaith ensemble will perform their signature gospel arrangements of beloved holiday classics. For an unforgettable experience, consider joining the South Bay Workshop Choir on stage with the main...

Experience the magic of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' brought to life in a captivating theatrical and musical adaptation. This beloved holiday tradition returns to Santa Cruz, promising a heartwarming journey through Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation. Perfect for the entire family, the performance offers a concise 90-minute experience without intermission, making...

Get ready to jingle all the way at San Jose's Official Christmas Bar Crawl! This festive event invites you to don your most outrageous holiday gear and hop between multiple venues, enjoying 2-3 complimentary drinks or shots. With waived cover charges, exclusive drink and food specials, and a lively after-party,...

Experience a festive evening in Saratoga Village, where wineries and wine enthusiasts gather for an unforgettable holiday wine stroll. Wander through streets adorned with twinkling lights, savor exquisite wines, and enjoy local flavors accompanied by live music. It's a perfect way to embrace the season's joy and discover new favorite...

Join the Palo Alto Holiday Toy Drive to bring joy to local youth this season. They are collecting new, unwrapped toys, books, and gift cards to ensure every child experiences the magic of the holidays. Multiple convenient drop-off locations are available across the city, making it easy to contribute.

Get ready for a festive and unconventional celebration as San Jose hosts its annual SantaCon. This event is a unique gathering where participants dress as Santa Claus for a day of lighthearted fun and community spirit. It's an opportunity to embrace the joy of the season and be part of...

Unleash your inner decorator at the Heritage Holiday Adult Gingerbread Workshop in Downtown San Jose. This event offers a fun, hands-on experience where participants can craft and decorate their own festive gingerbread creations. It's a perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit and enjoy a unique, creative activity.

Experience the enchanting 'Spirit of The Row' holiday event series. Join them for three magical evenings in December featuring live performances by local arts and community groups, delightful snow showers in Park Valencia, and cherished photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in...

California's Great America transforms into a winter wonderland for WinterFest, offering a magical holiday experience. Guests can enjoy thrilling rides, festive decorations, and the unique Pacific Gliders attraction. The park also features the South Bay Shores waterpark, making it a year-round destination for fun and excitement.

Families are invited to a magical breakfast celebration with Santa Claus. Enjoy a delicious meal of North Pole Pancakes, create festive holiday crafts in the workshop, and capture cherished memories with photos alongside Santa. This event offers a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season with joy and cheer.

Join Pacific Commons for a free, family-friendly holiday celebration and tree lighting ceremony. Experience the festive atmosphere as they illuminate the holiday tree, kicking off the most wonderful time of the year. It's a perfect evening to gather with loved ones and embrace the holiday spirit.

The Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade is a cherished annual event that officially kicks off the holiday season. Since 1977, this beloved tradition has brought the community together to celebrate with a spectacular display of illuminated floats, lively marching bands, and festive characters. Experience the enchantment of "A Child's...

Join the City of Palo Alto for a magical evening at Lytton Plaza to celebrate the holiday season. This festive event features enchanting live music from local performers and delightful winter treats. It's the perfect way to gather with family and friends to officially light up the night and embrace...

Experience the magic of the holidays at the Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony. This beloved annual event brings the community together for an evening of festive cheer, featuring a vibrant parade with floats and marching bands, followed by a heartwarming tree lighting ceremony led by local officials...

Experience the festive spirit at the 'Holiday Sights and Sounds Parade' and the beloved tree lighting ceremony in Downtown Livermore. This cherished tradition brings the community together with dazzling floats and performances from local groups. Following the parade, join in a heartwarming sing-along before Santa himself helps light up the...

Discover the festive spirit of the Canary Islands during the holiday season. While specific details for the Kislap Christmas Festival are not available, the islands offer a vibrant atmosphere with various cultural events and attractions during this time of year. Explore the unique charm and local traditions that make the...

Experience the enchanting Santa Cruz Harbor Lighted Boat Parade, where over 50 power and sailboats dazzle with festive decorations. Catch limited viewing from the Murray Street bridge or East Harbor launch ramp. Enjoy warm drinks and snacks available throughout the south harbor.

Experience the magic of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk transformed into a Winter Wonderland! While specific 2025 dates are still to be announced, this beloved seaside park promises festive cheer and holiday spirit. Get ready for a season of fun by the beach.

Join the City Center Bishop Ranch for their 2nd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. This festive event features captivating performances by the Monte Vista Band and talented singers, culminating in Santa's much-anticipated arrival. It's the perfect community gathering to usher in the holiday spirit.

Discover a festive array of holiday events in San Ramon, CA, perfect for getting into the seasonal spirit. From Christmas celebrations and fall festivals to spooky Halloween parties and creative workshops like wreath making, there's something for everyone. Explore popular and trending events, find unique local markets, and plan your...