Walnut Creek Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Walnut Creek and surrounding areas

Walnut Creek welcomes the Christmas season with Holiday lights and festive events across downtown landmarks like Broadway Plaza and Civic Park, including Walnut Creek on Ice and the Holiday Faire at Shadelands Ranch. From the Concord Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting to cozy markets and seasonal performances, the city fills with winter festivals, neighborhood lights displays and plenty of family activities that make the season feel warm and local.

Find the best Walnut Creek Christmas happenings this year!

Walnut Creek Christmas Events

All Christmas Events Within 25 Miles of Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek Christmas Light Displays

Garden of D'Lights (Walnut Creek, CA)

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ The Ruth Bancroft Garden
1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Discover the enchanting Garden of D'Lights, a self-guided holiday light experience at The Ruth Bancroft Garden. Wander through three acres of illuminated cacti, succulents, and unique plants, transformed into a dazzling waterwise wonderland with thousands of colorful lights, art installations, and lasers. This magical event offers a unique and awe-inspiring...

Oakland Glowfari Lantern Festival (Oakland, CA)

β€’ 12 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland, CA 94605

Step into a world of enchantment at Oakland Zoo's Glowfari, a spectacular lantern festival. This family-friendly event features hundreds of new, larger-than-life animal lanterns that illuminate the zoo with stories of wildlife and conservation. Explore themed zones, including a captivating reptile train ride, vibrant underwater reefs, and majestic African savanna...

Solano Christmas Village and Christmas Lantern Parade (Solano)

β€’ 12 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Solano Christmas Village

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...

Dazzling Holiday Lights (Berkeley, CA)

β€’ 13 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Fourth Street
Delaware at Fourth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710

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...

It's a Wonderful Night Holiday Celebration (San Leandro, CA)

β€’ 14 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Downtown San Leandro

Experience the enchantment of Downtown San Leandro's 28th Annual 'It's a Wonderful Night' holiday celebration. This beloved family-friendly event features a magical tree lighting ceremony, delightful holiday performances, opportunities to meet Santa Claus, and charming holiday train rides. Explore a festive market filled with unique gifts and seasonal treats, all...

Tunnels of Joy Holiday Lights (Brentwood, CA)

β€’ 17 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $
πŸ“ La Costa Drive

Discover the Tunnels of Joy, a beloved holiday tradition where a Brentwood neighborhood transforms into a magical wonderland of lights. Visitors are encouraged to park and stroll through the streets, immersing themselves in the festive spirit and admiring the dazzling home decorations. This event also serves as an annual fundraiser...

Winter Wonderland Lighting Ceremony (Palo Alto, CA)

β€’ 20 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Thrive City

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...

The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square (San Francisco, CA)

β€’ 20 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square
333 Post Street, San Francisco, CA 94102

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...

Let's Glow SF 2024 (San Francisco, CA)

β€’ 21 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Various Downtown San Francisco Locations

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...

Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights (Sunol, CA)

β€’ 24 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Niles Canyon Railway
6 Kilkare Rd, Sunol, CA 94586

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...

Welcome Winter Night (San Francisco, CA)

β€’ 24 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ California Academy of Sciences
55 Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco, CA 94118

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.

Lightscape at San Francisco Botanical Garden (San Francisco, CA)

β€’ 24 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ San Francisco Botanical Garden
1199 9th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122

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...

Lights of Livermore Holiday Lights Tour (Livermore, CA)

β€’ 25 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Concannon Vineyards
4590 Tesla Rd, Livermore, CA 94550

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...

Santa Train Jolly Journeys (Napa, CA)

β€’ 30 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Napa Valley Wine Train Station
1275 McKinstry Street, Napa, CA 94559

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...

Walnut Creek Christmas Markets and Shopping

Broadway Plaza Holiday Events & Santa Photos (Walnut Creek, CA)

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Broadway Plaza
1275 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Broadway Plaza's Holiday HQ. Capture unforgettable photos with Santa, including special Pet Nights. Discover unique gifts and artisanal crafts at the Makers Market, and witness the spectacular Holiday Parade of Lights and tree lighting ceremony. A festive destination for all your holiday...

Handcrafted Holiday Sale (Walnut Creek, CA)

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Center for Community Arts - Shadelands Art Center
111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at the annual Handcrafted Holiday Sale in Walnut Creek. Over 60 local artists showcase ceramics, paintings, jewelry, and more, offering thoughtful gifts for everyone. A special Kids Shopping Area provides a fun, independent shopping experience for children, with proceeds benefiting arts scholarships.

Holiday Faire at Shadelands Ranch (Walnut Creek, CA)

πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Shadelands Ranch Museum
2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA

Discover a cherished holiday tradition at the Shadelands Ranch Holiday Faire. For over two weeks, the historic ranch house is transformed into a festive marketplace, brimming with unique handcrafted items and gifts from dozens of talented vendors. It's the perfect place to find special treasures and soak in the holiday...

Holiday Gift & Craft Fair (Concord, CA)

β€’ 5 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Concord Senior Center
2727 Parkside Circle, Concord, CA

Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at the Holiday Gift & Craft Fair. This vibrant event showcases around 70 local artists and makers, offering a diverse selection of one-of-a-kind gifts. Browse beautiful jewelry, cozy knitted goods, festive holiday decorations, and custom creations. It's the perfect opportunity to get a head start on...

The Guardsmen Christmas Tree Lot (San Francisco, CA)

β€’ 21 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Festival Pavilion at Fort Mason
2 Marina Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94123

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...

Walnut Creek Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment

The Nutcracker Suite (Walnut Creek, CA)

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Lesher Center for the Arts
1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Step into a magical 1950s San Francisco at the Fairmont Hotel for Diablo Ballet's enchanting production of The Nutcracker Suite. This delightful adaptation by Julia Adam features Tchaikovsky's beloved score and brings to life the classic tale of Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the Mouse King with new dances...

A Chanticleer Christmas 2025 (Oakland, CA)

β€’ 13 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ The Cathedral of Christ the Light
2121 Harrison Street, Oakland, CA 94612

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...

Graham Lustig's The Nutcracker (Oakland, CA)

β€’ 13 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Paramount Theatre
2025 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612

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...

Contra Costa Ballet's The Nutcracker (Oakland, CA)

β€’ 13 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts

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...

San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker (San Francisco, CA)

β€’ 21 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$$$
πŸ“ War Memorial Opera House
301 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102

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.

San Francisco Symphony Holiday Concerts (San Francisco, CA)

β€’ 21 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$$
πŸ“ Davies Symphony Hall
201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102

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...

Walnut Creek Christmas Food, Drink and Parties

Rooftop New Year's Eve Party (Walnut Creek, CA)

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ ROOFTOP
1500 Mount Diablo Boulevard, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Celebrate New Year's Eve 2026 with a spectacular party atop ROOFTOP in Walnut Creek. The festivities kick off at 10 PM with a DJ spinning the hottest hits. Enjoy a special drink menu, complimentary party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight. Dance the night away and welcome the new...

Midnight In Paris: A Legacy NYE Celebration (Napa, CA)

β€’ 30 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$$$
πŸ“ Napa Valley Wine Train Station
1275 McKinstry Street, Napa, CA 94559

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...

Walnut Creek Other Christmas Activities

Walnut Creek on Ice (Walnut Creek, CA)

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Walnut Creek on Ice
1365 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Walnut Creek on Ice returns for its 20th anniversary, transforming Civic Park into a festive winter wonderland. This beloved community tradition offers a massive outdoor ice rink, a thrilling ice slide, and cozy fire pit rentals. It's the perfect destination for holiday fun, drawing visitors for skating, celebrations, and more.

Concord Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting (Walnut Creek, CA)

πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Broadway Plaza
1275 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Concord Parade of Lights and Tree Lighting. This festive evening features a dazzling parade down Broadway Plaza Street, culminating in Santa Claus illuminating the Broadway Plaza Christmas Tree. Enjoy music, entertainment, and holiday cheer as you kick off the festive season.

Santa Claus at Shadelands Ranch (Walnut Creek, CA)

πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Shadelands Ranch
2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Experience the magic of the holiday season with a special visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus at the historic Shadelands Ranch. This festive event offers a wonderful opportunity for families to create lasting memories. Bring your camera to capture precious moments during this delightful meet and greet.

City of Concord's Annual Tree Lighting & Mayor's Sing-Along (Concord, CA)

πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Todos Santos Plaza

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the City of Concord's Annual Tree Lighting & Mayor's Sing-Along. This cherished event brings the community together to celebrate the start of the festive period with carols and the ceremonial lighting of the city's Christmas tree. Join the Mayor for a heartwarming...

43rd Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting (Brentwood, CA)

β€’ 19 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Downtown Brentwood

Get ready for the 43rd Annual Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting in Brentwood! This festive event kicks off the holiday season with a dazzling parade featuring illuminated floats and community groups. Following the parade, join the City of Brentwood for their cherished annual tree lighting ceremony, bringing a magical glow...

Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony (Pleasanton, CA)

β€’ 20 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Main Street

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...

Holiday Sights and Sounds Parade & Tree Lighting (Livermore, CA)

β€’ 23 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Downtown Livermore
2155 Third Street, Livermore, CA 94551

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...

Sausalito Winterfest: Lighted Boat Parade & Jingle Bell Run (Sausalito, CA)

β€’ 23 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Sausalito Waterfront
Anchor St & Humboldt Ave, Sausalito, CA 94965

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...

Downtown San Rafael Holidays: Tree Lighting & Menorah Lighting (San Rafael, CA)

β€’ 25 mi from Walnut Creek πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Downtown San Rafael

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...

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