East Palo Alto Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in East Palo Alto and surrounding areas
East Palo Alto brings Winter 2025 holiday celebrations to the main district with strings of Christmas lights, festive markets, and seasonal entertainment that highlight local culture. Look for community markets, Santa visits, and family-friendly activities that make evenings memorable. From lights displays to neighborhood performances and guided tours, East Palo Alto offers a growing lineup of things to do that welcome visitors to the festive season.
Find the best East Palo Alto Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
28 eventsDowntown San Jose holiday hub with rides and a gift market.
Christmas Lights
18 eventsFestively decorated historic train ride through Niles Canyon at night.
Christmas Shows
13 eventsAcclaimed vocal ensemble performing holiday music by candlelight.
Christmas Parties
6 eventsGatsby-inspired New Year's Eve gala with gourmet dining.
Christmas Activities
33 eventsAnnual community parade celebrating the start of the holiday season.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights
(Sunol)
Festively decorated historic train ride through Niles Canyon at night.
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A Chanticleer Christmas 2025
(Oakland)
Acclaimed vocal ensemble performing holiday music by candlelight.
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San Jose Holiday Lights
(San Jose)
Five acres of themed holiday light zones
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Winter Wonderland San Jose
(San Jose)
Downtown San Jose holiday hub with rides and a gift market.
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WinterFest at California's Great America
(Santa Clara)
Premier amusement park with waterpark and year-round attractions.
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Los Gatos in Lights - Winter Celebration 2025
(Los Gatos)
Annual tree lighting ceremony with Santa and live music
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near East Palo Alto
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in East Palo Alto.
Palo Alto Holiday Toy Drive
Join the Palo Alto Holiday Toy Drive to bring joy to local youth...
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Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in East Palo Alto
- Christmas Creche Nativity Event in Palo Alto Area Published: Tue, Dec 2, 2025
- Irish Christmas Dinner & Dance Gala in Redwood City Published: Fri, Nov 28, 2025
East Palo Alto Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near East Palo Alto
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near East Palo Alto!
East Palo Alto Christmas FAQ
The Holiday Winterfest is East Palo Alto’s largest annual Christmas event, featuring live music, photos with Santa, holiday snacks, and a toy and book giveaway. Community partners also host special events like the CoolineKids gift and book event in honor of their founder.
East Palo Alto’s holiday traditions include community-centered events like the Holiday Winterfest, which emphasizes togetherness, local partnerships, and family-friendly activities. The CoolineKids gift and book event also highlights the city’s focus on giving back during the season.
Residential areas around University Circle and along University Avenue often feature festive decorations. For the most concentrated displays, visit during the Holiday Winterfest when the community comes together to celebrate.
The Holiday Winterfest at University Circle is the main hub for holiday markets and local vendors in East Palo Alto. Additional craft fairs and pop-up stalls may appear at community centers and parks during the season.
Attending the Holiday Winterfest, enjoying neighborhood light displays, and participating in community giveaways are all free ways to celebrate in East Palo Alto. Many events are designed to be accessible and welcoming to all.
Families will enjoy the Holiday Winterfest’s photos with Santa, live music, holiday snacks, and the toy and book giveaway. The event’s relaxed, community atmosphere makes it ideal for children of all ages.