It's holiday time, Hayward! Use our guide to find all the best seasonal activities. Whether you're a Hayward expert or a novice, this guide helps you navigate the city's seasonal offerings.
One of the top highlights is the Union Square Christmas Tree Lighting, where the twinkling lights bring a festive glow to downtown Hayward. For a taste of history combined with holiday cheer, the Christmas at the Adobe offers a unique glimpse into seasonal traditions. And the Christmas Tree Lane Light Display is something you definitely don’t want to miss, transforming an entire neighborhood into a winter wonderland. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Hayward
See these and even more events listed below!Nearby Events
Christmas Tree Lane Light Display (Alameda)
What to Expect:
Longest-running holiday tradition in Alameda
Description:
Alameda's Christmas Tree Lane Light Display illuminates the night with a century-old tradition. Residents of Thompson Avenue transform their homes into dazzling light spectacles, creating a mesmerizing corridor of holiday cheer. Stroll down the lane to admire intricate decorations and elaborate themes. This community-driven event began in the 1930s and has evolved into a beloved local custom. You'll find yourself captivated by the creativity and dedication of homeowners who spend months preparing their displays.
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Christmas Tree Lane Light Display
Union Square Christmas Tree Lighting (San Francisco)
What to Expect:
Iconic 83-foot tree in the heart of San Francisco
Description:
San Francisco's Union Square Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony marks the official start of the holiday season. The towering 83-foot Macy's Great Tree stands as a beacon of joy in the bustling shopping district. Thousands gather to witness the moment when 33,000 twinkling LED lights bring the tree to life. Dating back to 1880, Union Square has been the city's central gathering place for generations. Visitors can ice skate beneath the illuminated tree, creating lasting memories in this urban winter setting.
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Union Square Christmas Tree Lighting
Christmas at the Adobe (Fremont)
What to Expect:
Historical reenactment of 19th-century Christmas celebrations
Description:
Christmas at the Adobe in Fremont transports visitors to the 1800s, offering a glimpse into holiday celebrations of the past. The Ardenwood Historic Farm comes alive with period-costumed docents, traditional decorations, and authentic 19th-century activities. Participate in candle-dipping workshops and learn about Victorian-era Christmas customs. This event provides a unique opportunity to experience the simplicity and charm of holidays long ago, set against the backdrop of a beautifully preserved adobe structure from 1836.
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Holiday Lights and Sights City Cruise (San Francisco)
What to Expect:
Waterfront perspective of San Francisco's holiday lights
Description:
San Francisco's Holiday Lights and Sights City Cruise offers a unique vantage point of the city's illuminated skyline. Glide across the bay, taking in breathtaking views of iconic landmarks adorned with festive lights. The gentle lapping of waves against the boat adds a soothing soundtrack to the visual spectacle. Snap photos of the Bay Bridge's dazzling light display, a relatively recent addition to the city's nighttime landscape. This nautical adventure provides a fresh perspective on San Francisco's holiday transformation.
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Holiday Lights and Sights City Cruise
San Francisco Ballet's Nutcracker (San Francisco)
What to Expect:
America's oldest professional ballet company's rendition of the classic
Description:
San Francisco Ballet's Nutcracker captivates audiences with its world-class choreography and stunning set designs. As America's oldest professional ballet company, founded in 1933, they bring unparalleled expertise to this holiday classic. The production features over 150 dancers and dazzling costumes that bring Tchaikovsky's beloved score to life. Witness the graceful Sugar Plum Fairy pirouette across the stage in a performance that has become a cherished San Francisco tradition since its debut in 1944.
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San Francisco Ballet's Nutcracker
Zoolights at Oakland Zoo (Oakland)
What to Expect:
Illuminated animal-themed displays in a zoo setting
Description:
Zoolights at Oakland Zoo transforms the animal park into a luminous spectacle. Larger-than-life illuminated animal sculptures guide visitors through a twinkling landscape. Ride the gondola for a bird's-eye view of the glowing savanna below. This event not only celebrates the holiday season but also raises awareness about wildlife conservation, a core mission of the zoo since its establishment in 1922. Explore the vibrant displays while learning about the importance of protecting endangered species.
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SF SPCA Holiday Windows (San Francisco)
What to Expect:
Live animal adoptions in festive storefront displays
Description:
SF SPCA Holiday Windows blend the joy of the season with animal welfare advocacy. Macy's Union Square storefront transforms into a showcase for adorable, adoptable pets. Passersby can watch puppies and kittens frolic in festively decorated window displays. This heartwarming tradition has helped find homes for over 10,000 animals since its inception in 1987. Your visit might lead to a unexpected addition to your family, as you fall in love with a furry friend seeking a forever home.
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Great Dickens Christmas Fair (Daly City)
What to Expect:
Immersive Victorian London experience
Description:
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair in Daly City recreates the atmosphere of 19th-century London. This immersive event transports visitors to a bustling Victorian marketplace, complete with costumed characters and period-accurate shops. Sample traditional English fare like roasted chestnuts while exploring over 3 acres of twilight-lit streets. Interact with literary figures from Dickens' novels, bringing classic stories to life. This fair has been a Bay Area tradition since 1970, growing from a small gathering to a grand celebration of Victorian culture and literature.
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Christmas in the Park (San Jose)
What to Expect:
40-foot Community Giving Tree
Description:
Christmas in the Park transforms downtown San Jose into a winter spectacle. The centerpiece, a towering 40-foot Community Giving Tree, stands as a symbol of holiday generosity. Visitors can donate gifts for local children in need, embodying the spirit of the season. Wander through a forest of decorated trees, each sponsored by local organizations and schools. This beloved tradition has been bringing joy to the community since 1950, evolving from a single nativity display to a sprawling 2-acre holiday extravaganza.
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Holiday Ice Rink at Embarcadero Center (San Francisco)
What to Expect:
Outdoor ice skating with views of the San Francisco skyline
Description:
The Holiday Ice Rink at Embarcadero Center offers a unique urban skating experience. Glide across the ice while surrounded by the towering skyscrapers of San Francisco's Financial District. The rink's location provides stunning views of the Ferry Building and the Bay Bridge. Established in 1988, this seasonal attraction has become a cherished part of the city's winter landscape. Lace up your skates and join locals and visitors alike in this quintessential San Francisco holiday activity.
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Holiday Ice Rink at Embarcadero Center
Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting (Livermore)
What to Expect:
Small-town charm meets big holiday spirit
Description:
Livermore's Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting captures the essence of small-town America during the holidays. The event kicks off with a procession of festively decorated floats and marching bands winding through the historic downtown. Following the parade, the community gathers for the ceremonial lighting of a grand Christmas tree. This tradition dates back to the early 20th century, reflecting Livermore's rich heritage as one of California's oldest wine regions. Join locals in singing carols and sipping hot cocoa as the tree illuminates the town square.
Website:
Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
Winterwalk Holiday Lights (San Francisco)
What to Expect:
Pedestrian-only holiday street fair in Union Square
Description:
Winterwalk Holiday Lights transforms San Francisco's Union Square into a pedestrian-only winter street fair. The absence of traffic allows visitors to freely explore the heart of the city's shopping district, now adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Local artisans and vendors line the streets, offering unique gifts and seasonal treats. This event, initiated in 2012, aims to create a more intimate and community-focused holiday experience in the bustling urban center. Savor the aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts as you browse the pop-up holiday market stalls.