Oakland Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Oakland and surrounding areas
Oakland embraces the holiday season with cultural energy around Jack London Square and the Fox Theater. A Chanticleer Christmas 2025, Contra Costa Ballet's The Nutcracker, and Graham Lustig's The Nutcracker highlight festive events and family-friendly activities framed by neighborhood Holiday lights. Discover seasonal attractions, Christmas performances, and Santa visits at local markets and community events that celebrate art, music, and winter traditions.
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Christmas Markets
22 eventsChristmas tree sales benefiting Bay Area youth since 1947.
Christmas Lights
22 eventsSparkling holiday lights and festive entertainment.
Christmas Shows
18 eventsAcclaimed vocal ensemble performing holiday music by candlelight.
Christmas Parties
8 eventsChristmas Day gourmet cruise with plated dinner and bay views
Other Christmas Activities
29 eventsOne of California's largest outdoor ice rinks
Editor's Picks (6)
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A Chanticleer Christmas 2025
Acclaimed vocal ensemble performing holiday music by candlelight.
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San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker
(San Francisco)
Historic American Nutcracker performance
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San Francisco Symphony Holiday Concerts
(San Francisco)
Holiday films with live orchestral accompaniment
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Let's Glow SF 2024
(San Francisco)
Country's largest holiday projection arts festival
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The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square
(San Francisco)
Outdoor ice skating in Union Square
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Walnut Creek on Ice
(Walnut Creek)
One of California's largest outdoor ice rinks
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Oakland
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Oakland.
Light the World Giving Machines Southern California
Experience a unique way to give back this holiday season at the Giving...
View full details →View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Oakland
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Also Near Oakland
Berkeley
See all in Berkeley →San Francisco
- 36th Annual Christmas Eve Concerts
- Holidays at the Mark: Festive Dining and Magical Tea
- Candlelight: Christmas Special with The Nutcracker & More
Mission District
See all in Mission District →Oakland Christmas FAQ
The Grand Lake Holiday Market and Jack London Square Holiday Bazaar are among the largest annual Christmas events in Oakland, drawing crowds with local vendors and festive activities.
Oakland is known for its vibrant community celebrations, including neighborhood light displays and holiday markets that highlight local culture and creativity.
Picardy Drive and the area around Temple Hill are popular for their festive Christmas light displays, attracting visitors each holiday season.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found at venues like Grand Lake, Jack London Square, and various neighborhood events throughout Oakland.
Free holiday activities in Oakland include viewing neighborhood light displays, visiting Temple Hill, and attending open Christmas markets and community events.
Families with kids enjoy the Grand Lake Holiday Market, Jack London Square Holiday Bazaar, and festive light displays at Temple Hill and Picardy Drive.