Palo Alto Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Palo Alto and surrounding areas
Palo Alto ushers in Winter 2025 with bright Christmas lights and Holiday lights centered on University Avenue and Lytton Plaza, offering elegant seasonal programming and community spirit. The Holiday Tree Lighting at Lytton Plaza, Gamble Garden Winter Festival and Toy Drive bring winter festivals, holiday activities, festive events and neighborhood gatherings that balance small-town warmth with Silicon Valley flair.
Find the best 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 eventsLavish multi-course New Year's Eve dinner with live music
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 Palo Alto
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Palo Alto.
Palo Alto Holiday Toy Drive
Join the Palo Alto Holiday Toy Drive to bring joy to local youth...
View full details →Palo Alto Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Palo Alto
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Palo Alto!
Palo Alto Christmas FAQ
The Holiday Tree Lighting at Lytton Plaza and the Winter Festival at Gamble Garden are among the biggest annual Christmas events in Palo Alto, drawing families and visitors to celebrate the season together.
Palo Alto’s holiday traditions include community-focused events like the Holiday Tree Lighting and neighborhood light displays, emphasizing local spirit and family-friendly celebrations.
Several residential neighborhoods in Palo Alto are known for their festive displays, with many homes participating in neighborhood displays that create a charming walking experience.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found at events like the Winter Festival at Gamble Garden and various artisan markets held throughout the city during the holiday season.
Free or budget-friendly activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending the Holiday Tree Lighting, and exploring free community markets and craft fairs around the city.
Family-friendly options include the Holiday Tree Lighting event, the Winter Festival at Gamble Garden, and local neighborhood light walks, all offering festive fun suitable for children.