Palo Alto Other Christmas Activities 2026

Visitors can watch a festive parade down Main Street featuring floats, marching bands, and community groups, as well as an official Santa and Mrs. Claus. Following the parade, a tree lighting ceremony takes place in front of the Museum on...

Visitors can wander along the downtown street to experience festive light displays, falling snow, and a variety of family-friendly arts and crafts. Entertainment includes live holiday shows and musical acts ranging from youth theater to tap dancing Christmas trees. Guests...

Visitors can skate on an outdoor rink featuring 11,000 square feet of real ice in Central Park. Skaters of all experience levels can glide under the daytime sunshine or skate beneath the stars at night. Ice skate rentals are included...

Visitors can watch live musical performances by local school choirs and bands leading up to the illumination of a 30-foot tree. The festivities include arts and crafts, Letters to Santa, and the Clover Express. Guests can also visit a cozy...

Visitors can take to the ice and glide into the festive spirit at City Center Bishop Ranch. The outdoor holiday rink welcomes skaters throughout the winter season.

Guests gather to celebrate the start of the holiday season with the lighting of the holiday tree. The celebration features musical performances by the Monte Vista Band and a group of singers. The evening builds up to a special grand...

Visitors gather to watch Santa arrive in his personal helicopter. The West Bay Community Band performs live Christmas carols during the celebration. Children can also meet directly with Santa to share their holiday wishes.

Visitors gather at Civic Center Plaza to kick off the holiday season with the illumination of the city tree. The celebration features live festive music, hands-on crafts, and sweet treats for attendees.

Visitors gather outside City Hall to watch Santa make a special entrance aboard a city fire engine. Families can join the queue to meet Santa and take a commemorative photograph together. The community celebration takes place outdoors regardless of weather...

Visitors can gather near Market Broiler to count down to the lighting of the holiday tree while enjoying holiday music. Families can also take part in a meet-and-greet photo opportunity with Santa Claus, get face painting and balloon art, and...

Families gather for a breakfast celebration featuring North Pole pancakes prepared by elves. Santa poses for pictures with visitors throughout the morning. Children can also explore the elves' workshop for holiday crafts and entertainment.

Visitors can explore the museum's art and history exhibitions during an evening open house. Activities include holiday-themed craft making, listening to music, and enjoying light refreshments. The venue also serves as a stop along downtown's scenic trolley loop.

Guests can meet the Grinch and take festive photos together. The community gathering brings visitors together to celebrate the holiday season.

Author Martha Freeman visits Books Inc. Alameda for First Saturday Storytime to read her holiday picture book, Kitty VS. Christmas! Following the reading, Freeman will sign copies of the book for attendees.

Join the City of Palo Alto for a magical evening at Lytton Plaza to celebrate the holiday season. This festive event features enchanting live music from local performers and delightful winter treats. It's the perfect way to gather with family...

The Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade is a cherished annual event that officially kicks off the holiday season. Since 1977, this beloved tradition has brought the community together to celebrate with a spectacular display of illuminated floats, lively marching...

Get ready for the 69th Annual Children's Christmas/Holidays Parade! This cherished event brings the community together for a festive celebration. Witness a dazzling procession featuring marching bands, creatively decorated floats from local organizations, and enthusiastic participants. It's a perfect way...

California's Great America transforms into a winter wonderland for WinterFest, offering a magical holiday experience. Guests can enjoy thrilling rides, festive decorations, and the unique Pacific Gliders attraction. The park also features the South Bay Shores waterpark, making it a...

Experience the magic of the holiday season as Santa Claus arrives to lead the community in a festive countdown, illuminating Milpitas's 30-foot holiday tree. Enjoy enchanting performances by local talent, including the Milpitas Community Concert Band, and savor warm hot...

Join the Hillsdale Shopping Center for their annual Rockin' Holiday Show and Tree Lighting event. This festive celebration marks the official start of the holiday season with a spectacular tree illumination and a special holiday show featuring live music and...

Get ready for a festive and unconventional celebration as San Jose hosts its annual SantaCon. This event is a unique gathering where participants dress as Santa Claus for a day of lighthearted fun and community spirit. It's an opportunity to...

Experience the enchanting 'Spirit of The Row' holiday event series. Join them for three magical evenings in December featuring live performances by local arts and community groups, delightful snow showers in Park Valencia, and cherished photo opportunities with Santa and...

Experience the enchantment of downtown Pleasanton's Magical Holiday Evening. This festive community gathering offers a delightful hot cocoa bar and a chance to contribute to a local toy drive. Stroll through the beautifully decorated streets and soak in the holiday...

Discover the joy of the holiday season at the Pleasanton Holiday Youth Music Festival. This event showcases the impressive talents of young musicians, filling the air with festive melodies and a vibrant community spirit. It's a heartwarming celebration of music...

Teens can make a difference by volunteering at the Belmont Winter Wonderland Workshop. This event offers a chance to assist with arts and crafts for younger children, help manage toy donations, and support the overall success of the festive gathering....

Unleash your inner decorator at the Heritage Holiday Adult Gingerbread Workshop in Downtown San Jose. This event offers a fun, hands-on experience where participants can craft and decorate their own festive gingerbread creations. It's a perfect way to embrace the...

Experience the magic of Christmas at Temple Hill, featuring dazzling light displays and a variety of free, family-friendly events. Visitors can enjoy festive performances, explore a vibrant Festival of Trees, and take guided tours of the illuminated grounds. Discover peace...

Join the community at Jack London Square for their annual holiday tree lighting ceremony. This festive event marks the official start of the holiday season, bringing together friends and family to celebrate. Experience the magic as the tree is illuminated,...

Children's Fairyland transforms into a magical Fairy Winterland, offering a whimsical escape for young families. This enchanting park invites children to step into beloved storybook sets, now adorned with festive decorations and twinkling lights. It's a place where imagination thrives,...

Capture the holiday spirit with free selfies alongside Santa Claus at Jack London Square. This festive event offers a wonderful opportunity for families to create lasting memories during the Christmas season. Enjoy the cheerful ambiance of the square as you...