Find your holiday cheer in Petaluma with our essential guide. Whether you're a Petaluma native or a seasonal explorer, this guide unlocks the best of the holidays.
Experience the magic of the season with the Petaluma Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, where glistening vessels illuminate the night. Appreciate the unique creations and festive atmosphere at the Holiday Crafts Faire at Finley Community Center. And Winter Lights in Courthouse Square is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring dazzling displays that light up the heart of the city. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Petaluma
See these and even more events listed below!Petaluma Holiday Light Displays
Petaluma Christmas Lighted Boat Parade
What to Expect:
Floating holiday parade on the Petaluma River
Description:
Twinkling lights reflect off the Petaluma River as decorated boats glide through the night. This aquatic procession transforms the waterway into a floating holiday spectacle. Spectators line the riverbanks to witness the creative displays and cheerful crews. You can vote for your favorite boat design, adding an interactive element to the evening. The parade honors Petaluma's rich maritime history, dating back to its days as a bustling 19th-century port town.
Website:
Petaluma Christmas Lighted Boat Parade
Nearby Events
Holiday Crafts Faire at Finley Community Center (Santa Rosa)
What to Expect:
Showcases local artisans and handmade crafts
Description:
Local artisans converge at the Finley Community Center, showcasing their handcrafted wares. This fair celebrates the region's creative spirit, offering unique gifts that can't be found in stores. Visitors can chat with craftspeople and learn about their techniques. The air fills with the scent of cinnamon and spices from food vendors. This event continues a long-standing Santa Rosa tradition of supporting local artists and fostering community connections during the holiday season.
Website:
Holiday Crafts Faire at Finley Community Center
Winter Lights in Courthouse Square (Santa Rosa)
What to Expect:
Interactive light installations in a historic setting
Description:
Courthouse Square transforms into a canvas of light and color. Innovative installations invite visitors to interact with the displays, creating a dynamic and ever-changing experience. The historic courthouse provides a striking backdrop to the modern light art. Children delight in activating motion-sensitive displays. This event blends Santa Rosa's rich heritage with contemporary art, showcasing the city's evolution from its 19th-century roots to a modern cultural hub.
Website:
Winter Lights in Courthouse Square
Healdsburg Annual Holiday Tree Lighting (Healdsburg)
What to Expect:
Community-focused event in wine country setting
Description:
Healdsburg's Plaza buzzes with anticipation as the community gathers for the annual tree lighting. This event embodies the small-town charm of wine country during the holidays. Local choirs fill the air with carols, their voices echoing across the square. You can sip hot cocoa while browsing booths featuring local artisans. The tree lighting tradition dates back to the early 20th century, reflecting Healdsburg's long-standing commitment to community celebrations.
Website:
Healdsburg Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
Napa Lighted Art Festival (Napa)
What to Expect:
Combines fine art with cutting-edge light technology
Description:
Napa's streets and buildings become canvases for innovative light art installations. This festival merges the worlds of fine art and technology, creating a unique outdoor gallery experience. Visitors can explore the city on foot, discovering new pieces around every corner. Artists use projection mapping to transform familiar landmarks into stunning visual displays. The festival highlights Napa's evolution from a wine-centric destination to a multifaceted cultural hub.
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Charles Schulz Museum Holiday Events (Santa Rosa)
What to Expect:
Peanuts-themed holiday celebrations
Description:
The Charles Schulz Museum comes alive with Peanuts-inspired holiday cheer. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the gang through special exhibits and activities. The museum offers hands-on workshops where you can create your own Peanuts-style holiday cards. Displays showcase Schulz's original holiday-themed comic strips, offering insight into the beloved cartoonist's creative process. This event celebrates Schulz's enduring impact on American pop culture and his deep connections to Santa Rosa.
Website:
Charles Schulz Museum Holiday Events