Pleasanton Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Pleasanton and surrounding areas
Pleasanton launches Christmas 2025 with cheerful holiday activities around downtown’s Main Street and the I-680 corridors, where Holiday lights and festive events set the stage. Ride the Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights, join the Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony, or enjoy Pleasanton's Magical Holiday Evening during the holiday season. With Santa visits, seasonal markets, and caroling in historic neighborhoods, Pleasanton offers family-friendly things to do and warm community gatherings that celebrate the season in style.
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Christmas Markets
26 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
14 eventsAcclaimed vocal ensemble performing holiday music by candlelight.
Christmas Parties
6 eventsFestive bar crawl with included drinks and after-party.
Christmas Activities
33 eventsCommunity parade and tree lighting with Santa
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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Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony
Community parade and tree lighting with Santa
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A Chanticleer Christmas 2025
(Oakland)
Acclaimed vocal ensemble performing holiday music by candlelight.
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Walnut Creek on Ice
(Walnut Creek)
One of California's largest outdoor ice rinks
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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.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Pleasanton
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Pleasanton.
Palo Alto Holiday Toy Drive
Join the Palo Alto Holiday Toy Drive to bring joy to local youth...
View full details →Pleasanton Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Pleasanton
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Pleasanton!
Pleasanton Christmas FAQ
The Hometown Holiday Celebration, featuring a festive parade and tree lighting ceremony, is Pleasanton’s signature event, drawing thousands each December. Candy Cane Lane and Widmer World are also major draws for holiday lights and community spirit.
Candy Cane Lane’s six-decade tradition of neighborhood decorating and the Hometown Holiday Celebration parade are cherished local customs. Pleasanton also hosts drive-through light experiences like Winter Glow, adding a modern twist to seasonal festivities.
Walnut Drive (Candy Cane Lane) is the most famous, but Chelsea Court (Widmer World), Chardonnay Drive, and Hearst Drive are also known for impressive displays. Exploring nearby neighborhoods often reveals more hidden gems.
Downtown Pleasanton and community centers typically host holiday markets featuring local artisans and vendors. Seasonal events and pop-up markets are also common throughout December.
Walking Candy Cane Lane, visiting Widmer World, and enjoying downtown decorations are all free. The Hometown Holiday Celebration parade and tree lighting are also popular, no-cost ways to celebrate.
Candy Cane Lane and Widmer World are family favorites for lights, while downtown events and holiday markets often offer kid-friendly activities like crafts and visits with Santa. Drive-through experiences like Winter Glow are also fun for all ages.