Santa Clara Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Santa Clara and surrounding areas
The festive season in Santa Clara centers on landmarks like Levi's Stadium and California's Great America with Holiday lights, festive events, and parades that welcome families and visitors. WinterFest and the Santa Clara Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony bring illuminated displays and seasonal entertainment to the city. Visit holiday markets, enjoy live performances, and take part in activities that make Santa Clara a bright and family-friendly holiday destination this season.
Find the best Santa Clara Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Markets
23 eventsDowntown San Jose holiday hub with rides and a gift market.
Christmas Lights
22 eventsFestively decorated historic train ride through Niles Canyon at night.
Christmas Shows
9 eventsMusic-filled adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol' with a 90-minute runtime.
Christmas Parties
7 eventsFestive bar crawl with included drinks and after-party.
Other Christmas Activities
37 eventsPremier amusement park with waterpark and year-round attractions.
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights
(Sunol)
Festively decorated historic train ride through Niles Canyon at night.
-
WinterFest at California's Great America
Premier amusement park with waterpark and year-round attractions.
-
San Jose Holiday Lights
(San Jose)
Five acres of themed holiday light zones
-
Winter Wonderland San Jose
(San Jose)
Downtown San Jose holiday hub with rides and a gift market.
-
Los Gatos in Lights - Winter Celebration 2025
(Los Gatos)
Annual tree lighting ceremony with Santa and live music
-
Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony
(Pleasanton)
Community parade and tree lighting with Santa
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Santa Clara
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Santa Clara.
Rotary Club of Santa Clara Christmas 4 Kids Event
Community event supporting children's holiday needs.
Palo Alto Holiday Toy Drive
City-wide toy drive with numerous convenient drop-off points.
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Santa Clara
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Also Near Santa Clara
San Jose
See all in San Jose →Saratoga
See all in Saratoga →Mountain View
See all in Mountain View →Los Gatos
- The Nutcracker by Los Gatos Ballet
- Holiday Wreath Workshop
- 69th Annual Children's Christmas/Holidays Parade
Fremont
See all in Fremont →Santa Clara Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual events include Blinky’s Illuminated Holiday Drive-Thru at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds and the Fantasy of Lights walk-through event. Both attract large crowds and offer immersive holiday experiences with lights, entertainment, and festive activities.
Santa Clara celebrates with community-driven light displays and events like Blinky’s Drive-Thru, which has become a local tradition since 2020. The city also embraces neighborhood decorating contests and festive markets that highlight local artisans and food vendors.
Several residential areas in Santa Clara are known for their festive neighborhood displays, often featuring coordinated decorations and community participation. Exploring these neighborhoods on foot or by car offers a charming way to enjoy holiday lights for free.
Christmas markets and local artisan fairs are typically held at community centers, parks, and event venues near Santa Clara throughout the holiday season. Checking local event calendars will help you find current markets featuring vendor stalls and craft fairs.
Free or low-cost options include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending community holiday markets, and enjoying seasonal events like tree lightings or holiday concerts. Many local parks and public spaces host festive activities accessible to all.
Family-friendly options include Blinky’s Drive-Thru light show, which is comfortable for all ages, and the Fantasy of Lights walk-through event with interactive displays and visits from Santa. Holiday markets with crafts and kid-focused activities also make great outings.