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Christmas in Valley Center
Experience the magic of Christmas in Valley Center at Bates Nut Farm! This free community celebration features Santa's arrival by fire truck and a Polar Express hayride. Enjoy festive performances, carols, and a tree lighting ceremony. Kids will love the free crafts, bounce house, face painting, and gingerbread house making. Browse local craft vendors for holiday gifts and savor treats from food vendors.
What to Expect
Free holiday celebration with Santa and community performances.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Parking: Free parking is available. A $10 per vehicle charge for parking applies on September 30th and weekends in October during the Pumpkin Patch season.
- Pets: Pet-friendly (on leash)
Other Christmas Events Near Valley Center
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and community members
Vibe
Festive and welcoming
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa's Grand Entrance by Fire Truck
- Santa lights the holiday tree
- Santa arrives by Polar Express Hayride
- Free hayrides and visits with Santa
- Free crafts, bounce house, face painting, and slide for kids
- Gingerbread house making
- Craft Vendors for holiday shopping
- Food Vendors
Location
Event Details
Duration
Friday 4pm-8pm, Saturday 9am-3pm
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Valley Center Marching Band
- Valley Center students choir
Organizer
Valley Center Chamber of Commerce
Food & Drink
Food Vendors available
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive by 5:15 PM on Friday to secure a good spot for the marching band and Santa's arrival.
- Bring cash for any purchases from craft or food vendors, as not all may accept cards.
- Dress in layers, as December evenings in Valley Center can be cool.
- Check the Bates Nut Farm website closer to the event date for the Saturday performance schedule.
- Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great outing for the whole family, including furry members.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are you open?
Normal hours are 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily. During the Pumpkin Patch season, hours are weekdays 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM and weekends 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM. The Christmas event has specific hours: Friday 4 PM - 8 PM and Saturday 9 AM - 3 PM.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs on a leash are always welcome at Bates Nut Farm. Please be courteous and clean up after your pet.
Is there a charge to visit Bates Nut Farm?
Admission is free for the Christmas in Valley Center event. Parking is also free. During the Pumpkin Patch season, there is a $10 per vehicle charge for parking on specific dates.
What activities are available for children?
Children can enjoy free crafts, a bounce house, face painting, an inflatable slide, and gingerbread house making.
What is the schedule for Santa's arrival?
On Friday, Santa arrives by fire truck at 6:00 PM. On Saturday, he arrives by Polar Express Hayride at 11:00 AM. Visits with Santa are available throughout the event hours on both days.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.