Last updated: November 11, 2024
Make the most of the festive season in Watsonville with our planner guide. Discover all the best holiday events. For those who breathe Watsonville air daily and those just sampling it, this guide unlocks seasonal wonders.
Among the holiday highlights is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Winter Wonderland, where the boardwalk transforms into a magical holiday experience featuring festive lights and activities for the family. The Lighted Boat Parade enchants spectators as beautifully decorated boats glide along the water, creating a picturesque scene. And the Holidays on the Ranch offers a unique opportunity to experience holiday traditions in a rustic setting. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Watsonville Holiday Light Displays
Lighted Boat Parade
The Lighted Boat Parade features 50 beautifully decorated power and sailboats parading through the Santa Cruz Harbor. Limited viewing is available from the Murray Street bridge, East Harbor launch ramp, and various harbor paths. Charter boats are available, and hot drinks and snacks are available at various locations through the south harbor.
Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Holiday Lights
The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Holiday Lights features a 3/4-mile drive-through experience with millions of lights decorating tractors, trees, lawns, and buildings. Enjoy holiday carols from local radio stations while viewing community and family entries, including a youth designer awardee.
Farley’s Christmas Wonderland
Farley’s Christmas Wonderland is a traditional walk-in Christmas display featuring numerous Christmas trees, garlands, sleighs, an elf village, and a log cabin. It also includes a fairy grotto with waterfalls and fairies, making it a unique holiday experience.
Watsonville Other Holiday Activities
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Winter Wonderland
Celebrate the holiday season at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with festive decorations, holiday treats, and family-friendly activities like photos with Santa and select Boardwalk rides.
Holidays on the Ranch
Holidays on the Ranch features free events and activities made possible by California State Parks Volunteers, California State Parks, and Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks. The events are free, and a vehicle day-use fee is $10. The activities celebrate the natural and cultural wonders of the area.
Surfin’ Santa
Surfin' Santa arrives at Capitola Beach via Outrigger canoe, bringing joy and holiday cheer to all the kids.
Winter on the Wharf
Celebrate the holiday season at the Santa Cruz Wharf with festive decorations, special events, and activities for all ages, including a vintage fire engine, custom balloon designs, face painting, and a toy and food drive.
Annieglass Holiday Ornament Making Workshop
Create your own festive holiday ornaments by decorating 4 frosted glass shapes with gold and silver decorations. This workshop is perfect for those who enjoy crafting and want to add a personal touch to their holiday decor.
