California may not be the first place that comes to mind for a white Christmas, but it has a fantastic array of Christmas markets that bring the festive spirit to life. From charming alpine-inspired villages to coastal winter wonderlands, California’s Christmas markets offer unique experiences, artisan gifts, and holiday festivities. Here are five must-visit Christmas markets in California for the holiday season. Step into history at the magical Aachen Christmas Market.
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Toggle1. Cambria Christmas Market
A German-inspired Christmas market in California, the Cambria Christmas Market is known for its holiday lights, German treats, and handcrafted gifts. Set in the scenic coastal town of Cambria, this market draws crowds with its holiday charm and festive ambiance.
Address: 2905 Burton Dr, Cambria, CA 93428
Dates: November 24 – December 23, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Thursday through Sunday
Entrance Fee: $20 – $30 (varies by day and age)
Nearest T Stations
- San Luis Obispo Amtrak Station (20 miles)
- Paso Robles Amtrak Station (26 miles)
Events
- Holiday Light Tour: View millions of lights in a winter wonderland setting.
- Live Music: Enjoy live bands playing festive tunes.
- German Glühwein and Food Stands: Sip on mulled wine and indulge in authentic German treats.
- Santa’s Workshop: Kids can meet Santa and make crafts.
- Craft Vendors: Discover handmade gifts from local artisans.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Cambria Candle Company: Known for handcrafted holiday-themed candles.
- German Delights Stand: Offers imported German chocolates and baked goods.
- Artisan Jewelers: Unique jewelry perfect for holiday gifts.
Special Spots
- Photo with Santa: Capture a memory with Santa.
- Light Tunnel: A glowing path perfect for photos.
- German Beer Garden: Enjoy a cold brew in a festive setting.
- Alpine Village: A recreated German village to explore.
- Nutcracker Display: A collection of nutcrackers from around the world.
Parking and Parking Fee
- On-site parking costs $10, with free shuttle services from nearby lots.
Nearby Hotels
- Cambria Pines Lodge
- The Rigdon House
- Blue Dolphin Inn
Nearby Restaurants
- Madeline’s Restaurant & Wine Cellar
- Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill
- Linn’s Restaurant
2. Great Dickens Christmas Fair, Daly City
Inspired by Victorian London, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair transports visitors to Charles Dickens’ world with actors, carolers, and a market bustling with unique vendors.
- Address: 2600 Geneva Ave, Daly City, CA 94014
- Dates: November 18 – December 17, 2025
- Weekly Opening and Closing Times: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, weekends only
- Entrance Fee: Adults $45, children (5-12) $20, free for children under 5
Nearest T Stations
- Balboa Park BART Station (4 miles)
- Daly City BART Station (2 miles)
Events
- Victorian Caroling: Experience classic Christmas carols sung by Victorian-costumed performers.
- Fezziwig’s Dance Party: A lively celebration with dancing and music.
- Father Christmas Meet and Greet: Perfect for kids to interact with Santa.
- Theatrical Performances: Watch excerpts from “A Christmas Carol.”
- Holiday Handbell Choir: A beautiful holiday bell performance.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Victorian Candy Shoppe: Known for old-fashioned sweets.
- Handmade Toy Maker: Find wooden toys and handcrafted trinkets.
- Tea & Spice Merchant: Offers unique blends and holiday spices.
Special Spots
- London Pub: Step into a Victorian-style pub for warm beverages.
- Artisan Alley: Home to a variety of craftspeople.
- Piccadilly Circus Performances: Daily shows and performances.
- The Enchanted Garden: A fairy-tale-themed area for kids.
- Victorian Carousel: Traditional ride for kids and families.
Parking and Parking Fee
- Parking is available at the venue for $12 per car.
Nearby Hotels
- Hampton Inn San Francisco-Daly City
- Mylo Hotel
- Mission Inn
Nearby Restaurants
- Kome Buffet
- Boulevard Cafe
- Joe’s of Westlake
3. Winter Wonderland Christmas Market, Sacramento
This market transforms Sacramento into a festive wonderland with holiday music, themed decor, and many holiday activities for all ages.
- Address: 400 Capitol Mall, Sacramento, CA 95814
- Dates: December 1 – December 24, 2025
- Weekly Opening and Closing Times: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM, daily
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
Nearest T Stations
- 8th & Capitol Station (0.3 miles)
- 9th & K Station (0.4 miles)
Events
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: A must-see event marking the start of the season.
- Ice Skating Rink: Open daily for visitors to skate in a wintery setting.
- Live Choir Performances: Featuring holiday classics.
- Santa’s Workshop: Free crafts and activities for kids.
- Local Art Displays: Admire festive art from Sacramento artists.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Golden State Artisans: Local crafts and holiday gifts.
- Sacramento Sweets Co.: Iconic sweets and candies.
- Holiday Toy Emporium: Unique toys perfect for gifting.
Special Spots
- Capitol Christmas Tree: A beautifully decorated tree at the heart of the market.
- Skating Rink: Ideal for holiday family fun.
- Photo Booth: Capture festive memories.
- Snow Globe Display: A must-see for photo ops.
- Local Artist Alley: Features rotating art from Sacramento creators.
Parking and Parking Fee
- Nearby public parking garages, rates vary from $5-$15.
Nearby Hotels
- Hyatt Regency Sacramento
- Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel
- The Citizen Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Ella Dining Room & Bar
- Mayahuel
- Cafeteria 15L
4. Union Square Holiday Market, San Francisco
Union Square’s holiday market is a Christmas shopping paradise, offering artisanal goods, delicious food, and a chance to skate under the San Francisco skyline.
If you’re in the Midwest, don’t miss the German Christmas Market in Oconomowoc for an authentic holiday experience.
- Address: 333 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94108
- Dates: November 24 – December 24, 2025
- Weekly Opening and Closing Times: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, daily
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
Nearest T Stations
- Powell Street BART Station (0.1 miles)
- Montgomery Street BART Station (0.4 miles)
Events
- Ice Skating Rink: Open daily for holiday fun.
- Christmas Caroling: Enjoy classic holiday songs sung live.
- Gingerbread House Display: A large-scale, edible display.
- Santa’s Visit: Take photos with Santa.
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: A highlight of the holiday season in San Francisco.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Bay Area Made: Features local handcrafted items.
- Holiday Treats Bakery: Sweet treats and holiday pastries.
- Ornament Emporium: Unique, hand-painted holiday ornaments.
Special Spots
- Union Square Christmas Tree: A beautifully decorated tree.
- Skating Rink: Enjoy skating with a view of the city.
- Window Displays: Stunning holiday decor by local designers.
- Photo with Santa: A classic holiday memory.
- City Views: Perfect for evening photos with holiday lights.
Parking and Parking Fee
- Union Square Garage, rates vary; typically $4-$8 per hour.
Nearby Hotels
- The Westin St. Francis
- Grand Hyatt San Francisco
- Hotel Nikko San Francisco
Nearby Restaurants
- Sears Fine Food
- Farallon
- Cheesecake Factory
5. Solvang Julefest, Solvang
Solvang, the Danish-inspired town in California, comes alive with its own Christmas market, Solvang Julefest, filled with Scandinavian holiday traditions and festive activities.
- Address: Downtown Solvang, CA 93463
- Dates: December 1 – January 5, 2026
- Weekly Opening and Closing Times: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, daily
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
Nearest T Stations
- Santa Barbara Amtrak Station (45 miles)
- Goleta Amtrak Station (40 miles)
Events
- Danish Parade: Celebrate with Danish-inspired floats and costumes.
- Nisse Adventure: A scavenger hunt for families.
- Christmas Tree Burn: A unique holiday event.
- Julefest Candlelight Tour: Guided tours by candlelight.
- Live Music: Danish and holiday-themed music performances.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Solvang Bakery: Known for its gingerbread houses.
- Solvang Bakery: Known for its gingerbread houses.
- Danish Imports: Authentic Scandinavian goods.
Special Spots
- Windmill: A picture-perfect landmark.
- Danish Elves Display: A festive feature for photos.
- Streets of Denmark: Explore Danish-style architecture.
- Christmas House: Decorated top to bottom.
- Holiday Fountain: A beautiful lighted fountain.
Parking and Parking Fee
- Street parking is free, with several nearby lots.
Nearby Hotels
- Hotel Corque
- Hadsten House
- Wine Valley Inn
Nearby Restaurants
- Copenhagen Sausage Garden
- Paula’s Pancake House
- First & Oak
Conclusion
California’s Christmas markets provide various unique experiences, from German-inspired treats to Victorian carolling and Danish festivities. Whether you’re looking to find one-of-a-kind gifts or enjoy festive food, California has a perfect Christmas market. Embrace the holiday cheer by exploring these enchanting markets across the Golden State.