Christmas Markets in the Bay Area: Holiday & Shopping Spot

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Christmas Markets in the Bay Area: Holiday & Shopping Spot

November 21, 2024
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Christmas

Combining the Bay Area’s distinctive culture with classic holiday appeal, the Christmas markets there provide a cozy and merry respite over the season. Every year, a range of markets open up all across San Francisco, Oakland, and other surrounding cities, turning areas into winter wonderlands full of glittering lights, unusual presents, and seasonal goodies. These markets offer a great experience for all ages whether your hunt is for holiday decorations, handcrafted goods, or just want to enjoy live music and festive food. There is a market to fit every holiday buyer from the famous Great Dickens Christmas Fair in Daly City to the European-inspired holiday booths at Union Square.Covering the top 10 Christmas markets in the Bay Area, this guide provides basic information on dates, admission costs, surrounding transit, well-known retailers, family-friendly events, and local restaurants. This book will help you to design an amazing Christmas season whether your residence is in the Bay Area or you are visiting for holidays.

Table of Contents

1. Great Dickens Christmas Fair

Inspired by Charles Dickens’ England, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair whisks guests to a little Victorian village. This unusual market, which takes place in the Cow Palace in Daly City, is a vibrant retelling of 19th-century London over the holidays. The fair mimics the spirit of Dickens’ time with cobblestone streets, classic lampposts, and costumed actors. Attendees can take Victorian dance classes, see live theater productions, and investigate themed booths including handcrafted goods, jewelry, and vintage décor. This is a really real experience with the sounds of carolers, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and the sight of people in period costumes.Don’t miss the happy atmosphere of Edmonton Christmas Markets. Children can enjoy Father Christmas while adults taste traditional British food such mince pies and mulled wine. With its amazing mix of history, culture, and festive entertainment, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair offers a singular holiday celebration suitable for all ages. This place is absolutely worth visiting anyone seeking a unique and historic holiday celebration with Victorian flair, energetic presentations, and actual holiday shopping.

Address: Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave, Daly City, CA
Dates: November 18 – December 17, 2025 (Weekends only)
Opening Hours: Saturdays and Sundays 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Entrance Fee: $30 for adults, $14 for children
Ticket Information: Tickets available on the Dickens Fair website

Nearest T Stations:

Daly City BART Station
Colma BART Station

Events:

Victorian Dance Lessons – Join lively dance lessons led by performers in Victorian attire.
Parlor Games – Fun, traditional games for visitors of all ages.
Scrooge’s Christmas Carol Play – A theatrical performance of the holiday classic.
Craft Workshops – Hands-on crafting sessions for holiday gifts.
Victorian Carolers – Live caroling throughout the day, filling the air with holiday cheer.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Ye Olde Curiosity Shoppe – Handcrafted Victorian-inspired gifts and collectibles.
Stollen & Sweets Bakery – Classic German holiday treats and stollen.
Leatherworks by Porter – Handcrafted leather goods perfect for holiday gifting.
Christmas Candle Maker – Artisan candles in festive fragrances.
Toy Maker’s Stall – Unique, handmade wooden toys.

Special Spots:

Queen’s Court – A gathering spot to see the “Queen” and her Victorian court.
Holiday Horse Carriage – Victorian horse-drawn carriage rides.
Cobbled Market Street – A scenic stretch decorated in 19th-century holiday charm.
Scrooge’s House – A festive setting from the Dickens story.
Royal Stage – Main stage for dance, music, and theater performances.

Parking:

On-site parking at Cow Palace, $12 per vehicle

Nearby Hotels:

Hampton Inn San Francisco Daly City
Alpine Inn & Suites
The Dylan Hotel at SFO

Nearby Restaurants:

Val’s Restaurant & Lounge – Classic American fare with holiday specials.
Kome Buffet – All-you-can-eat Asian and American fusion.
Lucky Chances Café – Filipino and American dishes.

2. Union Square Holiday Market

Among the most clear-cut holiday attractions in San Francisco, the Union Square Holiday Market draws both locals and tourists to the city center Against Union Square’s massive Christmas tree, this outdoor market presents a selection of festive vendors with handcrafted items, seasonal delicacies, and understated discoveries. From the ice-skating rink in its middle to live jazz events filling the air with holiday cheer, the market is humming with festive vitality. Holiday shopping is best at this venue as customers may peruse booths loaded with art, jewelry, candles, and other handcrafted objects.Santa is close-by waiting to see families and children for treasured Christmas photos. Whether your hunt is for the perfect gift, a cup of hot cocoa, or just to enjoy the Christmas vibe, Union Square’s Christmas Market presents an amazing experience in a crowded metropolitan setting. It’s the perfect spot to start the holidays and truly catch San Francisco’s Christmas atmosphere.

Address: Union Square, San Francisco, CA
Dates: November 24 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; event details available on Union Square website

Nearest T Stations:

Powell Street BART/Muni Station
Montgomery Street BART/Muni Station

Events:

Tree Lighting Ceremony – Watch Union Square’s iconic Christmas tree light up the square.
Ice Skating Rink – Lace up your skates for some holiday fun.
Santa’s Grotto – Visit Santa for photos and holiday cheer.
Holiday Jazz Nights – Evening jazz performances on select dates.
Gift Wrapping Station – Complimentary gift wrapping for market purchases.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Bay Area Artisans – Locally crafted jewelry and art pieces.
Holiday Candle Stand – Scented holiday candles and decor.
Silk Scarves – Hand-dyed scarves, perfect as gifts.
European Sweets – German stollen, Italian panettone, and French macarons.
Jewelry by Local Designers – One-of-a-kind pieces crafted by Bay Area artists.

Special Spots:

Union Square Ice Rink – Iconic ice rink with a view of the holiday tree.
Christmas Tree Plaza – Centerpiece of Union Square, adorned with thousands of lights.
San Francisco Cable Car Line – Convenient transportation with holiday decor.
Photo Booths – Capture festive memories with friends and family.
Holiday Walkway – Path lined with lights and seasonal decor.

Parking:

Union Square Garage, $8 per hour

Nearby Hotels:

The Westin St. Francis
Grand Hyatt San Francisco
Hotel Nikko San Francisco

Nearby Restaurants:

The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus – Upscale dining with a holiday view.
The Cheesecake Factory – Family-friendly, seasonal menu items.
Hops & Hominy – Southern-inspired fare with festive cocktails.

3. Jack London Square Christmas Market

Jack London Square Christmas Market in Oakland offers a stunning backdrop for seasonal shopping, live entertainment, and celebratory events, so bringing the enchantment of the holidays to the waterfront. The nautical holiday touch of this market is well-known; boats decorated in lights cruising the estuary during the annual Boat Parade of Lights. Visitors can peruse local companies providing odd presents, holiday decorations, and homemade goods while listening to jazz bands and carolers. When Santa arrives by boat, children and families get very giddy. The market’s lovely waterfront location is ideal for evening walks and photos with decorated trees, lighted trails, and outdoor fireplace area to warm-up.Jack London Square Christmas Market is the ideal holiday destination for everyone wishing to enjoy festive happiness by the sea with its little stores, seasonal events, and amazing views. Definitely check it for families, holiday visitors, and everyone else who loves the beauty of Christmas in a dynamic waterfront surrounds.

Address: Jack London Square, 472 Water St, Oakland, CA
Dates: December 2 – December 24, 2025 (Weekends only)
Opening Hours: Saturdays and Sundays 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; event details on Jack London Square website

Nearest T Stations:

Lake Merritt BART Station
12th Street/Oakland City Center BART Station

Events:

Boat Parade of Lights – Decorated boats sail the estuary, creating a festive waterside display.
Christmas Carol Performances – Local choirs sing holiday favorites along the waterfront.
Santa’s Marina Visit – Santa arrives by boat to meet children and families.
Live Jazz Performances – Jazz bands perform holiday classics throughout the day.
Holiday Crafts for Kids – Workshops for children to create ornaments and holiday decorations.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Oakland Artisan Collective – Handmade jewelry, pottery, and art pieces by local artists.
Gourmet Popcorn Stand – Flavored popcorn in seasonal flavors like peppermint and caramel apple.
Vintage Decor – Antique holiday decorations and unique home items.
Bay Area Spice Market – Locally made spice blends perfect for holiday cooking.
Seaside Holiday Gifts – Nautical-inspired ornaments and coastal decor.

Special Spots:

Waterfront Boardwalk – A scenic walkway decorated with holiday lights.
Santa’s Dock – A festive spot where Santa arrives by boat.
Jack London Cabin – Historical cabin decorated with holiday decor.
Christmas Tree at the Pier – A beautifully decorated tree with a waterfront view.
Outdoor Fireplace Lounge – Cozy seating around a fireplace, ideal for warming up.

Parking:

Public parking at Jack London Square Garage, $5 per hour

Nearby Hotels:

Waterfront Hotel
Z Hotel Jack London Square
Oakland Marriott City Center

Nearby Restaurants:

Yoshi’s Oakland – Japanese cuisine with live jazz.
Everett & Jones BBQ – Traditional barbecue with seasonal specials.
Forge Pizza – Cozy spot with wood-fired pizzas and festive drinks.

4. Holiday Artisan Fair at Fort Mason

The Holiday Artisan Fair at Fort Mason offers a curated selection of handmade gifts and local crafts in a cozy indoor setting, perfect for holiday shopping with a view of San Francisco Bay. This weekend event gathers some of the Bay Area’s finest artisans, showcasing a wide range of items, including handcrafted pottery, eco-friendly gift wrap, and seasonal candles.While children enjoy a specific craft area, visitors can engage in seasonal craft sessions creating their own wreaths and candles. The fair also offers an adult Christmas cocktail sampling, which gives the shopping experience some fun variation. Fort Mason’s festive atmosphere and live acoustic music produce a calm yet lively Christmas vibe. Supporting local artists and manufacturers, this artisan fair encapsulates the spirit of the holidays with breathtaking vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge. For those seeking unusual, handcrafted presents and a laid-back, festive market experience by the lake, the Holiday Artisan Fair at Fort Mason is the perfect place.

Address: Fort Mason Center, 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco, CA
Dates: December 9 – December 10, 2025
Opening Hours: Saturday–Sunday 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: $5 admission, children under 12 free
Ticket Information: Tickets available at the entrance or on the Fort Mason website

Nearest T Stations:

Hyde St Cable Car
Van Ness Muni Station

Events:

Handmade Gift Wrapping Station – Get your gifts wrapped in artisan paper by local artists.
Holiday Cocktail Tasting – Sample seasonal cocktails crafted by local bartenders.
Live Acoustic Music – Enjoy holiday tunes performed by local musicians.
Artisan Workshops – Learn crafts like wreath making and candle pouring.
Kids’ Craft Zone – Children can make their own holiday ornaments and decorations.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Bay Area Pottery Collective – Handcrafted pottery and ceramics for the home.
Eco-Friendly Gift Wrap – Reusable wrapping materials and eco-friendly options.
Locally Made Skincare – Organic skincare products, perfect for holiday gifts.
Artisan Chocolate Stand – Handcrafted chocolates in festive flavors.
Handwoven Textiles – Beautiful scarves, blankets, and home textiles.

Special Spots:

View of Golden Gate Bridge – Stunning views from Fort Mason of the Golden Gate, especially at sunset.
Holiday Photo Booth – Capture memories with festive props and backgrounds.
Art Gallery Hall – Displays of seasonal art and photography.
Outdoor Patio Lounge – Cozy seating with heaters and lights for a relaxing break.
Historic Fort Mason Gate – Beautifully decorated entrance to the market.

Parking:

On-site paid parking available at Fort Mason, $3/hour

Nearby Hotels:

Argonaut Hotel
Hotel Del Sol
Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf

Nearby Restaurants:

Greens Restaurant – Vegetarian cuisine with a holiday-inspired menu.
The Interval at Long Now – Cafe and bar with festive drinks.
Café Franco – Casual eatery with seasonal fare.

5. Downtown Berkeley Holiday Market

The Downtown Berkeley holiday market is a community-focused Christmas celebration that energizes Berkeley’s downtown by combining seasonal celebrations, local vendors, and live music. With artisan wares, a holiday tree lighting ceremony, and a warm atmosphere, this market on Shattuck Avenue provides a winter haven away from the city. Perfect for unusual gift shopping, shoppers can peruse booths with handcrafted jewelry, pottery, artisan cheeses, and seasonal décor. While adults may enjoy cooking demonstrations featuring seasonal cuisine by local chefs, kids will appreciate the winter wonderland crafts section where they may create ornaments and decorations. With live performances and Santa’s pop-up station, this market offers something for everyone. The Downtown Berkeley Holiday Market is a vibrant gathering spot for the community, bringing together local artisans, families, and holiday enthusiasts. It’s an ideal place to celebrate the season, find meaningful gifts, and enjoy the holiday spirit in Berkeley.

Address: Downtown Berkeley, Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA
Dates: December 3 – December 24, 2025 (Weekends only)
Opening Hours: Saturdays and Sundays 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; event details on Downtown Berkeley website

Nearest T Stations:

Downtown Berkeley BART Station
North Berkeley BART Station

Events:

Tree Lighting Ceremony – Kick off the holiday season with the annual tree lighting event.
Live Performances – Local artists and performers entertain with holiday music.
Winter Wonderland Crafts – Children’s area with holiday crafts and activities.
Cooking Demos – Learn to make festive treats from local chefs.
Santa’s Pop-Up Station – Meet Santa and take memorable photos.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Bay Area Book Nook – Holiday books and unique literature-themed gifts.
Artisan Cheese Stand – Locally produced cheeses, perfect for holiday platters.
Handmade Jewelry – One-of-a-kind jewelry crafted by local artists.
Berkeley Potters Guild – Unique pottery and ceramics.
Winter Spice Shop – Spices and seasonings for holiday cooking.

Special Spots:

Holiday Lighted Pathway – Pathway adorned with holiday lights and decor.
Shattuck Avenue Tree – A central tree decorated for the season.
Santa’s Corner – Area for Santa photos and holiday greetings.
Outdoor Fire Pits – Cozy fire pits to relax and enjoy seasonal treats.
Berkeley City Plaza – Holiday-themed plaza in the heart of downtown.

Parking:

Public parking at the Berkeley City Garage, $2 per hour

Nearby Hotels:

Hotel Shattuck Plaza
Graduate Berkeley
DoubleTree by Hilton Berkeley Marina

Nearby Restaurants:

Angeline’s Louisiana Kitchen – Cajun and Creole fare with a holiday twist.
Gather Restaurant – Seasonal California cuisine.
Cafe Clem – French-inspired cafe with holiday pastries.

6. San Jose Christmas in the Park

San Jose’s Christmas in the Park transforms Plaza de Cesar Chavez into a shimmering winter paradise among the most beloved holiday celebrations in the Bay Area. This annual celebration offers visitors of all ages an amazing experience including animated light displays, a forest of adorned Christmas trees, and holiday music.Families may have a holiday train ride, an outdoor ice skating rink under the stars, and Santa visits. The market is particularly well-known for its large range of food stores, which offers anything from exotic holiday treats to churros and hot chocolate. One of the unique elements of Christmas in the Park is the community; several of the trees are ornamented with local companies and schools. Popular among residents as well as visitors, Christmas in the Park blends seasonal shopping, entertainment, and incredible lights to fairly capture the coziness of the season. Here is the perfect setting for holidays, family memories, and gratitude of the seasonal beauty.

Address: Plaza de Cesar Chavez, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA
Dates: November 24, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Opening Hours: Daily 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; more information available on Christmas in the Park website

Nearest T Stations:

Santa Clara VTA Light Rail Station
Convention Center VTA Light Rail Station

Events:

Tree Lighting Ceremony – Kick off the holiday season with a spectacular tree lighting.
Animated Light Displays – Walk through themed displays featuring thousands of holiday lights.
Santa’s Workshop – Visit Santa and take family photos in a festive setting.
Holiday Food Trucks – Sample seasonal treats from local food trucks.
Outdoor Ice Skating – Enjoy skating under twinkling lights in downtown San Jose.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Hot Cocoa Corner – Enjoy warm holiday drinks like cocoa and mulled cider.
Bay Area Bakery – Fresh holiday pastries and cookies for the whole family.
Artisan Ornament Shop – Unique, hand-crafted ornaments for holiday decor.
Winter Apparel Stand – Cozy winter accessories, perfect for gifts.
Festive Sweets and Treats – Seasonal confections, including candy canes and peppermint bark.

Special Spots:

Christmas Tree Forest – A forest of decorated trees sponsored by local businesses.
Lighted Santa Statue – Perfect for photos, this statue glows in holiday colors.
Santa’s Stage – Live performances of holiday music and dance throughout the season.
Snow Play Zone – Fun area where kids can play in artificial snow.
Elf Village – Small, festive houses decorated like a North Pole village.

Parking:

Nearby garages available; average rates $5–$10 per hour

Nearby Hotels:

San Jose Marriott
The Westin San Jose
Hotel De Anza

Nearby Restaurants:

Original Joe’s – Italian-American dining with seasonal menu items.
Paper Plane – Popular bar with holiday-inspired cocktails.
The Grill on the Alley – Upscale American fare in a cozy setting.

7. Half Moon Bay Night of Lights

Half Moon Bay Night of Lights brings coastal charm and holiday spirit together in this one-night-only event on Main Street. Held each December, this market and celebration lights up the heart of Half Moon Bay with a parade, caroling, and plenty of seasonal shopping. Beginning with a tree lighting ceremony, the festival ends with a Parade of Lights when local companies, artists, and costumed characters bring the Christmas joy to life. Local companies offering homemade items, Christmas decorations, and coastal-inspired gifts let guests browse. Families would find this joyful celebration perfect as children are seeing Santa and a wintry wonderland created for holiday pictures. Half Moon Bay is a special enchanting environment created by the friendly seaside vibe, glittering lights, and happy music. Half Moon Bay Night of Lights is a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty and fun of a small-town holiday event whether you live nearby or are traveling for the holidays.

Address: Main Street, Half Moon Bay, CA
Dates: December 1, 2025
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; event details on Half Moon Bay website

Nearest T Stations:

Caltrain Millbrae Station (transfer to bus or rideshare)
Daly City BART Station (transfer to bus or rideshare)

Events:

Tree Lighting Ceremony – A beautiful lighting of the town’s main Christmas tree.
Parade of Lights – Holiday parade featuring festive floats, bands, and costumed characters.
Christmas Carolers – Traditional carolers sing throughout Main Street.
Local Artisan Fair – Handmade gifts, crafts, and local goods for sale.
Santa’s Photos – Meet Santa and capture memorable family photos.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Coastal Candles – Locally made candles with ocean-inspired scents.
Handmade Holiday Decor – Custom wreaths, garlands, and ornaments.
Gourmet Chocolates – Festive flavors like peppermint bark and hot cocoa truffles.
Sea Glass Jewelry – Beautiful, hand-crafted jewelry made from sea glass.
Baked Goods by Local Bakers – Fresh pastries, pies, and cookies.

Special Spots:

Christmas Tree Plaza – The centerpiece of the festivities, perfect for family photos.
Historic Main Street – Beautifully lit and decorated for a cozy holiday feel.
Santa’s House – Visit Santa in a cozy, holiday-themed setting.
Artisan Alley – Row of stalls featuring local crafts and handmade goods.
Parade Route – Stand along the route to see the lighted parade floats.

Parking:

Free street parking available, limited spaces

Nearby Hotels:

Half Moon Bay Lodge
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
Zaballa House

Nearby Restaurants:

Pasta Moon – Italian cuisine with seasonal holiday specials.
Sam’s Chowder House – Coastal fare with holiday-inspired menu items.
Half Moon Bay Coffee Company – Perfect for a warm coffee or hot chocolate.

8. Napa Christmas Parade & Marketplace

The Napa Christmas Parade & Marketplace combines the holiday charm of a traditional market with the elegance of wine country. Set in downtown Napa, this festive event is known for its lively parade featuring illuminated floats, local performers, and, of course, Santa Claus. Alongside the parade, the market hosts artisan vendors offering handcrafted gifts, holiday decor, and gourmet products, many inspired by Napa Valley’s renowned wine and food culture. Wine enthusiasts can sample selections from local wineries, while families enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the decorated downtown streets. With holiday caroling and cooking demonstrations featuring seasonal recipes, the Napa Christmas Parade & Marketplace provides a warm, festive atmosphere that celebrates both the season and Napa’s vibrant community spirit. This holiday event is a perfect blend of shopping, wine tasting, and family-friendly activities, making it a must-visit for those seeking a memorable holiday experience in Napa Valley.

Address: Downtown Napa, 850 Main St, Napa, CA
Dates: December 2 – December 23, 2025
Opening Hours: Saturdays and Sundays 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; details on Visit Napa Valley website

Nearest T Stations:

Vallejo Ferry Terminal (transfer to bus or rideshare)
El Cerrito del Norte BART Station (transfer to bus or rideshare)

Events:

Christmas Parade – A festive parade featuring holiday floats and Santa Claus.
Wine Tasting Booths – Sample Napa’s finest wines, available for purchase.
Holiday Craft Fair – Local artisans selling handmade holiday goods.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides – Enjoy scenic carriage rides through Napa.
Christmas Carol Sing-Along – Family-friendly caroling event for all ages.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Vineyard Artisan Goods – Locally sourced gifts inspired by Napa’s vineyards.
Gourmet Chocolate Stall – Handcrafted chocolate perfect for gifts.
Holiday Scented Candles – Candles inspired by the season and wine country.
Handmade Wool Scarves – Cozy, hand-knitted scarves ideal for winter.
Napa Valley Wines – Selection of local wines available to taste and buy.

Special Spots:

Downtown Christmas Tree – The heart of the holiday celebration in Napa.
Historic Napa Riverfront – Beautifully decorated for the holiday season.
Santa’s Sleigh – Take photos with Santa in his festive sleigh.
Carriage Ride Station – Enjoy holiday-themed carriage rides through town.
Market Square – Central area with artisan stalls and live music.

Parking:

Downtown parking garages; hourly rates apply

Nearby Hotels:

Napa River Inn
Andaz Napa
Archer Hotel Napa

Nearby Restaurants:

Celadon – Fine dining with holiday menu options.
Oxbow Public Market – A variety of vendors and holiday-themed treats.
Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ – Casual dining with seasonal specials.

9. Mountain View Holiday Market

The Mountain View Holiday Market brings holiday cheer to downtown Mountain View, transforming Castro Street into a festive outdoor marketplace filled with seasonal treats, handcrafted gifts, and family-friendly activities. This weekend event is popular with locals and visitors alike, offering everything from unique jewelry and woodwork to artisanal soaps and candles. The holiday spirit is brought to life with the arrival of Santa in a festive parade, followed by live music performances and choir caroling. A favorite for families, the market also features a children’s craft workshop where kids can create their own holiday decorations. Cozy spots like a hot cocoa stand and a holiday photo booth add to the warm, festive ambiance, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages. The Mountain View Holiday Market is an ideal destination for holiday shopping, community fun, and capturing the magic of the season right in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Address: Downtown Mountain View, Castro Street, Mountain View, CA
Dates: December 9 – December 10, 2025
Opening Hours: Saturday–Sunday 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; additional details available on the Mountain View website

Nearest T Stations:

Mountain View Caltrain Station
Downtown Mountain View VTA Light Rail Station

Events:

Santa’s Arrival Parade – Welcome Santa with a festive parade down Castro Street.
Christmas Choir Performances – Enjoy carols and holiday music from local choirs.
Children’s Craft Workshop – Kids can make their own ornaments and holiday decorations.
Hot Cocoa Stand – Free hot cocoa for market visitors.
Live Ice Carving – Watch artists create stunning ice sculptures.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Artisan Jewelry – Locally made, handcrafted jewelry perfect for holiday gifts.
Holiday Woodwork – Handcrafted wood decor and ornaments.
Mountain View Candle Co. – Candles in seasonal scents like pine and cinnamon.
Local Honey Stand – Organic, locally sourced honey, perfect for gift baskets.
Artisanal Soap – Handmade soaps in holiday-inspired scents.

Special Spots:

Downtown Christmas Tree – A large, beautifully decorated tree in the heart of Castro Street.
Santa’s Workshop – A cozy area where Santa meets children for holiday photos.
Photo Booth with Snowfall – Festive photo spot with artificial snow for wintery photos.
Main Stage – Live holiday music and performances throughout the weekend.
Market Lights Display – A section of Castro Street decked with twinkling lights.

Parking:

Downtown Mountain View parking garages and lots, free for the first 2 hours

Nearby Hotels:

Aloft Mountain View
Hotel Strata
Hotel Zico

Nearby Restaurants:

Steins Beer Garden – Holiday brews and seasonal fare.
Vaso Azzurro Ristorante – Italian dining with a cozy holiday atmosphere.
Savvy Cellar Wine Bar & Wine Shop – Wine tastings and festive pairings.

10. Santa Cruz Holiday Lights and Market

Along the lovely Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz Holiday Lights and Market provides the traditional holiday experience with a unique coastal touch. This evening activity adorns the boardwalk with festive displays, holiday decorations, and lots of opportunities for seaside holiday fun. Live caroling is available for visitors to enjoy; they can also search for Christmas products with beach inspiration and take unique photos with Santa at his coastal exhibit. Both families and couples would find the fantastic surroundings the Holiday Train Ride and light tunnel across the promenade ideal creates. Apart from Christmas delicacies like hot cocoa and peppermint-flavored saltwater taffy, the market presents locally made handicaps, which makes it a fantastic place to get one-of- a- kind present. Santa Cruz Holiday Lights and Market offers a unique holiday experience that embodies the laid-back but happy attitude of a California Christmas by the sea with the waves crashing in the backdrop and beautiful lights lighting the seafront.

Address: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA
Dates: December 15 – December 23, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry; more details available on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk website

Nearest T Stations:

Santa Cruz Metro Center (transfer to local bus)
Scotts Valley Transit Station (transfer to local bus)

Events:

Holiday Light Show – Spectacular light displays set to holiday music at the Boardwalk.
Seaside Santa – Meet Santa on the beach for unique holiday photos.
Holiday Train Rides – The Boardwalk Train offers holiday-themed rides.
Christmas Crafts Fair – Local artisans display handmade gifts and holiday crafts.
Live Caroling – Traditional holiday songs sung by local performers.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

Beachy Holiday Decor – Seaside-inspired ornaments and holiday gifts.
Santa Cruz Artisans – Handmade pottery, art, and jewelry from local artists.
Salt Water Taffy Stand – Holiday flavors like peppermint and eggnog.
Surf Shop Gifts – Coastal-inspired holiday wear and accessories.
Hot Chocolate Bar – Warm up with customizable hot chocolate options.

Special Spots:

Beach Boardwalk Light Tunnel – A lighted walkway perfect for photos and holiday strolls.
Holiday Carousel – A beautifully decorated, illuminated carousel for all ages.
Seaside Santa Photo Area – Santa’s photo booth with a scenic ocean view.
Historic Boardwalk Rides – Classic rides open with holiday lights.
Boardwalk Pier – Decorated with seasonal lights for a scenic holiday walk.