Christmas Markets in Northern California 2024: Top Festive Destinations
Northern California is a magical place during the holiday season. Its Christmas markets are a delightful way to experience this festive time of year.
These markets bring together the best of the holiday spirit with unique crafts, delicious treats, and cheerful decorations that light up the winter nights.
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Whether you’re looking to find the perfect gift or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, these events offer something for everyone.
What are the must-visit Christmas markets in Northern California in 2024? With a variety of markets to choose from, each with its own charm and special offerings, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make lasting holiday memories.
From quaint villages to bustling city squares, these markets are sure to enchant visitors of all ages.
Table of Contents
- 1 1) Sonoma Valley’s Christmas Market
- 2 2) Union Square Holiday Market, San Francisco
- 3 3) Old Sacramento Waterfront Holiday Market
- 4 4) Great Dickens Fair, Daly City
- 5 5) Lake Tahoe’s Holiday Bazaar
- 6 6) Folsom’s Historic District Christmas Market
- 7 7) Napa Valley Christmas Market
- 8 8) Golden Gate Park Holiday Market, San Francisco
- 9 9) Monterey’s Christmas in the Adobes Market
- 10 10) Santa Cruz Holiday Market
1) Sonoma Valley’s Christmas Market
Sonoma Valley offers a delightful Christmas market experience, perfect for holiday enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore various artisan stalls showcasing handcrafted items and unique gifts. The market is a great place to find ceramics, jewelry, wearables, and other crafted goods.
Each weekend in November and December, the market becomes a festive hub. Guests can enjoy live music, indulge in delicious foods, and maybe even catch a glimpse of Santa.
Families can enjoy a cozy time with fire pits, making it an ideal spot for a festive outing.
The market is spacious, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone. Free parking and fun activities make it accessible and entertaining, catering to all ages.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 11-12, 2023 | Sonoma Valley Women’s Club | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Free |
| November 11, 2023 | Petaluma | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Free |
| November 11-12, 2023 | Leisure Lake | 9:55 AM – 3:05 PM | Free |
Explore more details and plan your visit to Sonoma Valley events.
2) Union Square Holiday Market, San Francisco
The Union Square Holiday Market in San Francisco is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.
Known for its festive atmosphere, the market features a wide variety of vendors offering unique gifts and seasonal treats.
Visitors can explore booths filled with handmade crafts, artisanal food, and one-of-a-kind treasures created by local artists and entrepreneurs. The market provides a perfect opportunity to find special holiday gifts while supporting small businesses.
Aside from shopping, the event also offers various entertainment options. Enjoy live music performances and festive decorations that make Union Square come alive during the holiday season.
The market is well-known for its magical holiday illuminations and even occasional snowfall, creating a winter wonderland in the heart of San Francisco.
Families can enjoy a fun day out, thanks to the kid-friendly activities and the joyful holiday ambiance.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec. 17 – 24, 2024 | Union Square, San Francisco, CA | 10am – 8pm daily | Free entry |
| Dec. 15 – 24, 2023 | Stockton Street from Post to O’Farrell | 10am – 8pm daily | Free entry |
3) Old Sacramento Waterfront Holiday Market
The Old Sacramento Waterfront Holiday Market is a festive destination perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.
This charming market is held at the Old Sacramento Waterfront, an area that becomes especially picturesque during the holiday season. Twinkling lights, vintage decorations, and cheerful music create a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
Holiday shoppers will find an array of unique gifts and crafts. Local vendors offer handmade goods, from ornaments to cozy scarves and gourmet treats. It’s a great opportunity to support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind presents for loved ones.
In addition to shopping, the market features live light shows and festive displays. Visitors can also enjoy mouthwatering holiday treats and warm beverages from various food trucks set up around the market.
The lively environment ensures there’s something fun for everyone, making it suitable for families and friends alike.
One of the key attractions is the Theatre of Lights, an immersive performance retelling “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Performed on the balconies of the historic buildings, the show includes appearances by characters like Jack Frost and Santa Claus.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov. 22 – Dec. 30 | 1014 2nd St, Sacramento, CA | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Free admission |
4) Great Dickens Fair, Daly City
The Great Dickens Fair in Daly City brings a slice of Victorian London to Northern California. It’s an immersive event where visitors can stroll through streets filled with hundreds of costumed performers.
This fair captures the charm of Charles Dickens’ era, complete with handmade crafts, delicious foods, and festive entertainment.
Held annually, the fair spans five weekends from late November through December. It’s not just a market; it’s a full-on festive experience.
Attendees can enjoy lively performances, bustling shops, and mouth-watering holiday fare. The event transforms over 140,000 square feet into an elaborate holiday scene.
For families, the fair offers activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy puppet shows, caroling, and even interact with Father Christmas. Adults will appreciate the unique shopping, dining options, and evening shows.
The atmosphere is both enchanting and welcoming, making it a perfect holiday outing.
For those looking to get the most out of their visit, tickets are available online or at the gate.
General admission is $45, while children’s tickets are $25. Children under five get in free, making it an affordable family activity.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov. 23 – Dec. 22 | Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave, Daly City, CA | 10am – 6pm (Fri – Sun) | General Admission: $45 |
| Children (5-12): $25 | |||
| Under 5: Free |
5) Lake Tahoe’s Holiday Bazaar
Lake Tahoe’s Holiday Bazaar is a must-see event for the holiday season. This festive market is held every year and draws crowds from all over Northern California.
Located in North Lake Tahoe, the bazaar features a wide variety of artisan vendors. Visitors can find unique gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious treats. It’s a perfect place to start your holiday shopping.
There are also family-friendly activities to enjoy. Kids can participate in crafts, listen to holiday stories, and meet Santa Claus.
The warm, festive atmosphere makes it a delightful experience for everyone.
Live entertainment is another highlight of the bazaar. Musicians and performers bring holiday cheer with their skills.
Visiting the Holiday Bazaar is not just about shopping; it’s a way to connect with the community and celebrate the season. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this event is sure to leave you feeling festive.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 15-24, 2024 | North Lake Tahoe | 11 AM – 7 PM | Free Entry |
6) Folsom’s Historic District Christmas Market
Folsom’s Historic District Christmas Market is a must-see event during the holiday season. Held on Historic Sutter Street, it spans four blocks and includes a public plaza.
This enchanting market features over 175 artisan crafters offering unique, handcrafted items.
The market includes strolling musicians and donation-based face painters. Food vendors and local restaurants add to the festive atmosphere. The landmark train turntable becomes an ice rink, open for skating.
Event Details
| Date | Address | Time | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 8, 2024 | 905 Leidesdorff Street | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | $5.00 cash donation for parking |
7) Napa Valley Christmas Market
The Napa Valley Christmas Market is a holiday event that brings joy to locals and visitors alike. The market is located in the heart of Downtown Napa and features a variety of festive activities and attractions.
Stroll through the market and enjoy shopping at the artisan vendors. They offer unique holiday gifts and crafts. The atmosphere is filled with holiday cheer and delightful merchant specials.
Santa Claus makes a guest appearance, creating a magical experience for families and kids. Food trucks add to the festive vibe, serving delicious treats and warm drinks to keep everyone cozy.
Live performances bring the market to life with music and entertainment. The beautifully decorated streets and twinkling lights create a truly enchanting setting, making it a must-visit holiday destination.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 1 – Dec 23, 2024 | Downtown Napa | Mon-Fri: 4 PM – 9 PM | Free Entry |
| Sat-Sun: 11 AM – 9 PM |
8) Golden Gate Park Holiday Market, San Francisco
The Golden Gate Park Holiday Market is a must-see during the holiday season in San Francisco. Located at the SF County Fair Building, this market offers a unique mix of indoor and outdoor vendors.
Shoppers can find handmade crafts, local art, and delicious treats. Each day features different vendors, so there’s always something new to discover.
Entertainment and festive decorations add to the market’s charm. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, including the beautiful Golden Gate Park.
The market is easily accessible by public transportation. It’s also close to the charming neighborhood of the Inner Sunset, which has great shops and eateries.
This market is perfect for those looking to soak up some holiday spirit and find special, unique gifts.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 7-8 | Golden Gate Park, SF | 11 am – 5 pm | Free admission |
| December 15-24 | Union Square, Stockton Street | Various times | Free admission |
9) Monterey’s Christmas in the Adobes Market
Monterey’s Christmas in the Adobes is a festive event held on December 6 and 7, 2024. The market takes place in Historic Old Monterey and is part of Monterey State Historic Park Association’s annual celebrations.
Visitors can enjoy a walking tour of the beautifully decorated historic adobes. These buildings are dressed up for the holidays and offer a glimpse into Monterey’s past with music and entertainment. The adobes are staffed by volunteers in period attire, adding to the historical atmosphere.
This event is perfect for families and history buffs alike. Many venues provide live performances, making the evening even more special. Both single-night and two-night tickets are available for purchase. Children 18 and under can attend for free, making it an affordable outing for families.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 6-7, 2024 | Various venues in Monterey, CA | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Single-night: $30, Early bird: $25 until November 1, Two-night pass: $45, Children 18 and under: Free |
10) Santa Cruz Holiday Market
The Santa Cruz Holiday Market is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Located along West Cliff Drive, this festive market features unique artisans and food trucks. The stunning ocean views and the lively atmosphere make it a perfect holiday outing.
One of the highlights is the variety of handmade crafts available. Shoppers can find unique gifts, decorations, and treats. The market supports local artists, giving visitors a chance to buy one-of-a-kind items.
Food trucks at the market offer diverse options. From savory to sweet, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The festive surroundings and delicious food create a great combination for a fun day out.
The event is free to attend, making it accessible for everyone. It’s also conveniently scheduled, allowing people plenty of time to enjoy the market and the surrounding areas.
Some might even grab a spot to watch the surfers at the famous Steamers Lane surf spot nearby.
| Date | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 14, 2024 | West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA | 10am-6pm | Free admission |
Christmas Market Closures
Due to econonic conditions and tariffs, some Christmas Markets may cancel their events due to lack of vendors. If you are aware of a closed market,or find errors on a listing or an image, please reach out on our Contact Us page so that we may update this post.