Christmas Markets in Northern California 2024: Top Festive Destinations
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Table of Contents
- 1 11) Holiday Craft and Gift Festival, San Jose
- 2 12) Winchester Mystery House Christmas Market, San Jose
- 3 13) Benicia Christmas Market
- 4 14) Alameda Winter Wonderland Festival
- 5 15) Yountville Winter Market
- 6 16) Winterfest at California’s Great America, Santa Clara
- 7 17) Pacific Grove Christmas at the Inns Market
- 8 18) Truckee’s Tree Lighting and Holiday Market
- 9 19) Half Moon Bay’s Night of Lights Market
- 10 20) Petaluma’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade and Market
11) Holiday Craft and Gift Festival, San Jose
The Holiday Craft and Gift Festival in San Jose is a must-visit. Held annually, this festival brings together a variety of local artisans and creators.
It features handmade crafts, unique gifts, and festive decorations. People come to find one-of-a-kind presents for their loved ones.
The atmosphere at the festival is always lively and warm. With holiday music filling the air and vendors showcasing their work, it’s easy to get into the holiday spirit.
Families can enjoy free admission and take part in different activities throughout the venue. Kids, adults, and everyone in between can have a great time exploring the many stalls.
Parking is free, making it convenient for visitors to come and go as they please. This event supports small businesses while offering wonderful holiday shopping options.
DateAddressTimesPricesNovember 24-25, 2024Santa Clara Convention Center11 AM – 7 PMFree admission
12) Winchester Mystery House Christmas Market, San Jose
The Winchester Mystery House in San Jose is known for its spooky mysteries, but it transforms into a festive wonder during the holiday season. The Christmas Market here is a must-visit for anyone looking to combine holiday cheer with a touch of the unusual.
Visitors can explore the historic mansion while enjoying holiday decorations and lights. The market features the Menagerie of Oddities and Curiosities, where unique vendors offer strange and wonderful holiday gifts.
In addition to shopping, guests can enjoy seasonal food and drinks. There are also special candlelight tours of the house, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Parking can be a challenge, so it’s recommended to arrive early or use ride-share services. The event promises a memorable experience for families and anyone who loves combining history with holiday festivities.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 2-3, 2024 | 525 South Winchester Boulevard, San Jose, CA, 95128 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | $25 for adults, $20 for children |
13) Benicia Christmas Market
Benicia’s Christmas Market is a local favorite, bringing festive joy to the streets. Held in the heart of Benicia, California, it features a wonderful mix of holiday cheer.
Along First Street, people can see dancers, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. The parade is lively and entertaining, adding to the holiday spirit.
The Holiday Market is open on December 9, 2024. It is a great place to find unique gifts, with stalls selling handcrafted arts and crafts. There are also gourmet items and delicious foods to enjoy.
The event is perfect for families. Kids love the activities, and parents appreciate the wide variety of shopping options. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and full of holiday magic.
DateAddressTimePriceDecember 9, 202490 1st Street, Benicia, CA 9451010am-3pmFree
14) Alameda Winter Wonderland Festival
Every December, Alameda lights up with the Winter Wonderland Festival. Colorful lights and festive decorations transform downtown Alameda into a holiday paradise.
It’s perfect for families and friends looking to celebrate the season.
Local vendors set up booths selling handcrafted gifts, tasty treats, and holiday decorations. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, ideal for some seasonal shopping.
Visitors can stroll through the market, enjoying live music and performances. There are activities for kids, like face painting and holiday-themed games.
And of course, Santa Claus makes an appearance, ready to hear Christmas wishes.
A special highlight is the magical light display on Thompson Avenue, also known as Christmas Tree Lane. This street has been delighting visitors for over 80 years with its stunning decorations.
For those interested in supporting local businesses, the festival is a great opportunity. Many small shops and eateries in the area offer special deals and holiday menus during the festival.
Here are the details:
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 1 – Dec 31 | Downtown Alameda, CA 94501 | 5 PM – 10 PM | Free entry |
15) Yountville Winter Market
Yountville, known as the “Brightest Town in Napa Valley,” offers a charming winter market that is perfect for holiday cheer. The market runs from late November to early January, packed with activities for everyone.
This market includes over 200 seasonal events. Visitors can enjoy special wine tastings, holiday treats, and make-and-take crafting.
It’s an ideal place for holiday shopping too, with plenty of unique gifts.
Cooking classes and open houses add to the festive atmosphere. There are also opportunities to give back, ensuring the holiday spirit is shared throughout the community.
Don’t miss the beautiful light displays as you stroll through the town. The cheerful decorations and festive ambiance promise a memorable experience for all.
| Date | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 24, 2024 – Jan 1, 2025 | Yountville, CA | Varies by event | Free |
16) Winterfest at California’s Great America, Santa Clara
Winterfest at California’s Great America in Santa Clara is a must-visit holiday event. The park transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive decorations and holiday cheer.
Visitors can enjoy ice-skating in front of the stunning Carousel Columbia. The sparkling lights and festive music add to the magical atmosphere.
Live shows and holiday entertainment are a big draw. Appearances by Snoopy and holiday singers make the tree lighting ceremony at Celebration Plaza Stage special.
Hot chocolate lovers will be thrilled by the craft hot chocolate available throughout the park. Riding the more than 60 attractions adds excitement for families and friends.
Winterfest provides something for everyone, making it an ideal holiday outing. From dazzling sights to fun activities, it’s a celebration not to be missed.
| Date | Address | Time | Prices ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 2, 2024 – Jan 7, 2025 | California’s Great America, Santa Clara | 5 PM – 10 PM, varies | $30 – $60, various tiers |
17) Pacific Grove Christmas at the Inns Market
Pacific Grove transforms into a festive wonderland with the Christmas at the Inns Market. Visitors can stroll through nine beautifully decorated bed and breakfast inns. Each inn hosts live music and offers tasty holiday treats.
The event is perfect for families looking to soak up the holiday spirit. Tickets cost $25 per person and can be picked up at the Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce office.
The inns feature Victorian-era splendor, with each location uniquely decorated. The mix of old-world charm and holiday cheer makes this event special.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this festive experience. It’s an event that captures the magic of the holiday season in Pacific Grove.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 3, 2024 | 584 Central Ave, Pacific Grove | 5:00 – 9:00 PM | $25 |
18) Truckee’s Tree Lighting and Holiday Market
Truckee transforms into a festive wonderland every holiday season. The highlight is the Truckee Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting Ceremony. This event pulls in both locals and visitors eager to soak in the holiday spirit.
Small trees decorated by over 600 elementary students line the streets. The Truckee Rotary brings in Santa, and there’s hot cocoa to keep everyone warm.
Festive holiday lighting brightens downtown Truckee, making it a magical sight.
The most anticipated moment is the lighting of the traditional Bud Fish Tree. This special tree lighting is held in honor of Bud Fish, a beloved member of the Truckee community. It’s a heartwarming tribute that brings everyone together.
Beyond the tree lighting, there’s a holiday market featuring local crafts and gifts. This is the perfect place to find unique presents and support local artisans.
It’s not just a shopping experience; it’s a peek into the community’s rich culture.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 17, 2023 | Downtown Truckee, CA 96161 | 4:15 PM – 6:00 PM | Free |
19) Half Moon Bay’s Night of Lights Market
Half Moon Bay’s Night of Lights Market offers a charming small-town holiday experience. Located on Main Street, this market is known for its dazzling holiday lights and festive atmosphere.
Perfect for families, it kicks off with a Christmas tree lighting at Mac Dutra Park.
Shoppers can explore various artisan stalls, offering unique holiday gifts. Kids can enjoy making ornaments and other holiday crafts, adding to the festive spirit.
The streets are adorned with beautiful lights, making evening shopping a magical experience.
This event takes place on Friday nights throughout the holiday season. Local shops stay open late, making it a great spot for evening strolls.
Enjoy the blend of modern holiday cheer and traditional decorations that evoke a simpler time.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fridays throughout December | Main St, Half Moon Bay, CA | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Free |
20) Petaluma’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade and Market
Petaluma’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade is a spectacular event you won’t want to miss. Boats of all sizes, from sailboats to kayaks, are adorned with colorful lights and holiday decorations.
As the boats glide down the Petaluma River, they create a magical scene that delights both children and adults.
Alongside the boat parade, Petaluma hosts a charming holiday market. Visitors can browse through stalls offering handmade crafts, festive treats, and unique gifts.
The market is held in the heart of Historic Downtown, making it easy to enjoy the parade and shop for holiday goodies in one trip.
The boat parade begins at the Petaluma Marina and travels to the Turning Basin. Families are encouraged to arrive early to get a good viewing spot.
The reflection of thousands of tiny lights on the water is a sight to behold.
Santa’s Riverboat Arrival is another highlight of the evening. Santa makes a grand entrance, delighting young fans and adding to the holiday excitement.
The event also features live entertainment and activities for kids.
This tradition has been a beloved part of Petaluma’s holiday season for over 20 years, attracting locals and visitors alike.
| Event | Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lighted Boat Parade & Market | December 9, 2023 | 12 C St, Petaluma, CA | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 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.