Marin and Bay Area Holiday Tree Lighting Events

All across Marin and the Bay Area, communities celebrate the beginning of the holiday season with a traditional tree lighting ceremony. Here's a sampling of what's going on throughout Marin County and Sonoma.

• Tiburon Holiday Festival
  Friday, December 2, 5:30 pm
  An enchanting storybook town comes to life in downtown Tiburon, along Main Street from the fountain to the end of Upper Ark Row. The evening’s festivities will include an outdoor ice skating rink for families (opens at 3 pm, $10 per person; $5 skate rental), the traditional Fountain Plaza Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 pm with classic holiday carolers, costumed characters strolling along magical Main Street, wonderful holiday treats, gingerbread house decorating at Sam's Anchor Cafe ($30 per house), winterland snow globe making/photo shop for kids, and more!
• Redwood Empire Ice Arena Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
  Friday, December 2, 6 pm
  Saturday and Sunday, December 3 & 4, 12:15 pm
  Join Snoopy, Charlie Brown and skaters from the Santa Rosa Figure Skating Club for a mini ice show and marvel at the spectacle of their 25-foot Christmas tree at center ice. Meet Snoopy and friends after each show. Two additional matinee shows have been added on Saturday and Sunday. Public skating session follows the ceremonies. 1667 West Steele Lane, Santa Rosa.
• Santa's Arrival in Sonoma Valley
  Friday, December 2, 5:30 pm
  Santa visits the Plaza and the city's tree gets lit. Hot chocolate and candy canes are served. For more info, call (707) 996-1033.
• Holiday Celebration and Christmas Tree Lighting in Downtown Novato
  Saturday, December 3, 4 pm
  In front of Novato City Hall at 900 Sherman Avenue (at Grant Avenue), Old Town Novato. Enjoy music, hot beverages, and a Santa's Village for children. Festivities start at 4 pm and Santa arrives at 5:50 pm.
• Petaluma Theatre District Tree Lighting Celebration
  Saturday, December 3, 5 pm
  Join the Theatre Square Merchants in welcoming the holiday season! Celebrate local spirit and community giving with the kick off of the Fabulous Women’s Festival of Trees. Entertainment begins at 5 pm and the tree lighting starts at 7:30 pm. 151 Petaluma Boulevard South, Petaluma
• Annual San Anselmo Holiday Lighting Ceremony
  Saturday, December 3, 5–6:30 pm
  Bring the family to the holiday lighting ceremony at San Anselmo Town Hall, 525 San Anselmo Avenue, sponsored by the San Anselmo Chamber of Commerce and the San Anselmo Recreation Department. See Santa arrive in a fire truck, and have your picture taken with him. Enjoy kids' activities and refreshments donated by local businesses.

Photo courtesy Pier 39