Family Holiday Activities and Events in Marin and the San Francisco Bay Area
Get the whole family into the holiday spirit with one of these fun activities, celebrations, performances, and events in Marin and the San Francisco Bay Area! Keep in mind that many of these holiday events and performances may require advance reservations and often sell out. We'll update our list with new Marin and Bay Area Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year's events as we learn about them and plans are finalized, so check back often.
Saturdays & Sundays, November 2– December 29, 12:30 & 2:30 pm
This holiday tradition in the Claremont's iconic Lobby Bar features all of the classic high tea accompaniments including delightful desserts and sandwiches.
November 6–January 20
The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square will usher in the holiday season 2024.
November 8–January 26, 4:30–9 pm
An unforgettable experience for all ages, with hundreds of larger-than-life animal lanterns throughout the zoo. Santa will be on hand for visits through December 1–23!
Saturday, November 9–December 24
Get in the holiday spirit and visit the amazing Christmas House at San Rafael's West End Nursery.
November 21–December 24
The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland in the Village's Macy's Court.
Open daily November 23–January 1
Step into the ultimate winter wonderland at the Fairmont Hotel on Nob Hill!
Weekends, November 23–December 22
Enter the winding lanes of Victorian London and immerse yourself in a world of music halls, theaters, pubs, dance parties, and charming shops overflowing with hand-made holiday treasures.
November 23–December 28, 1–3:30 pm
The holiday season is not complete without a celebration of tradition and magic with Fairmont’s Holiday Tea.
Saturdays & Sundays, November 24–December 22, 2–4 pm
Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa Claus is coming to town. Every Saturday and Sunday, he can be found strolling through The Meritage Holiday Village.
November 29–December 24
Here’s your chance to visit the busiest man of the season inside the Macy's Union Square store. Advance reservations required.
Saturday & Sunday, November 30–December 22, 9 am–noon
Join Silverado Resort for a memorable morning with Santa, create lasting memories with your little ones and take a ride on the Santa Train,
November 30–December 23, 10 am, 1 pm & 4 pm
Gather for a holiday Teddy Bear Tea in the festively decorated Terrace Room at the Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco.
Friday & Saturday, November 29 & 30, 10 am–4 pm
This free, two day event is a great way support your local art and crafts vendors while staying warm and shopping for your loved ones.
Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1, 10 am–3 pm
A Windrush Farm tradition for 20 years. Strolling around the pasture, you will find hand made gifts from your local artisans.
Saturday, November 30, 11 am–6 pm
At this free, unforgettable experience the spirit of the season comes alive in the heart of Downtown San Rafael.
Saturday, November 30, 11:30 am–1:30 pm
Santa and Mrs Claus are coming to Petaluma by boat the Saturday after Thankgiving!
Saturday, November 30, 3:30 pm
Winter Wonderland is tipping off the festive season with the annual Lighting Ceremony featuring the Bay Area’s largest tree standing at 90 feet tall!
Saturday, November 30, 5:30–8 pm
Kick off the 2024 holiday season with a tree lighting, live entertainment, parade, and Santa photos.
Saturday, November 30, 6–7:30 pm
Join Yerba Buena Gardens for a festive evening filled with holiday cheer as they light their living Coastal Redwood tree.
Saturday, November 30, 6:30 pm
Watch as decorated tractors adorned with sparkling lights spread joy and holiday cheer around the Sonoma Plaza.
Saturday, November 30, 7:30 pm
Put on your Santa hat and your bell-bottoms and get ready to celebrate the holidays with a bang — with “ABBA Holly Jolly Christmas!”
Sunday, December 1, 10 am–3 pm
This holiday shop small and support local artists, and gift vendors.
Saturdays & Sundays, December 1–28, 11:30 am & 12:30 pm
Join the Mark Hopkins for a magical afternoon at their Children's Magical Tea.
Expect cozy treats like hot toddies, cocoa, roasted chestnuts, and Christmas tree cookie decorationg, plus festive kids' craft, and more! See you at the Mart!
Monday, December 2, 5:30–7:30 pm
Kick off the holiday season as the Nob Hill Association hosts its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Huntington Park.
Tuesday. December 3, 3–7 pm
Come to Hotel Petaluma for a festive day of shopping, creativity, and holiday cheer! Discover one-of-a-kind gifts, handmade jewelry, beautiful artwork, and more.
Wednesday, December 4, 4–7 pm
The Civic Center Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting — a free, family-friendly event — returns for 2024!
Thursday, December 5, 4–8 pm
Kick off the holiday season with the annual tree lighting celebration in Golden Gate Park, featuring free activities for all
Expect family friendly holiday fun including, cookie decorating, live music, cocktails for the parents, hot chocolate, holiday vendors, and much more!
Friday, December 6, 3:30–7:30 pm
Join the Lark Creek Shops for a night in Winter Wonderland with hot cocoa, mulled wine, ginger bread man decorating, photos with Santa and more.
Friday, December 6, 5:30–7:30 pm
Celebrate the holidays with Santa, entertainment, and family fun in downtown Petaluma.
Friday, December 6, 6:30 pm
Celebrate the holidays with a Polar Express pajama party! Free hot chocolate and cookies for all guests.
December 6–29
SF Ballet's Nutcracker is back live at War Memorial Opera House in 2024! Evening and matinee performances available.
Saturday, December 7, 8:30 & 10 am
Santa's coming! He's making a special trip to the Sausalito Yacht Club to eat breakfast with you and your family.
Saturday, December 7, 9–11:30 am
Bring the family for breakfast and a special visit with Santa overlooking the city skyline of San Francisco.
Saturday, December 7, 10 am–4 pm
Enjoy some unique holiday shopping at this festive event featuring many new and returning artists selling their fine handmade arts and crafts.
December 7, 8, 14, 21, 22 & 23, 10 am–noon
Enjoy unlimited rides, a buffet breakfast, and a visit with Santa at the Tilden Park Merry Go Round.
Friday, December 6, 6–9 pm & Saturday, December 7, 10 am–4 pm
40 vendors selling handmade crafts including jewelry, ceramics, specialty foods, wreaths, and more. Free admission.
Saturday, December 7, 10 am–noon
Take pictures with Santa at the Margaret Todd Center in Novato during the Holiday Crafts Faire.
Saturday, December 7, 10 am–5 pm & Sunday, December 8, 10 am–4 pm
The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair has been a tradition at the Beach for over 40 years.
Saturday & Sunday, December 7 & 8, 10 am–4 pm
Celebrate the season with gifts for yourself or loved ones in this festive shopping experience featuring over 90 local artists.
Saturday, December 7, 10 am–3 pm
Shop for handmade crafts, enjoy authentic German food, take your photo with Santa, and more.
December 7, 14 & 21, 11 am, December 23, 3 pm
Sing along with your favorite holiday carols as the toys of St. Nicholas’s workshop lead you on an extraordinary journey.
Saturdays & Sunday, December 7–22
Mark Foehringer Dance Project|SF announces the 14th season of its annual holiday show, Mark Foehringer's Nutcracker Sweets.
Saturday & Sunday, December 7 & 8, 11 am–5 pm
Come eat, drink, shop, play, connect and be local at the 8th annual Sunset Holiday Mercantile.
Saturdays, December 7–28, 11 am & 2 pm
This special holiday tradition includes scrumptious treats, storytelling by a visiting princess, and ice skating.
Saturday, December 7, 14 & 21, noon–3 pm
Santa Claus will arrive by fire truck at Bon Air the first three Saturdays of December for photos and holiday cheer!
Saturday & Sunday, December 7 & 8, 1pm & 5pm
See the holidays through the eyes of your children! Marin Ballet’s Nutcracker will transport your family into the lavish rooms of a Victorian-era party, where Clara’s dreams come to life.
Saturday, December 7, 2–5 pm
Inclusive Santa Sighting is a special event for children with disabilties and their families.
Saturday, December 7, 2–4:45 pm & Sunday, December 8, 8:30–11:15 am
Join That Play Place for a festive family day filled with holiday cheer.
Saturday, December 7, 3–6 pm
Winterfest 2024 is sure to be a magical event!
Saturday, December 7, 4–7:30 pm
Enjoy holiday crafts, artisan vendors, holiday treats, Santa Claus and live performances.
Saturday, December 7, 4–7:30 pm
Come to downtown San Anselmo for an afternoon of fun and celebration.
Saturday, December 7, 5–8 pm
The Fairfax Winter Market returns for its 2nd Annual celebration.
Saturday, December 2, 5:45–8 pm
Join Jack London Square and KTVU Fox 2 for a holiday tree lighting in Oakland.
Saturday, December 7, 6–8 pm
Brightly lit and decorated boats will bring holiday cheer at the Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade.
Saturday, December 7, 7:30 pm & Sunday, December 8, 4 pm
Traditional and contemporary holiday music and carols in the beautiful setting of Saint Raphael Church.
Sunday, December 8, 11 am–1 pm
You are invited to a Teddy Bear Tea celebration for the whole family.
Sunday, December 8, noon–5 pm
Mill Valley's annual Winterfest returns... tree lighting, visit with Santa, live music, games, and more.
December 1–10, Marin Art & Garden Center
arin Art and Garden Center presents Winter Wonderland, a magical holiday experience in the beautiful Gardens.
Thursday, December 12, 4 pm
Fratello Marionettes' production of Peter and the Wolf is set to the majestic Prokofiev score, designed to introduce children to classical music and the instruments in an orchestra.
December 12–14, 7:30 pm; December 14, 2:30 pm; December 15, 4 pm
Experience Transcendence's all-new holiday show live on stage at Marin Theatre!
Friday–Sunday, December 13–15
Shop for arts and crafts by local artisans at the Bolinas Community Center. Enjoy hearty food, delicious nog, music, caroling, and good cheer.
Saturday, December 14, 8 am
Breakfast with Santa takes place on the second Saturday in December at the Ross Valley Fire Station.
Saturday, December 14, 8:30 & 9:45 am
City of Berkeley Winter Wonderland welcomes you to the Santa’s Workshop for a delicious pancake breakfast with all the fixings.
Saturday, December 14, 9 & 10:30 am
Join Tam Valley CSD for this beloved community tradition! Meet Santa, have a hearty breakfast, play games and more.
Saturday, December 14, 2 sessions: 9:30–10:30 am & 11 am–noon
Help Novato Parks & Recreation build the City of Novato out of Gingerbread!
Saturday, December 14, 10 am–noon
Join Santa for breakfast, arts and crafts, and take a photo with the big guy.
You’re invited to the Sausalito Winter Market!
Join us for a festive day of local artistry and holiday cheer:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant local art scene, find unique holiday gifts, and support our talented community of creators. From handcrafted ceramics to natural skincare, vintage treasures to bespoke jewelry, this market offers something special for everyone.
Embrace the winter spirit in beautiful Sausalito as you browse, shop, and connect with local artisans. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of Marin’s creative talent all in one place!
Saturday, December 14, 10:30 am–noon
Le Petit Jardin is pleased to announce its 15th Annual event in honor of this special time of year, our “Teddy Bear Tea à la Française”
Saturday, December 14, 10:30 am
Come join Santa and his elves for a yummy breakfast of eggs, sausage, and pancakes!
December 14–24, 11 am–4 pm
Celebrate the holidays at Town Center Corte Madera with free photos with Santa and free gift wrapping.
Saturday, December 14, 11 am–5 pm
Kick off the holiday season with the Fairfax Craft Faire — a favorite community event!
Saturday & Sunday, December 14 & 15, 1–3 pm
Introducing the fourth annual holiday tradition at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco: Dollie & Me Tea.
December 14, 15, 21 & 22, 3 pm, December 23, 7:30 pm
Ring in the season with Grace Cathedrals Choir of Men and Boys, in a performance of classic carols and sacred masterpieces with full orchestra and organ.
Saturday, December 14, 5–8 pm
Come stroll through the decorated buildings at Sonoma State Historic Park.
Friday & Saturday, December 14, 5 pm
Join Mrs. Claus in Sip’s festively decorated tea room to enjoy a delicious feast, hot chocolate, fresh baked gingerbread men, and loads of fun.
Saturday, December 14, 6–7:15 pm
Set up a chair anywhere along the Sausalito waterfront to view the brightly decorated boats in the 37th annual Lighted Boat Parade.
Sunday, December 15, 8:30 am
Join Neiman Marcus San Francisco for Breakfast with Santa and get your picture taken in a photo booth!
Sunday, December 15, 10 am & 1:30 pm
Enjoy family time together crafting nature-filled globes, mini wreaths, botanical cards, and more.
Sunday, December 15, 1 & 5 pm
MCD's “Nutcracker Suite" is a 50-minute ballet production for families with small children and audiences of all ages.
Sunday, December 15, 2–5 pm
Join Marin Country Mart for a menorah lighting, latkes from Loveski, sufganiyot from Johnny Doughnuts, and themed crafts for the kids.
Sunday, December 15, 3–6 pm
The JCCSF’s Glowing Hanukkah Pop-Up returns to Ghirardelli Square for the 7th year!
Wednesday, December 18, 7 pm & Thursday, December 19, 2 & 7 pm
Experience an all-new holiday show live on stage at the historic Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma.
Friday, December 20, 4 pm
Santa J Claus will read “T’was the Night Before Christmas” and share his own favorite Disney memories and holiday traditions.
Saturday & Sunday, December 20 & 21, 10–11:30 am
Join Mr. Jelly Belly and friends for a delicious brunch and lots of fun with Santa Claus!
Saturday & Sunday, December 21 & 22, noon–2 pm
Enjoy a classic holiday high tea and live entertainment from the Comfort & Joy Carol Singers.
Saturday, December 21, 8 pm
A Sonoma Holiday Spectacular: Music and Magic For the Whole Family Presented By Music In Place.
Sunday, December 22, 10 am–2 pm
Artist Susan Bellach has transformed the Sebastiani Theatre into a magical winter holiday fairyland!
Sunday, December 22, 10 am
Come join Chabad of Novato for a build and decorate your own menorah and a dreidel to celebrate Chanukah!
December 23–25, various times
Enjoy a screening of the classic Muppet Christmas Carol at the Lark Theater!
Monday, December 23, 5:30 pm
Enjoy the classic film The Polar Express as well as hot chocolate and cookies while immersed in the incredible Christmas decorations.
Wednesday, December 25, 6 pm
Bring the whole family to celebrate Chanukah as a community.
Thursday, December 26, 4:30–6:30 pm
Bring the entire family to enjoy live music fresh latkes, donuts, soup and hot drinks, activities, and the lighting of the grand nine foot menorah after sunset!
Thursday–Tuesday, December 26–31, 6:30 pm
Ring in the new year aboard the New Years Holiday Lights Train and ride vintage train cars decorated with holiday lights through the streets of Santa Cruz.
Friday, December 27, 6:15–7:30 pm
Welcome in the light of Chanukah with our entire Rodef Sholom Community. There will be Shabbat blessings, festive music, a community candle lighting, holiday treats, and more!
Sunday, December 29, 2–6 pm
The annual lighting of the Union Square menorah kicks off on Sunday, December 29 with "Bill Graham Menorah Day".
Sunday, December 29, 4:30–6 pm
Join Chabad for their 10th annual community Chanukah celebration.
Sunday, December 29, 5 pm
Join together as we light up the night with a Chanukah Celebration!
Monday, December 30, 6 pm
Join Bon Air Center and Mollie Stone's for a Hanukkah celebration.
Tuesday, December 31, 10 am–2 pm
Ring in the new year without keeping your family up past bedtime at the Bay Area Discovery Museum.
Tuesday, December 31, 9:30 am–noon
Celebrate the culture of Kwanzaa and ring in 2025 with Noon Year’s Eve at Chase Center.
Tuesday, December 31, 10 am–4 pm
Ring in the new year without staying up late! When it’s noon in Oakland, it will be 2025 somewhere on the planet.
Tuesday, December 31, 10 am–5 pm
Can’t keep the kids awake till midnight? Join the Lawrence for their annual family-friendly New Year’s Eve party!
Tuesday, December 31, 10 am–1 pm
Kids and parents, come celebrate the New Year with music, activities, face painting and a countdown to THREE GIANT balloon drops at noon!
Tuesday, December 31, 10 am–4 pm
Celebrate the New Year with the Peanuts gang! Enjoy fun crafts for kids, watch Happy New Year, Charlie Brown! in the Museum Theater, and the up-down balloon drop!
Tuesday, December 31, noon–1:30 pm
Kids of all ages are invited to Downtown Novato to see what happens when 23,000 small bouncy balls are dropped onto the street from a ladder truck 40 feet in the air!
