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.
Saturday, November 8–December 23
Get in the holiday spirit and visit the amazing Christmas House at San Rafael's West End Nursery.
Saturdays & Sundays, November 1– December 28, 12 & 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 7–January 20
The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square will usher in the holiday season 2025.
November 7–January 25, 4:30–9 pm
An unforgettable experience for all ages, with hundreds of larger-than-life animal lanterns. Santa will be there December 1–23!
Saturday, November 15, 10 am–4 pm
Kick off your holiday season at the Nativity of Christ Annual Holiday Market, previously known as the Holiday Bazaar!
Open daily November 22–January 1
Step into the ultimate winter wonderland at the Fairmont Hotel on Nob Hill!
Weekends, November 22–December 21, 2025
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 22–December 24
The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland in the Village's Center Court.
November 21–December 31, 2025 1–3:30 pm
The holiday season is not complete without a celebration of tradition and magic with Fairmont’s Holiday Tea.
November 22 & 30, December 19, 2025, 1–3:30 pm
Celebrate the magic of the winter season with Fairmont San Francisco’s beloved Santa Tea—a cherished tradition for all ages.
Friday & Saturday, November 28 & 29, 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.
Friday–Sunday, November 28–30 & December 19–21, noon–5 pm
This unique open-air market will bring the charm of a European holiday village to Nob Hill—complete with lights, festive music, and panoramic city views.
Daily, November 28–January 4, 4–9 pm
Experience the wonder of winter like never before at the Holiday Light Spectacular at Marin Center.
Saturday, November 29–December 20, 9–11 am
Come meet Santa Claus during the Breakfast with Santa Program at Costeaux French Bakery, a Healdsburg fixture since 1923.
Saturdays, November 29–December 13, 9:30–11:30 am
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 29–December 23, 10 am & 1 pm
Gather for a holiday Teddy Bear Tea in the festively decorated Terrace Room at the Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco.
Saturday & Sunday, November 29 & 30, 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.
Saturdays & Sundays, November 29–December 21, 10:30, 11 & 11:30 am
Join the Mark Hopkins for a magical afternoon at their Children's Magical Tea.
Saturday, November 29, 11:30 am–1:30 pm
Santa and Mrs Claus are coming to Petaluma by boat the Saturday after Thankgiving!
November 29–December 24, seatings from noon–2:30 pm
Santa is stopping by from the North Pole! Join the Palace Hotel for their Santa Signature Tea Service.
Saturdays & Sundays, November 29–December 21, 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.
Saturday, November 29, 5:30–8 pm
Kick off the 2025 holiday season with a tree lighting, live entertainment, parade, and Santa photos.
Saturday, November 29, 5:45–8 pm
Join Jack London Square and KTVU Fox 2 for a holiday tree lighting in Oakland.
Saturday, November 29, 6:30 pm
Watch as decorated tractors adorned with sparkling lights spread joy and holiday cheer around the Sonoma Plaza.
Sunday, November 30, 11:30 am–1 pm
Bring the beauty of nature to your front door with a festive, homemade wreath.
Sunday, November 30, noon–2 pm
Santa himself will be here for photos and stories with the little ones — completely free and open to all.
Sunday, November 30, 4–6 pm
Winter Wonderland is tipping off the festive season with the annual Lighting Ceremony featuring the Bay Area’s tallest tree!
Wednesday, December 3, 4–7 pm
The Civic Center Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting — a free, family-friendly event — returns for 2025!
Wednesday, December 3, 5–6 pm
The beloved Sausalito Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony returns to Viña del Mar Park with music, lights, laughter, and a visit from Santa.
Wednesday, December 3, 5:30pm
Kick off the holiday season at the Claremont Resort & Club Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy hot cocoa and photos with Santa.
Wednesday, December 3, 5:30–7:30 pm
Join the Ritz-Carlton and special guests for its legendary holiday tree lighting.
Thursday, December 4, 4–8 pm
Kick off the holiday season with the annual tree lighting celebration in Golden Gate Park, featuring free activities for all
Thursday, December 4, 4:30 pm
Visit the Sonoma Mission Inn as they light up the iconic Sycamore tree and celebrate the holiday season, Sonoma style!
Friday–Sunday, December 5–7
Once a year the Sonoma Community Center is transformed into a magical winter wonderland, filled to the brim with handmade goods.
Friday–Sunday, December 5–7
Join the Dance Palace in community merriment, find the perfect gift, enjoy local food, beverages, music, and celebrate the holiday season!
Friday, December 5, 4:30–6:30 pm
Santa to arrives at the Historic Sonoma Plaza in an antique fire truck with the help of local firefighters.
Friday–Sunday, December 5–21, 5–8:30 pm
Gardens Aglow is a merry and bright celebration for the whole family, with dazzlings lights, music, crafts, and more.
December 5–14, 5:30–10 pm
Let's Glow SF is making a triumphant return to downtown San Francisco for its fifth and grandest year yet.
Friday, December 5, 6–8 pm
Celebrate the holidays with Santa, entertainment, and family fun in downtown Petaluma.
December 5–28
San Francisco Ballet's magical Nutcracker returns to the stage at War Memorial Opera House! Evening and matinee performances available.
Saturday, December 6, 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 6, 9–11:30 am
Bring the family for breakfast and a special visit with Santa overlooking the city skyline of San Francisco.
Saturday, December 6, 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.
Friday, December 5, 6–9 pm & Saturday, December 6, 10 am–4 pm
40 vendors selling handmade crafts including jewelry, ceramics, specialty foods, wreaths, and more. Free admission.
Saturday, December 6, 10 am–5 pm & Sunday, December 7, 10 am–4 pm
The Muir Beach Holiday Arts Fair has been a tradition at the Beach for over 40 years.
Saturday & Sunday, December 6 & 7, 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 6, 10 am–3 pm
Shop for handmade crafts, enjoy authentic German food, take your photo with Santa, and more.
December 6, 13, 14, 20 & 21, 10:30 am–12:30 pm
Enjoy unlimited rides, a buffet breakfast, and a visit with Santa at the Tilden Park Merry Go Round.
Saturdays & Sunday, December 6–21
Celebrate the holidays with Mark Foehringer‘s Nutcracker Sweets, a classic holiday ballet designed for families with small children and audiences of all ages.
December 6 & 7, 11 am–4 pm
We welcome Santa Claus for his annual visit on Saturday, December 6th, and Sunday, December 7th for memorable photos and holiday cheer.
Saturday & Sunday, December 6 & 7, 11 am–5 pm
Come eat, drink, shop, play, connect and be local at the 8th annual Sunset Holiday Mercantile.
Saturday & Sunday, December 6–28, 11 am & 2 pm
This special holiday tradition includes scrumptious treats, storytelling by a visiting princess, and ice skating.
December 6–24, 11 & 11:30 am, 1, 1:30, 3 & 3:30 pm
Enjoy a fun and unique holiday experience at Crown & Crumpet!
Saturday & Sunday, December 6–21, 11 am–1 pm
Join San Francisco City Cruises for a Santa Brunch Cruise and enjoy a festive day of dining on the Bay.
Saturday, December 6, noon–3 pm
Inclusive Santa Sighting is a special event for children with disabilties and their families.
Saturday, December 6, 13 & 20, 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, December 6, 1–3 pm
Santa will be on hand for photos at the famous West End Nursery Christmas House in San Rafael.
Saturday & Sunday, December 6 & 7, 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 6, 2–5 pm
Join friends and neighbors and experience the ultimate holiday celebration in downtown Tiburon. Tree lighting is back by popular demand!
Saturday, December 6, 2:30–5:30 pm
Families enjoy a Kiddie Chu Chu Train, festive food, an Igloo Dance Party, bubbles, caroling and of course, Santa Claus!
Saturday, December 6, 4–7:30 pm
Enjoy holiday crafts, artisan vendors, holiday treats, Santa Claus and live performances.
Saturday, December 6, 5–8 pm
Come to downtown San Anselmo for an afternoon of fun and celebration.
Saturday, December 6, 6–7:30 pm
Join Yerba Buena Gardens for a festive evening filled with holiday cheer as they light their living Coastal Redwood tree.
Sunday, December 7, 9 am–noon
Celebrate the season with a magical morning of delicious food and festive fun!
Sunday, December 7, 11 am–1 pm
You are invited to a Teddy Bear Tea celebration for the whole family.
Sunday, December 7, 11 am & 3pm
Deck the Hall is a beloved family tradition that fills the season with special sights and the enchanting sounds of the San Francisco Symphony.
Sunday, December 7, 11:30 am–2 pm
Join the Osher Marin JCC and our community partners for the ultimate Hanukkah celebration!
Saturday, December 7
11:30 am–2 pm
Bring your camera (and your Christmas list!) for a special opportunity to meet Santa and capture holiday memories. Children of all ages are welcome!
Sunday, December 7, 2–6 pm
Mill Valley's annual Winterfest returns... visit with Santa, live music, games and more.
Sunday, December 7, 3–7 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.
Sunday, December 7 & 14, 3–5 pm
This year we have two dates that will be an exclusive tea for young ones and their older friends.
Saturday, December 13, 8 am
Breakfast with Santa takes place on the second Saturday in December at the Ross Valley Fire Station.
Saturday, December 13, 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, 9 & 10:30 am
Come join Santa and his elves for a yummy breakfast of eggs, sausage, and pancakes!
Saturday, December 13, 2 sessions: 9:30 & 11 am
Help Novato Parks & Recreation build the City of Novato out of gingerbread!
Saturday, December 13, 10 am–4 pm
Children ages 3–6 and their parents can ssemble and decorate Snoopy’s doghouse out of gingerbread, complete with a marshmallow Snoopy on top!
Saturday, December 13, 10 am–noon
Join Santa for breakfast, arts and crafts, and take a photo with the big guy.
Saturday, December 13, 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”
December 13–24, 11 am–4 pm
Celebrate the holidays at Town Center Corte Madera with free photos with Santa and free gift wrapping.
December 13, 20, 11 am, December 22 & 23, 3 pm
Sing along with your favorite holiday carols as the toys of St. Nicholas’s workshop lead you on an extraordinary journey.
Saturday & Sunday, December 13 & 14, 1–3 pm
Introducing the fifth annual holiday tradition at The Westin St. Francis in San Francisco.
Saturday, December 13, 11 am–4 pm
Come to Old Courthouse Square Downtown Santa Rosa for the fifth annual French Winter Market!
Saturday, December 13 & 20, noon–4 pm
Visit Santa at Northgate mall, snap your own photos with the big guy for free!
Saturday & Sunday, December 13–14, 20–21 & 27–28
An Oakland tradition for 20 years, this multicultural event brings families together to share in the season’s many festivities and enjoy a twinkling landscape under the evening skies.
Saturday & Sunday, December 13 & 14, 1–4 pm
Assemble and decorate Snoopy’s doghouse out of gingerbread, complete with a marshmallow Snoopy on top! Registration required.
Saturday, December 13, 5–8 pm
Come stroll through the decorated buildings at Sonoma State Historic Park.
Saturday, December 13, 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.
Sunday, December 13, 6 pm
This lighted boat parade is one of the biggest in the country and has been a Marin tradition since 1966!!
Saturday, December 13, 6–7:15 pm
Set up a chair anywhere along the Sausalito waterfront to view the brightly decorated boats in the annual Lighted Boat Parade.
Saturday, December 13, 6–8 pm
Brightly lit and decorated boats will bring holiday cheer at the Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade.
Sunday, December 14, 10 am–1 pm
Includes brunch buffet, desserts, beverage station, and photos with Santa.
Sunday, December 14, 11 am–5 pm
Kick off the holiday season with the Fairfax Craft Faire — a favorite community event!
Sunday, December 14, 2–6 pm
The annual lighting of the Union Square menorah kicks off on Sunday, December 29 with "Bill Graham Menorah Day".
Sunday, December 14, 3:30–4:30 pm
Bring the family to the 3rd Annual Chanukah Festival with Chabad of West Marin.
Sunday, December 14, 5 pm
Join together as we light up the night with a Chanukah Celebration!
Tuesday, December 16, 8 pm
The CJB has assembled a cast of characters to bring you musical holiday wackiness in this all-ages show.
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 20, 10–11:30 am
Join Mr. Jelly Belly and friends for a delicious brunch and lots of fun with Santa Claus!
Saturday, December 20, 11:30 am–2:30 pm
Come and dine with Santa Claus at a special holiday brunch!
Saturday, December 20, 4–5 pm
Children’s Chanukah Chocolate & Cheese Get Together
December 21, 5–6:30 pm
Join Chabad of Marin and the City of San Rafael as we celebrate the first Sunday night of Chanukah.
December 28, 11 am
Experience a sensory-friendly performance of San Francisco Ballet's renowned Nutcracker!
Wednesday, December 31, 10 am–4 pm
Ring in the new year without staying up late! When it’s noon in Oakland, it will be 2026 somewhere on the planet.
