20 Fun Holiday Things to Do with Kids in Marin & the Bay Area
The holiday season is here, and it's time to make some magical memories with the kiddos! From dazzling Christmas lights and festive tree lightings to holiday performances, Hanukkah celebrations, and visits with Santa, there are so many fun things to do with kids in Marin County and the San Francisco Bay Area during the holidays. We've rounded up 20 of our favorite holiday activities, events, and family traditions to enjoy in Marin and the surrounding Bay Area this season!
- Explore more than 60 decorated Christmas trees and shop for unique gifts at the Christmas House at West End Nursery in San Rafael.
- Find the perfect Christmas tree at one of the Christmas tree farms and lots in Marin and Sonoma counties.
- Experience the magic of the holidays at the Bay Area Discovery Museum's Winter Wonderlab in Sausalito, featuring iceless skating, snow play on weekends, and hands-on winter activities.
- Bundle up and go holiday ice skating in the Bay Area at one of the many festive outdoor ice rinks.
- Watch Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by tugboat at Santa's Riverboat Arrival in Petaluma.
- Celebrate the season at a festive holiday tree lighting in Novato, San Rafael, Sausalito, Tiburon, Mill Valley, or San Anselmo.
- Take the family to see a spectacular holiday light display in Marin County or the Bay Area.
- Enjoy a festive holiday performance of The Nutcracker or another family-friendly holiday show.
- Celebrate Hanukkah with festive menorah lightings, music, and family activities at Hanukkah celebrations in Marin and the Bay Area.
- Visit Santa Claus and capture a special holiday family photo at a local holiday event or shopping center.
- Shop for handmade gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and discover local artisans at a holiday craft fair or market.
- Visit a festive holiday train display or take a special holiday train ride with the family.
- Head to San Francisco to see the giant Christmas tree and enjoy the festive atmosphere in Union Square.
- Explore the magical holiday decorations and gingerbread displays at San Francisco's historic Fairmont Hotel.
- Take a family outing to see the sparkling holiday lights and decorated storefronts in downtown Marin communities.
- Make homemade ornaments, decorate gingerbread houses, or create holiday cards together at a local library holiday craft program.
- Enjoy a holiday concert or seasonal sing-along featuring favorite Christmas and winter songs.
- Take a family hike through Marin's beautiful redwood forests and enjoy some fresh air during the holiday break.
- Give back to the community by donating toys, food, or winter clothing to a local holiday drive.
- Ring in the New Year with a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration, including the annual Bouncy Ball Drop in downtown Novato.
Looking for More Holiday Family Fun?
Discover even more Christmas events, Hanukkah celebrations, holiday lights, festive performances, and seasonal activities in our Marin Holiday Guide for Marin County and the Bay Area!
