Monterey Other Christmas Activities 2026

Experience the magic of the season at Pacific Grove's Holiday Parade of Lights. This beloved event features a dazzling procession of marching bands, festive floats, and talented dance teams. Keep an eye out for equestrian groups adding to the spectacle,...

Step back in time at Streets of Bethlehem, a free outdoor living nativity event. Walk through a recreated ancient village, from a bustling marketplace and Roman soldiers to shepherds and angels, culminating at the manger. This immersive experience, running December...

Experience the magic of the season at the Salinas Holiday Parade of Lights! This cherished free community event transforms Downtown Salinas into a dazzling spectacle of holiday cheer. Families, local groups, and businesses showcase their creativity with an outstanding parade...

Experience the festive spirit at the Boardwalk Winter Wonderland, a beloved seaside amusement park. While specific holiday attractions for 2026 are yet to be announced, past seasons have featured a magical transformation with holiday decorations. Visitors can enjoy the park's...

Experience the magic of the Santa Cruz Harbor Lighted Boat Parade, where over 50 power and sailboats are adorned with festive decorations. Watch this dazzling procession as it glides through the harbor, creating a memorable holiday spectacle. Limited viewing spots...

Discover the festive spirit of Santa Cruz during the holiday season. This guide highlights various events and attractions across the county, making it easy to find seasonal fun for everyone. Explore local happenings and enjoy the holiday cheer.

The Downtown Santa Cruz Holiday Parade marks the official start of the winter holiday season. This beloved annual tradition showcases local schools, youth organizations, and nonprofits, drawing over 3,000 spectators to witness the festive procession. Participants can register their groups...

Join the 36th Annual Lights On Celebration in downtown Hollister for a magical community event. The festivities include a "The Nutcracker" themed parade, a vibrant Lights On Boutique with artisan vendors, face painting, and letters to Santa. Over 30 decorated...

Experience the magic of the season at the Morgan Hill Holiday Lights Parade on Saturday, December 5, 2026. The festive procession kicks off at 5:30 PM, winding its way down Monterey Road from Main Street to Dunne Avenue. Following the...

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk becomes the Boardwalk Winter Wonderland. The park offers rides, attractions, and games. Updates on holiday programming will be announced.

Families are invited to a special holiday celebration with Santa Claus at the Quinlan Community Center. Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring North Pole Pancakes, pose for photos with Santa, and let the children engage in festive crafts at the elves'...

Join the City of Mountain View for their annual Community Tree Lighting Celebration! This cherished tradition marks the start of the holiday season with an evening of festive music, engaging crafts, and delightful sweet treats. Gather with loved ones at...

The New Museum Los Gatos offers extended hours and free admission, with art and history exhibitions, holiday crafts, refreshments, and music.

Grinchmas brings a visit from the Grinch for a day of community cheer where attendees can snap photos and embrace the holiday spirit.

First Night Monterey offers a vibrant, alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration of the arts for the entire community. Discover diverse performances, interactive art workshops, and a captivating Twilight Procession. It's a family-friendly event designed to foster appreciation for the arts...

Join the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea for their annual Holidays in the Park event, featuring a magical tree and Menorah lighting ceremony. Santa arrives by fire truck, accompanied by the Del Monte Brass, setting a festive tone. The evening includes a...

Join the City of Marina for their cherished Annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony. This free, family-friendly event promises an evening of festive cheer, featuring live music, caroling, and delightful treats like cookies, hot apple cider, and cocoa. The highlight of...

Kick off the holiday season with a unique glass art experience. Craft four frosted glass ornaments, hand-decorated with luxurious gold and silver accents. All materials are provided, and you can take your creations home the same day. Enjoy a 10%...

Discover the festive spirit of the Canary Islands during the holiday season. While specific details for the Kislap Christmas Festival are not available, the islands offer a vibrant atmosphere with various cultural events and attractions during this time of year....

Simbang Gabi, meaning 'Night Mass' or 'Rooster's Mass,' is a deeply cherished Filipino tradition marking the start of the Christmas season. This nine-day series of dawn masses, beginning on December 16th, is a period of spiritual preparation and communal gathering....

Unleash your creativity and craft a stunning holiday wreath to adorn your home. This hands-on workshop provides all the materials and expert guidance needed to design a unique festive decoration. Learn to artfully arrange seasonal greenery and embellishments for a...

The Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade is a cherished annual event that officially kicks off the holiday season. Since 1977, this beloved tradition has brought the community together to celebrate with a spectacular display of illuminated floats, lively marching...

California's Great America transforms into a winter wonderland for WinterFest, offering a magical holiday experience. Guests can enjoy thrilling rides, festive decorations, and the unique Pacific Gliders attraction. The park also features the South Bay Shores waterpark, making it a...

Experience the magic of the holiday season as Santa Claus arrives to lead the community in a festive countdown, illuminating Milpitas's 30-foot holiday tree. Enjoy enchanting performances by local talent, including the Milpitas Community Concert Band, and savor warm hot...

Get ready for a festive and unconventional celebration as San Jose hosts its annual SantaCon. This event is a unique gathering where participants dress as Santa Claus for a day of lighthearted fun and community spirit. It's an opportunity to...

Experience the enchanting 'Spirit of The Row' holiday event series. Join them for three magical evenings in December featuring live performances by local arts and community groups, delightful snow showers in Park Valencia, and cherished photo opportunities with Santa and...

Get ready for the 69th Annual Children's Christmas/Holidays Parade! This cherished event brings the community together for a festive celebration. Witness a dazzling procession featuring marching bands, creatively decorated floats from local organizations, and enthusiastic participants. It's a perfect way...

Unleash your inner decorator at the Heritage Holiday Adult Gingerbread Workshop in Downtown San Jose. This event offers a fun, hands-on experience where participants can craft and decorate their own festive gingerbread creations. It's a perfect way to embrace the...