Holiday Lights in the Bay Area: 20+ Magical Displays you need to visit in December 2025

Who needs snow when the Bay Area lights up with holiday cheer for Christmas? As soon as Halloween wraps up and the valley nights turn crisp, neighborhoods start dazzling with festive displays. It’s one of my favorite times of year—there’s just something magical about strolling along streets lined with twinkling lights, where homes and businesses go all out for the holidays. So grab a warm drink, bundle up, and check out these must-see holiday lights in the Bay Area this December!

Holiday Lights in the Bay Area – San Francisco Peninsula

The Peninsula (south SF to Palo Alto) is way underrated when it comes to holiday light displays! It’s home to some of the oldest and grandest displays you can visit for free!

Eucalyptus Avenue – The San Carlos Christmas Tree Lane

The 1900 block of Eucalyptus Avenue in San Carlos is an absolute holiday gem! This street, affectionately known as “Christmas Lane,” is bursting with lights, decorations, and festive cheer. There’s even a house decked out in Hello Kitty that’ll make any visitor smile! While you can drive through, it’s way more fun to park nearby and take a leisurely stroll to soak it all in. Traffic can get pretty busy on weekends, but the walk lets you really enjoy every twinkling detail. And don’t forget to peek down the nearby streets—every year, more neighbors join in on the fun, so there’s even more holiday magic to discover!

Christmas Tree Lane, Palo Alto

Next up on the list is the beloved Christmas Tree Lane in Palo Alto—one of the oldest and most charming holiday lanes in all of Silicon Valley! Located on Fulton Street, this festive spot transforms into a winter wonderland every December, and it’s a local favorite for a reason. In the last two weeks of December, the street lights up with cozy decorations that feel straight out of a holiday storybook. The whole community comes together to make it extra special, and you can feel the festive magic in the air!

Take a stroll along the 1700 and 1800 blocks of Fulton Street, and you’ll be transported into a world of holiday cheer. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and full of holiday spirit. If you’d rather drive, you can do that too—just be prepared for some slow traffic, especially on weekends, as lots of folks come to enjoy the scene. Either way, it’s a must-see spot for your holiday lights tour!

For updates on opening times and other information, check out their facebook page here. I would predict they would open around December 13 in 2025.

Candy Cane Lane, Redwood city

For a cozy holiday lights experience known mostly to locals, head to Candy Cane Lane on Dewey Avenue in Redwood City! This charming row of houses goes all out with decorations each year, transforming into a hidden gem of festive cheer. If you’re lucky, you might even catch carolers singing on the street, adding a sweet, nostalgic touch to your visit. Plus, unlike the busier displays, this spot remains uncrowded, making it a perfect, relaxed evening outing to savor the holiday spirit.

Foster’s holidays, Redwood city

For a spectacular holiday light show synced to music, make sure to check out Fosters Holidays in Redwood City! This single home at 400 Topaz street is a dazzling display of lights that dance perfectly in time with holiday tunes, handpicked by the homeowner – Steve Foster, with a keen eye for detail and festive spirit. If you’re in the area, this brilliant, carefully crafted display is a must-see—stop by and enjoy a little magic! For updates and info on the display for 2025, check out their instagram page.

Filoli Holidays, Redwood City

Filoli is one of my absolute favorite places to experience the holidays in the Bay Area. This historic home and its expansive gardens transform into a glowing wonderland every winter — and while it’s not free and you do need to book tickets in advance, it is so worth it.

The entire property is covered in twinkling lights and whimsical installations. Honestly, it takes more than an hour just to stroll through everything, and you’ll still find moments that stop you in your tracks. Thousands of lights wrap around trees, shimmer across the gardens, and sparkle along pathways — it feels like stepping into a storybook.

One of my favorite things to do is sit by the outdoor fire pits with a hot chocolate in hand, surrounded by clusters of beautifully lit Christmas trees. It’s cozy, festive, and such a mood booster for the season. If you’re looking for a holiday outing that feels magical without requiring a long drive, Filoli should definitely be on your list.

For 2025, Holidays at Filoli is open between November 22, 2025 – January 11, 2026. You can book your tickets here.

Holiday Lights in the Bay Area – San Francisco

Okay, I’m about to say something a little controversial—if you’re looking for a Christmas Tree Lane or a whole neighborhood full of lights, San Francisco might not be your best bet. While the city has a few festive spots, the displays are a bit more spread out and don’t quite offer that “magical neighborhood” vibe I love so much. But, hear me out—it’s still worth a visit!

If you’re already planning a day in the city, why not finish it off with a little holiday cheer? While you won’t find streets lined with lights, there are some really fun spots to soak up the seasonal spirit. So, grab a cozy dinner in the city and then check out these spots for a little holiday glow!

68 Castro Street

If you’re strolling through San Francisco, you might find plenty of individual houses decked out for the holidays, but there’s one that stands out: 68 Castro Street. It’s like stepping into a Christmas card, with twinkling string lights, big red bows, and a stunning holiday wreath adorning the front. What’s great about this spot is that it’s a little less crowded, so you can really take your time soaking in all the festive charm without feeling rushed. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the city!

Cherry Street Swing

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more whimsical, check out the Cherry Street swing! San Francisco is known for its hidden rope swings, and this one is extra special during the holidays. The trees surrounding the swing are decked out with twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. We visited on Christmas Eve, and there was hardly anyone around – it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves! It’s the kind of place that’ll make you feel like a kid again, full of joy and wonder.

The swing is at the intersection of Jackson and Cherry Streets, and parking is easy to find on these streets. While you’re in the area, take a stroll down Jackson Street to enjoy more festive lights and charming holiday decorations.

Hotel lobbies in San Francisco

San Francisco’s grand hotels bring the holiday spirit to life with their unique traditions. The Westin St. Francis showcases a giant sugar castle—a mesmerizing, intricate creation made entirely of sugar, complete with tiny trains running around it! It’s a magical scene that lights up the lobby with holiday cheer. Just a few blocks away, the Fairmont invites visitors into their life-sized gingerbread house, crafted with delicious detail. You can walk through it—though, unfortunately, no nibbling allowed! Both are must-sees if you’re in SF for the season!

Uncle John’s tree

Just a short stroll from Entwined is the heartwarming official Christmas tree of San Francisco! What makes this tree extra special is the touching story behind it. John McLaren, one of the founders of Golden Gate Park, requested that this tree be lit every Christmas while he was on his deathbed. So, each year, the tree is beautifully lit in his honor, becoming the city’s official Christmas tree. It’s a peaceful spot with fewer crowds, making it the perfect place to relax, enjoy a picnic, or have a cozy dinner under the twinkling lights. A lovely, serene holiday moment!

Union Square, San Francisco

Union Square is the heart of San Francisco’s holiday scene, and skating at its famous rink is a seasonal must! Glide around under the glow of a towering Christmas tree while the festive lights of Macy’s and nearby shops set the scene. And if you’re there, make sure to wander down Maiden Lane—strung with twinkling lights, it’s the perfect spot for a magical holiday stroll!

Tom & Jerry House

I feel it’s important to mention this one, even though it’s no longer around. The Tom & Jerry house in San Francisco was a beloved holiday lights tradition for many, spanning generations of Bay Area families. Each year, Tom Taylor and Jerry Goldstein went all out, transforming their home into a holiday wonderland. Visitors would marvel at the enormous Christmas tree, a sea of stuffed toys, and even a mini amusement park with roller coasters and a Ferris wheel. Sadly, after Tom’s passing in October 2020, the magical tradition came to an end. It’s a piece of holiday history that many of us will always remember, and I can only hope it’s revived someday.

Holiday Lights in the Bay Area – South Bay

The South Bay really knows how to put on a holiday show! Some of the best and brightest displays in the Bay Area happen here, with whole neighborhoods going all out—yes, we’re talking streets upon streets decked with twinkling lights! From festive community events to dazzling light shows, South Bay has plenty to offer for a magical night out. Here are some of the top spots to add to your holiday lights tour!

Enchant, San Jose

NOTE: Enchant is cancelled for 2025 in San Jose. But, hopefully it will be back next year again!

If you’re looking to dive into a holiday wonderland, Enchant in San Jose is a must! This spot took our holiday lights hunt to the next level with a mesmerizing light maze that feels straight out of a festive dream. Everywhere you turn, there are colorful lights and intricate designs that make the whole place come alive with holiday magic.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! Enchant also has a lovely ice skating rink, adding to the holiday charm. Skating under twinkling lights feels just like being in a holiday movie—it’s that dreamy!

For tickets, checkout their website here. A quick heads up: Tickets can be on the pricier side, but if you’re looking to save a bit, check out their “Night Owl” tickets, available later in the evening for a budget-friendly option. Just be prepared for a bit of a line.

And one last tip: Parking at Paypal Park itself can be steep. We found a cheaper option by parking in the nearby residential area and taking a short stroll over. It’s easy on the wallet and adds to the holiday spirit as you walk up!

Willow Glen, San Jose

Willow Glen is holiday cheer central! This neighborhood goes all out—think every decoration you can imagine! Nearly every house joins in, transforming the area into a twinkling wonderland. As you drive through, you’ll find themed streets like Candy Cane Lane, Snowman Street, Snowflake Avenue, and even a street with Santa’s reindeer and an oversized sleigh! It’s a little adventure with each turn, and every theme is as festive as the last.

To walk the prettiest streets, follow this map I created for you! The best time to visit is after dark when all the lights come alive. The whole community comes together to put on this incredible display, spreading so much holiday cheer—it’s bound to put a smile on everyone’s face this season!

Christmas In the Park, San Jose

Christmas in the Park is the heart of holiday magic in Downtown San José! This is also one of the first Christmas Holiday places I went to when I first moved to Bay area. I’ve been going there almost every year ever since. This festive tradition turns the Plaza de Cesar Chavez into a dazzling winter wonderland that’s free to visit and bursting with holiday cheer.

As soon as you step in, you’re surrounded by twinkling lights, whimsical exhibits, and a majestic 65-foot Christmas tree that lights up the park. Wander through a forest of beautifully decorated trees, each one crafted by local schools, community groups, and businesses. There’s music, there’s laughter, and there’s always something happening to keep you entertained!

And if you’re looking for a cozy drive-through option, Christmas in the Park has you covered. Grab your tickets online here and cruise through a colorful display of lights and festive exhibits right from your car. Whether you’re strolling or driving, Christmas in the Park brings that perfect holiday sparkle to San José!

German Holiday Market, Mountain View

Mountain View’s German Holiday Market feels like a little slice of Europe with all the cozy vibes and festive cheer you could hope for! Picture this: handcrafted wood ornaments, German nutcrackers, and stacks of Lebkuchen and Stollen just begging to be tasted. I started with a warm pretzel and, then tried a mug of Glühwein—it’s practically mandatory, right? This market brings Bavarian charm to the Bay Area, and with live music, arts and crafts, and treats galore, there’s a little magic here for everyone!

Holiday Lights in the Bay Area – East Bay

I finally made my way out to the East Bay in 2025 to check out some of the holiday lights. Unlike some other Bay Area displays, a few of these have actual lines — like, people waiting ~2 hours to see them. Personally, long lines in the cold aren’t my idea of holiday magic, but I have so much appreciation for the folks who put all of this cheer together.

Deacon Dave’s, Livermore

• Address: 352 Hillcrest Ave, Livermore
• Links to more info and hours: Website

This is easily the most famous stop. It’s known for having an insane number of lights and has even been the backdrop for dozens of marriage proposals over the years — which honestly adds to the charm. They also do a new theme every year, and in 2025 it is Storyland Christmas, with Disney-inspired scenes from Cinderella, Rapunzel, and Beauty and the Beast.

That said — the line here can get really long. We actually tried to visit the day before Christmas last year, waited about 45 minutes, and then called it when we realized people were standing there for 2+ hours. The display itself is colorful and festive, but it’s pretty small — once you’re in, you’ll likely be done in 10–15 minutes.

My honest take? It’s cute, joyful, and impressive. but I personally wouldn’t wait in a long line in the cold for it. If crowds aren’t your thing, I’d prioritize some of the other East Bay holiday light spots instead.

Drive-Through Holiday Magic in Fremont – Crippsmas Place

• Address: 35971 Wellington Pl, Fremont
• Links to more info and hours: Website

Crippsmas Place is one of the most fun and festive holiday light displays in the East Bay — and it’s completely free. This neighborhood is known for its animated movie–themed wooden cutouts that evoke pure nostalgia, featuring everything from classic Disney movies to beloved animated characters many of us grew up with, alongside colorful lights and creative decorations.

The 80+ homes that participate are spread across Cripps Place, Asquith Place, Nicolet Court, Wellington Place, Perkins Street, and the stretch of Nicolet Avenue between Gibraltar Drive and Perkins Street. You can drive through, but I highly recommend parking nearby and walking — it’s much easier to slow down, get close to the decorations, and take photos.

It’s cheerful, nostalgic, and perfect for a cozy evening stroll.

4th Street, Berkeley

• Address: 1919 Fourth Street, Berkeley
• Links to more info and hours: IG

If you’re looking for something festive but tasteful and low-key, 4th Street in Berkeley is a great pick. During the holidays, the street is beautifully lit with twinkling lights wrapped around trees and storefronts, giving it a cozy, polished feel.

It almost feels like a mini downtown, with high-end shops like Anthropologie and other boutique stores lining the street, along with some really great restaurants. I love this spot for a relaxed evening — you can wander under the lights, do a little window shopping, and then settle in for dinner or dessert nearby.

This one’s less about over-the-top displays and more about simple, elegant holiday vibes — perfect if you want something festive without the chaos.

Dourov Christmas Light Display and Snow Machine

• Address: 467 Knottingham Cir, Livermore

One of the things I picture about Christmas is the classic “White Christmas” — snow falling gently over twinkling lights. The Bay Area is unfortunately super cold but rarely gets snow, which is why Douro’s snow machine is such a treat. It’s perfect for adding a little flurry fun to your holiday lights drive.

The display is free to visit, and you don’t need to pay to walk around or enjoy the lights. If you want the snow machine to start while you’re there, just bring a few quarters — the machine is coin-operated and adds extra magic to the experience.

Even better, nearby kids often sell hot chocolate, so you can sip something warm while watching the snow fall and the lights twinkle. It’s a simple, magical way to capture that winter wonderland feeling without leaving the Bay.

Widmer World, Pleasanton

• Address: 3671 Chelsea Ct., Pleasanton
• Links to more info and hours: Website

Widmer World is a classic East Bay holiday light display that’s full of charm and festive cheer. One of the highlights is the multiple lighted spiral trees, which are synced to music — it’s so fun to watch the lights dance along to the holiday tunes.

There are also other interactive displays inside if you stand in line. We visited on a weekend, and the line was about 30 minutes long, so we skipped it. Even just enjoying the trees and lights outside was enough — it still felt incredibly festive and put me right in the holiday spirit.

It’s a wonderful spot for a cozy evening stroll, especially if you want a musical, magical, and very “holiday-ey” experience without committing to a long wait. I hear there is no wait if you visit on weekdays!

Montrose House of Dogs, Livermore

• Address: 3648 Montrose Place, Livermore, CA 94551
• Links to more info and hours: IG

If you love dogs as much as lights, the Montrose House of Dogs in Livermore is an absolute must-see. The front porch is packed with lots and lots of cute lighted doggos, and the owners themselves have five adorable pups who are part of the festive fun!

It’s a great spot to bring your own furry friends too — you can snap some cute holiday photos with the display, making it a fun outing for both humans and dogs. Even if you don’t have a dog, the sheer number of cute, happy displays is enough to make anyone smile.

And there you have it – a festive roundup of holiday lights in the Bay Area, from magical lanes to dazzling displays and even glowing boat parades! Whether you’re cozying up for a drive-through show, wandering through neighborhood streets, or basking in the glow of a grand Christmas tree, there’s something special for everyone this season.

These holiday light displays bring so much joy and warmth, reminding us of the magic of the season and the sense of community that lights up our hearts, just as these lights brighten up our nights. So grab your hot cocoa, bundle up, and let the twinkling lights and festive cheer be a highlight of your holiday season. Happy holidays, and may your December be filled with brightness, joy, and all things merry.

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