Holiday Lights in the Bay Area: 15 Magical Displays you need to visit this December
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!
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.
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, check out their instagram page.
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!
Entwined at Golden Gate Park
If you’re in San Francisco during the holidays, the Illuminate SF Festival of Lights is a total treat! Every winter, artists light up neighborhoods across the city with dazzling new installations, and Entwined in Peacock Meadow at Golden Gate Park is one of the best. Picture this: glowing sculptures of trees and colorful flowering bushes, all twinkling and changing colors to the beat of the music. It’s like stepping into a magical light show!
Just a heads-up: parking around Golden Gate Park can be a bit tricky, so you might need to spend a few minutes looking for a spot. The lights don’t come on until dusk and shine until 8:30 p.m., so for the best experience, visit after dark when everything’s lit up and truly sparkling! It’s a must-see for some holiday magic in the heart of the city!
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.
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
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!
East Bay Area
I’m really excited to explore the East Bay’s holiday displays this year! I’ve heard so many wonderful things about a few spots in particular, but haven’t had the chance to check them out yet. So, think of this as my holiday light bucket list – places I’m definitely planning to see for myself this season!
Deacon Dave’s, Livermore
This place is a local legend! Deacon Dave’s dazzling light show has been lighting up Livermore for decades and is supposed to be absolutely magical. I can’t wait to walk through and see all the twinkling lights and creative displays that everyone raves about.
Drive-Through Holiday Magic in Fremont – Crippsmas Place
This festive Fremont neighborhood goes all out each year, with streets filled with holiday lights, decorations, and joyful holiday spirit. I’ve been told it’s perfect for a leisurely drive, so you can stay cozy while taking in all the festive sights. Can’t wait to see this one.
Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade
This is a little different and sounds like pure holiday magic. Picture boats all decked out with lights, parading along the water with the Bay Bridge and city lights as their backdrop. I can only imagine how beautiful this must be, and I’m so excited to see it in person!
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!
