Bay Area Bliss: Your Guide to Holiday Magic!

Get ready for an incredible lineup of fun-filled festive activities as the San Francisco and the East Bay Area holiday season approaches!  Discover the enjoyment of the Holidays as you explore the iconic sights of San Francisco and the wonderful communities of Danville, Walnut Creek, San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore, Berkeley, and Oakland/Alameda. Let the joyous celebrations and delightful moments create unforgettable memories that will warm your heart. Enjoy the festive spirit and the blissful ambiance surrounding this holiday season.

1. San Francisco - A Cityscape Aglow

Start your holiday adventure in San Francisco, where the city's iconic landmarks come alive with festive lights. Glide across the Union Square Ice Rink and immerse yourself in the seasonal charm of the city.

• Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square (NOW - JAN 15^th)

Have fun skating at Union Square Ice Rink,  seeing the Big Tree and lights, and then you can go shopping. https://unionsquareicerink.com/

• Embarcadero Center Holiday Ice Rink (Late NOV- Early January):

Enjoy the Holiday Ice Rink at Embarcadero Center, with stunning views of the Bay Bridge.

• New Year's Eve Fireworks at Embarcadero (DEC 31)

Embarcadero hosts a spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks show along the waterfront.

• The San Francisco Ballet - The Nutcracker Performances (NOW – DEC 30^th)

"The Nutcracker" by San Francisco Ballet accompanied by the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. San Francisco Ballet's "The Nancracker" provides annual performances; see the link for time and tickets. www.SFBallet.org

2. Danville - A Tree Lighting Extravaganza

Danville sets the tone for holiday magic with its Tree Lighting Celebration in late November. Join the community for an evening of enchantment, featuring a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, carriage rides, and a host of holiday activities for all ages.

• • Danville Lighting of the Old Oak Tree (NOV 24^th @ 5:15 - 8:00 p.m.) at Diablo Road Danville Lighting Link

3. San Ramon - Sparkling Lights and Community Spirit

San Ramon's holiday festivities include a spectacular Holiday Tree Lighting event in late November. Immerse yourself in the warm glow of sparkling lights, joyful music, and the spirit of community as the city ushers in the holiday season.

• San Ramon Community Tree Lighting Event (DEC 2^nd @ 4:00-6:00 p.m.) San Ramon Lighting Link

4. Dublin - Winter Wonderland at the City of Dublin's Holiday Tree Lighting Event

Come and see Dublin’s wonderful Civic Center 40th lighting of the holiday tree

• Annual Holiday Tree Lighting (NOV 30^th @ 6:00 p.m.) Dublin Lighting Link

5. Pleasanton - Hometown Holidays and Downtown Charm

Pleasanton's Hometown Holiday Celebration in early December is a must-attend event, complete with a festive parade, tree lighting, and family-friendly activities. Explore the charm of Downtown Pleasanton, where holiday shopping and dining experiences await.

• Pleasanton Parade & Lighting Ceremony Pleasanton Parade & Lighting Link

Hometown Holiday Parade (DEC 2^nd @5:00 p.m.)

Tree Lighting Ceremony (DEC 2^ND @6:45 p.m.)

6. Livermore - Sip, Stroll, and Soak in the Lights

Livermore Wine Country Downtown Holiday Stroll offers a unique experience, allowing you to explore local shops, wineries, and festive activities. Don't miss Livermore's enchanting lights displays that add a touch of magic to parks and landmarks.

• Livermore - Holiday Sights and Sounds Parade & Tree Lighting (DEC 2^nd 2 6:00 p.m.) Livermore Parade & Tree Lighting Link

7. Walnut Creek - Skating and Wonderland Wonders

Experience winter wonder in downtown Walnut Creek with the Walnut Creek on Ice outdoor skating rink. Lace up your skates and twirl under twinkling lights. The Civic Park Winter Wonderland adds an extra layer of magic with holiday lights and, weather permitting, an outdoor ice rink.

• Walnut Creek Holiday Activities and Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting (NOV 30^RD ) Walnut Creek Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting Link

Holiday Activities (5:30 - 8:30 p.m. at Promenade + Event Plaza)

Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting (NOV 30^RD  @ 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.)

• Walnut Creek on Ice (DEC 15^th - JAN 15^th)  www.WalnutCreekOnIce.com

Discover the unforgettable joy of gliding on ice at the 18th annual Walnut Creek On Ice, held in the Civic Park. Regardless of age, immerse yourself in the joy of skating under the holiday lights. Explore downtown Walnut Creek, where you can indulge in shopping, savoring delectable cuisine, and leisurely strolling while basking in the magical ambiance of the lights.

8. Around the Bay Extravaganza

Explore local communities, harbor parks, enjoy artisan fairs, discover holiday-themed markets, and experience the unique charm of each community.

• Berkeley/Oakland & Alameda

Fourth Street Holiday Lights in Berkeley (NOV 27^th @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm) - The Fourth Street shopping district in Berkeley Berkeley Lights Link

Berkeley Artisans Holiday Open Studios (Weekends in December) - Explore the studios of local artists during the Berkeley Artisans Holiday Open Studios, opportunity to find unique gifts  Berkeley Artisans Link 

• Jack London Square Yacht Lighting Parade (DEC 2^nd @ 5:30 p.m.) 47th Annual-Lighted Yacht Parade 

Lighted Yacht Parade where decorated boats cruise through the waters around Oakland and Alameda

• Peninsula - Holiday Lights at Filoli (NOW - JAN 7^th) Filoli Holiday Lights)

Must See - Located in Woodside is known for having the Bay Area’s most beautiful light displays with its amazing gardens.

Bay Area Bliss Planning

The Bay Area, with its rich tapestry of cultures and communities, is ready to welcome you to a season of joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're gliding across the ice in Walnut Creek, sipping wine at a holiday stroll in Livermore, or marveling at twinkling lights in San Francisco, there's something special for everyone in this vibrant and festive region. As you plan your holiday adventures across the Bay, remember to check event websites, local community calendars, and city announcements for the most accurate and up-to-date information.