See all Santa Cruz Christmas happenings this year!
Santa Cruz prepares for Christmas 2025 near the Wharf and Boardwalk, where ocean breezes mingle with festive lights and seaside charm. Explore light shows, Christmas celebrations, and winter activities like beachside concerts, holiday markets, and family-friendly performances that feel both coastal and cozy.
Find the best Santa Cruz Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Santa Cruz
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Winter Wonderland
- Farley's Christmas Wonderland
- Santa Cruz Harbor Lighted Boat Parade
- Downtown Holiday Parade
- Santa Cruz New Year's Eve Galactic Celebration
- Christmas with the Chorale
- Roaring Camp Holiday Lights Train (Felton)
- Aptos Village Green Holiday Craft Fair and Tree Lighting (Aptos)
- Los Gatos Fantasy of Lights (Los Gatos)
- Los Gatos in Lights - Winter Celebration 2025 (Los Gatos)
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Santa Cruz Christmas Events
Santa Cruz Christmas Light Displays
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Step into Farley's Christmas Wonderland, a captivating walk-in holiday display in Santa Cruz, CA. They showcase a traditional Christmas scene with numerous trees, garlands, sleighs, an elf village, and Santa's log cabin. Discover a magical fairy grotto complete with waterfalls and fairies, and experience a special snowfall on select nights. Unlike drive-by displays, this exhibit invites visitors to linger and soak in the festive atmosphere.
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Embark on a enchanting journey aboard the Roaring Camp Holiday Lights Train. This festive excursion winds through redwood forests, illuminated by dazzling light displays set to holiday music. Experience the magic of the season from the comfort of a vintage steam train, creating unforgettable holiday memories.
Santa Cruz Christmas Food, Drink and Parties
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Ring in the new year with an unforgettable galactic adventure at Santa Cruz's biggest New Year's Eve celebration! Prepare for an out-of-this-world experience with cosmic lasers, dazzling projections, and impressive oversized props like towering robots and alien spaceships. Dress in your finest NYE attire or embrace the theme with astronaut, alien, or metallic outfits. Enjoy electrifying beats from top local DJs, indulge in food and drink specials, and join the spectacular countdown with special effects.
Santa Cruz Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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Immerse yourself in the joy and tradition of the holiday season with the Santa Cruz Chorale's 'Christmas with the Chorale' concert. This enchanting performance features a captivating mix of early music and beloved carols, both old and new. Prepare for an evening filled with overflowing joy, stunning vocal performances, and a global celebration of Christmas.
Santa Cruz Christmas Markets and Shopping
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Experience the festive spirit at the Aptos Village Green Holiday Craft Fair and Tree Lighting. Discover unique handmade treasures from local artisans, enjoy delightful music and performances, and capture a memorable photo with Santa. The event culminates with a magical tree lighting ceremony, bringing the community together to celebrate the holiday season.
Santa Cruz Other Christmas Activities
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Experience the magic of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk transformed into a Winter Wonderland! While specific 2025 dates are still to be announced, this beloved seaside park promises festive cheer and holiday spirit. Get ready for a season of fun by the beach.
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Experience the enchanting Santa Cruz Harbor Lighted Boat Parade, where over 50 power and sailboats dazzle with festive decorations. Catch limited viewing from the Murray Street bridge or East Harbor launch ramp. Enjoy warm drinks and snacks available throughout the south harbor.
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The Downtown Holiday Parade marks the official start of the holiday season in Santa Cruz County. This cherished tradition brings together over 1,200 participants from local schools, youth groups, and nonprofits, drawing more than 3,000 spectators. It's a vibrant celebration of community spirit and festive cheer.
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With 20 years of experience, we use AI technology to build the most comprehensive list of christmas events events.
Our goal is complete coverage—from major festivals to small community celebrations, ensuring you never miss anything happening in your area.
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