Seaside Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Step into a magical holiday experience at Winter Wonderland. This enchanting event transforms the venue into a dazzling spectacle of lights, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for all ages. It's a wonderful opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit and create lasting memories.

Journey back to Alta California at the 41st Annual Christmas in the Adobes, a beloved holiday tradition in Monterey. This enchanting evening walking tour guides visitors through over a dozen historic adobes, beautifully adorned with festive decorations and illuminated by welcoming, candle-lit luminarias. Experience the warm spirit of the community...

Sparky's Holiday Lights returns to the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds for a dazzling Christmas light show. Drive through a festive three-quarter mile experience filled with new lighted characters and synchronized displays. On select nights, step into a walk-thru winter wonderland, enjoy festive treats, and shop for unique gifts at the...

Experience the magic of the 35th Annual Lights on Celebration in downtown Hollister! This festive event features a "Christmas Around the World" themed parade, a vibrant boutique with artisan vendors, and the heartwarming Dec-A-Tree project. Enjoy family-friendly activities, festive decorations, and the opportunity to give back to the community.

Step into a winter wonderland at Gilroy Gardens for North Pole Nights. This enchanting holiday event transforms the park into a festive destination with magical light displays, including a 100-foot musical tunnel. Meet jolly characters, enjoy live shows, and explore Santa's Workshop. Don't miss the Reindeer Roundup Trail and ice...

Experience the magic of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, a beloved holiday tradition. This spectacular performance features an international cast of world-class dancers, breathtaking sets, and opulent costumes. Witness a captivating blend of classical ballet, whimsical puppetry, and dazzling acrobatics set to Tchaikovsky's timeless score. It's an unforgettable festive celebration for...

Experience the magic of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Musical, at the enchanting Outdoor Forest Theater. This beloved holiday show follows Rudolph's heartwarming journey, featuring iconic characters and classic songs. It's a perfect family outing that celebrates individuality and the spirit of the season.

Experience the timeless magic of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' live on stage! This beloved production brings Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang to life as they discover the true meaning of the holiday season. Join them for a heartwarming journey filled with wit, wisdom, and festive cheer.

Experience the magic of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' brought to life in a captivating theatrical and musical adaptation. This beloved holiday tradition returns to Santa Cruz, promising a heartwarming journey through Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation. Perfect for the entire family, the performance offers a concise 90-minute experience without intermission, making...

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...

Celebrate the holiday season at the 9th Annual Christmas on the Wharf in Monterey. This festive event features dazzling decorations, a towering Christmas tree, and live entertainment every weekend. Visitors can meet Santa Claus, enjoy musical performances, and witness the enchanting 'Brighten the Harbor' Lighted Boat Parade. It's a perfect...

Join Tancredi & Morgen for their annual Holiday Party, a festive celebration filled with music, merriment, and delightful affogatos. This event is a perfect opportunity to discover unique, hand-sourced home decor and gifts, with special offerings from Current & Copper jewelry and other local artisans. Experience the warm, festive atmosphere...

Discover one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at the 48th Annual Heritage Holiday Craft and Gift Fair. Browse three buildings filled with handmade crafts, antiques, collectibles, and toys. After shopping, immerse yourself in the magic of Sparky's Holiday Lights, a dazzling display of thousands of twinkling lights. Enjoy festive food and drinks, making...

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,...

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 and unite people of all ages and backgrounds in 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 the evening is a special appearance by Santa and Mrs....

Experience the magic of the Pacific Grove Holiday Parade of Lights, a vibrant procession featuring illuminated floats, marching bands, and dance teams. This festive event brings the community together on Lighthouse Avenue for an evening of holiday cheer, culminating with a special appearance by Santa Claus. Following the parade, local...

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 Menorah lighting, followed by the grand Holiday Tree Lighting. Afterward,...

Step back in time to experience the night of Jesus' birth at Streets of Bethlehem, a free outdoor Christmas event in Salinas, CA. Wander through a vibrant marketplace, encounter Roman soldiers, and witness the humble beginnings of the Nativity. This immersive experience brings the true story of Christmas to life...

Get ready for the dazzling Salinas Holiday Parade of Lights! This beloved free community event transforms Downtown Salinas into a festive wonderland. Families, local groups, and businesses showcase their holiday spirit with creative lighted floats and displays. Cheer on the participants as they light up Main Street, creating a magical...

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% discount on Annieglass pieces during the event.

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.

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.

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.