Christmas Events Near Hayward 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events near Hayward
The East Bay celebrates the holidays with a rich tapestry of traditions, from dazzling light displays that transform neighborhoods into winter wonderlands to intimate theatrical performances that capture the season's magic. Local communities embrace the spirit with vibrant tree lighting ceremonies, joyous gospel concerts, and charming holiday markets offering unique finds.
Visitors will find spectacular light festivals like Glowfari at the Oakland Zoo and the Fourth Street Berkeley Dazzling Holiday Light Celebration, alongside classic holiday theater such as Contra Costa Ballets The Nutcracker. For families, events like Children’s Magical Tea at Top of the Mark and WinterFest at California’s Great America promise memorable experiences.
Browse Christmas Near Hayward by Category
Christmas Shows
Features live accompaniment by the Oakland Symphony and children's choir.
Christmas Markets
Downtown holiday celebration featuring food, craft vendors, and Santa.
Christmas Lights
Features 350,000 twinkling lights, a 210-foot light tunnel, and Thistlewyck Village.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Outdoor holiday ice skating in the heart of downtown San Francisco.
Editor's Picks
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The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square
· San Francisco
Outdoor holiday ice skating in the heart of downtown San Francisco.
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Graham Lustig's The Nutcracker
· Oakland
Features live accompaniment by the Oakland Symphony and children's choir.
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Annual Holiday Sights & Sounds Parade & Tree Lighting
· Livermore
Livermore holiday tradition featuring floats, Santa's arrival, and a sing-along.
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Holidays at Filoli
· Woodside
Features 350,000 twinkling lights, a 210-foot light tunnel, and Thistlewyck Village.
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Redwood City Hometown Holidays
· Redwood City
Downtown holiday celebration featuring food, craft vendors, and Santa.
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Hometown Holiday Celebration
· Pleasanton
Festive parade down Main Street followed by a tree lighting ceremony.
Events Happening Soon
Hayward Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Bigger holiday scenes worth the drive
Hayward Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Hayward?
The biggest annual events include the Light Up the Season celebration at City Hall and the H.A.R.D. Holiday Lights at Mt. Eden Mansion.
What holiday traditions are unique to Hayward?
Hayward celebrates a multicultural winter season with events honoring traditions like Twin Luminaries, Mawlid al-Nabi, and Kwanzaa, alongside more widely recognized holidays.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Hayward?
Popular neighborhoods for Christmas lights include the downtown area, Mt. Eden, and several residential streets known for festive home displays.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Hayward?
Christmas markets and local makers are often found at City Hall, Mt. Eden Mansion, and various parks during the holiday season.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Hayward?
Free activities include the City Hall tree lighting, neighborhood light displays, and holiday markets with no admission fee.
What are good picks for families with kids in Hayward?
Families enjoy the City Hall tree lighting, Mt. Eden Mansion lights, and holiday markets with crafts and entertainment for children.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
Calgary Zoo Zoolights
📍 Calgary , AB , Canada
Celebrates 30 years with over one million lights across the zoo.
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