Oakland Other Christmas Activities 2026

Guests gather to watch Santa Claus light the holiday tree, followed by two laser light shows projecting multi-colored beams set to holiday music. After the light show, faux snow cascades from the sky over the square. Attendees can also meet...

Visitors celebrate global holiday traditions surrounded by a twinkling landscape under the evening skies. The event features educational holiday displays, storytelling from around the world, daily performances, and puppet shows. Families can also make holiday-themed arts and crafts, visit with...

Visitors can walk the temple grounds and rooftop gardens to view Christmas lights draped across palm trees and lining the streams. The event features free personalized Nativity and lights tours, themed decorated trees inside the auditorium lobby, and a variety...

Visitors drive slowly around the Main Fountain to view an enchanting holiday light exhibition featuring scenes from Santa's workshop. The whimsical display includes a giant Nutcracker soldier, a reindeer sled, a toy train, snowmen, skaters, penguins, a horse and sleigh,...

Visitors gather in front of Sephora to celebrate the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony and take in the seasonal festivities. The celebration features choral performances by the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir Youth Program and the Oakland Youth Chorus. Guests can...

Visitors glide across an open-air ice rink set against the festive backdrop of downtown San Francisco. Skaters can hit the ice using rented figure or hockey skates, while beginning children can balance with polar bear skate helpers. The rink also...

Visitors gather for an evening filled with music, entertainment, and holiday cheer throughout the shopping center. The celebration features a dazzling parade through the plaza and a special Tree Lighting Ceremony led by Santa Claus.

Visitors can experience a visit with Santa, ride the Lafayette Express train, and gather for the official holiday tree lighting ceremony. The celebration also features live musical entertainment, holiday crafts, treats, and unique photo opportunities.

Celebrate the start of the holiday season at Yerba Buena Gardens with a community tree lighting. Guests can warm up with hot cocoa while enjoying seasonal festivities. The celebration also includes free carousel rides and ice skating.

Community members gather in the plaza to watch the official lighting of the iconic Castro Holiday Tree. The ceremony marks the start of the holiday season in the Castro and encourages attendees to celebrate together and support local neighborhood merchants.

Visitors gather outside City Hall to watch Santa make a special entrance aboard a city fire engine. Families can join the queue to meet Santa and take a commemorative photograph together. The community celebration takes place outdoors regardless of weather...

Visitors take a two-mile self-guided hike through scenic landscapes, exploring trails normally accessible only during private hikes. Along the route, participants can stop at three refreshment stations to enjoy an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage served in a souvenir cup. The...

Guests can enjoy a community gathering featuring seasonal arts and crafts and hot chocolate. Attendees also have the opportunity to take pictures with Santa and write down their winter wishes.

Participants learn the art of wreath crafting under the guidance of Filoli's floral designers, weaving together fresh greens, dried accents, and seasonal flair. All materials are supplied to create a custom handmade holiday piece. Attendees can also enjoy a curated...

Participants gather in the Parish Hall around a 1924 Steinway piano to sing seasonal Winter Solstice, Hanukkah, and Christmas favorites guided by song leaders and guest soloists. The gathering includes refreshments such as cookies, chocolate, and nog, alongside door prizes....

This tabletop role-playing session tasks adventuring parties with stopping Krampus after an attack on Santa's Workshop. Professional Dungeon Masters lead participants through the story, offering separate tables for standard and advanced play. Players receive pre-generated character sheets along with a...

Author Martha Freeman visits Books Inc. Alameda for First Saturday Storytime to read her holiday picture book, Kitty VS. Christmas! Following the reading, Freeman will sign copies of the book for attendees.

Participants design and assemble a 14-inch fresh holiday wreath using a selection of greenery, ribbons, ornaments, pinecones, berries, and florals. Step-by-step guidance is provided throughout the session, with all crafting materials included. Attendees take home their finished wreath at the...

Participants craft three molded soy wax candles using holiday-themed molds, custom wax colors, and seasonal fragrances. Instructors provide step-by-step guidance through the entire candle-making process, with all supplies provided. Guests finish the session with three completed candles to keep or...

Participants learn how to make holiday-inspired dinnerware, mugs, bowls, and mini animal sculptures using hand-building pottery techniques. Instructors guide students of all skill levels, and each attendee receives five pounds of clay in various colors. Studio staff fire and finish...

Spectators gather along the Sausalito waterfront to view a festive procession of brightly illuminated boats. The floating parade is capped off by a celebratory fireworks show over the water. Visitors can view the spectacle from open waterfront park spaces or...

Capture the holiday spirit with free selfies alongside Santa Claus at Jack London Square. This festive event offers a wonderful opportunity for families to create lasting memories during the Christmas season. Enjoy the cheerful ambiance of the square as you...

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with the Holiday Music Series at the Ferry Building Marketplace. Throughout December, enjoy a delightful lineup of live performances by talented student musicians. From the spirited sounds of high school bands to the harmonious...

Unleash your inner artist at the Holiday Bakes Cookie Decorating Class! Learn the fundamentals of cookie art from skilled local bakers, Maya and Murrah. You'll decorate festive holiday cookies and take home a beautifully boxed set, along with recipes and...