Illustration of Santa reading a storybook to children sitting on cushions beside a decorated tree (Hometown Holiday Celebration)
Other Christmas Activities

Hometown Holiday Celebration

Visitors can watch a festive parade down Main Street featuring floats, marching bands, and community groups, as well as an official Santa and Mrs. Claus. Following the parade, a tree lighting ceremony takes place in front of the Museum on Main Street. The ceremony includes live musical entertainment, a special appearance by Santa, and the lighting of the tree by the Mayor and City Council.

Sat, Dec 5, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Parade entry fees: PUSD / Co-Sponsored Groups (not included in Bernal MOU) $60; Non-Profit Organizations $70; Pleasanton Residents (Private Use) $80; Non-Residents (Private Use) / Businesses $100.

Hours

Parade: 5:00 p.m.; Tree Lighting Ceremony: following the parade.

Neighborhood

Downtown Pleasanton

Location

Downtown Pleasanton · Pleasanton, CA Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and fans of community holiday parades

Vibe

Festive and communal

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Get to Main Street early and find your spot, because the parade starts promptly and runs about an hour.
  • Dress for the weather, since the parade and tree lighting go ahead rain or shine.
  • Stay after the parade and walk to the Museum on Main Street for the tree lighting, live music and Santa's appearance.
  • Parade entries should go all in on lights and music but leave the candy and flyers at home, since handing things out isn't allowed.
  • If you'd rather help than watch, sign up to volunteer through the city's volunteer link before the event.

Links & Contact

Run by City of Pleasanton

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's in the parade?

Floats, marching bands, community groups and more roll down Main Street. The official Santa and Mrs. Claus ride in it too.

What happens after the parade?

The Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place in front of the Museum on Main Street. It has live music and a special appearance by Santa, and the Mayor and City Council light the tree.

How long is the parade?

It starts promptly and lasts about an hour along a route of about one mile down Main Street.

Does it go ahead if it rains?

Yes. The celebration happens rain or shine.

How can my group take part in the parade?

Register online, one registration per group. Entries need a holiday theme, and lights and music are encouraged. Handing out candy or flyers, advertising and extra Santas aren't allowed. Every entry must check in by the deadline in the confirmation email sent the week of the event.

Browse Christmas in Pleasanton

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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