Illustration of a family gazing at houses and trees covered in string lights on a snowy street at dusk (Sparky's Holiday Lights)
Christmas Lights

Sparky's Holiday Lights

Visitors cruise through the fairgrounds from the comfort of their vehicles, surrounded by thousands of twinkling holiday lights. The drive-through route features festive displays such as illuminated gingerbread figures, reindeer, decorated Christmas trees, and a wooden windmill wrapped in colorful lights. Guests can stay warm in their cars while listening to holiday tunes as they take in the sights.

Nov 27 – Dec 24, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Car $20.00; RV, Buses, Limo's $ 40.00.

Hours

Drive-thru: 5:30pm-9pm. Walk-thru: 5pm-9pm.

Food & Drink

Warm cocoa and festive treats are available on the December 4–5 walk-through nights.

Location

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds · 2601 E Lake Ave, Watsonville, CA 95076 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families, friends, and couples looking for a festive outing

Vibe

Festive and cozy

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Buy tickets online or at the gate; use the foundation office for group purchases of 25 or more tickets.
  • Choose the walk-through on December 4 or 5 if you want to browse the Holiday Faire and enjoy cocoa and festive treats.
  • Dress for the weather during the walk-through, since the event is outdoors and runs rain or shine.
  • Keep the drive-through option in mind if you want to view the lights from the warmth of your vehicle.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Groups purchasing 25 or more tickets receive a discount.
  • Walk-through nights are December 4 and 5; the other listed Sparky’s Holiday Lights dates are drive-through.
  • Bonus drive-through nights run December 22–24.
  • New lighted characters have been created for this year’s drive-through.
  • Submit a child’s artwork by October 23 for a chance to have it transformed into a holiday light display.

Links & Contact

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 is the difference between the drive-through and walk-through experiences?

The drive-through follows a mile-long route through the fairgrounds from your vehicle. The walk-through has hundreds of thousands of lights and takes place alongside the Heritage Holiday Fair.

What can visitors see along the drive-through route?

The route features thousands of twinkling displays, including illuminated holiday characters and festive scenes.

Is there food or shopping during the walk-through?

The walk-through experience invites visitors to enjoy cocoa and festive treats and shop the Holiday Faire.

Can tickets be bought at the entrance, and are group purchases available?

The foundation page describes online and gate ticket options. Group purchases of 25 or more tickets qualify for a discount and must be purchased directly from the Fairgrounds Foundation office.

Does the event operate in rainy weather?

Yes. The lights remain open rain or shine.

Browse Christmas in Watsonville

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

Event details verified: