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- Christmas Guide • December 15–21
Christmas Guide • December 15–21
This is Christmas in the Tri-Valley — and beyond — at its absolute best.Glowing neighborhoods, Santa moments that feel warm and personal, festive markets, and simple traditions that turn ordinary evenings into memories.This guide is built for real families.Open it — and you know exactly what to do, where to go, and how to plan the week.
Tri-Valley Insider
December 16, 2025
FAMILY & LIFESTYLE
Moments that make the valley feel like home
December is about slowing down and choosing moments that matter: a Santa visit without rushing, hot cocoa in the car, Christmas music playing softly, and kids counting lights from the back seat.
Santa at the Danville Livery — Danville
The most charming Santa experience in the Tri-Valley. A beautifully decorated outdoor setting, relaxed atmosphere, and a Santa visit that feels warm instead of crowded. Perfect for classic holiday photos and a festive stroll after.
Sensory Santa — Livermore
A gentle, low-sensory Santa experience designed for children who prefer a calmer environment. Soft lighting, reduced noise, and unrushed interactions make this one of the most thoughtful holiday offerings in the region.
Holiday Lights Drive — Tri-Valley
One of the easiest and most magical family traditions. Choose one neighborhood, bring hot cocoa, turn on Christmas music, and enjoy the glow together.
EVENTS & FESTIVALS
What defines Christmas week
Winter Glow Drive-Thru Experience — Pleasanton
A drive-through holiday light show at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Stay warm in the car while kids enjoy glowing tunnels, oversized displays, and synchronized lights.
Wingen Wonderland Holiday Market — Livermore
A cozy, modern Christmas market with local makers, artisan gifts, seasonal treats, and festive drinks. One of the most stylish and community-driven holiday pop-ups in the Tri-Valley.
The Nutcracker — Valley Dance Theatre (Livermore)
A timeless holiday classic filled with snowflakes, sugar plum fairies, and Tchaikovsky’s beloved music. A must-see December tradition for families.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS — MUST-SEE MAGIC
The displays kids never forget
Deacon Dave’s Christmas Lights — Livermore
352 Hillcrest Ave
One of the most iconic holiday light displays in Northern California. Elaborate scenes, handcrafted installations, and hundreds of thousands of lights — pure Christmas wonder.
Candy Cane Lane & Widmer World — Pleasanton
Classic neighborhood Christmas at its best. Whimsical houses, music-synced displays, and a joyful walk-or-drive experience families return to every year.
SF HOLIDAY ESCAPE
A festive day trip worth the drive
Sometimes Christmas magic calls for a little adventure — and San Francisco delivers it beautifully. These experiences are easy to plan, family-friendly, and feel truly special during the holidays.
Glowfari — San Francisco Zoo
A nighttime zoo transformed with glowing lanterns, illuminated animal sculptures, holiday music, and interactive light installations. One of the most magical holiday experiences for kids in the Bay Area.
Union Square Christmas Tree & Ice Skating
The heart of Christmas in San Francisco. A massive tree, classic holiday window displays, twinkling streets, and an outdoor ice rink create a timeless holiday scene.
Fairmont San Francisco — Gingerbread House
A true SF Christmas classic. The Fairmont’s massive, walk-through gingerbread house feels straight out of a holiday storybook and is always a hit with kids.
SF Ferry Building — Holiday Market Vibes
Waterfront lights, seasonal treats, festive décor, and an easy walking experience. Perfect for families who want holiday atmosphere without heavy crowds.
SF CHRISTMAS MAP (READY TO USE)
Save this map before heading into the city
👉 Open SF Christmas Map:
Included stops:
• Union Square Christmas Tree & Ice Rink
• San Francisco Zoo (Glowfari)
• Fairmont San Francisco Gingerbread House
• SF Ferry Building
TRI-VALLEY vs SAN FRANCISCO — HOW TO CHOOSE
Choose Tri-Valley if you want:
• Low crowds and easy parking
• Cozy neighborhood lights
• Short outings after school
• Santa experiences without stress
Choose San Francisco if you want:
• Big “holiday movie” energy
• Iconic Christmas landmarks
• Ice skating + city lights
• A full festive day trip
Best plan: Tri-Valley during the week, SF on the weekend.
STAY WITH TRI-VALLEY INSIDER
We curate the moments that make the Tri-Valley feel like home — especially during the holidays.
More Christmas magic, family guides, and New Year plans coming next.
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