The Ultimate Christmas Week Guide

Tri-Valley Highlights

Winter Glow Experience — Drive-Thru Holiday Lights

Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton

Through Dec 28 | 5:30–8:30 PM

A mile-long drive-through holiday light show filled with massive illuminated displays and festive music. Perfect for families, couples, or a cozy Christmas night in the car.

Garden of D’Lights

Ruth Bancroft Garden, Walnut Creek

Select nights through Dec 28 | Evening time slots

One of the most beautiful holiday experiences in the East Bay. Stroll through glowing desert gardens illuminated with artistic lights, lasers, and installations. Magical, elegant, and very California.

Neighborhood Christmas Lights Drives

Danville and Livermore neighborhoods

All week | After sunset

A classic Tri-Valley holiday tradition. Grab hot cocoa, turn on Christmas music, and explore neighborhoods filled with festive light displays.

Niles Canyon Train of Lights

Sunol / Niles Canyon

Select dates this week

A historic train ride decorated with thousands of lights, live music, and holiday cheer. A Bay Area favorite for families.

San Francisco Christmas Picks

Union Square Ice Rink

Union Square

Daily

Ice skating in the heart of San Francisco surrounded by city lights, holiday décor, and iconic views.

The Nutcracker — San Francisco Ballet

War Memorial Opera House

Final performances this week

A timeless holiday tradition and one of the most iconic Nutcracker productions in the country.

Photosynthesis Light Show

Conservatory of Flowers, Golden Gate Park

Nightly | After sunset

A free outdoor projection show transforming the Conservatory into a glowing work of art. Perfect for an evening walk.

The Sugar Castle at The Westin St. Francis

Union Square

On display through January 2

A 12-foot-tall edible sugar castle handcrafted by pastry chefs. Free to view and a favorite holiday stop in San Francisco.

San Francisco Zoo Lights

San Francisco Zoo

December 26–30 | 5–8 PM

The zoo after dark with festive lights, holiday music, hot cocoa, and family-friendly activities.

Kwanzaa Celebrations

Various San Francisco locations

December 26–28

Community celebrations honoring culture, music, dance, and togetherness — a meaningful way to close out the holiday week.

Editor’s Note

This is one of the best weeks of the year to combine the calm of Tri-Valley with the magic of San Francisco. Enjoy cozy nights locally, then head into the city for shows, skating, and iconic holiday moments.

Happy Holidays,

Tri-Valley Insider