12 Days Of Cheer In Novato: Making This A December To Remember

The holiday season is officially here, and there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the magic in and around Novato. To help get you in the spirit, we’ve rounded up a dozen festive ideas you can enjoy throughout the month — each one a fun, joyful way to celebrate the season close to home.

From twinkling light displays and holiday markets to cozy treats, local shopping spots, winter activities and seasonal shows, these 12 picks highlight what makes Novato feel especially merry this time of year. Whether you check off one or all twelve, it’s all about slowing down, supporting local businesses and making memories.

1. Pick up a fresh brew from Dr. Insomniac’s.

Pause between December errands with a stop at Dr. Insomniac’s, where blends are shaped through years of micro-roasting, weekly cuppings and feedback from hundreds of thousands of guests. The Novato shop’s long-standing philosophy—centered on service, quality and continuous learning—comes through in every roast. It’s an easy place to slow down, warm up and enjoy a thoughtful moment amid the season’s bustle.

2. Explore locally made goods at Wild Fennel.

Stroll through Novato’s own Wild Fennel to discover a wide range of home, kitchen and garden goods made responsibly by local artists and makers. Each item is thoughtfully curated and accompanied by the creator’s story, giving your browsing a personal and meaningful feel. With offerings spanning food, candles, jewelry, stationery and more, the shop offers something for everyone on your holiday gift list (including yourself!).

3. Enjoy an elegant evening at The Board Room.

Plan a night out at The Board Room, where classic Chicago steakhouse style meets Marin’s welcoming atmosphere. Prime steaks, Italian-influenced dishes and live piano music set the tone for gatherings ranging from weekday dinners to holiday celebrations. Guests can also slip behind the bookcase into the speakeasy for handcrafted cocktails in a quieter setting. Reservations are recommended; call ahead at 415-883-7793.

4. Wander through curated treasures at Changing Seasons.

Take a break from the season’s fast pace with a visit to Changing Seasons, where the focus is on distinctive decor and art selected for quality and longevity. From obscure pieces to everyday home accents, the collection highlights individuality and craftsmanship. The shop’s layout encourages slow exploration, making it a pleasant stop while you’re out and about in Novato.

5. Stroll through Downtown Novato and see the Christmas tree in lights.

Spend an evening in Downtown Novato to see the Christmas tree on Sherman Avenue glowing alongside decorated storefronts. Grant Avenue’s mix of boutiques, restaurants and specialty shops makes it easy to turn the outing into a full stroll, whether you’re browsing decor, clothing or antiques. Families can pause for treats from local spots like Celine’s Sweets or La Michoacana before exploring landmarks like historic City Hall or the Novato History Museum.

6. Stop for a cozy break at Marin Coffee Roasters.

Just a short drive from Novato, Marin Coffee Roasters in San Anselmo offers a casual, welcoming spot to slow down and enjoy a cuppa. Known for its house-roasted, globally sourced beans and community-centered atmosphere, the café has been a local hub for more than a decade. Visitors can settle in and enjoy breakfast or lunch, house-made baked goods or even music from local performers on the weekend.

7. Experience local history at Pacheco Ranch Winery.

Visit Pacheco Ranch Winery to experience one of Marin County’s oldest landholdings, rooted in Ignacio Pacheco’s 1840 Mexican land grant. The terraced Cabernet Sauvignon vines—many planted more than 40 years ago—are tended by multiple generations of the Pacheco family and close partners. Historic buildings like the 1876 Italianate home and former carriage house add to the sense of place. If you’d like to schedule a wine tasting or pick up a bottle for your next holiday gathering, you can fill out the contact form on the winery’s website.

8. Take a nighttime drive on Petaluma’s City of Lights Tour.

Just 15 minutes from Novato, Petaluma’s City of Lights Driving Tour runs from Dec. 1 to Jan. 1, highlighting houses and businesses decorated throughout the community. Starting in December, families can download the map online or pick it up at the Visitors Center to plan a route through the most festive neighborhoods. You can make an evening out of it and view all the homes, or keep the joy going all season long with a couple of stops each weekend.

9. Glide across the ice at LUMA Ice in Petaluma.

Celebrate the season with a visit to LUMA Ice, returning to the Petaluma Fairgrounds from Dec. 10 to Jan. 6. This real-ice rink features twinkling lights, holiday music and a festive atmosphere, now set indoors at the Expo Hall. The 51’x117' rink offers plenty of room for families, friends and skaters of all ages and experience levels to get in some movement. Skate passes can be purchased online, with youth packages available for even more seasonal fun and activity.

10. Explore The Christmas House at West End Nursery.

Make a short trip to San Rafael to visit The Christmas House at West End Nursery, which boasts over 60 themed trees. What began in 1985 as a small “Christmas Corner” has grown into a beloved local destination known for its unique ornaments and festive displays. On Dec. 6, Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit the venue for free photos, benefiting Santa Cop’s holiday toy drive.

11. Wander through the Holiday Light Spectacular.

Spend an evening at Marin County’s free Holiday Light Spectacular, held nightly from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Marin Center Fairgrounds and Civic Center. Thousands of lights, interactive crafts, festive photo spots and seasonal treats create a cheerful atmosphere for visitors. Food and toy donation drives and the chance to write a letter for the county’s 175th Anniversary time capsule add a meaningful community element.

12. Capture a festive moment with Photos With Santa.

If you’re headed to The Village at Corte Madera between now and Christmas Eve, bring the family for Photos with Santa at Center Court. Visits are always free, and photo packages are available for purchase; advance reservations are highly encouraged to reduce wait time. Special events—including the Dec. 5 tree lighting, pet photos on select Mondays and the sensory-friendly Santa Cares sessions on Dec. 7—ensure a magical experience for all.

Stay warm, shop local and enjoy every twinkling moment — happy holidays, Novato!

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