Seasonal & Holidays
Holiday Light Spectacular Is Coming To Marin County
A new free holiday event will be hosted at the fairgrounds and civic center.

MARIN COUNTY, CA — Step into a dazzling world of lights, color and joy at the Marin Holiday Light Spectacular starting Nov. 28.
“As our first-ever holiday light festival, this event brings the community together in the spirit of joy and togetherness,” said Steve Dow, Director of the County’s Department of Cultural Services. “It’s a chance for families to gather, for neighbors to connect, and for everyone to experience the beauty and creativity that makes the holidays so special here in Marin.”
From 4-9 p.m. everyday from Nov. 28 to Jan. 4 at the fairgrounds, there will be an evening of dazzling displays, festive music and cherished traditions. Visitors can stroll along illuminated paths showcasing the magic of the winter holidays, discover intricate light sculptures and inventive installations, and experience an enchanting light tunnel at 20 Avenue of the Flags in San Rafael.
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Drive through the brilliantly lit archways at the historic Marin County Civic Center, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. During business hours, visit the Civic Center Library to see lights under the illuminated fourth-floor dome.
The event features nightly entertainment at the Exhibit Hall/Showcase Theater, including free movies, art activities, live performances and music. Attendees can bring food for a drive, see Marin County Fire's vintage fire truck, write a "Letter to the Future" for the 175th-anniversary time capsule and enjoy the fun.
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The kick-off event on Nov. 28, at 4 p.m., features the Marin Barbershop Chorus, glow-in-the-dark juggling, a countdown to illumination, and glow necklaces for the first 100 visitors.
Drivers should enter the Civic Center through the three illuminated archways, then proceed to the fairgrounds, and park in the Exhibit Hall lot near the Pronzini Christmas Tree Farm, which has relocated behind the Exhibit Hall this year.
Select special events will include:
- November 28, Opening Night Celebration
- December 2, Ugly Holiday Sweater Night
- December 4, Free Movie Night: Frozen and The Nightmare Before Christmas
- December 15, Marin’s 175th Anniversary Community Celebration
- December 17, Free Movie Night: Encanto and Love Actually
- December 19, Free Movie Night: Elf and Cool Runnings
- December 26, Free Movie Night: Paddington and Scrooged
- December 28, Free Movie Night: Happy Feet and March of the Penguins
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