Seasonal & Holidays
2025 Palo Alto Holiday Guide: Lights, Festive Fun & Good Cheer
From small-town charm to seasonal celebrations, these hometown holiday highlights bring the spirit of the season to life.
The holiday season has arrived in Palo Alto, bringing twinkling lights, cheerful events, and plenty of ways to make memories close to home. From light displays to beloved local traditions, here are the hometown holiday highlights you won’t want to miss.
Please note: Dates and details are subject to change, so be sure to check with each organizer before you go — many events require tickets or reservations in advance.
Holiday Lights at Filoli
When: Now through January 11, 2026 | 4 PM to 7:30 PM (last entry 7 PM)
Where: Filoli, 86 Canada Road, Woodside, CA
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Experience the magic of the season at Filoli with shimmering light displays, festive décor and warm holiday hospitality. Guests can enjoy live carolers, complimentary hot drinks in keepsake mugs and beautifully illuminated garden pathways. Additional features include a ballroom, champagne lounge and private fire pit experiences for an extra-special night out. Book your visit early, as timeslots fill quickly, especially on weekends.
More info: filoli.org/holiday-lights
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Holiday Tree Lighting at Lytton Plaza
When: December 5, 2025 | 5:30 PM to 7 PM
Where: Lytton Plaza, 200 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA
Kick off the holiday season at Palo Alto’s annual Tree Lighting celebration. Enjoy winter treats, warm beverages and lively performances from School of Rock, Boost Class Merry Holiday Dancers and the Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra. Bring friends and family for an evening filled with festive music, community spirit and seasonal cheer.
More info: paloalto.gov/Events-Directory/Community-Services/Holiday-Tree-Lighting
Once Upon a Garden: Family Night
When: December 4 through 6, 2025 | 5 PM to 8 PM
Where: Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden, 1431 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, CA
For an enchanting holiday evening, guests of all ages can step directly into a storybook world at Gamble Garden. Guests can explore whimsical landscapes, enjoy fairy-themed crafts and watch a special performance by the Bayer Ballet. Storybook characters—including Cinderella, Frodo Baggins, Dorothy and Santa—bring the magic to life. Don’t miss the winter festival shopping area with handcrafted gifts. Tickets are $45 per person; infants under 12 months enter free.
More info: gamblegarden.org/event/wf-once-upon-a-garden
The Perfect House Gingerbread Creation
When: December 7, 2025 | 3 PM to 5 PM
Where: Silicon Valley Ballroom, Four Seasons Hotel, 2050 University Avenue, East Palo Alto, CA
Build your dream gingerbread house with expert guidance from the Four Seasons pastry team. Participants receive all materials along with a chef’s hat, apron and spatula to complete the holiday baking experience. This hands-on event is perfect for families and aspiring decorators alike. Admission is $176.72, and space is limited, so early reservations are encouraged.
More info: eventbrite.com/e/the-perfect-house-gingerbread-creation-tickets
Community Tree Lighting Celebration in Mountain View
When: December 8, 2025 | 5:30 PM to 8 PM
Where: Civic Center Plaza, 500 Castro Street, Mountain View, CA
Celebrate the start of the holiday season with Mountain View’s beloved community tree lighting. Visitors can enjoy warm treats, festive refreshments and the joyful moment when the city tree is illuminated. Children will love the magical train rides, Santa visit, crafts and games. Live performances and cultural booths highlight holiday traditions from around the world.
German Holiday Market
When: December 13, 2025 | 11 AM to 9 PM
Where: Mountain View City Hall Plaza, 500 Castro Street, Mountain View, CA
Experience German holiday traditions at this festive outdoor market featuring authentic wood ornaments, nutcrackers and handcrafted goods from local artisans. Guests can enjoy classic treats like lebkuchen, stollen, chocolate, pretzels and traditional German sausages. Warm up with a mug of Glühwein as you explore the charming seasonal stalls.
More info: contracosta.news/event/german-holiday-market-2025-mountain-view
Deck the Halls Holiday Concert by Peninsula Cantare
When: December 20, 2025 | 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Where: 625 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto, CA
Peninsula Cantare welcomes audiences to its annual Deck the Halls Holiday Concert, featuring a professional orchestra and a selection of beloved holiday music. The program includes classic carols, modern favorites and a performance of Bach’s Cantata 191. The evening concludes with the ensemble’s cherished carol sing-along. Tickets are $39 for general admission, $34 for seniors and $13 for students.
More info: peninsulacantare.org/concerts
Enjoy the season, make a few memories close to home and have a happy holiday, Palo Alto!
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