12 Days Of Cheer In San Anselmo: 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 San Anselmo. 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 San Anselmo 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. Experience the wonder of the Holiday Light Spectacular.

Walk through a dazzling winter wonderland at the Holiday Light Spectacular, hosted at the Marlin Center Fairgrounds from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm daily. This family-friendly event features twinkling pathways, a vintage fire truck, hands-on crafts and opportunities to support the community through toy and food drives. Be sure to visit the “Letter to the Future” station for Marin’s 175th Anniversary time capsule before warming up with a hot cocoa. Make this an unforgettable December tradition and check out the illuminated Civic Center arches and the glowing 4th Floor Dome, which are open during library hours.

2. Explore the magical Christmas House at West End Nursery.

Step into a beloved local tradition dating back to 1985 at the Christmas House at West End Nursery. This stunning display features over 60 lush trees, each adorned with a unique theme and thousands of electric ornaments you won’t find anywhere else. Open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 pm to 5:00 pm and Sundays 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, this is an experience you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars for special guests: Santa and Mrs. Claus visit on December 6, and the nursery celebrates its 40th anniversary with a festive “Winter Stroll” on the evening of December 13.

3. Skate under the city lights at Union Square.

Gather your friends for a classic urban holiday experience at the Union Square Ice Rink, located about a 45-minute drive away in San Francisco. Open daily through January 19, this outdoor rink offers 90-minute skating sessions surrounded by the bustle of the city. General admission is $22 (skate rental included), but keep an eye out for fun themed events like the “Polar Bear Skate” or “Drag on Ice” to spice up your visit.

4. Take a wild walk through Glowfari at the Oakland Zoo.

Worth the 40-minute drive, Glowfari transforms the Oakland Zoo into an illuminated nighttime festival featuring larger-than-life animal lanterns from 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm until January 25. This year’s immersive themes include a deep-sea reef swim and a safari through the savanna, perfect for families looking for a unique light show. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and because prices vary by demand, it pays to book your spot as early as possible.

5. Find the perfect holiday read at Sugarfoot Books.

Visit this cozy, woman-owned shop in downtown San Anselmo to pick up gifts for the young bookworms in your life. Sugarfoot Books is a hub for community spirit this month, hosting the San Anselmo Montessori School Book Fair on December 2 and participating in the town’s annual Winter Walk on December 13. Stop by during the walk between 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm to enjoy wine, nibbles and a head start on your holiday shopping.

6. Warm up with a fresh cup from Marin Coffee Roasters.

Fuel your holiday shopping spree with a break at Marin Coffee Roasters, a long-standing corner spot known for its house-roasted beans and laid-back vibe. Whether you grab a seat on the patio or stay inside, it’s one of the best spots in town for people-watching and enjoying a first-rate brew. It’s the perfect pitstop to recharge before heading back out to the local boutiques.

7. Marvel at the life-size Gingerbread House at the Fairmont.

Feast your eyes (and nose) on the massive, two-story Victorian gingerbread house displayed in the lobby of The Fairmont San Francisco. Constructed with hundreds of bricks of real gingerbread and pounds of candy, this display is a sensory delight that brings out the kid in everyone. For a truly unforgettable memory, you can even reserve a private dining experience inside the gingerbread house for up to 10 guests.

8. Hunt for eclectic treasures at Susan’s Store Room.

Discover a treasure trove of nostalgia and unique gifts at Susan’s Store Room, a San Anselmo institution since 1979. Famous for its “cult following” window displays and incredible collection of Steiff bears, this shop offers curiosities sourced from all over the globe. It is a must-visit for anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind present that carries a bit of old-school charm.

9. Relax with a pint at Pond Farm Brewing Co.

Gather the whole family for a laid-back afternoon at Pond Farm Brewing Co. in nearby San Rafael. This spot is a favorite for parents thanks to its kid-centric play area, allowing adults to enjoy award-winning craft beers and kitchen eats while the little ones stay entertained. With a spacious outdoor patio (that’s pet-friendly, too!) and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great place to unwind from holiday stress.

10. Enjoy an elegant Italian dinner at Valenti & Co.

Savor a farm-fresh Northern Italian meal at the intimate Valenti & Co., right in San Anselmo. Known for its thoughtfully sourced organic ingredients and cozy wine bar atmosphere, this is an ideal spot for a special holiday date night or celebration. Dinner service runs Wednesday through Sunday at 5:00 pm, so be sure to call and make a reservation to secure your table.

11. Step back in time at The Great Dickens Christmas Fair.

Travel to Victorian London without leaving the Bay Area at The Great Dickens Christmas Fair, located about an hour away at the Historic Cow Palace. This immersive adventure features over 140,000 square feet of music halls, pubs and shops filled with costumed characters and the scent of roasted chestnuts. The event runs weekends through December 21, and tickets are available online only, so grab yours before you go.

12. Watch the ultimate holiday classic, ‘The Nutcracker.’

Witness the magic of the very first American production of The Nutcracker by the San Francisco Ballet, just a 40-minute drive away. Set in a Victorian-era San Francisco, this spectacular performance runs on select dates from December 5 through 28 at the War Memorial Opera House. It’s a stunning, high-production tradition complete with a live orchestra that remains a cornerstone of the Bay Area holiday season.

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

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