12 Days Of Cheer In San Rafael: 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 Rafael. 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 Rafael 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. Stroll through the dazzling Christmas House at West End Nursery.

West End Nursery’s Christmas House has been a beloved Marin tradition since 1985, filling its rooms with more than 60 themed trees and thousands of hand-selected ornaments. Open every day, visitors can browse unique décor, stockings and gifts sourced from around the world, with new displays created every year. Greenery and poinsettias arrive in late fall, and Santa and Mrs. Claus make a special appearance on Dec. 6 from 1:00–3:00 p.m. The annual Winter Stroll adds even more magic, inviting guests to explore the glowing displays after dark.

2. Settle in for seasonal brews at Pond Farm Brewing.

Pond Farm Brewing offers a warm, community-focused spot for winter gatherings, with award-winning craft beers poured in a spacious San Rafael taproom. Families and friends can enjoy the kid-friendly play area, cozy indoor tables and dog-friendly patio while tasting rotating seasonal releases. Wine, cider and a compact comfort-food menu round out the lineup, giving everyone something to enjoy.

3. Explore the glowing scenes of the Holiday Light Spectacular.

The Holiday Light Spectacular transforms the Marin Center Fairgrounds and Civic Center into a captivating winter display, with illuminated arches, twinkling pathways and festive photo spots open nightly from 4:00–9:00 p.m. Families can enjoy hands-on crafts, vintage fire trucks, hot cocoa and donation drives supporting local toy and food programs, while the Civic Center’s lit dome and arches promise another scenic stop. Additional special events may require tickets, but the main displays are open to all.

4. Hunt for mischievous elves in downtown San Rafael.

The Great Downtown San Rafael Elf Hunt returns for its fourth year, inviting families to search for hidden elves inside shops and restaurants along 4th Street. Participants follow a printed or digital map, jot down each elf’s name and turn in the completed sheet at Mike Bike’s for a chance to win gift baskets worth $100–$200. The free event runs through Jan. 5, offering plenty of time to wander decorated storefronts and support local businesses throughout the season.

5. Discover nostalgic holiday treasures at Susan’s Store Room.

Susan’s Store Room has been enchanting shoppers for more than 30 years, offering an eclectic mix of toys, books, antiques and collectible animals sourced from around the world. Visitors will find everything from European plush toys to hard-to-find curiosities curated with Susan’s signature eye for whimsy. Paired with the ever-changing displays and elaborate window scenes, the shop feels especially magical in December, offering holiday gifts that feel meaningful and one-of-a-kind.

6. Enjoy a cozy winter dinner at Valenti & Co.

Valenti & Co. brings Northern Italian warmth to San Anselmo, serving seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and small-production wines. The intimate dining room and thoughtful menu make it an excellent choice for holiday-season dinners or celebratory nights out. With more than two dozen wines by the glass and a rotating selection of cold-weather specials, it’s an inviting place to settle in on a chilly evening. Gift cards are also available for anyone looking to share a favorite local spot.

7. Warm up with expertly roasted coffee at Red Whale Coffee.

Red Whale Coffee pours bold, carefully crafted brews in a lively café setting filled with personality, from its playful branding to its rock-and-roll coffee bar vibe. Guests can sample espresso drinks, nitro cold brew or single-origin pour overs, each roasted with precision by founder Sean Boyd and his team. The shop’s focus on community and quality makes it a favorite winter stop for locals looking to recharge between holiday errands or meet up with friends.

8. Shop intentionally for eco-friendly gifts at Sustainable Exchange.

Sustainable Exchange in San Rafael offers a curated collection of earth-conscious home goods, accessories and everyday essentials designed to support mindful living. Shoppers will find durable, ethically made items sourced with transparent practices — perfect for those looking to give sustainable gifts this season. The shop’s warm, educational approach encourages thoughtful purchasing, helping visitors choose items that last. With rotating stock and knowledgeable staff, it’s a refreshing alternative to hectic holiday shopping.

9. Visit Santa for holiday photos at The Village at Corte Madera.

Santa is stationed at The Village at Corte Madera through Dec. 24, giving families a festive photo backdrop in its lively Center Court. Booking ahead unlocks a digital Santa message and helps avoid lines, though walk-ups are welcome when timing permits. This year’s lineup includes the Dec. 5 Tree Lighting Celebration, sensory-friendly hours and multiple pet photo nights that bring extra charm to the season.

10. Skate under the city lights at the Union Square Ice Rink.

A quick 45-minute drive into San Francisco brings you to the Union Square Ice Rink, a classic holiday outing surrounded by storefront lights and downtown energy. The rink offers daily outdoor skating sessions through Jan. 19, with hour-long sessions starting every 90 minutes and skate rentals included. Special themed nights like Silent Skate and the Polar Bear Skate add fun twists throughout the season. It’s a festive option for families, couples or groups looking to make a day of winter activities in the city.

11. Wander through the illuminated worlds of Glowfari at Oakland Zoo.

The trip to the Oakland Zoo — roughly 45 minutes from San Rafael — pays off the moment Glowfari’s massive lantern displays come into view. This after-dark experience runs through Jan. 25 (from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) and fills the zoo with glowing underwater scenes, safari animals, colorful insects and more, all crafted at larger-than-life scale. Families can stroll the pathways at their own pace before finishing the night with a whimsical train ride through the reptile lantern world. Glowfari’s plan-ahead pricing means ticket rates vary by date and increase as the event approaches, so book early to secure the best price. Children under 2 are admitted free.

12. Step into Victorian holiday magic at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair.

The 45-minute trip from San Rafael is well worth it for the Great Dickens Christmas Fair, which transforms the Cow Palace into a bustling Victorian London each weekend through Dec. 21. Costumed performers, lamplit shops and festive food stalls fill the sprawling space, creating an atmosphere that feels straight out of a storybook. Guests can explore music halls, pubs and artisan booths while meeting characters pulled from Dickens’ classics. Tickets are available online only, with morning-to-evening hours that give you plenty of time to take it all in.

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

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