Holiday Events in San Jose, California

Quick-Find Event Calendar

Date	Event	Location
Nov 14 – Jan 4	San Jose Holiday Lights	Discovery Meadow (180 Woz Way)
Nov 21 – Dec 31	Blinky’s Drive‑Thru Light Show	Santa Clara County Fairgrounds
Nov 28 – Jan 1	Christmas in the Park	Plaza de César Chávez, Downtown San Jose
Nov 28 – Nov 29	SJMADE Holiday Fair 2025	Santa Clara Convention Center
Dec ? (early December)	Holiday Markets & Craft Fairs	Various San Jose venues

Note: Some dates may update closer to the event — always check official sources.

When/Where: Fri Nov 14 through Sat Jan 4, nightly at Discovery Meadow (180 Woz Way, San Jose)
What you’ll experience: A winter-wonderland-style display over 5+ acres, featuring 40+ handcrafted light sculptures and six immersive holiday zones (e.g., “Candy Wonderland”, “Enchanted Jungle”) designed for families and festive nights out.
Why it’s special: This event brings big-scale light art to San Jose — combining high-tech immersive zones with family-friendly holiday charm.
Tip for visitors: Buy tickets in advance (especially for weekends) to secure a preferred time slot. Dress in layers — even though it’s California, evenings can get brisk. Consider visiting early in the season to avoid peak crowds.

When/Where: From Nov 28, 2025 through Jan 1, 2026 at Plaza de César Chávez, Downtown San Jose. The free walk-through version runs nightly (6 pm-11 pm).
What you’ll find: Over 40 animated displays, volunteer-decorated trees, a 50-foot community Christmas tree, free photos with Santa, and nightly festivities. For a drive-through version (Blinky’s), you’ll go to Santa Clara County Fairgrounds.
Why it’s special: A longtime South Bay tradition (running since the 1980s) that invites everyone to stroll under twinkling lights in the heart of the city.
Tip for visitors: The walk-through portion is free, making this an accessible option for families. Street parking in downtown may fill up fast — arrive early and/or consider public transit.

When/Where: Friday and Saturday — Nov 28 (Black Friday) and Nov 29 (Small Business Saturday), 11 am to 6 pm each day, at the Santa Clara Convention Center. Free admission.
What you’ll see & buy: Over 350+ makers, artists, designers, illustrators, bakers, crafters and small businesses offering unique gifts, artisan treats, and festive finds.
Why it’s great: Ideal for holiday shopping with a local, handmade-focus. You’ll find things you won’t see in big box stores.
Tip for visitors: Go early for best selection. Bring reusable bags — many vendors appreciate sustainability-minded shoppers. Arrive with a budget in mind (handmade goods vary widely in price).

When/Where: Various dates in late November & December across San Jose. Examples: a Belarusian Christmas Art & Craft Fair on Sat Dec 6; MAKERS MARKET Local Artist Street Fair @ Santana Row on Sat Dec 13.
What to expect: Smaller-scale fairs and street-markets, many focusing on hand-crafted goods, holiday décor, art, food treats and community vendors.
Why they’re valuable: These are more intimate than big festivals — perfect for casual browsing, supporting local makers, and discovering unique gifts.
Tip for visitors: Check the event details for timing and free admission info. Bring cash or cards (some may be cash-preferred). Wear comfortable shoes — you'll likely browse indoors and out.

You can experience big immersive light displays like the Holiday Lights festival alongside cozy craft markets and local tree-lightings.
Families and all ages are welcome: events range from large ticketed light experiences to free walk-throughs and community fairs.
Accessibility: Many events are downtown or in well-known locations around San Jose, making it easier to bundle an evening out (dinner + show + lights) in one outing.

Tickets & Reservations: For ticketed events (e.g., San Jose Holiday Lights), buy early and check for weekday discounts.
Transportation & Parking: Downtown San Jose can get congested in peak evenings. Consider parking garages, rideshares or transit. For drive-through light shows, ensure your vehicle is ready for a slow pace.
Weather & Attire: While Northern California is milder than many places, evenings in November/December can be chilly—bring a jacket, hat or blanket if viewing outdoors.
Crowds: Weekends will be busiest. If you prefer fewer people, target weekday evenings or early in the season.
Family-friendly vs Adults-only: Most events are family-friendly. If you’re seeking an adults-night-out vibe, look for evening time-slots or events more geared to couples/friends.
Support Local: At craft fairs and markets, bring cash, reusable bags and engage with vendors — it helps the local economy and gives you memorable finds.

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