Holiday To Do's with Your Realtor Ashley Mateo | Ashley Mateo - IAO

With the holidays right around the corner, there’s no better time to dive into the festive spirit right here in the heart of the Bay Area! Santa Clara and San Mateo counties offer a wide variety of holiday activities for everyone, from light displays to outdoor ice skating rinks and cozy holiday markets. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, this guide will take you through some of the best events and attractions these counties have to offer this season.

1. Winter Wonderland Ice Skating Rinks
- Where: Downtown Redwood City (San Mateo County) & Downtown San Jose (Santa Clara County)
- What to Expect: Nothing says “holiday spirit” like gliding across an outdoor ice rink! Redwood City’s outdoor rink is set up right in the heart of downtown, surrounded by holiday lights and music. San Jose’s “Downtown Ice” offers a unique circular rink experience under twinkling lights and palm trees.

2. Christmas in the Park
- Where: Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park, Downtown San Jose
- What to Expect: Christmas in the Park is a beloved holiday tradition in the Bay Area. This free, annual event transforms the park into a magical winter wonderland, with dozens of decorated trees, animated displays, holiday music, and even Santa himself! This event is family-friendly and perfect for a casual stroll with some hot chocolate.

3. Holiday Train Rides
- Where: Niles Canyon Railway, Fremont (San Mateo County)
- What to Expect: Board the Niles Canyon Holiday Train of Lights for a memorable, scenic journey through decorated landscapes. The train is decked out in thousands of lights and is a delightful experience for families and couples alike. Tickets sell out fast, so book in advance!

4. Filoli Historic House and Gardens Holiday Celebration
- Where: Woodside (San Mateo County)
- What to Expect: The Filoli Estate’s historic house and gardens offer a spectacular holiday experience. The entire estate is decorated with holiday lights, and inside, you’ll find beautifully adorned trees and festive decor. Stroll the gardens in the evening for a romantic, illuminated view of this classic Bay Area gem.

5. Holidays at Santana Row
- Where: San Jose (Santa Clara County)
- What to Expect: Santana Row offers shopping, dining, and holiday events all in one place. Enjoy festive decorations, outdoor movie nights, and meet Santa for some holiday photos. The row is a fantastic spot to get some holiday shopping done while soaking up the festive vibe.

6. Candy Cane Lane Holiday Lights
- Where: Eucalyptus Avenue, San Carlos (San Mateo County)
- What to Expect: Candy Cane Lane is a street that goes all out for the holidays. The houses along Eucalyptus Avenue are decorated in spectacular light displays, making it a must-visit spot for families and those who love holiday lights. Walk or drive through to enjoy the sights!

7. San Jose Holiday Market and Tree Lighting
- Where: Christmas in the Park, Downtown San Jose*
- What to Expect: This annual market features artisan vendors, food stalls, and live entertainment. You’ll find unique gifts, delicious holiday treats, and of course, a stunning tree lighting ceremony to kick off the holiday season.

8. Hiller Aviation Museum’s ‘Santa Fly-In’
- Where: San Carlos (San Mateo County)
- What to Expect: For a unique twist, watch Santa Claus arrive by helicopter! The Hiller Aviation Museum’s annual Santa Fly-In is a family favorite, where kids can meet Santa after his grand arrival and enjoy festive activities.

9. Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade
- Where: Los Altos (Santa Clara County)
- What to Expect: The Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade is a magical, community-driven event that brings festive floats, marching bands, and illuminated characters to life. It’s a wonderful event for families to enjoy together.

From spectacular light displays to cozy holiday markets, Santa Clara and San Mateo counties have no shortage of holiday cheer. Embrace the season with these festive activities, and make memories with friends and family that you’ll treasure for years to come. Happy holidays, and let’s make this season one to remember!