12 Great Holiday Activities To Enjoy In San Jose

Are you ready for some festive fun in the heart of Silicon Valley? San Jose, California is bursting with holiday cheer and offers a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy. From twinkling lights and ice-skating to tasty treats and holiday markets – there's something for everyone to get into the holiday spirit. So grab your family and friends, bundle up, and check out these 12 great holiday activities to enjoy in San Jose.

Ice skating at Downtown Ice

Characteristic	Description
Name	Downtown Ice
Type	Ice skating rink in San Jose, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.1 / 218
Address	120 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113
Phone	(669) 259-5901
Profiles

If you're looking for a fun and festive activity to do during the holidays in San Jose, you should definitely check out Downtown Ice. Every winter, the San Jose Downtown Association transforms the Circle of Palms between the Fairmont Hotel and the San Jose Museum of Art into an outdoor ice rink for people of all ages to enjoy.

Whether you're an experienced skater or a beginner, there's something for everyone at Downtown Ice. The rink is open daily from mid-November through early January, except for Christmas Day, and offers a variety of skate sessions throughout the day. You can take a spin around the ice during public skating sessions, enjoy family skates with music and games, or even try your hand at ice hockey during special sessions.

One of the best things about Downtown Ice is the beautiful holiday ambiance. The rink is surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations, which make it a great spot for a date or a family outing. As you glide across the ice, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season in Downtown San Jose.

Another perk of Downtown Ice is its accessibility. The rink is located just steps away from public transportation and several parking garages, making it easy to get to no matter where you're coming from. And if you don't have your own skates, no problem! The rink offers skate rentals for a small fee, so you can still enjoy the fun even if you don't have your own equipment.

Overall, if you're in San Jose during the holidays, you definitely won't want to miss a chance to go ice skating at Downtown Ice. With a fun atmosphere, affordable prices, and plenty of activities for all ages, Downtown Ice is the perfect place to make some holiday memories with your loved ones. So strap on those skates and get ready to hit the ice!

Christmas in the Park at Plaza de Cesar Chavez

The holiday season in San Jose is a special time of year and one of the most exciting ways to celebrate is by visiting the annual Christmas in the Park at Plaza de Cesar Chavez. This event is a cherished tradition among both locals and visitors to the city, and it is not to be missed if you happen to be in town during the holidays.

Located in downtown San Jose, Plaza de Cesar Chavez is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with sparkling lights, festive decorations, and dozens of towering Christmas trees. The park is open every day from the end of November through the end of December, offering visitors plenty of time to experience all the holiday cheer.

One of the main features of Christmas in the Park is the holiday display, which includes life-sized dioramas featuring elves, reindeer, and Santa Claus himself. Visitors can stroll through these charming scenes and take in the intricate details and whimsical decorations. Kids will love seeing all their favorite holiday characters up close and taking pictures to show their friends.

There are also a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy rides on vintage carousel or the train, while couples can take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the park. Live entertainment is also a major component of the event, with daily performances from local choirs, dancers, and other performers.

If you're feeling hungry, there are plenty of food and drink options to satisfy your cravings. Local vendors serve up classic holiday treats like hot chocolate, roasted nuts, and candy canes, as well as savory options like hot dogs, pizza, and barbecue.

On Christmas Eve, the city celebrates with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree in Plaza de Cesar Chavez. This event is free and open to the public, and is a fun way to start your holiday celebrations.

Overall, Christmas in the Park is a beloved holiday tradition in San Jose, and it's easy to understand why. The festive atmosphere, beautiful decorations, and fun activities make it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. So if you're looking for a way to get into the holiday spirit, be sure to check out this magical event.

Visit The Tech Interactive

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Tech Interactive
Type	Museum in San Jose, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 3,954
Address	201 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113
Phone	(408) 294-8324
Hours	Monday - Closed Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

Looking for a family-friendly activity during your holiday in San Jose? Look no further than The Tech Interactive!

Located in the heart of Downtown San Jose, The Tech Interactive is an interactive science and technology museum that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. With over 132,000 square feet of exhibits and experiences, this museum is anything but typical.

One of the highlights of The Tech Interactive is the IMAX theater. With a screen over eight stories tall by 120 feet wide, it is one of the largest screens in the world. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of films, from educational documentaries to Hollywood blockbusters.

Another popular exhibit is the Innovation Lab, where visitors can try their hands at a variety of interactive experiences. From 3D printing to coding to augmented reality, visitors can explore the latest in technology and innovation.

In addition, The Tech Interactive hosts a rotating array of special exhibits and events, so there's always something new to discover. Recent exhibits have included "Body Worlds Decoded," which explores the intricacies of the human body, and "Pompeii: The Exhibition," which transported visitors back in time to ancient Italy.

For families with young children, The Tech Interactive also offers the Kids' Lab, a special area where kids can explore age-appropriate interactive exhibits and activities.

With so much to see and do, a visit to The Tech Interactive is a must during any holiday in San Jose. Tickets can be purchased online in advance to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.

See holiday lights at the Historic Willow Glen Neighborhood

If there's one thing that's synonymous with the holiday season, it's the glittering display of twinkling lights and colorful ornaments. Fortunately for San Jose residents, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in this festive spectacle. One of the best places to see holiday lights in San Jose is at the Historic Willow Glen Neighborhood.

Located in the heart of San Jose, Willow Glen is a charming, picturesque neighborhood that is known for its quaint, tree-lined streets and historic homes. During the holiday season, the neighborhood comes alive with an array of beautiful decorations and sparkling lights that are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.

One of the best ways to experience the magic of Willow Glen's holiday lights is to take a stroll or drive around the neighborhood. You'll be able to admire the stunning displays of lights adorning the homes and businesses, and you may even come across some unique and creative decorations. There's something truly special about seeing the twinkling lights and decorations up close, and it's a great way to spend an evening with friends and family.

Another popular way to experience Willow Glen's holiday lights is to take a horse-drawn carriage ride. This traditional form of transportation will transport you to another era, as you savor the sights and sounds of the holiday season at a leisurely pace. You can enjoy the warmth of cozy blankets as you pass by the beautifully decorated homes and businesses, and take in the sights and sounds of the season.

If you're looking to do more than just admire the lights, you can also take part in other festive activities in Willow Glen. The neighborhood hosts various events throughout the holiday season, such as its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, where locals gather to light up the community Christmas tree and enjoy live music, food, and holiday activities.

In conclusion, the Historic Willow Glen Neighborhood is a fantastic place to experience the magic of the holiday season. Whether you choose to stroll the streets, take a carriage ride, or attend one of the neighborhood's festive events, you're sure to be filled with holiday cheer when you see the twinkling lights and beautiful decorations that adorn the charming neighborhood. So, make sure to include a visit to Willow Glen in your holiday plans this year!

Shop at a local winter market

San Jose is a city that is full of life and energy, especially during the holiday season. With festivities and events galore, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do first. One of the best things to do in San Jose during the holiday season is to shop at a local winter market.

San Jose's winter markets are a festive way to shop for unique and one-of-a-kind gifts for family and friends. Located in various parts of the city, these markets feature vendors selling handmade crafts, delicious food, and beautiful decorations. Whether you are searching for a holiday wreath or a unique piece of jewelry, you are sure to find it at one of San Jose's winter markets.

One of the most popular winter markets in San Jose is the Downtown Ice Winter Wonderland. Located at the Circle of Palms in the heart of downtown, this market features a massive outdoor ice skating rink, Santa's House, and over a dozen vendors selling festive treats. You can also find local artisans selling everything from handcrafted soaps to holiday ornaments.

Another winter market to check out is the San Jose Made Holiday Craft Fair. Held annually at the San Jose Convention Center, this market is the perfect place to find unique handmade items such as clothing, jewelry, and home decor. Additionally, many of the vendors at this market use sustainable and eco-friendly materials, so you can feel good about your purchases.

For those looking for a more traditional holiday market experience, head to the Westfield Valley Fair Mall's Holiday Market. This indoor market features dozens of vendors selling everything from handmade candles to gourmet chocolates. With live music and festive decorations, you will truly feel like you are walking through a winter wonderland.

In conclusion, San Jose's winter markets make for a great holiday activity for both locals and tourists. With unique gifts, delicious food, and festive decorations, there is something for everyone. So put on your warmest coat and head out to one of these markets to get in the holiday spirit.

Take a horse-drawn carriage ride at Santana Row

San Jose is a vibrant city located in the heart of Silicon Valley, and there’s no shortage of things to do and see during your holiday visit. One of the best experiences you can have during your trip to San Jose is taking a horse-drawn carriage ride at Santana Row.

Santana Row is an upscale mixed-use development that’s home to high-end shops, restaurants, and residences. It’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, but taking a carriage ride is a unique way to experience the area.

The carriage rides are provided by Elegant Journey, a local company that specializes in horse-drawn transportation. You can book a ride ahead of time or simply show up and see if there’s availability. The carriages are beautifully decorated and can accommodate up to six passengers.

During your ride, you’ll get to experience the beauty of Santana Row up close and personal. The carriages travel along the tree-lined streets, and you’ll get to see some of the best shops and restaurants in the area. The pace is leisurely, so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery.

The carriage ride is also a great way to get into the holiday spirit. During the holiday season, the carriages are decked out with lights and other festive decorations. It’s the perfect activity to do with your family, friends, or significant other.

The rides typically last around 20 minutes, but you can also opt for a longer ride if you’d like. The cost is reasonable, and it’s a great value for the experience you’ll have.

If you’re planning a holiday visit to San Jose, make sure to add a horse-drawn carriage ride at Santana Row to your itinerary. It’s a unique and unforgettable way to experience this one-of-a-kind destination.

Enjoy a festive show at the San Jose Center for Performing Arts

As the holiday season approaches, San Jose is bursting with a variety of festive activities for the whole family. A must-see event for locals and visitors alike is the annual San Jose Center for Performing Arts holiday show.

Located in the heart of downtown San Jose, the San Jose Center for Performing Arts hosts a range of performances throughout the year. During the holiday season, the venue transforms into a winter wonderland featuring a variety of traditional holiday shows, musicals, and concerts.

One of the most popular holiday shows at the San Jose Center for Performing Arts is the annual production of "The Nutcracker." Presented by the acclaimed San Jose Dance Theatre, this classic ballet tells the story of Clara and her magical journey through the Land of Sweets. Complete with stunning costumes, mesmerizing stage designs, and the iconic Tchaikovsky score, "The Nutcracker" is a festive treat for the whole family.

In addition to "The Nutcracker," the San Jose Center for Performing Arts hosts a variety of other holiday shows that cater to different tastes. From traditional Christmas carols to modern holiday hits, there is something for everyone on the performance schedule.

To make the most of your holiday show experience at the San Jose Center for Performing Arts, we recommend arriving early to enjoy the festive holiday decor and maybe grabbing a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants. You can also purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long lines and ensure your preferred seating.

Overall, the San Jose Center for Performing Arts offers a magical holiday experience that is not to be missed. With an exceptional line-up of performances and an unbeatable atmosphere, this is the perfect place to soak up the festive spirit in San Jose this holiday season.

Visit the Winchester Mystery House for its holiday spirit

Characteristic	Description
Name	Winchester Mystery House
Type	Mansion in San Jose, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 12,228
Address	525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128
Phone	(408) 247-2000
Hours	Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for a holiday-themed activity in San Jose, California, the Winchester Mystery House is the perfect destination. Not only can you experience the eerie ambiance of this historic mansion, but during the holiday season, the house is festively decorated, creating a unique and beautiful atmosphere.

The Winchester Mystery House was once the home of Sarah Winchester, the widow of the owner of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. After the sudden deaths of her husband and child, Sarah believed she was cursed and built the mansion as a way to confuse the spirits who were haunting her. The result is a sprawling, confusing, and somewhat eerie house that has become a popular tourist attraction.

During the holiday season, the Winchester Mystery House is transformed into a winter wonderland. The mansion is decorated with thousands of twinkling lights, wreaths, and garlands, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house, which includes stops in some of the most festive rooms, such as the Conservatory, which features a towering Christmas tree covered in ornaments and lights.

One of the highlights of the holiday season at the Winchester Mystery House is the annual Holiday Candlelight Tour. During this tour, visitors are taken through the mansion by candlelight, creating a magical and otherworldly experience. The tour includes stops in some of the most beautiful and interesting parts of the mansion, including the seance room and the ballroom, which is transformed into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights and snowflakes.

In addition to the tours, the Winchester Mystery House also hosts holiday-themed events throughout the season. These events include holiday parties, craft fairs, and even visits from Santa Claus. Visitors can also enjoy hot cocoa and other festive treats in the mansion's cafe.

If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable holiday experience in San Jose, the Winchester Mystery House is a must-visit destination. With its blend of history, mystery, and holiday spirit, it's a perfect place to get in the holiday mood.

Go on a holiday-themed brewery tour at various locations

San Jose, the third-largest city in California, is home to a number of amazing breweries. If you find yourself in the city on a holiday, consider going on a holiday-themed brewery tour! With so many great breweries to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy a festive drink.

One of the top spots you won't want to miss is Strike Brewing Company. Located in the southern part of San Jose, this brewery has a wide variety of beers that are perfect for any holiday. Their popular beers include Santa's Secret, an imperial stout made with cocoa, vanilla, and peppermint, and Winter Classic, a winter ale with notes of honey and cinnamon.

If you're looking for something a bit more unique, head to Uproar Brewing Company in the downtown area. Uproar creates innovative and experimental beers that are sure to delight your taste buds. For the holiday season, try their Festivity Ale, a spiced ale with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Another popular spot is Camino Brewing Company, located in the heart of San Jose. This brewery has a diverse selection of beers, including a number of seasonal releases. For the holidays, check out their Whiskey Barrel Aged Christmas Ale, made with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. It's a rich, warming beer that's perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.

Last but not least, check out Santa Clara Valley Brewing in the Japantown area of San Jose. This brewery creates classic beers with a modern twist, and they're perfect for anyone who loves a good IPA. For the holidays, sip on their Barrel-Aged Velvet Thunder, a dark beer that's been aged in bourbon barrels. It has notes of chocolate and coffee, and it's sure to warm you up on a cold winter night.

No matter which brewery you choose to visit, you're sure to have a fantastic time on a holiday-themed brewery tour in San Jose. With so many great options, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Cheers!

Grab a hot chocolate and walk through the Guadalupe River Trail

San Jose, California is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a variety of fun holiday activities for locals and tourists alike. While the city may not be as well known for its winter festivities as other locations, San Jose has its own unique charm during the holiday season. One of the most popular activities to enjoy during the colder months is walking along the Guadalupe River Trail while sipping on a delicious hot chocolate.

The Guadalupe River Trail is a beautiful urban trail that winds along the Guadalupe River, offering breathtaking views of the city and plenty of opportunities to take in the peaceful scenery. During the holiday season, the trail is decorated with sparkling lights and festive decorations that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're walking alone or with a group, the trail is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the holiday season in San Jose.

One of the best parts of walking along the Guadalupe River Trail during the holiday season is the chance to indulge in a delicious cup of hot chocolate. There are several coffee shops and cafes located near the trail that serve up steaming cups of hot cocoa that are perfect for sipping as you stroll through the city. Many of these establishments also sell holiday treats and snacks that are perfect for enjoying as you walk.

If you're looking for a little more excitement during your visit to San Jose, there are plenty of other holiday-themed activities to enjoy. The city's downtown area features a stunning display of holiday lights that cover the streets and buildings, creating a magical ambiance that is sure to put visitors in the holiday spirit. There are also several holiday-themed events and festivals that take place throughout the city during the winter months, including live music, tree-lighting ceremonies, and much more.

In conclusion, if you're planning a holiday trip to San Jose, be sure to set aside some time to walk along the Guadalupe River Trail while sipping a delicious cup of hot chocolate. The trail offers a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying the winter season, and there are plenty of coffee shops and cafes nearby to ensure you stay warm and cozy. With so many other holiday-themed activities and events to enjoy in San Jose, you're sure to have a memorable and magical holiday experience.

Join the Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony at Campbell

It's beginning to look a lot like the holidays in San Jose! If you're looking for a festive way to kick off the holiday season, then be sure to join the parade and tree lighting ceremony at Campbell. Here's everything you need to know about this exciting event.

The 25th Annual “Carriage Ride for Kids” Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Saturday, December 4, 2021, from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. This event is free to the public and perfect for all ages. The parade will start promptly at 5:30 pm, so make sure to arrive early to grab your spot along the route.

The parade will feature festive floats, marching bands, dance teams, and equestrians. The procession will start at the intersection of East Campbell Avenue and Third Street and will travel down East Campbell Avenue to the tree lighting ceremony at the Campbell Community Center Plaza.

Once the parade reaches the Campbell Community Center Plaza, it's time for the main event - the tree lighting ceremony! Mayor Paul Resnikoff will light the tree, officially kicking off the holiday season. The event will also feature live performances, food vendors, and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

If you're planning to attend the parade and tree lighting ceremony at Campbell, consider taking public transportation or carpooling as parking may be limited. However, if you do need to drive, there are several parking options available, including street parking and several public parking lots located throughout downtown Campbell.

Overall, the Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony at Campbell is a fantastic way to get into the holiday spirit and experience the community coming together in celebration. We hope to see you there!

Visit the Fantasy of Lights at Vasona Lake County Park in Los Gatos

Characteristic	Description
Name	Vasona Lake County Park
Type	Park in Los Gatos, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 5,076
Address	333 Blossom Hill Rd, Los Gatos, CA 95032
Phone	(408) 356-2729
Hours	Monday - 8 AM–8 PM Tuesday - 8 AM–8 PM Wednesday - 8 AM–8 PM Thursday - 8 AM–8 PM Friday - 8 AM–8 PM Saturday - 8 AM–8 PM Sunday - 8 AM–8 PM
Profiles

The holiday season in San Jose is full of festive events, but one of the most magical experiences is the Fantasy of Lights at Vasona Lake County Park in nearby Los Gatos. This beloved tradition has been delighting families for over 20 years, and it's not hard to see why.

The Fantasy of Lights is a drive-thru light display that features over 50 colorful and animated displays spread across a 1.5-mile path. From playful snowmen and gingerbread houses to majestic reindeer and towering Christmas trees, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The lights are synchronized to music, making for an immersive and enchanting experience.

One of the best things about the Fantasy of Lights is that it's accessible for everyone. The display is ADA-compliant, and visitors can listen to the music via their car stereo or rent a special radio for a small fee. There are also designated "Sensory Nights" on select dates that feature a quieter and more soothing environment for those with sensory sensitivities.

The Fantasy of Lights isn't just a feast for the eyes - it's also a meaningful community event. Proceeds from ticket sales support local charities and non-profits, including the Valley Medical Center Foundation and the Santa Clara County Parks Foundation. Since its inception, the Fantasy of Lights has raised over $2.5 million for these organizations.

If you're planning to visit the Fantasy of Lights, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

• Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance.
• Visit on a weekday if possible, as weekend nights tend to be busier.
• Bring along some snacks and hot chocolate to enjoy during the drive.
• Make sure your car's headlights are turned off during the display to enhance the effect of the lights.

Attending the Fantasy of Lights at Vasona Lake County Park is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit and support a good cause. Whether you're a local or visiting San Jose for the first time, this dazzling display is a must-see during the holiday season.

Frequently asked questions