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San Jose’s 2021 “Christmas in the Park” Kickoff + Tree Lighting (Nov. 26 – Jan 2)

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Friday, November 26, 2021 - 5:30 pm to 12:00 am | Cost: FREE*
*Free, but donations are accepted
Plaza de Cesar Chavez | 194 South Market St., San Jose, CA
South Bay

Event Details

Submitted by the Event Organizer

San Jose’s 2024 “Christmas in the Park” (Nov. 29 – Jan. 1)

Christmas in the Park is an annual holiday tradition that takes place in the heart of Downtown San José at the Plaza de Cesar Chavez. For over 45 years, this whimsical walk-thru event has brought people from all over the Bay Area together during the holidays. It is a place of community.
Each year the two-acre park is transformed into a holiday fantasy with over 40 musical and animated exhibits, glittering lights and the 65-foot illuminated Community Giving Tree. Some of the original displays housed in one of the largest exhibits, the Lima Train, include a melting snowman, caroling mice and elf woodcrafters. Guests enter a winter wonderland of lights, songs and local entertainment while strolling through an enchanted forest of trees decorated by San José schools, community groups and businesses.

Christmas in the Park is a non-profit organization supported by fundraising efforts and the community. It is and always will be free. Children (young and old) can visit with Santa, watch nightly entertainment and enjoy holiday themed food and refreshments from our vendors.

2024 Dates & Details

  • Christmas in the Parks opening night is on Friday, November 29 at 6pm
  • Christmas in the Park is open from Nov. 29 – Jan. 1 from 12 noon -10 pm
  • Address: Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Downtown San Jose, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA 95113
  • Admission is absolutely free

Opening Night Tree Lighting Ceremony November 29 at 6pm
We thank PG&E for being the sponsor of our 65ft tree in the center of Plaza de Cesar Chavez.
Join us for our traditional tree lighting ceremony starting at 6pm.

Sunday, December 1 10am to 2pm – Paws in the Park
We thank SAGE Veterinary Centers for sponsoring Paws in the Park.
– Pet visits with Santa
– Pet costume contest at 1pm on the Jingle Bell Stage
– Pet resource fair in the Park Tavern from 10 to 2pm

Saturday, December 7 4pm to 9pm – SJSU Spartan Day
– Visit the Spartan Table by the stage for give-aways
– Performances by SJSU entertainers from 5pm to 9pm

Sunday, December 8 10am to 2pm – Accessible Sunday
Made possible by a generous gift from Valeta and TJ Rodgers
– A free event by invitation only for families with different needs

Saturday, December 14
– Toys for Tots Stuff the Bus, with generous support

Upcoming San Jose’s 2024 “Christmas in the Park” (Nov. 29 – Jan. 1) Events

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.


Cost: FREE*
*Free, but donations are accepted
Categories: *Top Pick*, Christmas, Holidays, In Person, Kids & Families, South Bay, Tree + Holiday Lightings
Address: 194 South Market St., San Jose, CA