Christmas in the Park: Dog Day & Toy Drive at the Park | San Jose
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Plaza de Cesar Chavez | 194 South Market St., San Jose, CA
Free / Learn More
Submitted by the Event Organizer
San Jose’s 2025 “Christmas in the Park” (Nov. 28 – 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 Plaza De Cesar Chavez is transformed into a holiday fantasy. Walk through the enchanted forest of decorated trees with over 40 musical and animated exhibits, glittering lights, and the 60-foot Community Giving Tree. Some of the original displays are housed in one of the largest exhibits, the Lima Train, which includes a melting snowman, caroling mice, and elf woodcrafters. Step inside the 50-foot Christmas tree, enjoy free photos with Santa, nightly entertainment, and holiday refreshments.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. Daily entertainment kicks off on opening night.
2025 Dates & Details
- Christmas in the Park’s opening night is on Friday, November 28, 2025 at 6pm
- Christmas in the Park is open from Nov. 28, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026, from noon to 10 pm (according to the FAQ)
- Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Downtown San Jose, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA
- Admission is 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.Santa returns November 28, 2025
What you should know:
- Santa visits are free!
- You may use your own camera.
- Our volunteers can help take your photo.
Santa is in the new Santa House in the center of Plaza de Cesar Chavez, next to the giant tree.
Bring your four legged (dog) friend to Christmas in the Park for a free visit with Santa, plus a toy drive for young children who wish to share their old toys or unused toys to other children and celebrate the spirit of Christmas on Saturday, December 14, 2019.
- 10 am to 2 pm: Dog Day at the park
- 9 am to 5 pm: Toy Drive
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*
