Experience the glow of the season with a tour of festive light displays throughout the Monterey Bay and surrounding areas.
The arrival of the holiday season marks the beginning of the most wonderful time of the year. During this cheerful, joyous period, countless moments of happiness and memories are created, accompanied by cherished traditions that families look forward to each year.
One tradition that holds a special place in my heart is visiting holiday light displays in the local area. These dazzling arrangements, featuring both vibrant, festive colors and classic white lights reminiscent of sparkling snow crystals, create lasting memories. I remember the joy I felt walking around Candy Cane Lane or my own neighborhood with my parents. Now I get to experience it with my own children during the holiday season, seeing the magic of the holiday lights. The beauty and warmth of these displays bring families together, inspiring a sense of wonder and delight that embodies the spirit of the season.
Throughout the area, there are various light displays and events to pick and choose from. See the latest list to add to your holiday to-do list!
WINTER WONDERFEST The newest holiday light festival will be available at the Monterey Fairgrounds in November and December 2025, featuring thousands of lights in walk-through light tunnels and immersive light shows. Additionally, there are local vendors and holiday markets to explore. If you visit on a Saturday, Santa Claus will be there to meet and greet visitors.
CHRISTMAS IN THE ADOBES IN MONTEREY This annual walking tour on December 12 and 13 lets you explore Monterey’s historic adobes during the holiday season, making it perfect for both history buffs and holiday enthusiasts. The tour features California’s First Theater, Casa Serrano, Cooper-Molera Adobe, Colton Hall, Pacific House, the Stevenson House (home of Robert Louis Stevenson), the Royal Presidio Chapel/San Carlos Cathedral, and many other fascinating sites that showcase natural beauty enhanced by festive lights, each celebrating their own unique architectural style.
BRIGHTEN THE HARBOR LIGHTED BOAT PARADE While our area is known for its beautiful bays and scenic views, the lighted boat parade held this year on December 7 is another way to enjoy living near the water. The festively decorated boats illuminate the harbor, creating a magical scene for all ages. The reflections of colorful lights dance on the water, each display more magical than the next, making the parade a truly unforgettable celebration.
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS ON THE WHARF The annual Christmas event at the Wharf has been around for less than a decade but is sure to be a long-standing favorite. Festivities begin the first weekend in December, featuring live entertainment, décor, festive lights, and visits from Santa Claus.
CANDY CANE LANE IN PACIFIC GROVE Candy Cane Lane may be my favorite local tradition and childhood memory. Many locals are long-time spectators of magic light shows that seem to appear overnight. These beautiful displays are proudly created and supported by the neighborhood’s residents, who make a fantastic effort to bring the community together. In addition to the residential lights, there is a beautiful holiday display in Platt Park, in the center of the neighborhood, featuring characters from Charlie Brown to Sesame Street, perfect for family photos!
PACIFIC GROVE HOLIDAY PARADE OF LIGHTS Another delightful Pacific Grove tradition is the parade of lights in the downtown area on December 4. The festivities include floats and marching bands. This year’s theme is “Jingle and Glow.”
HOLIDAYS AT THE INNS PACIFIC GROVE For those looking for a more rustic and cozy way to enjoy holiday lights, the Victorian Inn in Pacific Grove will open their doors for families on December 10 to tour the light displays and additional décor.
SPARKY’S HOLIDAY LIGHTS, SANTA CRUZ This 3/4-mile drive-through light show is located at the Santa Cruz Fairgrounds. This display is a convenient option for families that would prefer a more relaxed drive-through experience with their little ones.
SANTA CRUZ HOLIDAY LIGHTS TRAIN This is truly a magical experience for those wanting to feel as though they are being transported to a more classic Christmas. Vintage cars adorned with extensive Christmas lights and decorations explore decorated homes in various Santa Cruz neighborhoods.
Seabright Farley’s Christmas Wonderland in Santa Cruz – Located in midtown Santa Cruz, this walk-in Christmas display features Christmas trees, garland, sleighs, and a Christmas village. This display even features a California version of snow on special nights!
Additionally, there are various areas throughout our community with illuminated trees that families can visit at night and admire while drinking a cup of hot chocolate.
- Downtown Carmel – Devendorf Park
- Monterey – Cannery Row
- Monterey – Del Monte Center
- Monterey – Colton Hall
- Downtown Pacific Grove
- Oldtown Salinas
Whether you’re marveling at grand trees or enjoying a quiet evening among twinkling lights in a local park, these shared moments truly capture the spirit of the season and bring our community closer together.
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