Always a festive and enchanting moment of the holiday season, Christmas markets and winter fairs are popping up all over the Bay Area at this time of the year, transforming main streets or city squares into winter wonderlands filled with local arts and crafts, twinkling lights, the aroma of spiced cider and gingerbread cookies, and the joyful sounds of Christmas carols. This December, celebrate the joy of the holiday season by visiting one of the local holiday markets around the Bay:
French Winter Market in Santa Rosa
Savor French delicacies, enjoy a selection of locally crafted goods, listen to live music performances by local artists while sipping mulled wine (or hot chocolate for the kiddos), and glide on the ice skating rink at the French winter market organized by the Alliance Française of Santa Rosa. A great way to immerse yourself and the whole family into the holiday spirit!
Saturday, December 14, 11am-4pm. Old courthouse square, Santa Rosa.
Free admission. More info here
Mill Valley Tree LIghting and WinterFest
Live entertainment, a giant slide, and a variety of children’s activities with great food from local restaurants. The event culminates with one of Mill Valley’s hallmark moments, the Holiday Tree lighting ceremony at 5:30.
Sunday, December 8, 2-6pm, downtown Mill Valley.
More info here
Holiday French Market in Berkeley
Bring the whole family to enjoy food, craftsmanship and holiday gifts at the family-friendly Holiday French Market organized by the Alliance Française in Berkeley in partnership with the Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley.
Saturday, December 14, 4-8pm. 2004 Woolsey Street, Berkeley, CA 94703.
Free admission. More info here
French American School Winter Market in Santa Clara
The Winter Market organized by the French American School of Silicon Valley in Santa Clara will showcase a broad selection of French creations and delicacies. The event promises a warm and inviting atmosphere suitable for everyone’s enjoyment. Indulge in a day of crêpes, hot chocolate, and children’s crafts for a delightful experience.
December 14, 10-4. Free admission, more info here
Winter Fair at the Lycée Français in San Francisco
The Lycée Winter Fair is a destination for all organized on the Ashbury Campus of the Lycée in partnership with the Alliance Française. Local vendors will provide a selection of arts and crafts and a multitude of creative and one-of-a-kind ideas to make your shopping a breeze. Gourmet food vendors will delight visitors of all ages and hot cider will be served by the dad’s club. Visitors can also gear up for the winter season and stock up on gifts with the Ski & Sports gear and toys resale market.
Sunday, Dec 8, 11am-4pm. 755 Ashbury St. More info here.
Swedish Christmas Fair, San Francisco
The Swedish Women’s Educational Association’s Christmas fair is back in San Francisco. Experience a Lucia procession at both 10 am and 1 pm, enjoy a comforting sip of warm glögg, indulge in delightful gingerbread cookies, and shop for unique handmade Swedish gift items.Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children and seniors.
Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, 9am-3pm – Saint Mary’s Cathedral, San Francisco. More info here
Winter Walk in Union Square, San Francisco
Winter Walk returns to Union Square from December 13 – 22, located on Stockton Street to O’Farrell to Post! This 10-day event will turn two blocks into a pedestrian plaza with lush turf, diverse food truck offerings, enticing bars, and Instagram-worthy arctic-themed décor. Enjoy live performances and entertainment throughout this festive event! This event is free to the public. More info here
Dickens Christmas Fair, San Francisco
Enter the winding lanes of Victorian London and immerse yourself in a world of music halls, theaters, pubs, dance parties, and charming shops overflowing with hand-made holiday treasures. Enticing aromas of roasted chestnuts and hearty foods fill the air. Discover holiday revelry in this lamp-lit city brimming with hundreds of lively and colorful characters from the imagination of Charles Dickens, the pages of history, and the sometimes saucy world of the Victorian stage. The Holiday Handcraft Marketplace is full of vendors with everything from collectible art to jewelry and textiles. Tickets to the fair are $45 general admission.
Weekends Nov. 23-Dec. 22, 2024 – Cow Palace, Daly City
https://dickensfair.com/
Enchant Christmas in San Jose
Enchant is an immersive experience weaving magic into its every corner, perfect for joyful seasonal celebrations. Adventure through Santa’s Magic Timepiece, a captivating, larger-than-life light maze. Wander the Village of tiny storefronts featuring artisan vendors, specialty crafters, and boutiques – perfect for holiday gift gathering. As you shop, satisfy your festive cravings and indulge in a tasty seasonal treat or delightful beverage. Glide through a dazzling forest of Christmas lights and lace up your skates to hit the trail on real ice! Nov 22 – Dec 29, Paypal Park, San Jose. More info here
German Holiday Market in Mountain View
The German International School of Silicon Valley presents its annual winter holiday marketplace to be held in downtown Mountain View. Sample German seasonal treats as you shop for Christmas gifts and enjoy festive holiday decorations with European vibes.
11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14. City Hall Plaza, 500 Castro St., Mountain View.
Free admission. More info here
Pacifica Polar Palooza and Elf Market
The Pacifica Community Center presents an elaborate weekend of holiday festivities including a “Winter Elf Market.” The market takes place only on Friday and Saturday, but other events throughout the weekend include caroling, a building lighting, a tree lighting, photos with Santa, and free pony rides.
Dec. 6-7, 2024 – Pacifica Community Center, Pacifica. More info here
