The holiday season has officially arrived, bringing a vibrant mix of community traditions, sparkling lights and family-friendly celebrations to the Bay Area. From beloved annual events to new gatherings that highlight the spirit of the season, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the festivities. Whether you’re looking for tree lightings, markets, performances or neighborhood displays, Fremont, Newark and Hayward each offer something special this time of year. Below is a comprehensive guide to the holiday events happening across these cities.
Fremont Holiday Events:
Crippsmas Place
Dates: December 7–28
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Cripps Place, Fremont, CA
Crippsmas Place is one of Fremont’s most cherished holiday traditions. Visitors can walk the sidewalks or drive through the neighborhood to enjoy hundreds of dazzling lights and creative displays. Candy canes are handed out nightly from December 6–27 between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM, and the lights continue through New Year’s Eve. Select nights also feature special guest appearances, including musicians and themed bike groups.
2nd Annual Holidays at the Plaza
Date: December 5
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Downtown Event Center Plaza, Fremont, CA
This community celebration includes a 6 PM tree lighting ceremony, hot chocolate, a holiday market, food trucks, winter activities, live music and a photo booth. The event also offers a Gingerbread Cookie Decorating Workshop for children from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM, with limited time slots available by registration. It’s a free and family-friendly event offering a wide range of seasonal activities.
Niles Canyon Railway: Train of Lights
Dates: November 21 – December 30
Departure Time: 4:30 PM (from Niles)
Location: Niles Station, Fremont, CA
The Train of Lights offers a 1.5-hour evening ride through Niles Canyon, featuring illuminated displays, decorated railcars and scenic nighttime views. Tickets for 2025 are sold out, but passengers are encouraged to check for last-minute cancellations released online.
Newark & Hayward Holiday Events:
Newark Christmas Tree Lighting
Date: December 5
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Newark Civic Center, 37101 Newark Blvd, Newark, CA
Newark’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting brings the community together for performances, seasonal treats, family activities and the official lighting of the city’s holiday tree. This event is designed for all ages and sets a festive tone for the month ahead.
Hayward “Light Up the Season” Tree Lighting
Date: December 6
Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Hayward City Hall Rotunda & Plaza
Hayward’s annual tree lighting event includes music, performances, vendor booths, children’s crafts and seasonal refreshments. The evening concludes with the official lighting of the city’s holiday tree.
With so many festive events happening across the region, this season is the perfect time to explore, participate and enjoy everything our local communities have to offer. No matter how you choose to celebrate, we wish you a happy and memorable holiday season.
