It’s the most lit up time of the year! I’m not one for large Christmas celebrations focused around presents, but I am a huge fan of the lights and decor and seeing creativity bring joy to loved ones. So here’s a season of light round up for Bay Area gallivanting – all creative mom and adventure toddler approved!
Christmas Tree Lane, Alameda
Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda is one of my favorite displays because the residents all agree to participate each year. Some have simple decor, others have light shows. One house engineered a Santa’s workshop scene where it appears that gifts are being wrapped by the elves.
You can drive through Christmas Tree Lane, but I would recommend parking a block or two away and walking through so you can stop and enjoy the scenes at your own pace. You can do a lap in less than an hour and you might come across a bake sale or momo stand on your stroll.
Temple Hill, Oakland
Temple Hill decorates with lights each Christmas season. Arrive before sunset to see the lights turn on and illuminate the grounds, enjoy that golden hour glow, and watch the sunset from the rooftop garden. There are water features and music playing throughout the garden, and lots of places to sit and admire. The visitor center was not for me but it’s beautifully designed and worth a visit if you want to see their many themed Christmas trees or learn more about the church.
Tilden Merry-Go-Round, Berkeley
The Tilden Merry-Go-Round is a year-round activity, but during Christmas it’s decorated with Christmas trees filled with ornaments for purchase, you can meet Santa, and there are a number of holiday inflatables on display. There is a fee for the merry-go-round (purchase it online or in the cafe), parking is free, and you can BYO snacks or pick up savories (nachos!) and sweets (ice cream!) from the cafe.
928 Arlington Avenue, Berkeley
The only house on Arlington Avenue in Berkeley with full on light decor is at 928 Arlington Avenue. The residents invite you to stroll through their front yard to see the display up close. There are mini scenes at every turn. There’s generally always parking out front so it’s easy to stop on a whim.
6920 Potrero Avenue, El Cerrito
El Cerrito also has a locally famous house that next level decorates. A light show every hour on the hour from 5PM-9PM each night, set to music that you can hear from across the street or from the comfort of your car via a designated radio station. The score has a mix of holiday songs with some fun mash ups. I can’t wait to see this one again!
Do you have any local lights you like to visit each year? Share your favorites! More holiday displays here, too.
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