Fun Holiday Events In Santa Cruz 2015

Santa Cruz Holiday Events

December 1st always seems to mark the official kickoff of the holiday season. With Thanksgiving and the commercial madness of Black Friday and Cyber Monday now behind us, we can all start focusing on getting into the holiday spirit. While we tend to get caught up in the parties and presents this time of year, it’s important to remember to focus on the important things in life, like spending time with friends and family. Lucky for us, that's easy to do with so many great family-friendly events that are afforable or even better, free! Get your pen ready and start marking your calendars, because this is going to be a year to remember!

Here are few fun activities that you and your dearly beloved, kids, and friends can enjoy together! 


The Train To Christmas Town

Take a magical ride one-hour with Janice, a spirited young girl who waits eagerly every year for the Christmas Train to come through her town. Follow along with the story “The Train To Christmas Town” and watch the characters come to life from your very own cozy and decorated car. Then, share in the holiday spirit with everyone else over a glass of hot cocoa and some classic Christmas carols as you wait for a very special surprise visit from a very special guest. Buy your tickets here.

  • Date: Dec. 4-6, 11-13, 16-23, 26-27
  • Times: 2:15 pm, 4:00 pm, 5:45 pm, 7:30 pm*
  • Where: 765 Ohlone Parkway, Watsonville
  • Website: The Train To Christmas Town

*call ahead for departure times that day


Downtown Holiday Parade

It’s that time of year again! Few things get us in the holiday spirit quite like a parade. This time-old tradition features local talent, cultural demonstrations, music, and of course, big red himself. Book your parking spot here so that you’ll have one less thing to worry about that morning.

  • Date: December 5
  • When: 10 Am
  • Location: Along Pacific Avenue

Holiday Cookies Bake & Exchange

Baking doesn’t have to be just one person in the kitchen. Bring the kids down to the New Leaf Community Classroom to learn how to bake healthy and delicious Christmas treats! Prepare some guilt-free treats for yourself or give them away as gifts.


Jingle Shells Art & Craft Festival

A fun event for the whole family! Learn more about ocean critters and check out some west coast inspired arts and crafts. Have a nature-lover on your list? Find their perfect gift here or share some of your own. There’ll be music, hot apple cider, good friends, and is a great chance to connect with the community of local artisans.

  • Date: December 13th, 2015
  • Time: 12:00 – 5:30 PM
  • Location: Seymore Marine Discovery Center
  • Website: Seymore Center

TiVo Santa Run in San Jose

‘Tis the season for giving! Register for this 5km fun run benefitting the Silicon Valley Leadership Group Foundation. Registration can include a five-piece Santa costume for only $5. Transform into St. Nick (Or Nikki) and get out there for a jolly good time. There’s sure to be no shortage of laughs to be had and memories to be made, and it’s all for a good cause! Learn more at their website.

  • Date: December 13
  • Location: Plaza de Cesar Chavez in San Jose

The Nutcracker

Check out this classic ballet ensemble with the talented dancers from Santa Cruz Ballet. They’ll be joined with a 55-piece orchestra and friends from Houston Ballet.


Posted by Lauren Spencer on
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