East Bay Events to Close Out 2025 (and Kick Off 2026 in Style!)

Fall may be winding down, but the East Bay still has plenty of community energy heading into the holidays and new year. Whether you're looking for seasonal markets, tree lightings, or New Year’s fun, there's something happening in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

Here’s your curated guide to local events from November 2025 through January 2026.

🍂 November 2025 Highlights

1. Berkeley Holiday Fair at Live Oak Park
📅 Weekends: Nov 22–23, 29–30
🎨 Handmade crafts, ceramics, textiles, and local gifts
🧣 Family-friendly with food trucks and live acoustic music

2. Walnut Creek on Ice – Civic Park Rink Opens
📅 Opens mid-November through January
⛸ Outdoor skating in the heart of downtown
🌲 Nearby holiday shopping, dining, and hot cocoa spots

🎄 December 2025 Must-Dos

3. Alameda Holiday Home Tour
📅 December 6
🏠 Tour beautifully decorated Victorian homes on the island
🎁 Proceeds support local charities

4. Danville Tree Lighting & Community Celebration
📅 December 7
🎄 Tree lighting, carolers, crafts, and snow machines
🎅 Santa appearance for photos!

5. Oakland ZooLights
📅 Dec 1–Jan 5
✨ Stunning light displays, animal-themed exhibits, gondola rides
🍫 Hot drinks, s’mores, and holiday treats

6. Concord Comfort & Joy Winter Festival (Todos Santos Plaza)
📅 Dec 13–14
🛍 Local makers market, lights, cocoa crawl, and live holiday music

🎉 January 2026 – New Year, New Energy

7. San Ramon Lunar New Year Celebration
📅 January 18
🐉 Lion dances, food vendors, cultural performances
🧧 Family event celebrating Asian heritage and the Year of the Horse

8. First Day Hikes – Regional Parks
📅 January 1
🥾 Join group hikes in Tilden, Briones, or Redwood Regional Park
💬 Ranger talks and community health initiatives

🧭 Insider Tips

• Parking gets tricky—use rideshare or public transit where possible

• Bundle up! Evenings can dip into the 40s

• Many events are pet- and stroller-friendly, but check ahead

• Bring cash for small vendors, even if cards are accepted

💡 Real Estate Insight

Events like these don’t just build community—they boost property appeal. Buyers fall in love with neighborhoods that feel festive, safe, and connected.

If you’re listing your home this winter, we’ll spotlight nearby events in your marketing to show off local lifestyle.

Bottom Line:
The East Bay doesn’t slow down just because the temperatures drop. From skating rinks to cultural celebrations, these events keep our neighborhoods vibrant through the new year.