Celebrate the Season: Santa Cruz County Holiday Events 2025
The holiday season is in full swing in Santa Cruz County, and this year’s lineup is overflowing with festive fun for all ages. From twinkling lights and spirited parades to pub crawls and holiday scavenger hunts, there’s something magical happening around every corner. At EF Homes, we love highlighting the local traditions that bring our community together and make Santa Cruz shine.
All Aboard the Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train
Kick off the holiday magic aboard the Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train. Vintage excursion cars decked out with thousands of colorful lights roll through the city streets, passing beautifully decorated homes along the way.
Departure Times: 5:00pm, 6:30pm, and 8:00pm
Location: Neptune’s Kingdom at the Boardwalk
This 60-minute ride is perfect for families, date nights, and anyone ready to embrace the holiday spirit.
Reindeer Round-Up: A Festive Downtown Scavenger Hunt
From November 28 through December 23, between 10am and 6pm, Downtown Santa Cruz transforms into a whimsical scavenger hunt. Santa has misplaced his reindeer—and you can help him find them!
Pick up a map at the Downtown Information Kiosk or Pacific Cookie Company, then search participating businesses for hidden reindeer. It’s a delightful way to explore downtown while enjoying a bit of seasonal magic (and maybe a cookie or two).
Holiday Lights 2025 at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds
Running November 28 through December 24, Holiday Lights 2025 is a must-visit tradition.
Stroll through dazzling evening light displays beginning at 5:30pm, and on select days, explore the Holiday Craft & Gift Fair from noon to 9pm.
It’s the perfect place to shop local, support artisans, and soak in the sparkle of the season.
SantaCon at Abbott Square: A Night for the Grown-Ups
Ready to get a little jolly? SantaCon takes over Abbott Square on December 5 from 6:30pm to 11:30pm.
Come dressed in your most festive attire and enjoy a joyful night of bar-hopping, laughter, and community cheer.
Remember to bring your ID, a bit of cash, and—if needed—a designated “reindeer” to get you home safely!
Downtown Santa Cruz Holiday Parade
A beloved local tradition, the Downtown Santa Cruz Holiday Parade brings together floats, music, and community spirit on December 6 from 10am to 12pm.
The parade runs from Laurel Street and Pacific Avenue to Pacific Avenue and Water Street.
Bring the whole family and enjoy one of the most festive mornings of the year.
Santa Cruz Harbor Lighted Boat Parade
End your day on a sparkling note with the Lighted Boat Parade at the Santa Cruz Harbor on December 6 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
More than fifty sailboats and powerboats—each adorned in dazzling holiday lights—glide through the harbor, creating a magical coastal celebration you won’t want to miss.
Celebrate Community with EF Homes
At EF Homes, we cherish the events and traditions that make Santa Cruz a truly special place to call home. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, this year’s holiday happenings offer plenty of opportunities to connect with neighbors and create lasting memories.
There’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season in Santa Cruz County!
For more event details, visit: www.santacruz.org/blog/celebrate-the-holiday-season-in-santa-cruz-county