Nothing beats the holidayswhen everyone piles into the car searching for Christmas lights in Santa Cruz, California.
It’s a family tradition that can be passed down from generation to generation and is super fun no matter how old you are. Stroll around Santa Cruz and the surrounding areas this year to see some spectacular holiday lights that will make you feel even more festive.
We did the hard part for you and found some pretty incredible Santa Cruz Christmas light displays that are a must-see for the whole family. Now your only problem is– which ones will you go to?!
Where to find Christmas lights in Santa Cruz, CA
Holiday Lights at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds
- Address: Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, Santa Cruz
- Website
The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds is decorated with more than a million spectacular Christmas lights along a 3/4 mile stretch. Stay in the comfort of your car as you drive through the fairgrounds with your radio tuned to one of the two local radio stations featuring holiday music.
You’ll pass beautifully decorated tractors, trees, lawns and the buildings around the fairgrounds. Honestly, this is perfect for families with little ones as they can stay warm in their carseats and even fall asleep if it gets too late.
Grab your tickets fast, as this event does sell out even though it runs from the weekend of Thanksgiving through Christmas.
Check the website for the special walk-thru nights, which will extend the fun for your and your kids. Tickets range between $20 to $40 depending on when you grab them.
Holiday Light Train
- Address: Neptune’s Kingdom on the Boardwalk, Santa Cruz
- Website
Pop onto the Holiday Light Train to view all the best Christmas lights throughout Santa Cruz. A vintage car will be decorated with stunning lights, leading you through the town, where you can enjoy the holiday spirit and beautiful houses from the comfort of your seat.
You’ll get a special visit from Santa and have carolers along the way as well.
The ride is one hour and departs three times a night at 5 pm, 6:30 pm, and 8 pm. Book tickets online before you go to make sure you get the time you want.
Farley’s Christmas Wonderland
- Address: 108 Seaview Ave, Santa Cruz
- Website
Farley’s Christmas Wonderland is located in midtown and offers a traditional look on Christmas for the whole family to experience.
Guests can walk among the Christmas trees, garlands, sleighs, and elf village when visiting, but the best part is when it snows at night (select nights, not every night). Don’t miss your chance to sit by the two waterfalls in the fairy grotto; you might even see a few fairies pop out to say hello.
The annual display opens the Saturday after Thanksgiving and runs through Christmas Eve from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
The house was featured on ABC and Hulu’s “Dear Santa Series” (2022)in episode five if you want a sneak peak.
Boardwalk Winter Wonderland
- Address: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz
- Website
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is lit up and ready for the holidays. There will be a ton to do, but be sure to visit the thee-story tall Christmas tree and browse around the holiday decorations.
What to expect?
- Boardwalk Rides, Games, and Arcades
- Festive Holiday Decorations and Lights
- Photos with Santa
- Boardwalk Snacks and Treats
- Holiday S’Mores (you can rent a fire pit!)
- and of course… Holiday Shopping
Tickets can be purchased online for this event that starts Thanksgiving weekend.
Holiday Lights in Seabright
- Address: Seabright Neighborhood, Santa Cruz
Neighbors in the Seabright neighborhood of Santa Cruz love Christmas and show it through their incredible displays. Numerous houses take it upon themselves to deck their homes to the nines for a stunning Christmas light display that all can enjoy.
Take a stroll around the neighborhood, with hot cocoa from home in hand, as you gaze at all of the work the local residence have done to bring Christmas cheer to their town.
Fantasy of Lights
- Address: 333 Blossom Hill Rd, Los Gatos
- Website
Head into Los Gatos for an incredible Christmas Light display. The Fantasy of Lights has more than 50 illuminated displays that feature anything you can imagine, including dinosaurs and a camping Santa.
You can drive 1.5 miles through this stunning route that offers a tunnel of lights and a radio station with holiday tunes.
If you would rather walk, check out the website for walk thru option and dates.
Lights for a Cause
- Address: Deerfield Dr, Scotts Valley
Neighbors in Scotts Valley gather together to create stunning light displays throughout their community each Christmas.
These beautifully decorated houses will bring holiday cheer to your entire family, but the best part is the cause. Since the area became increasingly popular due to the lights, neighbors have been accepting canned food to donate to Second Harvest in Scotts Valley.
Guests will have the option to walk around the light display or drive, just don’t forget your donation.
Spending time outdoors and enjoying the festive Christmas lights near me in Santa Cruz is a great way to bring the family together. Remember, some of these holiday light displays are people’s homes, so respect them and keep off their lawns. Keep an eye on your children so the displays stay intact for the next group to see too.
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