The San Jose area has 18 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from San Jose Holiday Lights 2026 in San Jose on November 13 to Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience in San Jose, which runs through January 1. 14 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in California, part of our guide for every state.
The short version
- 18 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in San Jose for 2026, in San Jose, Campbell, Saratoga, Cupertino, Los Altos, Milpitas and Morgan Hill
- First: San Jose Holiday Lights 2026, San Jose, November 13. Runs latest: San Jose Holiday Lights 2026, San Jose, through January 1
- Free: Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience, Santa Storytime and craft, Little Explorers: Wonderful Winter!, Tree Lighting Ceremony, Carol of Lights Celebration, Fratello Marionettes: The North Pole Review, Visit from Santa Claus!, Winter Festival and Santa Visit, Visit with Santa (In-Person), WEE Explore the North Pole, Merry Pixie Pages, Visit with Santa Claus, Mike Della Penna: Winter Magic Show and Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library!
- Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our California Christmas train rides page.
San Jose Christmas events for kids at a glance
- Kids’ Christmas events
- 18 confirmed for 2026
- Cities
- San Jose, Campbell, Saratoga, Cupertino, Los Altos, Milpitas and Morgan Hill
- Season
- November 13, 2026 to January 1, 2027
- Free events
- 14
- Kinds of events
- Santa visit, holiday show, tree lighting and holiday lights
- Last checked
Plan your December
When each San Jose Christmas event for kids happens
The first is San Jose Holiday Lights 2026 in San Jose on November 13; the last runs to January 1. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.
- San Jose Holiday Lights 2026San Jose · Nov 13 to Jan 1
- Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park ExperienceSan Jose · Nov 27 to Jan 1
- Santa Storytime and craftSan Jose · Dec 2
- Little Explorers: Wonderful Winter!Campbell · Dec 4
- Tree Lighting CeremonyMilpitas · Dec 4
- Breakfast with SantaCupertino · Dec 5
- Carol of Lights CelebrationCampbell · Dec 5
- Fratello Marionettes: The North Pole ReviewSaratoga · Dec 5
- Visit from Santa Claus!San Jose · Dec 10
- Winter Festival and Santa VisitSan Jose · Dec 11
- Magical Holiday at Magical Bridge Playground & Photos with SantaMorgan Hill · Dec 12
- Visit with Santa (In-Person)San Jose · Dec 12
- WEE Explore the North PoleSan Jose · Dec 12
- Holiday SpectacularSan Jose · Dec 12 to Dec 13
- Merry Pixie PagesLos Altos · Dec 13
- Visit with Santa ClausSan Jose · Dec 16
- Mike Della Penna: Winter Magic ShowSaratoga · Dec 19
- Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library!San Jose · Dec 19
Look inside the book
Story time with Santa in San Jose? Bring Rally home.
Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.
Rally Takes the Train
Eight pages from the book
Turn the page
That's 8 of 25 pages
See who’s waiting at the station
Grandmommy and Papa are at the last stop. Get the full hand-painted book, $16.99 on Amazon.
See the full bookPage 1 of 8
Like it so far? See the full book
25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.
Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.
Christmas events for kids in San Jose
10 confirmed events for kids in San Jose, soonest first.
San Jose: San Jose Holiday Lights 2026
Holiday lightsSan Jose Holiday Lights · San Jose
- Host
- San Jose Holiday Lights (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- San Jose Holiday Lights, 330 W. San Carlos Street, San Jose, CA 95110
- When
- Friday, November 13, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027 (daily), 4:30 to 10:30 pm
- Cost
- Ticketed
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
San Jose Holiday Lights sets up downtown on West San Carlos Street and opens every evening from November 13, 2026 through January 1, 2027, from 4:30 to 10:30 pm. The walk is organized into six themed light zones designed for families to stroll through together.
Food, sweet treats, and seasonal bites are available on site, so it can work as an easy weeknight outing. Ticket prices are not listed on the tourism board page; tickets and visit planning are handled at sjhl.us, and the listing advises confirming details with the organizer before you go. The site is on West San Carlos Street in downtown San Jose, and the lights stay up through New Year's Day, so families have about seven weeks to plan a visit around school and holiday schedules.
Parent tip: Buy tickets and check any updates at sjhl.us before heading out. Opening at 4:30 pm means younger kids can see the lights before bedtime.
See dates and details from San Jose Holiday Lights (opens in a new tab)San Jose: Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience
Tree lightingFreeChristmas in the Park · San Jose
- Host
- Christmas in the Park (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Plaza de Cesar Chavez, S Market St (between San Fernando St and San Carlos St), San Jose, CA 95113
- When
- Friday, November 27, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027 (daily, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), noon to 10 pm
- Cost
- Free (donations welcome)
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Since 1980, Christmas in the Park has turned Plaza de Cesar Chavez in downtown San Jose into a holiday walk filled with more than 40 musical and animated exhibits, glittering lights and a forest of decorated trees. Families can step inside a 50 foot Christmas tree, see the classic Lima Train display with its caroling mice and elf woodcrafters, and catch live entertainment on the stage.
The season opens the day after Thanksgiving with the Community Tree Lighting Ceremony, and the park stays open every day from noon to 10 pm through January 1, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Admission is free, and photos with Santa at Santa's House are free too, with donations welcome. A food court sits at the south end of the park, and Santa's Snack Shack is at the north end.
Parent tip: Santa's House hours are posted on the host's Events page and in the park. Weekend nights are very busy, so weekday afternoons are calmer with little ones.
See dates and details from Christmas in the Park (opens in a new tab)San Jose: Santa Storytime and craft
Story time with SantaFreeSan José Public Library · San Jose
- Host
- San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Almaden Branch Library, 6445 Camden Ave, San Jose, CA 95120
- When
- Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Young children ages 0 to 5; geared for children of all ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Santa comes to the picture book area of the Almaden Branch Library for a special story time. Families can expect stories and songs, followed by a holiday craft, and there is a chance to take a photo with Santa once the stories wrap up.
The library lists this program for young children ages 0 to 5, though it notes it is geared for children of all ages along with their parents and caregivers. It is designed to align with the library's early education quality standards, so expect a gentle pace that suits toddlers and preschoolers. The event runs for one hour on a Wednesday afternoon, which makes it an easy after school or after nap outing for families in the Almaden area.
Parent tip: Bring a phone or camera for the photo opportunity after the story time.
See dates and details from San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)San Jose: Visit from Santa Claus!
Santa visitFreeSan José Public Library · San Jose
- Host
- San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Vineland Branch Library, 1450 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose, CA 95118
- When
- Thursday, December 10, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Young children ages 0 to 5 and kids ages 5 to 10
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Santa is making a special appearance at the Vineland Branch Library in San Jose for one hour on a Thursday afternoon. Parents can take their own photos of their child with Santa, so bring a camera or phone.
A nice bonus here is that every child who attends can choose a free book, thanks to sponsorship from the Friends of the Vineland Branch Library. The event is free and no registration is required. The library lists it for young children up to age 10. Santa has to head back to his workshop at 5:30 pm, and he will try to see as many children as possible before he leaves. The library is at 1450 Blossom Hill Road in the Vineland neighborhood.
Parent tip: Arrive early, since Santa leaves at 5:30 pm and sees children as time allows. Bring your own camera or phone for photos.
See dates and details from San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)San Jose: Winter Festival and Santa Visit
Santa visitFreeSan José Public Library · San Jose
- Host
- San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Tully Community Branch Library, 880 Tully Rd, San Jose, CA 95111
- When
- Friday, December 11, 2026, 3:30 to 5:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Tully Community Branch Library celebrates the winter holidays with a two hour festival on a Friday afternoon. The program includes arts and crafts, games, prize drawings and balloon art, and the library will hand out goodie bags, sweet treats and milk while supplies last.
Santa also makes a special appearance to hear wishes and greet everyone who comes. The festival is open to all ages and no registration is required. It is sponsored by KeyPoint Credit Union, the Friends of the Tully Community Branch Library and the McLaughlin Corridor Neighborhood Association. The library is at 880 Tully Road, and the festival takes place on a Friday right after school, so it works well for school age kids as well as toddlers and preschoolers.
Parent tip: Treats and goodie bags are offered while supplies last, so arriving near the 3:30 pm start is a good idea.
See dates and details from San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)San Jose: Holiday Spectacular
Holiday showSymphony San Jose · San Jose
- Host
- Symphony San Jose (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- California Theatre, 345 South First St., San Jose, CA 95113
- When
- Sat December 12 (2:30 to 7:30 pm) and Sun December 13 (2:30 pm), 2026
- Cost
- Ticketed
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Symphony San Jose celebrates its 25th anniversary season with the Holiday Spectacular at the California Theatre downtown. Conductor Elena Sharkova leads the orchestra, the Symphony San Jose Chorale, Cantabile Youth Singers, New Ballet, and special guests in holiday classics and carols.
The program includes dance numbers, audience sing-alongs, and a local twist called Twelve Days of Silicon Valley, which makes it a lively choice for families with children who enjoy music. There are two matinees, Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 pm, plus a Saturday evening show at 7:30 pm. Ticket prices are not listed on the tourism page, so check the symphony's box office. The California Theatre is on South First Street in downtown San Jose, a short walk from other downtown holiday attractions, so the show can anchor a full afternoon out.
Parent tip: The 2:30 pm matinees on Dec 12 and Dec 13 are the easiest fit for younger children.
See dates and details from Symphony San Jose (opens in a new tab)San Jose: Visit with Santa (In-Person)
Santa visitFreeSan José Public Library · San Jose
- Host
- San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Alum Rock Branch Library, 3090 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA 95127
- When
- Saturday, December 12, 2026, 1 to 2 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Young children ages 0 to 5 through teens ages 12 to 18
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Santa is making a special appearance at the Alum Rock Branch Library in east San Jose to hear from the children who visit. Kids should have their Christmas wishes ready to share with him.
The visit lasts one hour, and Santa will try to see as many children as possible while listening carefully to each one before he returns to his workshop. The library lists the event for children and teens of all ages, from babies through high school. It is a simple, low key way for younger kids to meet Santa close to home on a weekend afternoon. The branch is at 3090 Alum Rock Avenue. The library calendar shows limited seats with a waitlist option for this event, so check the event page before you go.
Parent tip: Santa visits for one hour only, so arriving at 1 pm gives the best chance of a turn.
See dates and details from San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)San Jose: WEE Explore the North Pole
Story time with Mrs. ClausFreeSan José Public Library · San Jose
- Host
- San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Educational Park Branch Library, 1772 Educational Park Dr, San Jose, CA 95133
- When
- Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Recommended for ages 0 to 5; families of all ages welcome
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Educational Park Branch Library hosts a two hour winter holiday event aimed at the youngest kids. Activities include outdoor snow play on the library patio, winter themed crafts, holiday face painting by Hey Balloon Lady, and resource tables for families.
Mrs. Claus reads at a story time at 10:45 am, and Mr. and Mrs. Claus arrive for photos at 11 am. There is also a separate photo station for little ones who may not be ready for Santa yet. The program is recommended for ages 0 to 5, but families with kids of all ages are welcome, it is free, and no registration is needed. The library sits at 1772 Educational Park Drive in east San Jose.
Parent tip: Arrive by 10:45 am for the Mrs. Claus story time, and pack a change of clothes or a towel for the outdoor snow play.
See dates and details from San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)San Jose: Visit with Santa Claus
Santa visitFreeSan José Public Library · San Jose
- Host
- San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Santa Teresa Branch Library, 290 International Cir, San Jose, CA 95119
- When
- Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 5:30 to 6:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Young children ages 0 to 5, kids 5 to 10 and preteens 10 to 12
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Santa Teresa Branch Library in south San Jose hosts Santa for a one hour visit on a Wednesday evening. The main focus is pictures, and Santa will try to take photos with as many children as he can before heading back to his workshop.
There will also be treats for kids to take home. The library lists the visit for children from babies through age 12. Because the visit lasts only one hour, families with a set bedtime routine may want to arrive close to the 5:30 pm start. The branch is at 290 International Circle in the Santa Teresa area, and the visit is hosted by the branch library staff.
Parent tip: Santa stays for one hour only, so arrive near 5:30 pm to be sure of a photo.
See dates and details from San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)San Jose: Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library!
Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeSan José Public Library · San Jose
- Host
- San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- West Valley Branch Library, 1243 San Tomas Aquino Rd, San Jose, CA 95117
- When
- Saturday, December 19, 2026, 3 to 4 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Young children ages 0 to 5 and kids ages 5 to 10; all welcome
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Santa and Mrs. Claus make a special appearance at the West Valley Branch Library in west San Jose, and everyone is welcome to join in. Children can share their Christmas wishes with Santa, and families are encouraged to bring cameras for photos.
Besides the visit, kids can make a winter craft during the hour. The event is free, no registration is required, and it is sponsored by the Friends of the West Valley Branch Library. The library lists it for children up to age 10. Santa needs to return to his workshop at 4 pm and will try to see as many children as possible before then. The branch is at 1243 San Tomas Aquino Road.
Parent tip: Bring your own camera or phone, and come early since Santa leaves at 4 pm.
See dates and details from San José Public Library (opens in a new tab)Christmas events for kids in Campbell
2 confirmed events for kids in Campbell, soonest first.
Campbell: Little Explorers: Wonderful Winter!
Holiday craftsFreeSanta Clara County Library District · Campbell
- Host
- Santa Clara County Library District (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Campbell Library, 77 Harrison Ave, Campbell, CA 95008 (near San Jose)
- When
- Friday, December 4, 2026, 10:30 to 11:30 am
- Cost
- Free, limited capacity
- Ages
- Toddlers and preschoolers with families
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Little Explorers is Campbell Library's monthly creativity program for families with toddlers and preschoolers, held on the first Friday of the month. December's theme is Wonderful Winter, with a variety of snowy themed crafts and play activities, even without real snow.
The program is free with limited capacity. The library shares helpful sensory notes: the room can be noisy with play and background music, visually busy with bright craft stations, and some activities may include wet or sticky textures that children are free to skip. Ear defenders can be borrowed from the librarian. Parking may be limited, and only a few strollers can be parked outside the Children's Room, with none allowed in the Community Room.
Parent tip: Capacity is limited, so arrive on time. Ask the librarian for ear defenders if your child is sensitive to noise, and plan for limited parking and stroller space.
See dates and details from Santa Clara County Library District (opens in a new tab)Campbell: Carol of Lights Celebration
Santa visitFreeDowntown Campbell · Campbell
- Host
- Downtown Campbell (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Downtown Campbell, E. Campbell Ave., Campbell, CA 95008 (near San Jose)
- When
- Saturday, December 5, 2026
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Carol of Lights is Campbell's annual celebration to open the holiday season, held in Downtown Campbell on Saturday, December 5, 2026. Admission is free, and the event is packed with activities for kids, including Santa visits, a petting zoo, donkey rides, bounce houses, craft tables, and face painting.
Musical entertainment and a community stage featuring local dance teams round out the afternoon and evening. Start and end times are not posted on the event page yet, so check back closer to the date before planning your arrival. Downtown Campbell's main street is lined with shops and restaurants, so families can stay for a meal after the activities. With so many hands-on stations, it works well for toddlers through grade school kids.
Parent tip: Times were not yet posted; check the Downtown Campbell events page the week before.
See dates and details from Downtown Campbell (opens in a new tab)Christmas events for kids in Saratoga
2 confirmed events for kids in Saratoga, soonest first.
Saratoga: Fratello Marionettes: The North Pole Review
Holiday showFreeSanta Clara County Library District · Saratoga
- Host
- Santa Clara County Library District (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Saratoga Library, 13650 Saratoga Ave, Saratoga, CA 95070 (near San Jose)
- When
- Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 to 11:30 am
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages; family event
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Fratello Marionettes bring their winter show, The North Pole Review, to Saratoga Library. This music based marionette production features a graceful ice skater named Crystal Chandelier, high kicking Russian Trepak Dancers and a trio of dazzling acrobatic penguins.
The show runs about 30 minutes on a Saturday morning, which is a comfortable length for younger children. The library district lists it as a family event and welcomes all ages. No sign up is listed for the show, and the library asks families who need accessibility accommodations, such as ASL, to submit its online form at least seven days ahead. The library is at 13650 Saratoga Avenue.
Parent tip: For accommodations such as ASL, use the form at sccld.org/accessibility at least 7 days before the show.
See dates and details from Santa Clara County Library District (opens in a new tab)Saratoga: Mike Della Penna: Winter Magic Show
Holiday showFreeSanta Clara County Library District · Saratoga
- Host
- Santa Clara County Library District (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Saratoga Library, 13650 Saratoga Ave, Saratoga, CA 95070 (near San Jose)
- When
- Saturday, December 19, 2026, 11 to 11:45 am
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages; family event
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Saratoga Library hosts magician Mike Della Penna for a winter magic show inspired by the holiday season. The library describes it as a warm, fun program full of wonder, and it runs about 45 minutes on a Saturday morning.
The show is listed as a family event with all ages welcome, and no sign up is listed. It falls on December 19, so it can be a relaxed outing once school lets out for winter break. Families who need accessibility accommodations, such as ASL, are asked to submit the library district's online form at least seven days before the event. The library is at 13650 Saratoga Avenue, a short drive from Campbell, Los Gatos and west San Jose.
Parent tip: Request accommodations such as ASL through sccld.org/accessibility at least 7 days ahead.
See dates and details from Santa Clara County Library District (opens in a new tab)Christmas events for kids in Cupertino
1 confirmed event for kids in Cupertino, soonest first.
Cupertino: Breakfast with Santa
Breakfast with SantaCity of Cupertino Parks and Recreation · Cupertino
- Host
- City of Cupertino Parks and Recreation (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Quinlan Community Center, 10185 North Stelling Road, Cupertino, CA 95014 (near San Jose)
- When
- Saturday, December 5, 2026, 8:30 to 11:15 am
- Cost
- $18 residents, $23 non-residents; under 2 free
- Ages
- All ages; children under two free
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The City of Cupertino hosts Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 5, 2026 at Quinlan Community Center. Families choose one of three 45 minute seatings: 8:30, 9:30, or 10:30 am. Elves serve pancakes, Santa poses for photos, and a holiday craft workshop keeps kids busy while they wait their turn.
The cost is $18 for Cupertino residents and $23 for non-residents. Everyone attending needs to register except children under two, who are free and do not need a spot. Registration runs through the city's Active Communities page, linked from the event page. Quinlan Community Center is on North Stelling Road in Cupertino. Since every attendee over age two must register in advance through the city, families who want a particular seating time should sign up early.
Parent tip: Register every attendee except kids under two. Bring a camera or phone for the Santa photo.
See dates and details from City of Cupertino Parks and Recreation (opens in a new tab)Christmas events for kids in Los Altos
1 confirmed event for kids in Los Altos, soonest first.
Los Altos: Merry Pixie Pages
Holiday story timeFreeSanta Clara County Library District · Los Altos
- Host
- Santa Clara County Library District (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Woodland Branch Library, 1975 Grant Rd, Los Altos, CA 94024 (near San Jose)
- When
- Sunday, December 13, 2026, 11:30 am to noon
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Children 0 to 5 and their families
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Woodland Branch Library in Los Altos hosts Merry Pixie Pages, a special December story time filled with stories, songs and fingerplays. It is planned for babies, toddlers and preschoolers along with their families, and runs for 30 minutes on a Sunday late morning.
The library describes the program as a way to build early literacy through music, movement and interactive play, so expect plenty of chances for little ones to wiggle and join in. There is no sign up, families can just show up. Accessibility accommodations, such as ASL, can be requested through the library district's online form at least seven days before the event. The branch is at 1975 Grant Road in Los Altos.
Parent tip: No sign up is needed. Request accommodations such as ASL at sccld.org/accessibility at least 7 days ahead.
See dates and details from Santa Clara County Library District (opens in a new tab)Christmas events for kids in Milpitas
1 confirmed event for kids in Milpitas, soonest first.
Milpitas: Tree Lighting Ceremony
Tree lightingFreeCity of Milpitas Recreation and Community Services · Milpitas
- Host
- City of Milpitas Recreation and Community Services (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Milpitas Community Center, 457 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas, CA 95035 (near San Jose)
- When
- Friday, December 4, 2026, 7 to 9 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Milpitas kicks off the season with its Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 4, 2026, from 7 to 9 pm at the Milpitas Community Center. Santa Claus arrives in town and leads the countdown to light the 30 foot holiday tree, which is the moment most kids wait for.
The evening also features performances by the Milpitas Community Concert Band and other local groups, hot cocoa, and photos with Santa. Admission is free, which makes this an easy family outing to start December. The Milpitas Community Center is on East Calaveras Boulevard near City Hall. Because the program mixes music, a short countdown, and a Santa photo line, it suits children of all ages, including little ones who will not last a long evening.
Parent tip: It is an evening event in December, so bring warm layers. Plan time for the Santa photo line after the tree is lit.
See dates and details from City of Milpitas Recreation and Community Services (opens in a new tab)Christmas events for kids in Morgan Hill
1 confirmed event for kids in Morgan Hill, soonest first.
Morgan Hill: Magical Holiday at Magical Bridge Playground & Photos with Santa
Santa visitCity of Morgan Hill · Morgan Hill
- Host
- City of Morgan Hill (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Magical Bridge Playground, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 (near San Jose)
- When
- Saturday, December 12, 2026, 3 to 5 pm
- Cost
- Cost not listed
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The City of Morgan Hill lists a Magical Holiday afternoon at the Magical Bridge Playground on Saturday, December 12, from 3 to 5 pm. The highlight is photos with Santa on his magic ship, set at a playground that is designed so children of all abilities can play together.
The city's listing does not give a price, and a bilingual English and Spanish flyer is posted on the city events page for more details. Because it is a two hour window in the afternoon, families can combine a Santa photo with playground time before dark. Morgan Hill also lists an Adaptive Holiday Cheer program on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, for families looking for more inclusive holiday options in town.
Parent tip: Check the city's English and Spanish flyer on the City Events page for any last details before going.
See dates and details from City of Morgan Hill (opens in a new tab)Looking further afield? Our California Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Sacramento. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.
A story for the drive home
A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.
A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.
Buy on AmazonSan Jose Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask
What Christmas events for kids are in San Jose in 2026?
We confirmed 18 Christmas events for kids in San Jose for 2026 on each host’s own page: San Jose Holiday Lights 2026 in San Jose (November 13), Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience in San Jose (November 27), Santa Storytime and craft in San Jose (December 2), Little Explorers: Wonderful Winter! in Campbell (December 4), Tree Lighting Ceremony in Milpitas (December 4), Breakfast with Santa in Cupertino (December 5), Carol of Lights Celebration in Campbell (December 5), Fratello Marionettes: The North Pole Review in Saratoga (December 5), Visit from Santa Claus! in San Jose (December 10), Winter Festival and Santa Visit in San Jose (December 11), Holiday Spectacular in San Jose (December 12), Magical Holiday at Magical Bridge Playground & Photos with Santa in Morgan Hill (December 12), Visit with Santa (In-Person) in San Jose (December 12), WEE Explore the North Pole in San Jose (December 12), Merry Pixie Pages in Los Altos (December 13), Visit with Santa Claus in San Jose (December 16), Mike Della Penna: Winter Magic Show in Saratoga (December 19) and Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! in San Jose (December 19). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.
What Christmas events for kids are in San Jose, California?
For families in and around San Jose, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: San Jose Holiday Lights 2026 (Daily, Nov 13, 2026 to Jan 1, 2027, 4:30 to 10:30 pm, ticketed); Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience (Daily, Nov 27 to Jan 1, noon to 10 pm, free (donations welcome)); Santa Storytime and craft (Wed, Dec 2, 4:30 to 5:30 pm, free); Visit from Santa Claus! (Thu, Dec 10, 4:30 to 5:30 pm, free); Winter Festival and Santa Visit (Fri, Dec 11, 3:30 to 5:30 pm, free); Holiday Spectacular (Sat, Dec 12, 2:30 and 7:30 pm; Sun, Dec 13, 2:30 pm, ticketed); Visit with Santa (In-Person) (Sat, Dec 12, 1 to 2 pm, free); WEE Explore the North Pole (Sat, Dec 12, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, free); Visit with Santa Claus (Wed, Dec 16, 5:30 to 6:30 pm, free); Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! (Sat, Dec 19, 3 to 4 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the San Jose section of this page.
What Christmas events for kids are in Campbell, California?
For families in and around Campbell, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Little Explorers: Wonderful Winter! (Fri, Dec 4, 10:30 to 11:30 am, free, limited capacity); Carol of Lights Celebration (Sat, Dec 5, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Campbell section of this page.
What Christmas events for kids are in Saratoga, California?
For families in and around Saratoga, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Fratello Marionettes: The North Pole Review (Sat, Dec 5, 11 to 11:30 am, free); Mike Della Penna: Winter Magic Show (Sat, Dec 19, 11 to 11:45 am, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Saratoga section of this page.
What Christmas events for kids are in Cupertino, California?
For families in and around Cupertino, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Breakfast with Santa (Sat, Dec 5, seatings at 8:30, 9:30 and 10:30 am, $18 residents, $23 non-residents; under 2 free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Cupertino section of this page.
What Christmas events for kids are in Los Altos, California?
For families in and around Los Altos, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Merry Pixie Pages (Sun, Dec 13, 11:30 am to noon, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Los Altos section of this page.
What Christmas events for kids are in Milpitas, California?
For families in and around Milpitas, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Tree Lighting Ceremony (Fri, Dec 4, 7 to 9 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Milpitas section of this page.
What Christmas events for kids are in Morgan Hill, California?
For families in and around Morgan Hill, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Magical Holiday at Magical Bridge Playground & Photos with Santa (Sat, Dec 12, 3 to 5 pm, cost not listed). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Morgan Hill section of this page.
Are there free Christmas events for kids in San Jose?
Yes. 14 of the 18 events here are free: Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience in San Jose, Santa Storytime and craft in San Jose, Little Explorers: Wonderful Winter! in Campbell, Tree Lighting Ceremony in Milpitas, Carol of Lights Celebration in Campbell, Fratello Marionettes: The North Pole Review in Saratoga, Visit from Santa Claus! in San Jose, Winter Festival and Santa Visit in San Jose, Visit with Santa (In-Person) in San Jose, WEE Explore the North Pole in San Jose, Merry Pixie Pages in Los Altos, Visit with Santa Claus in San Jose, Mike Della Penna: Winter Magic Show in Saratoga and Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! in San Jose. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.
Where can kids see Santa in San Jose this December?
Santa appears at Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience in San Jose (November 27), Santa Storytime and craft in San Jose (December 2), Tree Lighting Ceremony in Milpitas (December 4), Breakfast with Santa in Cupertino (December 5), Carol of Lights Celebration in Campbell (December 5), Visit from Santa Claus! in San Jose (December 10), Winter Festival and Santa Visit in San Jose (December 11), Magical Holiday at Magical Bridge Playground & Photos with Santa in Morgan Hill (December 12), Visit with Santa (In-Person) in San Jose (December 12), WEE Explore the North Pole in San Jose (December 12), Visit with Santa Claus in San Jose (December 16) and Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! in San Jose (December 19). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.
Where are there Christmas story times for kids in San Jose?
Holiday story times on this page: Santa Storytime and craft in San Jose, WEE Explore the North Pole in San Jose and Merry Pixie Pages in Los Altos. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.
Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in San Jose?
Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Breakfast with Santa in Cupertino (Sat, Dec 5, seatings at 8:30, 9:30 and 10:30 am). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.
Which San Jose Christmas events are best for toddlers?
These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Santa Storytime and craft in San Jose (Young children ages 0 to 5; geared for children of all ages), Little Explorers: Wonderful Winter! in Campbell (Toddlers and preschoolers with families), Visit from Santa Claus! in San Jose (Young children ages 0 to 5 and kids ages 5 to 10), Visit with Santa (In-Person) in San Jose (Young children ages 0 to 5 through teens ages 12 to 18), WEE Explore the North Pole in San Jose (Recommended for ages 0 to 5; families of all ages welcome), Merry Pixie Pages in Los Altos (Children 0 to 5 and their families), Visit with Santa Claus in San Jose (Young children ages 0 to 5, kids 5 to 10 and preteens 10 to 12) and Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! in San Jose (Young children ages 0 to 5 and kids ages 5 to 10; all welcome).
Are there kids' Christmas events in San Jose on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?
Yes: San Jose Holiday Lights 2026 in San Jose (through January 1) and Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience in San Jose (through January 1).
How much is San Jose Holiday Lights 2026 in San Jose?
Ticketed. San Jose Holiday Lights 2026 is on Friday, November 13, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027 (daily), 4:30 to 10:30 pm at San Jose Holiday Lights. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience in San Jose?
Free (donations welcome). Christmas in the Park: Downtown Park Experience is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027 (daily, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), noon to 10 pm at Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Santa Storytime and craft in San Jose?
Free. Santa Storytime and craft is on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Almaden Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Little Explorers: Wonderful Winter! in Campbell?
Free, limited capacity. Little Explorers: Wonderful Winter! is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 10:30 to 11:30 am at Campbell Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Tree Lighting Ceremony in Milpitas?
Free. Tree Lighting Ceremony is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 7 to 9 pm at Milpitas Community Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Breakfast with Santa in Cupertino?
$18 residents, $23 non-residents; under 2 free. Breakfast with Santa is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 8:30 to 11:15 am at Quinlan Community Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Carol of Lights Celebration in Campbell?
Free. Carol of Lights Celebration is on Saturday, December 5, 2026 at Downtown Campbell. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Fratello Marionettes: The North Pole Review in Saratoga?
Free. Fratello Marionettes: The North Pole Review is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 to 11:30 am at Saratoga Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Visit from Santa Claus! in San Jose?
Free. Visit from Santa Claus! is on Thursday, December 10, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Vineland Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Winter Festival and Santa Visit in San Jose?
Free. Winter Festival and Santa Visit is on Friday, December 11, 2026, 3:30 to 5:30 pm at Tully Community Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Holiday Spectacular in San Jose?
Ticketed. Holiday Spectacular is on Sat December 12 (2:30 to 7:30 pm) and Sun December 13 (2:30 pm), 2026 at California Theatre. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Magical Holiday at Magical Bridge Playground & Photos with Santa in Morgan Hill?
Cost not listed. Magical Holiday at Magical Bridge Playground & Photos with Santa is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 3 to 5 pm at Magical Bridge Playground. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Visit with Santa (In-Person) in San Jose?
Free. Visit with Santa (In-Person) is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 1 to 2 pm at Alum Rock Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is WEE Explore the North Pole in San Jose?
Free. WEE Explore the North Pole is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm at Educational Park Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Merry Pixie Pages in Los Altos?
Free. Merry Pixie Pages is on Sunday, December 13, 2026, 11:30 am to noon at Woodland Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Visit with Santa Claus in San Jose?
Free. Visit with Santa Claus is on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 5:30 to 6:30 pm at Santa Teresa Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Mike Della Penna: Winter Magic Show in Saratoga?
Free. Mike Della Penna: Winter Magic Show is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 11 to 11:45 am at Saratoga Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! in San Jose?
Free. Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at West Valley Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
Are there Christmas train rides for kids in San Jose?
Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our San Jose Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.
How do you confirm these events?
We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.
Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.
