Christmas Events for Kids in Santa Rosa (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

18 min read

The Santa Rosa area has 18 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Hotel Petaluma Gingerbread House Showcase and Competition in Petaluma on November 27 to City of Lights Driving Tour in Petaluma, which runs through December 31. 15 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 Santa Rosa for 2026, in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sonoma and Windsor
  • First: Hotel Petaluma Gingerbread House Showcase and Competition, Petaluma, November 27. Runs latest: City of Lights Driving Tour, Petaluma, through December 31
  • Free: Winter Lights Tree Lighting Celebration, Santa's Riverboat Arrival, City of Lights Driving Tour, Downtown Petaluma Holiday Shopping Stroll, Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Windsor Regional Library), Light Up the Square Tree Lighting Celebration, Festival of Christmas at Petaluma Valley Baptist Church, Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Petaluma Regional Library), Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Sonoma Valley Regional Library), Bilingual Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids, Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Central Santa Rosa Library), Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Central Santa Rosa Library), Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Northwest Santa Rosa Library), Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Petaluma Regional Library) and Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Roseland Regional 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.

Santa Rosa Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
18 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sonoma and Windsor
Season
November 27 to December 31, 2026
Free events
15
Kinds of events
holiday crafts, holiday show, Santa and Mrs. Claus and tree lighting
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Santa Rosa Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Hotel Petaluma Gingerbread House Showcase and Competition in Petaluma on November 27; the last runs to December 31. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Santa Rosa? 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.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

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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 Santa Rosa

6 confirmed events for kids in Santa Rosa, soonest first.

Santa Rosa: Winter Lights Tree Lighting Celebration

Tree lightingFreeSanta Rosa Metro Chamber · Santa Rosa

Host
Santa Rosa Metro Chamber (opens in a new tab)
Where
Old Courthouse Square, Mendocino Avenue and 4th Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
When
Friday, November 27, 2026
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Winter Lights kicks off the holiday season in Downtown Santa Rosa on Friday, November 27, the day after Thanksgiving. The free Tree Lighting Celebration on Courthouse Square has been a community tradition for more than 40 years, produced by the Santa Rosa Metro Chamber.

The chamber describes family friendly activities, live entertainment, holiday drinks and treats, photos with Santa and the official lighting of the Courthouse Square tree. A related downtown page adds that local food and gift vendors take part and that Santa arrives by fire truck before the community countdown to light the tree. The chamber notes that more details about this year's event will be announced, so check its page for the schedule closer to the date. The square also hosts the Winter Lights skating rink into the new year.

Parent tip: Start times were not yet posted, so check the Santa Rosa Metro Chamber page before you go.

See dates and details from Santa Rosa Metro Chamber (opens in a new tab)

Santa Rosa: Bilingual Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids

Holiday craftsFreeSonoma County Library · Santa Rosa

Host
Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Roseland Regional Library, 470 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95407
When
Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 3:15 to 4 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 3 and up, with an adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

In Santa Rosa, Roseland Regional Library offers a Bilingual Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids on Tuesday, December 15. It lasts 3:15 to 4:00 pm in the Roseland Meeting Room, and it is part of the Sonoma County Library's annual gingerbread lineup for children and their families, and it carries a bilingual, Spanish language label.

Guests pick candy, graham crackers and frosting and put together a seasonal creation to carry home. The library wants every attendee, kids and adults, to be signed up, either on its event page online or by phoning your local branch. The listing says ages 3 and up. Any child 8 or younger needs an adult (parent, guardian or childcare provider) alongside. Seats are few, so sign up soon.

Parent tip: Sign up each person, grownups and kids alike, and plan to arrive promptly, as seating is limited.

See dates and details from Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)

Santa Rosa: Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Central Santa Rosa Library)

Holiday craftsFreeSonoma County Library · Santa Rosa

Host
Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Central Santa Rosa Library, 211 E Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
When
Thursday, December 17, 2026, 4 to 5 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Grades K to 6
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Central Santa Rosa Library hosts a yearly gingerbread house workshop from the Sonoma County Library on Thursday, December 17, open to kids and their families. There are two 30 minute sessions in the Central Meeting Room, starting at 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm.

Every child chooses sweets, graham crackers and frosting, and builds a seasonal creation to carry home. The workshop serves grades K to 6, and registering is a must. Use the event page online, or phone your local branch. Any child aged 8 or under must have an adult (parent, guardian or childcare provider) along. With limited seats, early sign-up is smart. You will find the library at 211 E Street in downtown Santa Rosa, and the short sessions give families a focused activity that suits younger school-age kids.

Parent tip: Register online or by phone. Kids 8 and under need an adult beside them.

See dates and details from Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)

Santa Rosa: Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Central Santa Rosa Library)

Holiday showFreeSonoma County Library · Santa Rosa

Host
Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Central Santa Rosa Library, 211 E Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 2:30 to 3 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

A seasonal singalong comes to the Central Santa Rosa Library in the Central Meeting Room, courtesy of the Santa Rosa Symphony. Jesse Barrett, a musician and vocalist, and a Santa Rosa Symphony string ensemble lead the fun. Half an hour long, the concert is a joint effort of the Santa Rosa Symphony, Sonoma County Library and the Sonoma County Library Foundation.

The library calls it a lovely way to bring some holiday warmth to your weekend and says the whole family is invited. It is listed for all ages, with no sign-up needed. Because it is so short, it slots easily into a library trip, a hunt for seasonal reading or a busy day of errands. Over December 19 and 20, several Sonoma County libraries offer the same program, so you can choose the branch and time that work best.

Parent tip: At only 30 minutes, the concert is brief, so come a few minutes ahead to find seating.

See dates and details from Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)

Santa Rosa: Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Northwest Santa Rosa Library)

Holiday showFreeSonoma County Library · Santa Rosa

Host
Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Northwest Santa Rosa Library, 150 Coddingtown Center, Santa Rosa, CA 95401
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 4 to 4:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

A seasonal singalong comes to the Northwest Santa Rosa Library in the Northwest Children's Area, courtesy of the Santa Rosa Symphony. Jesse Barrett, a musician and vocalist, and a Santa Rosa Symphony string ensemble lead the fun. Half an hour long, the concert is a joint effort of the Santa Rosa Symphony, Sonoma County Library and the Sonoma County Library Foundation.

The library calls it a lovely way to bring some holiday warmth to your weekend and says the whole family is invited. It is listed for all ages, with no sign-up needed. Because it is so short, it slots easily into a library trip, a hunt for seasonal reading or a busy day of errands. Over December 19 and 20, several Sonoma County libraries offer the same program, so you can choose the branch and time that work best.

Parent tip: At only 30 minutes, the concert is brief, so come a few minutes ahead to find seating.

See dates and details from Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)

Santa Rosa: Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Roseland Regional Library)

Holiday showFreeSonoma County Library · Santa Rosa

Host
Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Roseland Regional Library, 470 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95407
When
Sunday, December 20, 2026, 4 to 4:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

A seasonal singalong comes to the Roseland Regional Library in the Roseland Main Library, courtesy of the Santa Rosa Symphony. Jesse Barrett, a musician and vocalist, and a Santa Rosa Symphony string ensemble lead the fun. Half an hour long, the concert is a joint effort of the Santa Rosa Symphony, Sonoma County Library and the Sonoma County Library Foundation.

The library calls it a lovely way to bring some holiday warmth to your weekend and says the whole family is invited. It is listed for all ages, with no sign-up needed. Because it is so short, it slots easily into a library trip, a hunt for seasonal reading or a busy day of errands. Over December 19 and 20, several Sonoma County libraries offer the same program, so you can choose the branch and time that work best.

Parent tip: At only 30 minutes, the concert is brief, so come a few minutes ahead to find seating.

See dates and details from Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Petaluma

10 confirmed events for kids in Petaluma, soonest first.

Petaluma: Hotel Petaluma Gingerbread House Showcase and Competition

Holiday craftsHotel Petaluma · Petaluma

Host
Hotel Petaluma (opens in a new tab)
Where
Hotel Petaluma, 205 Kentucky Street, Petaluma, CA 94952 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Fri November 27, Sat November 28 and Sun November 29, 2026, 10 am to 8 pm
Cost
Admission not listed
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The 10th Annual Gingerbread House Showcase and Competition fills Hotel Petaluma on Kentucky Street from Friday, November 27 to Sunday, November 29, open from 10 am to 8 pm each day. The hotel's gingerbread competition is described as a festive holiday tradition with creative, handcrafted gingerbread houses made by local businesses, organizations and community members of all ages.

Visitors can admire the imaginative edible creations and soak in Petaluma's holiday spirit. The weekend overlaps with Santa's Riverboat Arrival and Small Business Saturday on November 28, so families can combine a visit to the showcase with Santa photos at River Plaza and a stroll through downtown shops. The holiday calendar does not list admission costs, so check the Hotel Petaluma website for the latest information.

Parent tip: Pair the visit with Santa's Riverboat Arrival on Saturday, Nov 28. Check the hotel's site for admission details.

See dates and details from Hotel Petaluma (opens in a new tab)

Petaluma: Santa's Riverboat Arrival

Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeVisit Petaluma · Petaluma

Host
Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)
Where
River Plaza Shopping Center, 54 East Washington Street, Petaluma, CA 94952 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Saturday, November 28, 2026, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in Petaluma by tugboat on Saturday, November 28, at River Plaza Shopping Center on East Washington Street. Entertainment starts at 11:30 am with the Pacific Empire Chorus and face painting by Miss Daisy, and the couple arrive at noon.

After they step off the boat, families can stay for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Visit Petaluma suggests getting in line early because Santa and Mrs. Claus leave at 1:30 pm. Free Shop Small swag bags are handed out while they last, and the event falls on Small Business Saturday, so families can walk downtown afterward to see participating shops. The whole event is free, and the plaza is on the river, so dress warmly for time outdoors by the water.

Parent tip: Get in line early for photos, since Santa and Mrs. Claus leave at 1:30 pm.

See dates and details from Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)

Petaluma: City of Lights Driving Tour

Holiday lightsFreeVisit Petaluma · Petaluma

Host
Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)
Where
Self-guided tour of Petaluma neighborhoods, 210 Lakeville Street (Visitors Center for maps), Petaluma, CA 94952 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Tuesday, December 1, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (map available Dec 1; houses decorated until Jan 1, 2027)
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The City of Lights Driving Tour is a self guided tour of beautifully decorated homes and businesses in Petaluma. Visit Petaluma produces a map, available online or at the Visitors Center at 210 Lakeville Street starting December 1. Houses on the map stay decorated until January 1, 2027.

From December 14 to 25, the local community radio station KPCA at 103.3 FM, which can also be streamed, provides the soundtrack of holiday music for the tour. The tour is free and has been a popular family activity in Petaluma for many years. Because it is a driving tour, children can take in the lights from the car in pajamas, which makes it an easy evening outing. Bring a thermos of cocoa and pick a night when everyone is in the holiday mood.

Parent tip: Download or pick up the map starting December 1 and tune to KPCA 103.3 FM between December 14 and 25 for music.

See dates and details from Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)

Petaluma: A Very Merry Fred Astaire Holiday Celebration

Holiday showFred Astaire Dance Studios Petaluma · Petaluma

Host
Fred Astaire Dance Studios Petaluma (opens in a new tab)
Where
Fred Astaire Dance Studios, 226 Petaluma Boulevard North, Petaluma, CA 94952 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 7:30 to 9 pm
Cost
$20 admission, ages 3 to 12 $10, under 3 free with a participating parent
Ages
Family friendly; ages 3 to 12 pay $10
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Fred Astaire Dance Studios in downtown Petaluma hosts A Very Merry Fred Astaire Holiday Celebration on Friday, December 4, from 7:30 to 9 pm. It is a festive, family friendly holiday group dance class followed by a joyful dance party.

Families can bring their kids, invite friends or come on their own. There is holiday music, and participants learn fun dance steps, with no partner or dance experience needed. Admission is $20 per person, ages 3 to 12 are $10, and children under 3 are free with a participating parent. For questions or reservations, the studio lists the phone number 1-844-326-2332 and its Petaluma page at fredastaire.com/petaluma. The studio is at 226 Petaluma Boulevard North, close to the downtown holiday events.

Parent tip: Call the studio or check its Petaluma page to confirm your spot before attending.

See dates and details from Fred Astaire Dance Studios Petaluma (opens in a new tab)

Petaluma: Downtown Petaluma Holiday Shopping Stroll

Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeVisit Petaluma · Petaluma

Host
Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Petaluma, Petaluma Boulevard North, Petaluma, CA 94952 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to 5 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Downtown Holiday Shopping Stroll fills Petaluma's streets on Saturday, December 5, from 11 am to 5 pm. Visit Petaluma describes festively decorated streets, one of a kind gifts, holiday treats, live music and extended store hours. All activities take place inside participating businesses.

For children, the day includes free face painting, photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, dancers and singers, and the Holiday Hen Hunt, in which families look for festive hens hidden in local shops. The Petaluma Downtown Association lists the stroll alongside its Hen Hunt that runs from November 28 to January 4. The stroll is free, and it is the same evening as the Light Up the Square tree lighting at Theatre Square, so many families spend the whole day downtown.

Parent tip: Pick up a Holiday Hen Hunt map at a participating shop and plan to return at 6 pm for the tree lighting.

See dates and details from Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)

Petaluma: Light Up the Square Tree Lighting Celebration

Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeVisit Petaluma · Petaluma

Host
Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)
Where
Theatre Square, 140 Second Street, Petaluma, CA 94952 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 6 to 8 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Petaluma's Light Up the Square Tree Lighting Celebration takes place on Saturday, December 5, from 6 to 8 pm at Theatre Square on Second Street. It is presented by Basin Street Properties and the Petaluma Downtown Association, and the tree lighting is scheduled for 7 pm.

The holiday calendar lists live music and performances, Santa's mailbox, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and a laser light show, plus more activities. The event is free. It falls on the same day as the downtown Holiday Shopping Stroll, so families can spend the day in downtown Petaluma and then come back to the square for the tree lighting in the evening. Dress warmly for the outdoor ceremony and plan for a bit of extra time to find parking downtown.

Parent tip: Come early for a good view of the square, and combine it with the daytime Holiday Shopping Stroll.

See dates and details from Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)

Petaluma: Festival of Christmas at Petaluma Valley Baptist Church

Holiday showFreePetaluma Valley Baptist Church · Petaluma

Host
Petaluma Valley Baptist Church (opens in a new tab)
Where
Petaluma Valley Baptist Church, 580 Sonoma Mountain Parkway, Petaluma, CA 94954 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Sat December 12 and Sun December 13, 2026, 4 to 8 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Petaluma Valley Baptist Church hosts its Festival of Christmas on Saturday and Sunday, December 12 and 13, from 4 to 8 pm. The holiday calendar describes music from the Casa Grande Jazz Band and Choir and the Kenilworth Concert Band, along with free popcorn, cookies and hot chocolate.

Other attractions include a living nativity, a relaxing tea room, children's activities, carolers and a Christmas sing-along. The festival is free. The calendar presents it as a free community festival, which makes it an easy low cost way for families to enjoy snacks, music and activities for kids. The four hour window each day lets families drop in when it suits them. The church is at 580 Sonoma Mountain Parkway in Petaluma, and details are available at petalumabaptist.org or by calling 707-763-2277.

Parent tip: Call 707-763-2277 or visit petalumabaptist.org for details on the children's activities.

See dates and details from Petaluma Valley Baptist Church (opens in a new tab)

Petaluma: Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Petaluma Regional Library)

Holiday craftsFreeSonoma County Library · Petaluma

Host
Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Petaluma Regional Library, 100 Fairgrounds Drive, Petaluma, CA 94952 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
Cost
Free, ticketed timed entry
Ages
Grades K to 6
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

On Saturday, December 12, Petaluma Regional Library hosts a gingerbread house workshop where kids do the work themselves, in the Petaluma Meeting Room from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Kids build and decorate their own house to carry home, using graham crackers, frosting, candy and further sugary decorations, and the library provides all supplies.

The workshop is for kindergarten through sixth grade. Entry is by timed ticket, with a new group admitted each half hour (10:30, 11:00, 11:30 or 12:00), which secures your place. The library asks families to arrive at one of these times. You will find Petaluma Regional Library at 100 Fairgrounds Drive. This is one stop in the yearly gingerbread series from the Sonoma County Library, and local families might combine it with the Petaluma holiday events downtown that weekend.

Parent tip: Pick one of the four entry times to be sure of a place.

See dates and details from Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)

Petaluma: Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade

Holiday paradeVisit Petaluma · Petaluma

Host
Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)
Where
Petaluma Turning Basin, Water Street, Petaluma, CA 94952 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 5:30 pm
Cost
Not stated
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade happens on Saturday, December 12. Boats cast off from the marina at 5:30 pm and arrive at the Turning Basin at about 6 pm. The holiday calendar describes power, sail and people powered vessels of all sizes dazzling the spectators who line the shore.

The parade is organized by the Petaluma Yacht Club, which lists details at PetalumaYachtClub.com. Families watch from the riverbank near the Turning Basin in downtown Petaluma, so dress warmly and plan to be on the shore before the first boats arrive. Because the Turning Basin is in the heart of downtown Petaluma, families can add dinner or a walk along the river to the evening. Dates in the calendar are subject to change, so check the Visit Petaluma site or the yacht club website for any updates before heading out.

Parent tip: Arrive a bit before 6 pm for a spot along the shore and check the yacht club site for updates.

See dates and details from Visit Petaluma (opens in a new tab)

Petaluma: Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Petaluma Regional Library)

Holiday showFreeSonoma County Library · Petaluma

Host
Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Petaluma Regional Library, 100 Fairgrounds Drive, Petaluma, CA 94952 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Sunday, December 20, 2026, 2:30 to 3 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

A seasonal singalong comes to the Petaluma Regional Library in the Petaluma Meeting Room, courtesy of the Santa Rosa Symphony. Jesse Barrett, a musician and vocalist, and a Santa Rosa Symphony string ensemble lead the fun. Half an hour long, the concert is a joint effort of the Santa Rosa Symphony, Sonoma County Library and the Sonoma County Library Foundation.

The library calls it a lovely way to bring some holiday warmth to your weekend and says the whole family is invited. It is listed for all ages, with no sign-up needed. Because it is so short, it slots easily into a library trip, a hunt for seasonal reading or a busy day of errands. Over December 19 and 20, several Sonoma County libraries offer the same program, so you can choose the branch and time that work best.

Parent tip: At only 30 minutes, the concert is brief, so come a few minutes ahead to find seating.

See dates and details from Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Sonoma

1 confirmed event for kids in Sonoma, soonest first.

Sonoma: Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Sonoma Valley Regional Library)

Holiday craftsFreeSonoma County Library · Sonoma

Host
Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sonoma Valley Regional Library, 755 West Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Sunday, December 13, 2026, 2:30 to 4:30 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 3 and up; grades K to 6 children
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Sonoma Valley Regional Library offers a yearly gingerbread house workshop for kids and families on Sunday, December 13. It has two sessions, 2:30 to 3:30 pm and 3:30 to 4:30 pm, both in the Sonoma Valley Meeting Room.

Guests choose sweets, graham crackers and frosting to make a seasonal creation to keep. The library asks you to sign up everyone who attends, kids and grownups, and the listing welcomes ages 3 and up. The target group is kindergarten through sixth grade, and you can register online or by calling your local branch. Any child aged 8 or under needs an adult (parent, guardian or childcare provider) with them. Find the library on West Napa Street in Sonoma.

Parent tip: Sign up every attendee, adults too, and bring a grownup along for younger kids.

See dates and details from Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Windsor

1 confirmed event for kids in Windsor, soonest first.

Windsor: Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Windsor Regional Library)

Holiday craftsFreeSonoma County Library · Windsor

Host
Sonoma County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Windsor Regional Library, 9291 Old Redwood Highway, Building 100, Windsor, CA 95492 (near Santa Rosa)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10:15 am to 3 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Grades K to 6
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Windsor Regional Library has two gingerbread house workshops for kids and families on Saturday, December 5. One begins at 10:15 am and ends at 11:15 am; the other runs 2:00 to 3:00 pm. The Windsor Meeting Room hosts both.

Kids choose from sweets, graham crackers and frosting and assemble a seasonal creation to carry home. Kindergarten through sixth graders are the target group. Registration is needed, whether through the library website or by phone. Online sign-up closes a little before each session, and seating is capped. Other branches of the Sonoma County Library run similar workshops in December. An adult (parent, guardian or childcare provider) must come with any child aged 8 or under. The library is at 9291 Old Redwood Highway in Windsor, north of Santa Rosa.

Parent tip: Sign up in advance, as both sessions have limited seats.

See dates and details from Sonoma County Library (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 Jose, San Diego, Sacramento, Fresno, Bakersfield, Riverside, Anaheim, Irvine, Stockton, Modesto, Santa Barbara, Oxnard and Palm Springs. 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.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

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 Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Santa Rosa Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Santa Rosa in 2026?

We confirmed 18 Christmas events for kids in Santa Rosa for 2026 on each host’s own page: Hotel Petaluma Gingerbread House Showcase and Competition in Petaluma (November 27), Winter Lights Tree Lighting Celebration in Santa Rosa (November 27), Santa's Riverboat Arrival in Petaluma (November 28), City of Lights Driving Tour in Petaluma (December 1), A Very Merry Fred Astaire Holiday Celebration in Petaluma (December 4), Downtown Petaluma Holiday Shopping Stroll in Petaluma (December 5), Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Windsor Regional Library) in Windsor (December 5), Light Up the Square Tree Lighting Celebration in Petaluma (December 5), Festival of Christmas at Petaluma Valley Baptist Church in Petaluma (December 12), Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Petaluma Regional Library) in Petaluma (December 12), Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade in Petaluma (December 12), Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Sonoma Valley Regional Library) in Sonoma (December 13), Bilingual Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids in Santa Rosa (December 15), Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Central Santa Rosa Library) in Santa Rosa (December 17), Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Central Santa Rosa Library) in Santa Rosa (December 19), Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Northwest Santa Rosa Library) in Santa Rosa (December 19), Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Petaluma Regional Library) in Petaluma (December 20) and Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Roseland Regional Library) in Santa Rosa (December 20). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Santa Rosa, California?

For families in and around Santa Rosa, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Winter Lights Tree Lighting Celebration (Fri, Nov 27 (time to be announced), free); Bilingual Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Tue, Dec 15, 3:15 to 4 pm, free, registration required); Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Central Santa Rosa Library) (Thu, Dec 17, 4 to 4:30 pm and 4:30 to 5 pm, free, registration required); Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Central Santa Rosa Library) (Sat, Dec 19, 2:30 to 3 pm, free); Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Northwest Santa Rosa Library) (Sat, Dec 19, 4 to 4:30 pm, free); Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Roseland Regional Library) (Sun, Dec 20, 4 to 4:30 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Santa Rosa section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Petaluma, California?

For families in and around Petaluma, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Hotel Petaluma Gingerbread House Showcase and Competition (Fri to Sun, Nov 27 to 29, 10 am to 8 pm, admission not listed); Santa's Riverboat Arrival (Sat, Nov 28, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, free); City of Lights Driving Tour (Dec 1 to 31, self-guided, free); A Very Merry Fred Astaire Holiday Celebration (Fri, Dec 4, 7:30 to 9 pm, $20 admission, ages 3 to 12 $10, under 3 free with a participating parent); Downtown Petaluma Holiday Shopping Stroll (Sat, Dec 5, 11 am to 5 pm, free); Light Up the Square Tree Lighting Celebration (Sat, Dec 5, 6 to 8 pm (tree lighting at 7 pm), free); Festival of Christmas at Petaluma Valley Baptist Church (Sat and Sun, Dec 12 and 13, 4 to 8 pm, free); Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Petaluma Regional Library) (Sat, Dec 12, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm (timed entry), free, ticketed timed entry); Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade (Sat, Dec 12, boats arrive about 6 pm, not stated); Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Petaluma Regional Library) (Sun, Dec 20, 2:30 to 3 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Petaluma section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Sonoma, California?

For families in and around Sonoma, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Sonoma Valley Regional Library) (Sun, Dec 13, 2:30 to 3:30 pm and 3:30 to 4:30 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Sonoma section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Windsor, California?

For families in and around Windsor, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Windsor Regional Library) (Sat, Dec 5, 10:15 to 11:15 am and 2 to 3 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Windsor section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Santa Rosa?

Yes. 15 of the 18 events here are free: Winter Lights Tree Lighting Celebration in Santa Rosa, Santa's Riverboat Arrival in Petaluma, City of Lights Driving Tour in Petaluma, Downtown Petaluma Holiday Shopping Stroll in Petaluma, Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Windsor Regional Library) in Windsor, Light Up the Square Tree Lighting Celebration in Petaluma, Festival of Christmas at Petaluma Valley Baptist Church in Petaluma, Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Petaluma Regional Library) in Petaluma, Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Sonoma Valley Regional Library) in Sonoma, Bilingual Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids in Santa Rosa, Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Central Santa Rosa Library) in Santa Rosa, Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Central Santa Rosa Library) in Santa Rosa, Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Northwest Santa Rosa Library) in Santa Rosa, Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Petaluma Regional Library) in Petaluma and Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Roseland Regional Library) in Santa Rosa. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Santa Rosa this December?

Santa appears at Winter Lights Tree Lighting Celebration in Santa Rosa (November 27), Santa's Riverboat Arrival in Petaluma (November 28), Downtown Petaluma Holiday Shopping Stroll in Petaluma (December 5) and Light Up the Square Tree Lighting Celebration in Petaluma (December 5). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Are there kids' Christmas events in Santa Rosa on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: City of Lights Driving Tour in Petaluma (through December 31).

How much is Hotel Petaluma Gingerbread House Showcase and Competition in Petaluma?

Admission not listed. Hotel Petaluma Gingerbread House Showcase and Competition is on Fri November 27, Sat November 28 and Sun November 29, 2026, 10 am to 8 pm at Hotel Petaluma. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Lights Tree Lighting Celebration in Santa Rosa?

Free. Winter Lights Tree Lighting Celebration is on Friday, November 27, 2026 at Old Courthouse Square. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa's Riverboat Arrival in Petaluma?

Free. Santa's Riverboat Arrival is on Saturday, November 28, 2026, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at River Plaza Shopping Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is City of Lights Driving Tour in Petaluma?

Free. City of Lights Driving Tour is on Tuesday, December 1, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (map available Dec 1; houses decorated until Jan 1, 2027) at Self-guided tour of Petaluma neighborhoods. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is A Very Merry Fred Astaire Holiday Celebration in Petaluma?

$20 admission, ages 3 to 12 $10, under 3 free with a participating parent. A Very Merry Fred Astaire Holiday Celebration is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 7:30 to 9 pm at Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Downtown Petaluma Holiday Shopping Stroll in Petaluma?

Free. Downtown Petaluma Holiday Shopping Stroll is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to 5 pm at Downtown Petaluma. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Windsor Regional Library) in Windsor?

Free, registration required. Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Windsor Regional Library) is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10:15 am to 3 pm at Windsor Regional Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Light Up the Square Tree Lighting Celebration in Petaluma?

Free. Light Up the Square Tree Lighting Celebration is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 6 to 8 pm at Theatre Square. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Festival of Christmas at Petaluma Valley Baptist Church in Petaluma?

Free. Festival of Christmas at Petaluma Valley Baptist Church is on Sat December 12 and Sun December 13, 2026, 4 to 8 pm at Petaluma Valley Baptist Church. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Petaluma Regional Library) in Petaluma?

Free, ticketed timed entry. Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Petaluma Regional Library) is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm at Petaluma Regional Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade in Petaluma?

Not stated. Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 5:30 pm at Petaluma Turning Basin. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Sonoma Valley Regional Library) in Sonoma?

Free, registration required. Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Sonoma Valley Regional Library) is on Sunday, December 13, 2026, 2:30 to 4:30 pm at Sonoma Valley Regional Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Bilingual Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids in Santa Rosa?

Free, registration required. Bilingual Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 3:15 to 4 pm at Roseland Regional Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Central Santa Rosa Library) in Santa Rosa?

Free, registration required. Gingerbread House Workshop for Kids (Central Santa Rosa Library) is on Thursday, December 17, 2026, 4 to 5 pm at Central Santa Rosa Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Central Santa Rosa Library) in Santa Rosa?

Free. Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Central Santa Rosa Library) is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 2:30 to 3 pm at Central Santa Rosa Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Northwest Santa Rosa Library) in Santa Rosa?

Free. Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Northwest Santa Rosa Library) is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 4 to 4:30 pm at Northwest Santa Rosa Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Petaluma Regional Library) in Petaluma?

Free. Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Petaluma Regional Library) is on Sunday, December 20, 2026, 2:30 to 3 pm at Petaluma Regional Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Roseland Regional Library) in Santa Rosa?

Free. Santa Rosa Symphony: Caroling with the Symphony (Roseland Regional Library) is on Sunday, December 20, 2026, 4 to 4:30 pm at Roseland Regional Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Santa Rosa?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Santa Rosa 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.

Kelsey Cecil
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