'Tis the Season in Pleasant Hill

12/04/23

Jingle all the way to Pleasant Hill this winter and get in the spirit with our guide to the holidays.

The holiday season is a magical time in Pleasant Hill. Filled with sparkling light displays, local shops, and festive cheer, you’ll enjoy plenty of things to do with your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly events or seeking fun activities for a date night, Pleasant Hill offers unforgettable experiences for all ages.

TIP: Advance tickets and registrations may be required at many locations so be sure to look online or call to get the most up-to-date information for particular businesses and events. However you celebrate, we wish you a safe and joyful holiday.

1. Celebrate Pleasant Hill Holiday Traditions

Create magical Christmas activities in Pleasant Hill, where dazzling light displays, joyous music, and a vibrant ambience await. Head to Downtown Pleasant Hill while the streets are transformed into a magical winter wonderland up and down Crescent Hill Drive.

2. Pick the Perfect Gift

There's no shortage of shopping options around Pleasant Hill for all your gifting needs. Discover festive shopping events, or head to a retail center.

Nearby Shopping Hubs

With over 150 specialty stores, Sunvalley Shopping Center will be sure to have something for everyone. Or head over to the San Francisco Premium Outlets for holiday deals on your favorite brands. Visit Downtown Pleasant Hill for a blend of specialty shops and restaurants or make a day of it and explore The Veranda. Shop for gifts then take a bite to-go as you de-stress from the shopping frenzy with a relaxing lunch next to their calming water fountains.

Credit: Photo by Element5 Digital

3. Get in the Holiday Spirit(s)

Warm up and fill up with seasonal spirits from one of our many local vineyards this winter. Attend an event that embraces a jolly atmosphere, sipping on succulent cups of wine and strolling through scenic surroundings.

Local Wine & Beer Tastings

For more ways to make a “wine-derful” holiday, give the gift of luxury and raise your glasses at this Livermore Valley or pamper a loved one with a tasting at William Welch Wines, a unique tailored experience featuring a selection of sustainable and locally grown wines. Beer enthusiasts will enjoy visiting Morgan Territory Brewing Co, discoring some of the very best craft brews in the country.

Credit: Glowfari Lantern Festival Oakland Zoo

4. Check Out The Festivities

Dive into yearly traditions in and around the Pleasant Hill area. Find a wide variety of festive happenings, ranging from kid-friendly holiday activities to date nights with glimmering displays of lights.

Glowfari

Through January 28, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Roam around the Oakland Zoo for Glowfari, a wildly illuminating lantern festival with hundreds of larger-than-life animal and plant lanterns that will leave visitors of all ages marveling. Bring your little wildlife enthusiasts and enrich your learning about different species. Complete your experience with a train ride and spot the animals of Madagascar, including lemurs and chameleons.

Holiday in the Park at Six Flags

Through January 2, 2024 | 2:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Transport yourself to a winter wonderland at Six Flags, enjoying an array of kid-friendly attractions and activities during Discovery Kingdom's Holiday in the Park. Visit with Santa or pose with a real life penguin.

5. Explore Festive Entertainment

Discover a variety of live entertainment venues and thrilling activities. Whether you’re watching a classic winter film at a movie theater or planning an outdoor family outing, Pleasant Hill features endless excitement for your family and friends.

Ice at the Veranda

Through February 14, 2024 | 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Glide across an ice rink at the Veranda with a backdrop of glowing lights at night. While making laps around the rink, spot a towering Christmas tree on the grounds of this retail center. Season passes are available for purchase and offer unlimited access to the rink during the times of operation.

Looking for more ways to spend the holidays in Pleasant Hill? Looking through our event calendar and discover more upcoming festivities around the area.