San Jose’s
holiday destination
A magical journey through light, art, and holiday wonder.
November 13, 2026 – January 1, 2027
Downtown San Jose · 330 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95110
Featured by
Explore worlds of light
Inspired by the holidays, California, and the diverse cultures that make San Jose unique, each world offers its own atmosphere and story.
Golden Christmas
Be welcomed by a giant laughing Santa, then follow glowing reindeer and Christmas trees to the 60-foot Santa Tree.
Enchanted Jungle
Walk among towering dinosaurs and California wildlife as the jungle comes alive after dark.
California Garden
Wander through blooming gardens, fluttering butterflies, and beneath a giant moon inspired by California’s natural beauty.
Mermaid Current
Follow a glowing ocean current past a giant mermaid, sea creatures, a giant pink octopus, and shimmering bubbles.
Cactus Mirage
Step through the Cactus Gate into a vibrant desert world filled with towering cacti, legendary creatures, and colorful Southwest-inspired traditions.
White Christmas Wonderland
Walk through sparkling ice passages, meet Santa and Arctic friends, then discover the Zodiac Forest beneath the winter sky.
Doca Public Art
Discover two original outdoor exhibitions where children’s imagination and San Jose’s artistic culture come to life through light.
Doca Dream Lab
Children’s drawings are transformed into illuminated sculptures, creating a growing outdoor exhibition where young imaginations come to life.
Radiant Canvas
Inspired by San Jose’s vibrant mural tradition, local artists transform illuminated sculptures into original public artworks through live painting.
More to enjoy
Beyond the light displays, unwind at the holiday lounge, refuel with festive food and drinks, and hop aboard the holiday train.
Holiday lounge
Relax with seasonal drinks, enjoy live entertainment, and celebrate the holidays with family and friends.
Food & drinks
Enjoy a variety of food and drinks during your visit, including meals, snacks, desserts, and seasonal beverages.
Holiday train rides
A favorite for children and families, the holiday train offers a fun way to experience San Jose Holiday Lights from a different perspective.
Children 3 and under ride free with a paying adult.
Plan your visit
A few essentials to help you plan ahead, including when we’re open, where to park, and how to arrive.
Dates
Nov 13, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027. Closed Dec 24–25.
Opening hours
4:30 PM – 10:30 PM. Last entry: 10:00 PM.
Location
Search for San Jose Holiday Lights or 330 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95110.
Parking
Nearby parking within a 3–5 minute walk includes the Almaden/Woz Lot, Ernst & Young Garage (303 Almaden Blvd), and SP+ Parking (280 S Market St). Reserve ahead via ParkWhiz or SpotAngels.
Public transit
VTA Light Rail stops at Children’s Discovery Museum Station (Blue Line), steps from the entrance. VTA Bus serves the San Carlos & Guadalupe River stop out front, with routes 23, 64A, and Rapid 523.
Hear from our guests
Real experiences from our magical festival.
“You’re making me homesick! This is so beautiful and a must for the holidays!! BTW I’m coming home soon YAYYYYYYYYY I MEAN YEEEEEEEE!”
“lf You’re looking for a festive holiday experience in the South Bay that goes beyond the usual neighborhood displays, San Jose’s Holiday Lights Festival — by Doca Festival — is one of the most magical stops this season!”
“This one felt extra special! Seeing San Jose kids’ artwork transformed into glowing lanterns, all the little cultural details, and so many magical photo ops made it feel really rooted in the community.”
“Stop scrolling — we found the most magical lights in the Bay Area! Located right here in San Jose, this holiday light show is the perfect family night out.”
“Thank you San Jose Holiday Lights! A little holiday wonderland right here in the Bay Area. So many twinkly moments, glowing tunnels, and “wowww” lights at every turn.”
What the press said
A few standout lines from the outlets and community partners who covered the experience.
“We’re at the start of San Jose’s brightest season, and it’s actually brighter this year than ever before. That’s thanks to the new San Jose Holiday Lights, a new event that’s lighting up downtown’s Discovery Meadow Park.”
“Larger than life characters stand tall in Discovery Meadow in downtown, creating a different holiday experience for families in San Jose.”
“And I’ll tell you what — it’s really not your normal holiday lights experience. You’ve got Santa, the elves… but that, my friends, is just where it starts.”
“Glowing lights and holiday cheer are all around the city. Exploring San Jose’s festive light attractions is the perfect way to make memories and celebrate the season.”
“Step into a sparkling world of snowflakes, reindeer, and twinkling lights. This classic winter scene brings the magic of a white Christmas to life — even in sunny California!”
Frequently asked questions
We’ve compiled the most important information to help you get the most out of your experience. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us.
