The Holidays in Napa Valley for the Whole Family

Whether you’re a local or visiting the beautiful Napa Valley during the holiday season, there’s no shortage of festive events to bring joy and holiday spirit to your family. From sparkling lights to cozy winter activities, Napa comes alive with the magic of Christmas, offering something for kids (and kids at heart!) at every turn.

We’ve rounded up the best events around town that are perfect for families looking to make holiday memories together. So, grab your little ones, bundle up, and get ready to experience a Napa Christmas like never before!


Santa Napa Wine Train

1275 McKinstry Street, Napa, CA 94559

Date: Selected dates between November 29th - December 23rd

Set off on a joyful holiday adventure with Old Saint Nick as you explore the scenic Napa Valley. Your magical journey begins at the station, where you’ll be greeted by festive carolers, a chance to snap a photo with Santa, and plenty of seasonal cheer. In the spirit of giving, we’re proud to donate a portion of proceeds from select experiences to Napa Firewise, and we’re also collecting gifts for Expressions for Hope Napa—helping keep the holiday magic alive for over 30 years.


Meritage Tree Lighting Ceremony

875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA 94558

Date: November 23rd from 4-10pm

Celebrate the season with an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer at the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy live music, delicious festive treats, and a breathtaking ice skating performance, all set against the backdrop of a stunning 40-foot tree and an outdoor rink. The evening culminates with a magical snowfall finale, making it a joyous experience for guests of all ages.

  • Live performances by the Napa School of Music, American Canyon Chamber Choir, and music by Mercy & The Heartbeats

  • A festive Merry Meritage On Ice skating performance by the Redwood Ice Theatre Company

  • Special appearances by Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus & Elves, as well as beloved characters like Mickey & Minnie Mouse, Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, Moana, and Tiana

  • Family-friendly activities including face painting, letter writing to Santa, Santa's Reading Corner, and train rides

  • A toy drive benefiting Toys for Tots, plus an artisan market offering locally made gifts like handmade jewelry, candles, and chocolates

  • Free admission for local residents and resort guests with online RSVP. Parking and shuttle service will be available.


St. Helena Berringer Wine Barrel Tree Lighting

Hunt Ave. & Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574

Date: November 27th from 5pm - 7pm

Celebrate the start of the holiday season with the St. Helena Chamber of Commerce, City of St. Helena, St. Helena Parks & Rec, SHFD, St. Helena Tourism Improvement District & Santa. 

Watch as the 36-foot Beringer Holiday Wine Barrel Tree is illuminated by the Mayor, and don't miss the enchanting Snow Show Spectacular that will add a touch of winter magic to the evening. 

Get cozy with live music, savor Beringer Vineyards wine, warm up with Brasswood hot toddies and sweet treats. Delicious eats by Charlie's Napa Valley Fried Chicken and Bubbles and Ray Ray's Tacos delights.


Town of Yountville Town & Tree Lighting

6516 Washington Street, Yountville, CA 94599

Date: November 24th from 4:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Join us for a joyful start to the Holidays in Yountville season! Watch as we light up our holiday tree and the entire town with thousands of twinkling lights. From 4 to 5:45 PM, bring the whole family to the Community Center for festive crafts and fun activities. Just before 6 PM, we’ll head outside for special performances on the outdoor stage, followed by the grand lighting of the Town and Holiday Tree. It’s a magical evening you won’t want to miss!


Merry Meritage Resort Holiday Ice Rink

875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA 94558

Date: November 28th - January 11th

reaming of sugar plums and ready to celebrate the holiday season? Merry Meritage returns to The Meritage Resort November 18-January 11 with Napa Valley's largest outdoor ice skating rink and enchanting winter village complete with a 40-foot tree, daily "snow" and festive entertainment and events.


Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade

Lincoln Avenue downtown Calistoga

Date: December 7th

The Calistoga Tractor Parade is a nationally recognized annual holiday parade featuring lighted and decorated vehicles, including tractors, construction and utility vehicles and floats.

The Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade began in the late 1990s as a small, community event. Today, it brings tens of thousands of people to stay in Calistoga and kick off the holiday season.


Downtown Napa Christmas Parade

Main Street downtown Napa

Date: December 7th from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Join the whole Napa community for the annual parade, where floats are decorated over the top with lights and much, much more. Plus, meet Santa after the parade for pictures with the kiddos. 


Wine Trolley Holiday Lights Tour

Napa Yard 585 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 (South Oxbow Parking Lot)

Date: December 6th - December 22nd

The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley is happy to announce the return of its highly anticipated “Holiday Lights Tour”.

This enchanting experience is set to illuminate the holiday season for locals and visitors alike, providing a delightful journey through
Napa’s most dazzling and festively decorated neighborhoods.

(We recommended that large parties book together. )

The Holiday Lights Tour will take a joyful ride through the city of  Napa’s neighborhoods.  On the select nights, our vintage San Francisco Cable Car takes visitors and locals on a fun filled ride of classic holiday spirit.
The 2024 Holiday Lights Tour begin Friday, December 6th and continue through December 22, 2024
Tour will be Friday, December 6, Saturday, December 7, and Sunday, December 8, 2024
Friday  – Sunday, December 13-15
Friday  – Sunday, December 20-22
There are two times to choose from: 6:30 and 8:00pm


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A Guide to Buying Local Christmas Trees in Napa Valley

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Spooktacular Costume Swaps throughout Napa!