A curated list of Oakland Events: December 2023 by Cush Real Estate by Design:
Holiday Lights: Alameda’s Christmas Tree Lane | December 1-31
It’s well established that the best place to see holiday lights in the East Bay is in Alameda. It’s well worth the drive and exercise of parking (not usually too bad), to see the lights that make the 3200 block of Thompson Ave feel so special. We love it for little ones and visiting grandparents because this block is easily walkable or strollable. For more info, click here.
Glowfari at Oakland Zoo | Dec 1 – Jan 28
This wildly popular, family-friendly illuminating lantern festival is back with hundreds of ALL new, larger-than-life animal lanterns throughout the Zoo. Finish your experience with a rid eon the train, and visit Santa every night in December from 6 to 9 PM, through December 23. Click here for ticket info!
47th Annual Lighted Yacht Parade | Dec 2 at 5:30 PM
The 47th Annual Lighted Yacht Parade hosted by the Encinal and Oakland Yacht Clubs will take place on Saturday, December 2nd at 5:30 PM on the Oakland/Alameda Estuary. The event will benefit Alameda County Community Food Bank and Oakland Firefighters. The parade will start between Wind River and the Fortman Marina’s public pier. For more info click here.
Holiday Tea at the Claremont Club | Dec 2 – 30
Our elevated Holiday Tea features all of the inclusions of our iconic Afternoon Tea, paired with elegant live music and beautiful holiday décor. Recurring daily through December 30, click here for info.
Grand Menorah Lighting at Lake Merritt Amphitheater | December 10 at 4:30
Join us on the first night of Chanukah for the 18th annual Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony as we celebrate the spirit of love & unity in the Oakland community. Live music, food, crafts, and more! For more info click here.
Holiday Faire in Temescal Alley | December 10 from 11AM to 4PM
The Temescal District is excited to host the 2023 Holiday Faire in Temescal Alley! For one afternoon we’ll shut down 49th Street to cars and fill the street with local merchants who will get in the spirit with holiday music and give a few pets to our furry friends at the free petting zoo. Click here for info.
San Francisco Ballet Presents The Nutcracker | War Memorial Opera House | Dec 13 – 30
Experience the magical winter wonderland of toy soldiers, King of the Mice, Sugar Plum Fairy, and so much more. This dazzling production is a kaleidoscope of over 150 dancers accompanied by the SF Ballet Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. For tickets click here.
Oakland Ballet Presents The Nutcracker | Paramount Theatre | Dec 16 – 17
The Oakland Symphony along with the Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir bring Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score to life. Graham Lustig’s The Nutcracker will be the highlight of your holiday season! For tickets click here.
Fairy Winterland at Children’s Fairyland | Dec 16 – 30
Children’s Fairyland shines bright during Fairy Winterland! An Oakland tradition for 18 years, this magical, multicultural event brings families together to share in the season’s many festivities. From sparkling landscapes of twinkly lights to spirited nightly performances and complimentary cups of cocoa and cider, Fairy Winterland is the most wonderful way to celebrate the traditions and holidays of the many cultures that make Oakland unique. Click here for info.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise | December 31
Ring in the New Year with the annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise in San Francisco Bay. The New Year’s journey departs from Jack London Square in Oakland. Cruisers will travel under the Bay Bridge & see views of San Francisco, Coit Tower, Fisherman’s Wharf, Embarcadero, Alcatraz, Ghirardelli Square & the Golden Gate Bridge. Premium bar & catering on board! For ticket info, click here.