Top Holiday Traditions for Families in the Bay Area

Start a family tradition at Christmasville in Emeryville. Capture the magic with Santa and purchase Christmas cards you can share with loved ones, because holiday joy is meant to be passed on.

The holidays have a way of bringing people together like nothing else. From twinkling lights to cozy nights by the fire, there’s something about this season that feels timeless. And if you live in the Bay Area, you know we’re lucky to have so many festive things to do as a family.

Whether it’s strolling through light displays, sipping hot cocoa at a holiday market, or making a special stop to see Santa, these traditions aren’t just activities; they’re the moments your kids will look back on for years to come with a smile.

So, if you’re looking for inspiration this holiday season, here are some of the top holiday traditions for families in the Bay Area, including one that’s quickly becoming a favorite for parents who want to make Christmas truly magical.

Exploring Holiday Lights and Festive Events

One of the most beloved family traditions is strolling through dazzling light displays. The Bay Area is full of sparkling neighborhoods and large community events where the magic of Christmas shines bright. Families often bring cocoa in travel mugs, play Christmas music, and take in the wonder together.

Festive outings also include seasonal shows and concerts. From ballet performances of The Nutcracker to family movie nights at local theaters, these events create moments that fill both kids and parents with joy. The experience is not only about the lights or the stage but about sharing the wonder side by side as a family.

Creating Sweet and Cozy Memories at Home

Holiday traditions do not always require a big event. Many of the most cherished memories are made right at home. Baking cookies, decorating gingerbread houses, or enjoying hot chocolate with extra marshmallows are simple yet powerful ways to create holiday spirit.

These activities give children something to look forward to each year. The laughter in the kitchen, the smell of cookies baking, and the fun of working together all become traditions that shape how kids remember Christmas. Even something as simple as a family movie night in matching pajamas can become a holiday highlight.

Capturing the Magic with Santa at Christmasville

For families looking to add something unforgettable to their holiday traditions, Christmasville in Emeryville has quickly become a favorite. This is not a rushed mall photo. Instead, children step into a North Pole–inspired setting filled with twinkling backdrops, festive decor, Christmas ornaments decorating the entire room, and a joyful atmosphere.

Kids get real moments with Santa where they laugh, chat, and feel truly seen. Parents leave with professional-quality photos that capture genuine smiles and warm memories. Families who experience Christmasville often say it has become their most treasured holiday tradition because it combines the magic of Christmas with memories that last a lifetime.

Make This Holiday Season Truly Special

At the heart of every holiday tradition is the gift of togetherness. Whether your family is walking through glowing lights, baking cookies in the kitchen, or sharing laughs with Santa, these are the moments your children will carry with them for years.

Don’t wait—Santa’s calendar fills up quickly, and once the dates are gone, the magic has to wait another year.

Book your magical photoshoot today at Christmasville in Emeryville before the calendar fills up! Because this year, you deserve more than just a tradition—you deserve a memory of a lifetime.