Free Christmas events for kids in Oakland

Joy to the Town Holiday Market & Jack London Square Tree Lighting

Nov 28 · 1:00–8:00 pm; performances 1:00–5:30 pm; tree lighting 5:45–8:00 pm

Jack London Square · Broadway & Embarcadero, Oakland, CA 94607

Oakland's free holiday kickoff: a waterfront market with a Kids Zone and Mrs. Claus, live music, then Santa lights the tree followed by a laser show.

Good to know: Free, family event; market vendors and food cost money.

Lighted Yacht Parade on the Oakland–Alameda Estuary

Dec 5

Oakland–Alameda Estuary (view from Jack London Square) · Jack London Square, Oakland, CA 94607

Boats decked out in holiday lights cruise the estuary after dark. Free to watch from the Jack London Square waterfront.

Grand Chanukah Celebration on Lake Merritt

Dec 6 · 4:30 pm

Lake Merritt Amphitheater · Lake Merritt Blvd between 12th St & 1st Ave, Oakland, CA 94612

A 15-foot menorah is lit by the lake on the third night of Hanukkah, with fire performers, music, latkes, crafts and gelt for kids.

Montclair Village Holiday Stroll

Dec 10 · 4:00–8:00 pm

Montclair Village · Mountain Blvd, Montclair Village, Oakland, CA 94611

An evening stroll through Montclair Village with caroling, a family zone, face painting, storytime and crafts for kids.

Good to know: Admission and entertainment are free; professional photos with Santa cost $35.

Rockridge Holidaze

2026 dates not announced yet

College Ave, Rockridge District · College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618

Rockridge shops along College Avenue host kids' craft tables, face painting and coloring sheets for an early-evening holiday stroll.

Good to know: Free to stroll; a few shop activities (like a chocolate workshop) need reservations.

Last year: 2026 not announced yet. 2025: Sat Dec 6, 4–6 pm along College Ave.