These 5 Neighborhoods Shine This Season

The Bay Area buzzes with festive energy each December as neighborhoods concoct warm, welcoming light displays and turn evening strolls into memorable holiday traditions.

The five highlights below offer a cheerful way to experience the season locally with your family and friends:

West Of Willow Street | Willow Glen
Throughout Willow Glen but particularly west of Willow St., streets fill with lawn Christmas trees (a 75-year-old annual tradition), illuminated tunnels of arches, and brilliant house decorations. While you’re nearby, don’t miss the massive light display at 1851 Cherry Avenue.

Christmas Tree Lane | Palo Alto
In the 1700 and 1800 blocks of Fulton Street, Christmas Tree Lane glows with coordinated displays and decorated trees that neighbors have maintained for generations.

Eucalyptus Avenue | San Carlos
On Eucalyptus Avenue, almost every home joins in to produce stunning holiday displays along the street, offering an immersive, friendly celebration.

Candy Cane Lane | Redwood City
Along Dewey Street (better known as Candy Cane Lane), yards teem with holiday touches like lighted figures, cutouts, and candy cane accents.

Christmas Tree Lane | Alameda
In the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda, Christmas Tree Lane accentuates the street with glowing trees and creatively decorated homes in a short, flat loop—perfect for kids, grandparents, and visitors.

A slow stroll on a December evening in one of these neighborhoods feels festive and family-friendly, which is why many Bay Area families visit these attractions year after year.

So grab your coat and your phone camera and bring your holiday cheer along as you get out to tour these local favorites. Want to make one of these neighborhoods your permanent residence? Let me know—I’d love to help!