The holiday season is officially here—and with it comes the search for the perfect Christmas tree, the joy of baking sweet treats, and a calendar full of festive events. In this guide, you’ll discover the best local tree farms, delicious holiday cookie recipes to try at home, and can’t-miss celebrations happening this season. Let’s make your holidays merry, bright, and beautifully memorable!
Welcome to your go-to holiday guide for the South Bay! If you’re in or around San José, this post is designed to make your season merry and bright — with the perfect Christmas tree, delicious cookies, and magical events all in one place.
First up: we’ll show you the best Christmas tree farms near the South Bay — from convenient, no-fuss pop-up lots to cut-your-own farms nestled in peaceful countryside.
Next, for all you holiday bakers out there: whether you’re looking for classic gingerbread cookies, buttery shortbreads, or festive sugar cookies — dozens of tried-and-true recipes can be found on sites like Food Network, giving you plenty of inspiration for cozy, kitchen-filled holiday afternoons.
And it wouldn’t be the holidays without festive events — the South Bay really lights up this time of year. Whether you head downtown to enjoy Christmas in the Park at Plaza de Cesar Chavez (complete with dazzling lights, animated displays, and family-friendly fun), or take in a seasonal show or community gathering, there’s something for everyone.
Use this guide as your holiday reference — a one-stop resource whether you’re hunting for that perfect pine, baking your signature cookies, or planning an evening of lights, music, and festive cheer. Let’s make this holiday season memorable, joyful, and wonderfully San José!
Christmas Tree Farms
1. Jim and Vicky’s Tree Farm
Photo from Yelp.com
Location: 20381 Black Rd, Los Gatos 95033
Phone Number: (408) 205-2979
2. Queens Trees
Photo from Yelp.com
Location: 12985 Saratoga Ave, Saratoga 95070
Phone Number: (408) 252-9820
3. Mountain Charlie Christmas Tree Ranch
Photo from Yelp.com
Location: 23100 Mountain Charlie Rd, Los Gatos 95033
4. Peacock Tree Farm
Photo from Yelp.com
Location: 17950 Mountain Charlie Rd Los Gatos, CA 95033
Phone Number: (408) 353-6465
5. Four Winds Ranch
Photo from Yelp.com
Location: 19679 Skyline Blvd Los Gatos, CA 95033
Phone Number: (408) 399-9020
Holiday Cookies
Photos are from foodnetwork.com
’Tis the season for warm ovens, cozy kitchens, and cookies that bring everyone together. We’re sharing a delightful collection of holiday cookie recipes perfect for gifting, gatherings, or simply treating yourself. From timeless classics to festive new favorites, you’ll find something sweet for every celebration.
Check out 100 All-Time-Best Christmas Cookies Recipe
Source: foodnetwork.com
Local Upcoming Christmas Events
- Christmas in the Park
Photo from sjdowntown.com
Dates: November 26, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Location: 194 South Market Street, San Jose 95113
Website: Christmas in the Park
2. The San Jose Nutcracker
Photo from newballet.com
Dates: December 13-23, 2025
Location: California Theatre, 345 S. First St., San Jose, CA 95113
Website: The San Jose Nutcracker
3. Willow Glen Holiday Lights
Photo from Yelp.com
Dates: October 1-31, 2024. Open from 9am-6:30pm Sunday-Thursday, 9am-10:30pm Friday-Saturday
Location: Glen Brook Ave | Willow Glen, San Jose 95125
Website: Willow Glen Holiday Lights
4. Skate Under the Palms
Photo from skateunderthepalms.com
Dates: Open daily through January 19, 2026
Location: 120 S. Market Street, San Jose 95113
Website: Skate Under the Palms
5. Blinky’s Drive Thru
Photo from christmasinthepark.com
Dates: Nov 28 – Dec 31, 2025
Location: Santa Clara County Fairgrounds
Website: Blinky’s Drive Thru
As the season fills San Jose with twinkling lights, fresh pine scents, and the comforting warmth of homemade cookies, we hope this guide helps you make the most of every festive moment. Whether you’re strolling through Christmas tree farms to find that perfect spruce, trying out delicious holiday cookie recipes to share with friends and family, or exploring the magical events happening around Downtown San Jose, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate.
Let this blog be your go-to resource as you plan your holiday adventures—bookmark it, share it, and come back anytime you need inspiration. Here’s to a joyful, cozy, and memory-filled holiday season right here in the heart of the South Bay!
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