With the mandate to shelter in place that was issued in early December, many East Bay activities planned for the holidays have been forced to close; Glowfari at the Oakland Zoo and Fairy Winterland at Oakland’s Fairyland are just a few of note. However, there are still ways to safely get into the holiday spirit this year. Here’s a brief selection for you and your family to enjoy:
Fourth Street’s Dazzling Holiday Lights in Berkeley are on display from November 12th through December 28th between Hearst Avenue and Virginia Street. New for 2020 is a “drive by” holiday parade on Saturday 12/12 from 5 to 7pm. Visit FourthStreet for all the details.
Alameda’s Christmas Tree Lane is always a treat! From December 5th through January 1st, 5:30 to 10pm, the homeowners on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue (between High Street and Fernside) in Alameda go all out. If you haven’t experienced their dedication during the holidays, you are truly missing out! Updates can be found @christmastreelane on Facebook.
Oakland’s Christmas Tree Lane is a less known but still a special spot. Each Christmas season, on Oakland’s Picardy Drive between Seminary and 55th Avenue, homeowners of the storybook-style houses deck their homes in twinkling lights and holiday decorations. Head over after dark to enjoy the decorations.
Christmas at Temple Hill surrounds Oakland’s Mormon Temple at 4766 Lincoln Avenue. An enchanting display of lights is available for viewing on the grounds from dusk to 9:15pm every night of the holidays through December 31st. Visit Temple Hill Christmas.
Word has it that there are lesser known residential areas throughout the East Bay where neighbors proudly display their holiday spirit for all to enjoy. Northbrae has been known to provide some terrific light shows on Monterey Avenue near Hopkins Street, in addition to the 900 block of Arlington. On Clarewood in Upper Rockridge (up from Village Market) a lovely display is currently in full view. If you head to streets like Highland Avenue and Seaview in Piedmont, homeowners there also usually do their part to deck the halls.
There are also the traditional trees lit up in Jack London Square, Alameda South Shore, San Leandro, Piedmont, Emeryville and many other spots throughout San Francisco and beyond. Do you know of another residential area that goes all out for the holidays? Reach out and let us know!
