Napa Valley transforms into a magical wonderland during the holiday season, offering festive celebrations, world-class wines, and charming community traditions. Whether you’re a local or visiting wine country, there are countless events to make your season bright. Here’s your guide to the top holiday happenings in Napa Valley.
Merry Meritage Ice Skating and Winter Village
📍 The Meritage Resort and Spa, Napa
📅 November 18, 2024 – January 11, 2025
Celebrate the holidays at Napa’s largest outdoor ice skating rink! Merry Meritage offers private igloos, cozy fire pits, and festive beverages at Santa’s Tavern. Enjoy storytime with Santa, dazzling skating performances, and even a faux snow machine to bring the North Pole to life. Perfect for families or a festive getaway.
Christmas Tree Lighting at Veterans Park
📍 Veterans Park, Napa
📅 November 27, 2024, 6 PM
Kick off the holiday season with Napa's annual tree lighting ceremony. Mayor Scott Sedgley will lead the countdown, and Scouts BSA will provide free cookies. Enjoy entertainment from local children’s groups and complimentary hot chocolate provided by Downtown Joe’s. A magical evening for the whole family!
St. Helena Tree Lighting Ceremony
📍 St. Helena's Main Street
📅 November 27, 2024, 5 PM – 7 PM
Celebrate the start of the holiday season in the heart of St. Helena! This beloved community event features the lighting of a stunning 36-foot holiday wine barrel tree, live music, and festive treats like hot toddies from Brasswood and Beringer Vineyards wine. Kids will enjoy fun activities and a special visit from Santa Claus for memorable family photos.
WineD Winter Wine-derland
📍 Downtown Napa
📅 November 29 - December 8, 2024 | 11am-6pm
Celebrate the holiday season in style at WineD Winter Wine-derland! With a special holiday passport, guests can enjoy two tastings at over 20 participating tasting rooms while soaking in live entertainment and festive cheer. It's the perfect event for wine lovers to experience Napa's finest offerings this holiday season.
Napa Christmas Parade: “Home for the Holidays"
📍 Downtown Napa
📅 December 7, 2024, 5 PM
Experience the magic of the season with Napa’s annual Christmas Parade. Featuring lighted floats, music, and appearances by Santa himself, this family-friendly event is a beloved community tradition. Floats will be judged in categories like Best Use of Lights, Best Theme-Oriented, and Best Use of Music, with cash prizes for winners.
Wine Train - Santa Train
📍 Napa Valley Wine Train
📅 Select Dates in December
All aboard the Santa Train for a festive holiday journey through Napa Valley! This family-friendly experience combines holiday cheer, storytelling, and a visit from Santa. Enjoy the magical atmosphere of the decorated train as you sip hot cocoa and revel in the joy of the season.
Napa Valley Wine Trolley's "Holiday Lights Tour"
📍 Napa Valley
📅 December 6–22, 2024 (Select Dates)
Climb aboard the Napa Valley Wine Trolley for a dazzling holiday lights tour! This vintage cable car takes you through Napa’s most festive neighborhoods, complete with holiday decor and sparkling displays. A magical experience for locals and visitors alike.
Holiday Market at First Street Napa
📍 First Street Napa
📅 December 7-8, 2024 | 12-4pm
Shop local at Napa's Holiday Market, featuring handcrafted gifts, artisanal foods, and festive live music. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to support local businesses and non-profits while finding unique treasures for the holiday season.
Jam Cellars NYE JaMBash
📍 Jam Cellars, Napa
📅 December 31, 2024
Ring in the New Year with live music, delicious wines, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at Jam Cellars. Celebrate the start of 2025 in style with a night of fun and festivity.
From tree lightings and parades to festive wine tours and artisan markets, Napa Valley is the perfect destination to create unforgettable holiday memories. Explore these events and make this holiday season truly magical.
