With that in mind, here are some different ideas worth the drive (in some cases) to kick off your holiday season!
1. Nutz Remixed
We went to this last year on a whim and it ended up being a fantastic discovery. Our boys loved it. The show started with a mime who was so funny, one of our sons was literally falling off his seat he was laughing so hard.
They show then moved on to an amazing mix of Cirque du Soleil type acrobatics, Nutcracker-esque hip hop and ballet numbers, and more.
Especially unique was the fact that the whole show was accompanied by a phenomenal acapella group, SoVoSó, so that literally every “instrument” we heard was actually a person’s voice.
2. Gilroy Gardens Holiday Lights
This trip is one of our family traditions, and we bet after one visit it will become a tradition for you, too. Just be sure to wear long underwear, hats and gloves because it gets chilly.
All the trees here are lit up by white and colored lights. It’s beautiful! They do a live Peanuts Christmas Special complete with Linus (and his blanket, of course) talking about the real meaning of Christmas.
Getting some hot chocolate and riding the train around the park is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit.
3. Winter Lodge Outdoor Skating in Palo Alto
For over 60 years, families have enjoyed skating at the Winter Lodge in Palo Alto. Consider it the West Coast’s answer to New York’s famed Rockefeller Center ice skating tradition.
They have public skating, classes, and you can even make group reservations. This is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening during the holiday season.
4. Polar Express Train Ride in Jamestown
Who doesn’t like trains? There is something about them that is magical and that draws kids and kids at heart to them. That’s why we love the Polar Express Train Ride.
This hour-long train ride boasts all the trimmings, including hot chocolates, treats, and of course, Santa himself.
5. Christmas Show at Saratoga Federated Church
This one is personal to us. Our church puts on an amazing FREE Christmas Show every year, and we urge you to give it a visit. This year the title is The Art of Christmas and will be held December 8th through 10th. Get more info here.
This is a great show for the whole family with loads of Christmas spirit. You’ll have a great time!