Looking for something exciting to do this winter? You’ll find plenty of fun winter and holiday events for the entire family in the Fresno area. In fact, attending one of these events may become your new holiday tradition. (If you want to get out of the area, check out some of our best winter getaways near Fresno)
Christmas Tree Lane
December 1 – 25, 2021
Sunday – Thursday: 6 – 10 p.m.
Friday – Saturday: 6 – 11 p.m.
North Van Ness Blvd. between Shields and Shaw Avenues, Fresno, CA
A Fresno tradition for almost 100 years, Christmas Tree Lane is the perfect place to enjoy amazing holiday light displays. Every December, North Van Ness Boulevard in Fig Garden becomes a one-way street lined with hundreds of trees and homes decked out for the holidays. Driving the two-mile stretch between Shields and Shaw is the only option this year. Walkers aren’t permitted due to COVID-19 restrictions.
ZooLights
Weekends from November 26 – December 30
5 – 8 p.m.
Fresno Chaffee Zoo
894 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno
The Fresno Chaffee Zoo turns into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, complete with miles of festive lights and decorations. Your admission includes live entertainment, holographic glasses, and free socially distant photos with Santa. Treats and beverages will be available for purchase during ZooLights, including spiked hot chocolate for the adults. If you have kids, be sure to stop by the Simba Classroom in African Adventure and make a free craft. This event sells out quickly. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Click here for a list of dates, performers, and ticket information.
92nd Annual Downtown Fresno Christmas Parade
December 11, 2021
1 p.m.
Fulton Street, Downtown Fresno
Christmas didn’t feel quite the same after last year’s parade was canceled. Fortunately, this year the Downtown Fresno Christmas Parade is back, and it’s better than ever. Parade organizers decided to keep last year’s theme, “A Night at the Drive-In,” since so many parade participants had already designed their floats by the time the parade was canceled. After the parade is over, be sure to make your way to Mariposa Plaza for the ceremonial tree lighting.
Breakfast with Santa
December 5
9 a.m. – noon
C.P.D.E.S. Hall
172 W. Jefferson Ave., Fresno
Breakfast with Santa is the perfect opportunity for your kids to spend a little one-on-one time with the North Pole’s favorite citizens. Your family will enjoy a hearty pancake breakfast and a special visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus during the event, which is part of the St. Peter Portuguese Celebration. Santa’s guests can dig into their meals at the C.P.D.E.S. Hall or take their pancakes to go.
Holly Jolly Holidays
Now through December 19, Thursday – Sunday
Performances at 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.
2nd Space Theater
928 E. Olive, Fresno
Your entire family will enjoy the sparkling performances at Holly Jolly Holidays, presented by the Good Company Players. The show features stories and songs sure to boost your holiday spirit. Beverages and desserts will be available for sale during intermission. Guests must show a complete vaccination record to be admitted and must wear masks.
Children’s Electric Christmas Parade
December 4
6:30 p.m.
Old Town Clovis
Every float in the Children’s Electric Christmas Parade is ablaze in holiday lights during this popular parade. Finding parking in Old Town Clovis can be a little challenging on parade day. Fortunately, you can avoid parking hassles by parking at the Sierra Vista Mall and taking the free shuttle to the parade. The shuttle will run from 5 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.