Sparkling Illuminations Make the Bay Area Magical

Winter Wonderland is a dream to all, especially for the youngsters in our families. The festive light displays for the duration of the holiday season add a sparkle to their fantasy, imagination and creativity. The Bay Area organizations, parks, gardens, boulevards and neighboring communities created the most impressive and colorful displays for all to enjoy and marvel at. And if you are visiting Lake Tahoe: Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow…

Here are a few of the fabulous sites to visit and get together with your family and friends – check if your favorite pooches are allowed to join you on this exciting outing for a California style merry and bright winter celebration.

Christmas in the Park in San Jose

Enjoy a festive walk-through around the 65-foot illuminated tree and a forest of green pines beautifully decorated by San Jose schools, community groups and businesses and take place in the heart of downtown in Plaza de Cesar Chavez. An additional evening drive-through mesmerizing light show is on display at San Jose’s History Park with tickets of $30-$35 per car.

Information: christmasinthepark.com

Widmer World in Pleasanton

Back by popular demand with more than 30 years tradition, the Widmer family of Pleasanton  has presented a popular home display featuring a Big Tree of green and red lights, giant “Peace on Earth” decorative sign and a tunnel of decorated trees, display of popular cartoon characters and life-sized Santas and reindeers.

Information: widmerworld.com

Christmas Tree Lane in Palo Alto

For the past 82 years the residents along this stretch of Fulton Street present a show radiating the old fashioned charm, elegance and history with front yards decorated with glowing lights  and larger-than-life cutouts of Santa Claus and the Three Wise Men.

Information: christmastreelane.org

Hockey Playing Penguins in San Jose

No, this is not the San Jose Sharks NHL team – they are busy competing for the Stanley Cup Championship. The local Penguins team has found a home at a huge front yard which is decorated by an animated train while the owners of this home present two musical light shows, one set to a version of “12 Days of Christmas” by “Straight No Chaser” and the other to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “Christmas in Sarajevo” music.

Information: 6 to 9 pm nightly. lamorelights.com

Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda

For the past 85 years a group of 50 households have presented a special performance  while the youngsters write letters to Santa and deposit it in the special mailbox. Santa may surprise them and stop over for a visit at certain nights. Greg Fogg of El Cerito takes customers on a pedicab ride to see holiday decorations during the annual Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda.

Information: www.facebook.com/christmastreelane

By Lina Broydo