December 2024 Events in Alameda County, CA
Alameda County is alive with festive cheer this December, offering a rich lineup of events that cater to families, art lovers, foodies, and everyone in between. From sparkling waterfront parades to cozy brewery gatherings and unique holiday markets, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the month’s exciting calendar.
🎄 December 2024 Event Calendar
🎨 December 1: First Friday Art Walk
Location: Downtown Alameda
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Details: Stroll through local galleries, meet artists, and enjoy live art demonstrations. This vibrant event is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season while supporting local creatives.
✨ December 6: Lighted Yacht Parade
Location: Alameda Marina
Time: 5:30 PM
Details: Watch beautifully decorated boats sail across the marina, illuminating the waterfront with holiday lights. A family-friendly tradition you won’t want to miss.
🎁 December 7: Downtown Alameda Winter Market
Location: Central Avenue, Downtown Alameda
Time: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Details: Shop from local artisans, enjoy warm beverages, and listen to live music. The hot cocoa stroll for kids makes this market a holiday favorite.
🎅 December 8: Double the Fun with Ballet & Birds
🩰 CAPA Nutcracker
Location: Alameda High School
Time: 12:30 PM
Details: Immerse yourself in the magic of the Nutcracker ballet, performed by talented local dancers. A must-see for families and ballet enthusiasts alike.
🐦 Exotic Bird Mart
Location: Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Details: Explore a world of exotic birds, accessories, and more. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children aged 2–10.
🎶 December 11–12: Holiday Fun at Breweries
🍻 December 11: Holiday Party at Faction Brewing
Location: Faction Brewing, Alameda
Time: 5:30 PM
Details: Celebrate the holidays with craft beer, live music, and delicious food trucks at this cozy brewery setting.
💌 December 12: San Francisco Speed Dating
Location: Alameda Island Brewing Company
Time: 6:30 PM
Details: Meet local singles over drinks in a relaxed holiday atmosphere. A great way to connect and make new friends this season.
🚂 December 14–15: Great Train Show
Location: Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (both days)
Details: Explore the nation’s largest traveling train show, featuring model trains, exhibits, workshops, and family-friendly activities. Admission starts at $12 online; children under 11 enter free.
🌟 December 20–21: Festive Gatherings
🎄 December 20: Digistream Bay Area Christmas Party
Location: 2315 Lincoln Avenue, Alameda
Time: 6:00 PM
Details: Join the community for an evening of food, drinks, and holiday cheer.
🛍️ December 21: Faction Brewing Winter Market
Location: Faction Brewing, Alameda
Time: 1:00 PM – Evening
Details: Shop for last-minute gifts from local vendors while enjoying craft beer and live entertainment in a festive atmosphere.
🎉 December 25 & Beyond: Holiday Highlights
🎅 Christmas Day
Date: December 25
Location: Various churches and community centers
Details: Spend the day with loved ones or attend Christmas services and community meals at local venues across Alameda County.
🏇 Golden State Racing Resumes
Date: December 26 onward (Fridays–Sundays)
Location: Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton
Time: Fridays & Saturdays at 12:45 PM; Sundays at 1:45 PM
Details: Enjoy live horse racing at the Stella Artois Grandstand with free admission. Sundays feature $5 beers and hot dogs.
🎆 December 31: New Year’s Eve Celebrations
🎊 New Year’s Eve Celebration at Alameda Elks Lodge
Location: Alameda Elks Lodge
Time: Starts at 7:00 PM
Details: Dance the night away with live music, delicious food, and a champagne toast at midnight.
🛳️ USS Hornet New Year’s Eve Gala
Location: USS Hornet Museum, Alameda
Time: Doors open at 7:00 PM; festivities continue past midnight
Details: Celebrate on a historic aircraft carrier with live music, dancing, and stunning views of Bay Area fireworks.
🌟 Ongoing Events Throughout December
🎭 Live Comedy Nights: Every Thursday–Saturday at Alameda Comedy Club (2431 Central Ave).
🕹️ Classic Gaming at High Scores Arcade: Wednesday–Sunday (1414 Park Street, Alameda).
🧘 Yoga & Breakfast: Sundays at The Preacher's Daughter Bistro (1629 Park Street).
🎨 Drop-In Play Time: Daily at Swings & Wings (2307 Blanding Ave), ideal for families with young children.
🎄 Fresh-Cut Christmas Trees: Available daily at Alameda County Fairgrounds (2005 Valley Ave).
📅 Plan Your December in Alameda County
With a diverse array of events, Alameda County is the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season.
Tips for a Great Month:
Arrive early to popular events like the Lighted Yacht Parade and Nutcracker performances for the best experience.
Bundle up for outdoor activities and waterfront events, especially during evening festivities.
Support local businesses by shopping at artisan markets and enjoying brewery celebrations.
No matter how you choose to spend your December, Alameda County has something special for everyone. Happy holidays!
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