December Events in Contra Costa County, CA


December is a time for celebration, connection, and holiday cheer in Contra Costa County. Whether you’re looking to shop for unique gifts, enjoy festive performances, or spend quality time with family and friends, there’s no shortage of events to make your holiday season magical. Here’s your guide to the best events happening this December.

🎄 Week 1: December 1–7

✨ Concord Annual Tree Lighting & Mayor’s Sing-Along

  • Date: Friday, December 1

  • Time: 5:30–8:00 PM

  • Location: Todos Santos Plaza, Concord

  • Details: This beloved tradition features live performances, holiday crafts, photos with Santa, and a festive tree-lighting ceremony led by Mayor Laura Hoffmeister. Enjoy carriage rides and the Sip ‘n’ Stroll for a perfect evening.

🎁 Holiday Gift and Craft Fair

  • Date: Saturday, December 2

  • Time: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM

  • Location: Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle, Concord

  • Details: Shop from over 70 vendors offering handmade gifts, jewelry, and more. Admission is free.

🎨 Merry Makers Marketplace

  • Date: Saturday, December 2

  • Time: Noon–5:00 PM

  • Location: Todos Santos Plaza, Concord

  • Details: Celebrate local art and culture at this seasonal market featuring unique crafts and goods.

🎅 Week 2: December 8–14

🍪 National Cookie Day Celebration

  • Date: Sunday, December 8

  • Time: 11:00 AM–1:00 PM

  • Location: Fountain Pavilion Park at The Veranda, Concord

  • Details: Bring the kids for cookies, cocoa, storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and festive crafts. Admission is free.

🌟 Sensory-Friendly Santa

  • Date: Sunday, December 8

  • Time: 9:00–10:30 AM

  • Location: Sunvalley Shopping Center, Grand Court, Concord

  • Details: This welcoming environment is perfect for children with sensory sensitivities to meet Santa. Free admission; photo packages available.

🎵 27th Annual Madrigal Dinner

  • Dates: Thursday–Saturday, December 12–14

  • Time: Doors open at 5:45 PM; dinner begins at 6:00 PM

  • Location: Covenant Community Church, Alamo

  • Details: Enjoy a medieval-themed evening of music and merriment with the WCW Sylvan Singers. Tickets include a catered buffet.

🎶 Week 3: December 15–21

🍷 Martinez Holiday Sparkle Sip & Shop

  • Date: Saturday, December 16

  • Time: 1:00–4:00 PM (shopping); Tree lighting at 4:30 PM

  • Location: Downtown Martinez

  • Details: Stroll through downtown shops while sipping wine from local wineries. Stay for the tree lighting and holiday music to complete the experience.

🎼 Live Music & Wine at Riggers Loft

  • Dates: Thursday–Sunday (weekly)

  • Time: Evenings (check specific times)

  • Location: Riggers Loft Wine Company, Richmond

  • Details: Sip local wines and enjoy live music in a cozy waterfront setting. A perfect way to unwind during the holidays.

🌟 Week 4: December 22–31

🕯️ Christmas Eve Services

  • Date: Sunday, December 24

  • Location: Churches throughout Contra Costa County

  • Details: Many local churches host beautiful candlelight services on Christmas Eve. Check your nearest church for times and details.

🎆 New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Ring in the New Year at these exciting venues across the county:

  • Riggers Loft Wine Company (Richmond): Enjoy live music and dancing in a festive atmosphere.

  • Dan’s Irish Sports Bar (Walnut Creek): A lively dive bar experience with live music.

  • Canyon Club Brewery (Moraga): Family-friendly celebration with craft beer and live entertainment.

🎨 Ongoing Events Throughout December

🎅 Photos with Santa

  • Dates: Weekends in December

  • Locations: The Streets of Brentwood, Sunvalley Shopping Center (Concord)

  • Details: Visit Santa in a festive setting and capture the perfect holiday memory. Reservations are recommended.

🎄 Holiday Lights Displays

  • Dates: December 1–31

  • Locations: Tice Valley (Walnut Creek), Christmas Tree Lane (Antioch), Deer Ridge (Brentwood)

  • Details: Take a drive through these neighborhoods to see stunning holiday lights and decorations.

🎸 Live Music at Local Breweries

  • Locations:

    • Del Cielo Brewing Co. (Martinez): Weekly live performances.

    • Epidemic Ales (Concord): Check their schedule for events.

    • WiseGirl (Pleasant Hill): Live music and dining in a festive atmosphere.

📅 Plan Your December in Contra Costa County

With so many events happening across the county, there’s no better time to connect with your community and celebrate the season.

Tips for a Great Month:

  • Arrive early to popular events like tree lightings and holiday markets to secure parking and good spots.

  • Dress warmly for outdoor activities, especially evening events like light displays and caroling.

  • Support local businesses by shopping at artisan markets and enjoying local brews and wines.

Make the most of this magical month, and enjoy everything Contra Costa County has to offer this holiday season.

For updates and more community insights, visit www.findebhomes.com. Happy holidays!