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!
