The festive season has arrived in Chico! Discover all the must-see holiday events with our guide. Whether you're a Chico native or a holiday pilgrim, our guide helps you navigate the festive landscape.
One highlight of the season is the Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting, where the town gathers to celebrate the beginning of the holiday spirit with a beautifully lit tree and festive cheer. Featuring local performances and glimpses of holiday favorites, the Chico Ice Rink Grand Opening Party also offers an exciting way to enjoy winter activities and gather with friends and family. And the Christmas Preview is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing seasonal treats and unique local gifts. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Chico
- Christmas Preview
- Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting
- Chico Ice Rink Grand Opening Party
- Thursday Night Market
- Small Business Saturday
- Art & Wine Walk
- Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus (South Lake Tahoe)
- Chamber Evening Mixer
- Dia de los Muertos Celebration
- Movies in the Park: Coco
See these and even more events listed below!
Chico Holiday Light Displays
Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Live music and Santa's tree lighting ceremony.
Description:
The Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting in Downtown Chico features a short program of music and uniting words culminating in Santa's arrival to light the Christmas Tree. City Plaza comes alive with the glow of our community's holiday tree.
Where: Chico | More Info: Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting
Chico Holiday Markets and Shopping
Small Business Saturday
What to Expect:
Celebrating local businesses with unique gifts and community support.
Description:
Downtown Chico Small Business Saturday is a community event celebrating local businesses with shopping, dining, pop-up markets, and ice skating.
Where: Chico | More Info: Small Business Saturday
Thursday Night Market
What to Expect:
Weekly market with diverse vendors and entertainment.
Description:
Thursday Night Market in Downtown Chico features a vibrant gathering with over 100 vendors, including certified farmers, local artisans, and food trucks. Enjoy farm-fresh produce, handmade crafts, live entertainment, and mouthwatering prepared foods in a lively atmosphere.
Where: Chico | More Info: Thursday Night Market
Chico Other Holiday Activities
Christmas Preview
What to Expect:
Strolling carolers and Santa visits.
Description:
Since 1978, Christmas Preview has been a Downtown Chico tradition, drawing folks together in the heart of our community to officially kick off the holiday season. Downtown merchants roll out the red carpet, debuting their holiday offerings, showing off fabulous decorations, and providing entertainment.
Where: Chico | More Info: Christmas Preview
Chico Ice Rink Grand Opening Party
What to Expect:
Live music by the Chico Community Band.
Description:
Join us for the Chico Ice Rink Grand Opening Party on Sunday, November 24th, at Chico City Plaza. Enjoy live music by the Chico Community Band and celebrate the start of the holiday season with Downtown Chico's Christmas Preview event.
Where: Chico | More Info: Chico Ice Rink Grand Opening Party
Art & Wine Walk
What to Expect:
Local artists' diverse works showcased alongside wine and beer tastings.
Description:
The Art & Wine Walk in Downtown Chico features an evening of wine and beer tastings, art showcases, live music, and local artists' works including paintings, ceramics, and sculpture.
Where: Chico | More Info: Art & Wine Walk
Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus
What to Expect:
Personalized photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Description:
Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at Sierra-at-Tahoe, where you can share your holiday wishes and take personal photos with the festive duo.
Where: South Lake Tahoe | More Info: Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus
Movies in the Park: Coco
What to Expect:
Family-friendly movie night with pre-movie activities and a costume contest.
Description:
Join us at DeGarmo Park for a family-friendly movie night featuring Coco. Enjoy pre-movie activities like face painting, bounce houses, and engaging games. Complimentary popcorn and a variety of snacks and drinks will be available. The event includes a Halloween costume contest with fun prizes.
Where: Chico | More Info: Movies in the Park: Coco
Dia de los Muertos Celebration
What to Expect:
Traditional altars and live music honoring the deceased.
Description:
Dia de los Muertos Celebration is a cultural event honoring the deceased with vibrant altars, live music, traditional food, and family activities.
Where: Chico | More Info: Dia de los Muertos Celebration
Chamber Evening Mixer
What to Expect:
Networking event for business professionals.
Description:
The Chamber Evening Mixer is an event designed to expand your professional network, offering a platform for business connections and socializing.