past events
November 2025
Santa's Tree Lighting Show - Hillsdale Shopping Center 2024
Date: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: North Block Plaza, Hillsdale Shopping Center, San Mateo, CA
Official Event Page: https://samceda.org/events/santas-tree-lighting-show
Details: This festive event features a spectacular aerial artist performance and a special visit from Santa Claus. The community gathers to celebrate the holiday season as the large Christmas tree at Hillsdale Shopping Center is lit, accompanied by music and festive cheer. Suitable for families and all ages.
Holiday Art Show & Concert
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
Location: San Mateo County History Museum, Redwood City, CA
Event Page & Details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-holiday-art-show-and-concert-tickets-1804122231159
Details: A free community event showcasing local artists' artwork and live music performances to celebrate the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy exhibits, performances, and support local culture. The event is family-friendly and free to attend.
past events
December 2025
San Mateo On Ice 2025-2026
Date: November 2025 through January 2026
Time: Varies (Check website for daily hours)
Location: Downtown San Mateo, 131 W 25th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403
Official Event Page: https://sanmateo.gov/onice
Details: San Mateo On Ice is a popular outdoor ice skating rink located in the heart of downtown San Mateo. Open through January, the rink offers a festive atmosphere with seasonal music and holiday decorations, making it a perfect winter activity for families and ice skating enthusiasts of all ages. Skate rentals and skating lessons are available.
IlluminOdyssey - Winter Light Experience at CuriOdyssey
Date: December 2025 (specific dates vary)
Time: Evening hours, typically 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: CuriOdyssey Museum, 1651 Coyote Point Drive, San Mateo, CA 94401
Official Event Page: https://curiodyssey.org/illuminodyssey
Details: IlluminOdyssey is a captivating winter light experience at the CuriOdyssey Museum, featuring immersive holiday light displays set among the museum's natural exhibits and outdoor grounds. Visitors enjoy a magical journey filled with colorful lights, enchanting decorations, and seasonal activities suitable for all ages. Tickets and event details are available on the official site.
past events
December 2025
Winter Wonderland at Central Park & Recreation Center
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Central Park & Recreation Center, 50 E. 5th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94401
Official Event Page: Winter Wonderland - City of San Mateo Special Events
Event Description:
San Mateo’s beloved Winter Wonderland returns with festive lights, holiday music, cookie decorating, crafts, photo opportunities, and more family-friendly activities. Enjoy a magical evening that brings community members together to celebrate the start of the holiday season.
8th Annual Holiday Boutique & Artisan Craft Fair
Date: Friday, December 5, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: 725 Tulane Ct, San Mateo, CA 94402
Event Details:
Crafts, cookies, and charity come together at this community event featuring handmade holiday items perfect for gifting. Support local artisans and enjoy festive activities in a warm, inviting environment.
Official Social Media Announcement:
8th Annual Holiday Boutique - Instagram Post