Stocked Full of Cheer: Your Easy Guide to the Best Holiday Family Fun in Stockton, California

Lincoln Center

Lincoln Center has been a local favorite for over 6 decades featuring specialty shops, unique dining experiences, and plenty of holiday cheer for the whole family. What makes it even more special is the snow! As if by magic, snow will fall on the brick walk every day, every half hour from December 1 - 31 starting at 5pm. Santa will also make appearances with the Chug-a-Bug train through Lincoln Center! Here's the dates and times he'll be stopping by:

Saturday, 12/6: 5pm-7pm
Sunday, 12/7: 12pm-3pm
Saturday, 12/8: 12pm-3pm
Sunday, 12/13: 5pm-7pm
Saturday, 12/14: 12pm-3pm
Sunday, 12/15: 12pm-3pm

Miracle Mile

Since Miracle Mile is home to all things boutique in Stockton with its variety of vibrant shops and restaurants, it's also become the go-to location for much of the community's #shoplocal activity. One visit and you'll see the entrepreneurial spirit that courses through the small businesses here. Find small boutiques filled with fashion, local creations, sweet treats, and beautiful works of art. Plus, on Saturday, December 7 from 12 - 5pm, they'll be having their Holiday Sip & Shop on the Mile—featuring cookie decorating, caroling, pictures with Santa, and more!

Photos with Santa at Weberstown Mall

Jolly old Saint Nick will be stopping by the Weberstown Mall for his annual Photos with Santa visit to the families of Stockton. Now through Christmas Eve, you'll be able to pack up the kids, head to Weberstown, and take a photo with Kris Kringle himself. Also, for children on the autism spectrum and those with related sensory sensitivities, Photos with Sensitive Santa will be taking place on Sunday, December 8.

ALSO: Check out the Paws & Claus event at Weberstown Mall on Monday, December 2 & 9 from 5 - 7pm.

Christmas Lane

"Christmas Lane" truly is a display you need to see to believe, happening between December 1 through 31, from sundown to 9 pm. This sparkling Stockton tradition has been delighting residents and visitors for over 40 years. Thanks to dedicated homeowners who collectively put on an amazing display of lights and decorations each year, there is an abundance of holiday cheer in north Stockton. This show takes up the 1400 block of Meadow Avenue, just west of Pershing Avenue. Prepare to be mesmerized!

"Seussical The Musical" at Stockton Civic Theatre

The outstanding talent at the Stockton Civic Theatre kickoff the holiday season with their performance of "Seussical The Musical." The musical—following the adventures of Horton the Elephant, Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Mayzie LaBird, and more—is performing live on the SCT stage through December 15. Catch this exciting play with you and yours while supporting Stockton's performing arts community.

Festival of Trees

This annual event at the San Joaquin County Historical Museum at Micke Grove Regional Park is a spellbinding holiday season tradition. The Festival of Trees features more than 60 uniquely decorated Christmas trees, children’s activities & crafts, entertainment, food, photos with Santa, historical exhibits, and demonstrations of handcrafted work from pioneer times. The memorable event takes place December 6 (Senior Preview Day), 7, & 8 from 10 am to 4 pm.

Note: Senior Preview Day is for those who have trouble in large crowds.

Downtown Stockton

Another example of just how vibrant our local business scene is in Downtown Stockton . Here you'll find an array of ethnically diverse eateries to satisfy any craving (even the pickiest little eater). Enjoy delicious cuisine at any of our amazing restaurants, then go for a leisurely stroll at sunset on the waterfront promenade to enjoy multiple examples of public art

For the holiday season, Downtown Stockton has a couple traditional events happening on the same night. First up on Saturday, December 7 is the City of Stockton's Annual Holiday at the Point Tree Lighting ceremony from 3 to 7 pm at Weber Point Events Center.

Then, sail away with the festive spirit as the Stockton Yacht Club and Roger Hahn sponsor the 43rd annual Lighted Boat Parade in Downtown Stockton. Hang out after the tree lighting to experience the bright lights as the decorated boats and yachts sail around the Downtown Stockton Waterfront.

Embrace the foodie lifestyle

The amazing food scene spreads beyond Downtown Stockton. The city benefits from a rich and flavorful dining experience. Do you want a place with good food, a place that shows off Stockton well, and a place where anyone in the party will be able to find something to eat?

See the best restaurants in Stockton or you can message us 7 days a week for assistance on shopping, dining, and things to do in Stockton, California.

Take Part in the #StockedFullOfCheer2024 photo contest

You know you've got that holiday spirit. Your Christmas cookie game is on point, you have the best ugly sweaters, and you know all the spots in town with the best lights. Why not take part in our photo contest? Every day of the month has a theme. Post a photo matching the theme on Instagram using our #StockedFullOfCheer2024 hashtag. You could get featured in the gallery below, and even win prizes including Stockton merchandise and restaurant gift cards. Free stuff for celebrating? That really does sound like Christmas!

Bonus: The Stockton Lantern Festival

Celebrate the holidays with a once in a lifetime experience at Stockton Ballpark! The Stockton Lantern Festival will be in full effect thru January 19. Produced by ASM Global, "Koda's Journey through the Magic Ocean" will transport visitors into the beauty of the deep ocean. The larger than life illuminated lanterns evoke the imagination and make memories that will last a lifetime for you and your children. This is bound to blow you away. This holiday season, you DO NOT want to miss this magical experience!