As fall gives way to the holiday season, there's plenty to look forward to around the Peninsula and Silicon Valley! From charming holiday markets and local art to family-friendly performances and sparkling light displays, November is filled with opportunities to get out, explore, and celebrate.
Here are some upcoming events worth adding to your calendar before the month comes to a close.
Redwood City
Zoppé Italian Family Circus
November 6–29 | Evening Shows & Weekend Matinees
Step inside the Big Top for a beloved Redwood City tradition! Returning for its 19th year, the Zoppé Italian Family Circus brings old-world charm to the Peninsula with daring acrobatics, performing horses, playful dogs, live music, and plenty of laughs from Nino the Clown. With every seat close to the action, this intimate, two-hour performance is a memorable outing for the whole family.
ART on the Square: 11th Annual Holiday Show
Saturday, November 21 | 10 AM–4 PM
San Mateo County History Museum, 2200 Broadway
Get a head start on holiday shopping at ART on the Square's annual holiday show! Browse handcrafted creations from local artists inside the historic San Mateo County History Museum. With unique gifts, festive inspiration, and free admission, it's a wonderful way to support the local creative community.
San Carlos
Holiday Artisan Market at Auto Vino
Sunday, November 22 | 11 AM–5 PM
Auto Vino, 380 Industrial Road
Kick off your holiday shopping at this indoor artisan market surrounded by an impressive collection of classic and collector cars. Browse creations from local makers while enjoying Santa Cruz Mountains wines and delicious food options, including Neapolitan pizza and tri-tip. A festive way to shop small and discover something unique!
Poinsettia in Pastels: Holiday Art Workshop
Saturday, November 21 | 9 AM–12 PM
ART BIAS, 1700 Industrial Road
Get into the holiday spirit with a creative morning of pastel painting! Led by artist Deb Shea, this hands-on workshop invites beginner and intermediate artists to create their own seasonal poinsettia artwork. All supplies are included, making it a lovely opportunity to try something new or enjoy a creative outing.
Menlo Park & Palo Alto
Tellabration! Storytelling Festival — Menlo Park
Saturday, November 21 | 1–3 PM
Menlo Park Library, 800 Alma Street
Celebrate the magic of storytelling at Tellabration!, part of Menlo Park's annual Storytelling Festival. Featuring the South Bay Storytellers and Listeners, this free, family-friendly event brings stories to life through engaging performances and the timeless tradition of oral storytelling.
Festival of Lights: A Diwali Celebration — Palo Alto
Sunday, November 22 | 2–4 PM
Mitchell Park Community Center
Celebrate Diwali with an afternoon of family-friendly activities hosted by the Palo Alto Library. This community celebration offers an opportunity to experience the traditions, creativity, and joy surrounding the Festival of Lights.
Woodside & Portola Valley
Fall Birdwatching at Jasper Ridge — Woodside
Saturday, November 21 | 8–11 AM
Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve
Enjoy the Peninsula's natural beauty during a guided birdwatching outing through Jasper Ridge. Explore different habitats, observe local birdlife, and learn more about the preserve's remarkable ecosystem. Advance registration and Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance membership are required.
Santa Clara & Cupertino
SJMADE Holiday Fair 2026 — Santa Clara
November 27–28 | 11 AM–6 PM
Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Parkway
Discover one of the area's biggest winter holiday craft fairs in the Bay Areas, featuring more than 350 makers and small businesses! Explore handmade gifts, creative accessories, home goods, and unique finds while supporting independent artists and entrepreneurs. A great opportunity to check off your holiday shopping list while discovering local talent.
San Jose
Christmas in the Park
Opening November 27 | Downtown San Jose
Plaza de César Chávez
A beloved South Bay holiday tradition returns! Downtown San Jose transforms into a festive wonderland with hundreds of decorated Christmas trees, sparkling lights, whimsical displays, and family entertainment. This free annual celebration is the perfect way to welcome the holiday season and enjoy a magical evening with family and friends.
Los Altos & Mountain View
50th Annual Festival of Lights Parade — Los Altos
Sunday, November 29 | 6–8 PM
Downtown Los Altos
Celebrate 50 years of holiday magic at one of Los Altos' most beloved traditions! Downtown comes alive with illuminated floats, marching bands, festive characters, and sparkling lights as the community gathers to welcome the holiday season. A wonderful way to wrap up November with family and friends.
The Wizard of Oz — Mountain View
November 21–22 | Multiple Showtimes
Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts
Follow Dorothy, Toto, and their friends down the Yellow Brick Road in this family-friendly production presented by Peninsula Youth Theatre. With memorable characters, colorful costumes, and plenty of adventure, this classic story makes for a delightful weekend theater outing.
Whether you're exploring a holiday market, enjoying a live performance, or spending time outdoors, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of November. We hope these local events bring a little extra warmth and joy to your holiday season!
Event dates, times, and availability may change. Please confirm details with the organizers before attending.
Love Where You Live, But Thinking About What's Next?
From neighborhood traditions to local celebrations, there's so much that makes life on the Peninsula special. If you're considering buying or selling a home in Redwood City, San Carlos, or anywhere across Silicon Valley, we'd love to help you make your next move.
Connect with Brett and Don at Caviness, Straub & Associates | Compass.