The holidays bring a warm, joyful energy to California’s Central Valley. For families living in and around Visalia, Hanford, Sanger, Tulare, and their surrounding areas, the season is filled with opportunities to celebrate tradition, enjoy local events, and create cozy moments in the comfort of home. Whether your family loves festive outings or prefers simple at-home traditions, there’s something for everyone this time of year.

Soak In the Magic of Local Light Displays

Twinkling lights are a hallmark of the holiday season—and the Central Valley puts on a beautiful show.

• Downtown Visalia’s Christmas in the Plaza: Bring the whole family for an afternoon filled with holiday joy. Snap your own Pictures with Santa (bring your phone/camera!) Enjoy holiday treats and explore the Christmas market. Saturday, December 6 from 12-3 PM
• Tulare’s Downtown Christmas Parade of Lights: This four-night community celebration will be filled with festive fun for the whole family, including: Christmas movies under the stars, Santa photos, holiday shopping with local vendors and live entertainment, carolers, and more.

Event Hours:

Thursday, Dec 4: 5-10 PM (Parade & Tree Lighting)

Friday, Dec 5 – Sunday, Dec 7: 5-9 PM nightly

• Sanger’s Christmas on the Square:  On Saturday, December 6, from 2-8 PM, Downtown Sanger will be transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland for the annual Christmas on the Square and Holiday Parade.
• Hanford’s Winter Wonderland in Civic Park: Skating under the stars, sharing pancakes with your favorite characters, or taking in the lights with loved ones, Winter Wonderland is the place where memories are made. Visit their website for all the events happening and tickets.

Visit Santa & Browse Holiday Markets

Santa visits and festive markets make the holidays feel extra magical.

• Visalia Mall: Don't miss Santa pictures at Visalia Mall! Book your spot in advance or walk ups welcome.
• Tulare Outlets: Experience a full day of holiday magic and family fun! Saturday, December 20 from 12–6 PM.
• Hanford’s Winter Wonderland Market offers handmade gifts, food vendors, music, ice skating and holiday charm in the heart of downtown. Tickets can be purchased via the website.
• Markets and craft fairs in surrounding towns such as Dinuba, Lemoore, and Kingsburg give families even more places to shop and enjoy community spirit.

Celebrate with Cozy At-Home Traditions

A new home offers the perfect backdrop for meaningful family traditions. Create a little holiday magic with:

• Cookie or gingerbread house decorating
• A family Christmas movie night
• DIY ornament crafting
• A festive hot chocolate bar
• Reading holiday stories by the tree

These simple, cozy moments often become the most cherished memories.



Give Back to Local Families

The holidays are also a wonderful time to support neighbors in need.
Families can participate in local toy drives, volunteer with food banks in Tulare and Kings counties, or join charity events hosted by schools, churches, and civic groups across the region. Small acts of kindness help strengthen the community. San Joaquin Valley Homes will have a drop box for Toys for Tots at their corporate office.

For families in Central Valley communities, the holiday season brings endless opportunities to celebrate, connect, and create new traditions. From festive light displays to cozy nights at home, Christmas is the perfect time to make lasting memories in a place you love.

If you are searching for a new home, San Joaquin Valley Homes is building homes throughout the Central Valley. Our model homes are open daily with no appointments needed. Our website also offers virtual tours for your convenience. Visit www.sjvhomes.com for more information on all our neighborhoods.