Christmas in the Park Expands, Community Benefits
The tradition returns to downtown San Jose and new drive-thru at Lake Cunningham Park
Last year, the annual tradition of Christmas in the Park (CITP) was temporarily replaced with a COVID safe drive-thru. This year guests get the best of both holiday worlds. The free traditional event returns to downtown San Jose and a new drive-thru is at Lake Cunningham Park.
“Last year we were able to produce an amazing drive-thru during a very trying time. We had a little more financial success than planned with the drive-thru. Guests will see some incredible new features at our downtown Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park free event. We have a new 65’ tall walk-through Christmas tree, new large scale lighted creations like a teddy bear, shooting star and giant ornament, plus an all-new inflatable beer and wine garden,” said executive director, Jason Minsky.
For the drive through there are 12 themed areas, and an all-new soundtrack changes on New Year’s for an entirely new adventure. Based on feedback from last year, a food festival has been added to the end of the drive-thru. Minsky added that fewer tickets per hour are available to eliminate long wait times. A VIP ticket allows guests to skip right to the front of the line.
Everything Opens November 26
Christmas in the Park is a non-profit organization that has held a free community event in downtown San Jose since 1980. On November 26th the opening night tree lighting starts at 6:00pm. An hour earlier (5:00pm) at Lake Cunningham Park, ticketed guests arrive for opening night at Blinky’s Illuminated Holiday drive-thru. Tickets for the drive-thru are already on sale. Last year’s event sold out, and with fewer tickets available this year, Minsky expects a quick sell-out.
“We are making a big splash and want everyone to know what we have planned” added Minsky. “We are so excited to bring both events back and have many new surprises for the community.” Please visit the Christmas in the Park website for more information.