Frequently Asked Questions
What is Christmas in the Park?
Each year, the two-acre Plaza De Cesar Chavez is transformed into a holiday fantasy with over 40 musical and animated exhibits, glittering lights and the 60-foot Community Giving Tree. Some of the original displays are housed in one of the largest exhibits, the Lima Train, include a melting snowman, caroling mice and elf woodcrafters.
We are a 501 (c3) non-profit organization that brings this free community event through sponsorships, donations, grants, and programs. Each summer, we host “Christmas in July," a fundraiser under the stars, where guests dine and dance in support of the event. Throughout the rest of the year, Santa and his elves work long and hard to clean, spruce and fix up the displays, work with companies to develop sponsorships, find grants, and raise the necessary dollars to bring this magical holiday experience to you every year.
How much does it cost to go to Christmas in the Park?
Admission is absolutely free! It costs nothing to visit Christmas in the Park with your friends and families. Donations are greatly appreciated and can be made online, in the Information Booth or Santa Visit Area.
When is the park open?
Christmas in the Park opens the day after Thanksgiving every year. This year, it is November 24 starting with the Community Tree Lighting Ceremony. From then on, the event is open every day through January 1, from noon to 10pm, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Where is Christmas in the Park?
Christmas in the Park takes place in the heart of Downtown San José at the Plaza de Cesar Chavez on Market St. between San Fernando and San Carlos St.
How can I donate to Christmas in the Park?
Simply choose the "Get Involved" tab on our home page and follow the simple donate instructions. There are also donation boxes in the Information Booth and Santa Visit Area.
To be put on Santa’s Good List, Leave a Donation! For Sponsors, please visit the sponsors page to learn more about the benefits of being a Christmas in the Park sponsor.
Are there restaurants nearby?
Of course there are! Christmas in the Park is located in the heart of downtown and is surrounded by multiple restaurants all within walking distance.
Are there hotels nearby?
Plenty of hotels border Christmas in the Park, but Santa’s home away from home is Signia by Hilton.
Is food available in the Park?
The Christmas in the Park Food Court is located at the south end of the park near San Carlos St. Located in the north end of the park is “Santa’s Snack Shack” presented by the Downtown Kiwanis organization.
How can I sign up to perform on the stage?
To be a part of the live entertainment, all acts must register online. All performances and costumes must be family-friendly and exhibit good taste. We welcome all kinds of acts, from singing, and dancing, to other unusual and fun talents.
Forgot cash! Is there an ATM in the Park?
Yes, there is. There is an ATM located at both the north and south ends of the park as well as at the crosswalk on the Fairmont side of the park and the crosswalk on the Tech Museum side of the Park. Remember, there is a fee for using the ATM.
When will Santa be in the Park?
Santa's House hours will be posted on our Events page and within the Park. You can visit and take photos for free. Donations are always welcome.
I want to help! How do I volunteer?
It takes thousands of volunteer hours to make Christmas in the Park a reality. We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities ranging from a few hours a day to several weeks. Christmas in the Park is a popular choice for people in need of community service hours and students wanting to get more involved in the community. Choose the "Get Involved" link from our homepage for more information.
How old do you have to be to volunteer?
All volunteers under the age of 18 must have a Minor Consent form signed by a parent or guardian to participate in the student volunteer program. An adult supervisor is needed to accompany all students under the age of 16. All volunteers, regardless of age, must sign a volunteer service form before the start of the event.
What about the ice rink, rides
The ice rink and carnival rides are not produced nor managed by Christmas in the Park. Downtown Ice is a program of the San Jose Downtown Association. The carnival rides that stretch along Paseo de San Antonio known as Winter Wonderland, is managed by Giant Creative, a private business. Together, all three of us make up Downtown for the Holidays. We help bring business, entertainment, and fun to Downtown San Jose each year.