Christmas in the Park

The plaza transforms during winter months with forty musical exhibits, animated displays, and illuminated decorations filling the space. The two-acre grounds feature staged scenes, light installations, and built structures distributed across the entire area.

The tradition started more than forty years ago as a small community gathering in Downtown San Jose. This modest beginning grew into a major regional event that the city now hosts every year.

Schools, businesses, and community groups each decorate their own trees, showing how many people shape this space together. The decorated trees reflect how the entire city celebrates the holiday season as one.

The grounds are easy to explore on foot since all exhibits are spread throughout the plaza. Visitors should prepare for changing weather conditions and wear comfortable shoes, as it can take several hours to see everything.

The Lima Train exhibit displays handcrafted scenes featuring a melting snowman, singing mice, and elves working on woodcraft. These detailed miniature dioramas contain figures and objects created through meticulous handwork.