Holiday Events at a Glance

Santa with arms outstretched in greeting on tub boat with mrs claus

2026 Petaluma Holiday Events

Petaluma takes the holiday season very seriously. Time spent in Petaluma during the holiday season is truly magical! The events listed below have been annual traditions in Petaluma for years. For more information on these events and to learn about 17 more, make sure to click on the link for a 2-page pdf you can print out and put on your fridge.

SANTA’S RIVERBOAT ARRIVAL

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at the Turning Basin aboard a Lind Marine tugboat November 28, 2026. Beginning at 11:30 am, the Pacific Empire Chorus will sing carols before Santa and Mrs. Claus are escorted by “Nutcracker”-costumed dancers from the Petaluma School of Ballet. Upon arrival, the Christmas couple will dole out smiles and candy canes to the eager children on their way to their thrones at River Plaza Shopping Center where photos begin at 12:00 pm. Santa’s Riverboat Arrival concludes at 1:30 pm.

SHOP SMALL SATURDAY

On November 28, for Shop Small Saturday, the Petaluma Downtown Association and Petaluma Visitors Program will hand out Small Business tote bags filled with goodies and offers from local retailers while supply lasts. Across the city, many Petaluma merchants will have special deals and activities in honor of American Express’ support-local initiative.

SECOND ANNUAL HOLIDAY HEN HUNT

The first annual Holiday Hen Hunt runs November 28 – January 3. Hidden “Holiday Hens” await discovery across participating downtown businesses. Official Hen Hunt maps will be available at participating stores, the Petaluma Visitor Center, and at petalumadown.com. Hen hunters record the hens’ names on the map and return them to the Visitors Center to enter to win a $200 Shop Petaluma Gift Card, plus other valuable prizes from downtown merchants.

LIGHT UP THE SQUARE

On a December Friday (date to be announced) Santa makes an appearance at Theatre Square for Light Up the Square, the annual tree lighting. This 6-8 pm event also features live music, a laser show, and other holiday performances. The tree will be lit at 7:00 pm.

HOLIDAY DOWNTOWN SHOPPING STROLL

On Saturday, December 5, the PDA presents its Holiday Downtown Shopping Stroll on Kentucky Street, which features special deals in shops all decked out for the holidays. The event runs from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Entertainment includes Pacific Empire Chorus, Apple Tree Morris Dancers, and Santa and Mrs. Claus.

LIGHTED BOAT PARADE

On a December Saturday (date to be announced) the river lights up when the Petaluma Yacht Club presents its popular Lighted Boat Parade. The boats leave the Petaluma Marina at 5:30 pm and arrive at the Turning Basin at 6:00 pm. The date is subject to change due to tides.

CITY OF LIGHTS DRIVING TOUR

The City of Lights Driving Tour spans the entire month of December. Homes and businesses that go all out with holiday lights and decorations are listed on free maps available at the Petaluma Visitor Center and on the PDA site on December 1.