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Posted inLocal News

Marin County light installations brighten Fairgrounds, Civic Center through Jan. 4

by George Alfaro, Bay City News December 16, 2025

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People stroll the illuminated pathways during the Holiday Light Spectacular at the Marin County Fairgrounds in San Rafael on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. The display, which will be open through Jan. 4, features thousands of holiday lights. (George Alfaro/Bay City News)

MARIN COUNTY is presenting the Holiday Light Spectacular event with light installations, multiple displays and illuminated pathways at the Marin Center Fairgrounds and Marin County Civic Center now through Jan. 4, 2026.

Family, friends and loved ones are invited to enjoy the attractions filled with photo ops and surprises as they wander through pathways saturated with holiday lights. Admission is free, and there is a drive-through portion available at the Civic Center display.

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People walk under a Holiday Light Spectacular installation at the Marin County Fairgrounds in San Rafael on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. (George Alfaro/Bay City News)

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Thousands of holiday lights illuminate the County Fairgrounds while a vintage fire truck reflects the glow. Seasonal treats and hot beverages are available for purchase at the County Fairgrounds display.

“I heard about the lights, so I brought the kids out here,” said Lale Mendoza, who visited the event. “I would love to see more events like these for families.”

Left: Lights reflect off a vintage fire truck on display at the Marin County Fairgrounds in San Rafael during the Holiday Light Spectacular winter event. The vehicle was handcrafted in 1956 by Marin County Firefighters at the Woodacre Station. Right: A toy drive receptacle near the truck’s wheel well awaits donations on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. (George Alfaro/Bay City News)

Visitors can head over to the Bartolini Gallery for holiday craft making or to write a letter to the future for Marin’s 175th anniversary time capsule. The space is also hosting a toy drive and food drive for the holidays. Participants can enter a free drawing for a chance to win one free night at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in San Rafael or a $100 gift certificate to Sports Basement.

People walk beside illuminated archways at the Holiday Light Spectacular installations at the Marin County Fairgrounds in San Rafael on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. The display featuring thousands of holiday lights will be open through Jan. 4. (George Alfaro/Bay City News)

Accessible paths are available at both displays and service animals are welcome as well. Non-service animals must be leashed and are only permitted in outdoor spaces.

The holiday light installation is open from 4 to 9 p.m. daily through rain or shine. Admission is free. Please note that the installation may be closed in the event of lightning or high winds.

Tagged: Christmas, Community events, event, family events, Featured, Featured News, free admission, Holiday Events, holiday lights, holiday season, lights, local attractions, Marin Center Fairgrounds, Marin County, Marin County Civic Center, Marin County Parks, San Rafael, winter celebrations
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