Free! November 27, 2026, through January 3, 2027
Price: Free!
Location: Marin Center Fairgrounds
Hours: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm daily, including holidays. Rain or shine*
Step into a winter wonderland at the Holiday Light Spectacular! Gather your family and friends for a magical evening of dazzling light displays, twinkling pathways, festive photo ops, and delightful surprises around every corner. Stroll through the glow and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Opening night kicks off with special entertainment, including a juggler performing with glow-in-the-dark pins. Food and drinks are available for purchase nightly, and films will be screened in the Showcase Theater on select dates. See the full schedule below under “Film Screenings.”
*Please note that the event may be canceled due to lightning or high winds. A notice will be posted on this webpage if this event is canceled due to unsafe weather conditions.
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Film Screenings
| Movie Poster | Movie Name | Screening Date | Length | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Hook (1991) | Saturday, November 28 at 6 PM | 2 hr 16 min | PG |
|
Ghostbusters (1984) | Saturday, December 19 at 6 PM | 1 hr 45 min | PG |
|
James and the Giant Peach (1996) | Saturday, December 26 at 5:30 PM | 1 hr 16 min | PG |
|
The NeverEnding Story (1984) | Saturday, December 26 at 7 PM | 1 hr 34 min | G |
Special Art Exhibit
Industrial Art & Magic: Recent Work from the Marin Model Shop Alumni
November 19, 2026, to January 29, 2027 (during Holiday Light Spectacular!)
Bartolini Gallery, 20 Avenue of the Flags
For decades, the artists and craftspeople of Industrial Light & Magic's legendary Creature & Model Shops brought unforgettable worlds, creatures, and characters to life on screen. This exhibition reunites over a dozen former members of the famed studio's Marin Model Shop to showcase their latest creative endeavors beyond the movies.
Featuring an eclectic collection of paintings, sculpture, scale models, creatures, monsters, mixed-media works, and imaginative constructions, Industrial Art & Magic celebrates the artistry, craftsmanship, and boundless creativity that defined an era of practical effects. From finely crafted miniatures and fantastical beings to personal artwork and new explorations in form and storytelling, the exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the ongoing work of the artists who helped shape cinematic magic.
Together, these works reveal the diverse talents, passions, and artistic journeys of a remarkable group of creators whose imaginations continue to inspire wonder.
The exhibit includes works by Leigh Barbier, Jean Bolte, Dave Fogler, Bill George, Jett Green, Michael Lynch, Jeff Mann, Michael Murnane, Randy Ottenberg, Lorne Peterson, Adam Savage, Tony Sommers, Kim Smith, and Melanie Walas.
Frequently Asked Questions
We recommend entering through the Exhibit Hall building at 20 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael.
Free parking is available throughout the property. Parking lots are available adjacent to the Exhibit Hall at 20 Avenue of the Flags and adjacent to the Veterans' Memorial Auditorium at 10 Avenue of the Flags. EV charging is available in the Exhibit Hall parking lot. Accessible parking is available in both parking lots.
The light display is outdoors, but other activities like the arts and craft studio and the movie screenings are indoors.
The light display is intended for pedestrian traffic and is not accessible by car. The display features accessible paths of travel throughout.
Yes, we will have a concessionaire serving up both sweet and savory food options and non-alcoholic beverages.
Each night will feature a free holiday-themed arts and craft activity. On select nights, join us for movie screenings in the Showcase Theater and other activities hosted by our County partners. Be sure to check the schedule for details and dates!
Leashed pets are welcome in all outdoor spaces. Service animals are permitted in all areas.
Yes, the entire event is accessible. The surfaces include pavement, compacted gravel, tile and carpet. If you require an accommodation for this event, please contact Michelle Barsky at least 72 hours in advance.