Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – Families can add a new tradition to celebrate the holiday season: The Marin Holiday Light Spectacular, a free new event at the Marin County Civic Center and fairgrounds from November 28 through January 4.
From 4-9 PM daily on the fairgrounds, visitors can step into a dazzling world of lights, color, and joy for an unforgettable evening filled with glowing displays, festive music, and heartwarming traditions. Wander through brilliantly lit paths that capture the wonder of winter holidays, explore light sculptures, fields of creativity, and an immersive light tunnel. Event entry is through the Exhibit Hall at 20 Avenue of the Flags in San Rafael.
Guests can also marvel at the holiday lights by driving through the brilliantly lit archways at the historic Marin County Civic Center building, designed by the famed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. During business hours, stop by the Civic Center Library and see lights under the illuminated fourth-floor dome.
The event offers entertainment each night at the Exhibit Hall/Showcase Theater ranging from free movie screenings, hands-on art making, live performances (tickets required), music, and more. Bring a can of food for the food drive, check out Marin County Fire’s vintage fire truck, participate in Marin’s 175th anniversary by writing a “Letter to the Future” for our time capsule, and join in on the fun.
The opening night kick-off event starts at 4 PM Friday, November 28, and will feature music by the Marin Barbershop Chorus, glow-in-the-dark juggling, and a countdown to illumination. The first 100 visitors receive a glow necklace and more.
“As our first-ever holiday light festival, this event brings the community together in the spirit of joy and togetherness,” said Steve Dow, Director of the County’s Department of Cultural Services. “It’s a chance for families to gather, for neighbors to connect, and for everyone to experience the beauty and creativity that makes the holidays so special here in Marin.”
Visitors in vehicles are encouraged to start by driving through the Civic Center’s three illuminated archways on the way to the fairgrounds and ultimately park in the Exhibit Hall parking lot near the Pronzini Christmas Tree Farm, which is moving to the fairgrounds behind Exhibit Hall this year.
The Marin Holiday Light Spectacular will be the perfect place to experience the magic of the season — where culture, community, and holiday spirit shine brightly. The Holiday Light Spectacular is fully accessible and welcomes guests of all ages and abilities.
Select special events will include:
- November 28, Opening Night Celebration
- December 2, Ugly Holiday Sweater Night
- December 4, Free Movie Night: Frozen and The Nightmare Before Christmas
- December 15, Marin’s 175th Anniversary Community Celebration
- December 17, Free Movie Night: Encanto and Love Actually
- December 19, Free Movie Night: Elf and Cool Runnings
- December 26, Free Movie Night: Paddington and Scrooged
- December 28, Free Movie Night: Happy Feet and March of the Penguins
See the full schedule of events at MarinCenter.org.