Downtown San Rafael will once again host its annual holiday Parade & Winter Wonderland. In its 31st year, the event features a Holiday Marketplace with arts and crafts, live entertainment, children’s activities, free snow sledding, and one of the largest Holiday Parades in the Bay Area.

In 2008 the event was attended by people from all over Marin County. It enjoys a very “local” feel and is known as a great destination for people of all ages. The event starts at noon with free snow sledding and kids’ activities, then is followed by the Holiday Marketplace at 2 pm and the Parade at 5:30 pm.

Following the Parade, Santa, Ms. Claus and other costumed characters arrive with the Mayor of San Rafael to the center of town in the City Plaza to light the official Holiday Tree. Following the Tree Lighting Ceremony, Santa and friends are available for a meet and greet with the kids.

The entire event is free to the public and occurs the day after Thanksgiving, one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Don’t miss this great opportunity to take advantage of the Holiday shopping season. Due to the time of year, we recommend that all exhibitors provide your own battery powered lights for your booth.

To request accommodations for persons with disabilities or if you have communication needs such as large print, braille or sign language interpreters, please call 1-800-310-6563 or fax us at 415-456-6436 at least three weeks prior to the event.

For all your public transportation options, visit www.511.org.