Winter Magic in Napa Valley: From Tractor Lights to Train Rides
There’s something truly enchanting about Christmas in Napa Valley. Perhaps it’s the soft glow of holiday lights dancing across vineyard hills, the jingle of tractor engines in a parade, or the warmth of a fireplace waiting after a day of festive fun. If you’re looking for a holiday escape that blends rural charm with seasonal joy, Napa has it all.
Tractors Aglow: Calistoga’s Lighted Parade
Every December, Calistoga comes alive with its beloved Lighted Tractor Parade. On Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 7 PM, over 50 tractors, trucks, and farm vehicles decked in thousands of twinkling lights rumble along Lincoln Avenue. The whole town gathers—families with hot cocoa in hand, couples wrapped in scarves—creating a scene that feels like stepping into a postcard. The parade is a testament to Calistoga’s agricultural heritage and small-town spirit, welcoming around 12,000 to 14,000 visitors each year.
Downtown Napa’s Home for the Holidays Parade
Napa’s own “Home for the Holidays” Parade is another festive must-see. Scheduled for December 7, 2025, at 5 PM, First Street comes alive with lighted floats, marching bands, and the Grand Marshal leading the way along Brown and Third Streets. Afterward, visitors can meet Santa at the Napa Valley Welcome Center—perfect for photos and family cheer.
Skating Under the Stars at Merry Meritage
At The Meritage Resort in Napa, the holiday glow continues at the “Merry Meritage” winter village. From November 29, 2025, through January 4, 2026, this festive scene unfolds on the Village Lawn. A 40-foot Christmas tree stands surrounded by icicle lights, nightly artificial snow, cozy fire pits, and private igloos. Couples and families glide across the largest outdoor ice rink in Napa Valley by evening light, sometimes to the soundtrack of live music or a visit from Santa at weekend events. It’s pure holiday magic in the heart of wine country.
Create and Sip: Wreath Workshop at Markham
For a slower-paced but equally festive activity, book a spot at the Winter Wreath Workshop at Markham Vineyards on November 29, 2025. Floral designer Chloe Vanessa leads guests through creating their own fragrant wreaths, while a glass of Merlot warms the spirits. The setting in a Napa winery adds a touch of rustic elegance to this hands-on experience.
Savor the Season: Holiday Wine Dinners
Many Napa wineries elevate the holiday season with special dinners. On December 6, Goosecross Cellars hosts a festive “Aeros Dinner” in a cozy cellar setting. A week later, December 13, Merryvale Vineyards offers a holiday wine dinner in their iconic cask room. These elegant meals bring together seasonal cuisine and local wine in a candlelit, joyous ambiance—ideal for couples or intimate gatherings.
Aboard the Santa Train: Jolly Journeys
For a Christmas experience on wheels, the Napa Valley Wine Train’s “Santa Train Jolly Journeys” run Thursday through Saturday from November 30 to December 23, 2025. Passengers start at the station with carolers, cider, a chance to meet Santa, and elves to guide the path. Then the train chugs through vineyard landscapes as guests enjoy cookies, cocoa, and festive carols. Deluxe options include a gourmet dinner in the Pullman car or panoramic views from the Vista Dome. Plus, a portion of proceeds helps support local foster youth and fire safety initiatives.
Festive Flavors and Holiday Markets
Yountville earns its title as the “Brightest Town in Napa Valley” with its holidays celebration beginning mid-November. You’ll find cooking classes, wine tastings, holiday crafting, wine-train giveaways, and festive open houses. Meanwhile, downtown Napa offers the Merritage ice rink, holiday tree lighting, seasonal shopping at Oxbow Public Market, and candlelit strolls along First Street that make window browsing feel like a holiday ritual.
Why Candlelight Inn Feels Like Home for the Holidays
After your day exploring parades, wine dinners, and winter workshops, returning to Candlelight Inn feels like pulling on the softest, coziest sweater. This Tudor-style mansion is framed by landscaped gardens—perfectly charming when lit by holiday lights. Some rooms include fireplaces or spa tubs (subject to availability), offering a peaceful, romantic way to warm up at night. Mornings begin with a gourmet three-course breakfast made with seasonal ingredients, setting the tone for another day of festivity and discovery. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, charm, and holiday spirit.
Bundle Up and Book Your Napa Holiday Getaway
Christmas in Napa Valley isn’t just a season—it’s an experience. Whether you’re marveling at illuminated tractors, sipping Merlot while crafting a wreath, gliding on ice under snowy lights, or clinking wine glasses on a train decked with holiday cheer, Napa embraces you in festive bliss. And then there’s Candlelight Inn—a cozy, romantic base where every detail feels personal and peaceful.
