Holiday Happenings and Events 2025

As the temperatures drop and leaves start to fall from the trees, it's time to get into the holiday spirit! The vibrant communities of southern Yosemite host a variety of festive and cheery events throughout November and December. From the local Golden Chain Theatre's holiday production to ornament decorating workshops and tree lightings, there is something for everyone to get into the spirit! 

The local Golden Chain Theatre presents "The Little Town of Christmas" with performances on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November 21st to December 21st. The holiday spirit comes to life in these 12 yuletide sketches in this family-friendly production set in a charming small town. Enjoy traditional carols, good laughs, and holiday nostalgia at this local production. 

This winter, lace up your skates and glide into the holiday spirit. The Winter Wonderland Ice Rink at Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino offers themed skating nights throughout the season, featuring charity events such as the Food Drive Skate and Coats & Toys for Tots Drive, as well as family favorites like Ice Wars: The Empire Skates Back and the Country Christmas Celebration. 

Up in the mountains, the Bass Lake Rink at The Pines Resort opens on November 28, where guests can spin, glide, and slide on a sparkling artificial "Glice" rink beneath the towering pines, and the Curry Village Ice Rink in Yosemite Valley is an alpine holiday dream come true. 

Holiday art and craft events make for memorable family traditions. Paint a festive masterpiece at the Holiday Highland Cow Paint Night at The Pines Resort or try your hand at the Vintage Santa Paint Night at Idle Hour Winery & Kitchen. Over at Tenaya at Yosemite, families can dive into classic holiday fun with workshops for gingerbread houses, ornaments, and snowglobes, perfect for little hands and creative spirits alike. 

Gather your loved ones and experience the magic of community celebrations as lights twinkle across the Sierra. Don't miss the Bass Lake Jingle Bash Golf Cart Parade and Tree Lighting on November 28, and the 34th Annual Bass Lake Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights on November 29.

The Oakhurst Tree Lighting, scheduled for December 6, will feature hot chocolate and fun sweets, local vendors, and holiday carols. Festivities continue with the small-town charm of the Coarsegold Tree Lighting, the Downtown Madera Christmas Light Parade, and the Tesoro Viejo Tree Lighting, each a unique celebration. 

Give thanks and indulge with unforgettable holiday meals throughout the region. Celebrate Thanksgiving with delicious feasts at the Narrow Gauge Inn's Aroma Tavern, E.C.C.O Conference Center, Tenaya at Yosemite, or Ducey's on the Lake. 

In December, gather with family and friends for Breakfast with Santa at Tenaya at Yosemite. Enjoy breakfast with the Grinch and Brunch with Santa at The Pines Resort. Toast to the new year with festive New Year's Eve celebrations at The Pines Resort and Yosemite Wine Tails, complete with music, fun beverages, photo opportunities, and mountain cheer. 

Find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local artists and small businesses. The Pines Village Holiday Market Arts & Craft Fair offers handmade treasures and festive treats, while the Holiday Vendor Sale at Yosemite Cinema and Small Business Saturday at Yosemite Wine Tails make it easy to shop local in style. Don't miss the Pink Friday sale around Oakhurst on November 21, or Black Friday Sale at Yosemite Sierra Artist Gallery, perfect for finding art and unique gifts that capture the magic of the region. 

For a true hidden holiday gem, head to Coarsegold's Nature of Wildworks Friday Night Lights to meet rescued wildlife under twinkling lights and watch them open presents! This heartwarming and educational experience is perfect for all ages. 

With so many ways to celebrate, Madera County shines as a holiday destination filled with small-town warmth and big seasonal spirit. Whether you're skating under the stars, savoring a holiday feast, or watching the lights sparkle over Bass Lake, there's no better way to embrace the season. Book your stay today and make this holiday season one to remember in Yosemite's Southern Gateway.