Best Neighborhoods For Holiday Home Decorations
Few things celebrate the pure magic of the holidays like a family home covered in decorations and lit up at night. Some Bay Area neighborhoods take holiday home decorations to new heights. Thanks to a popular website, Lights of the Valley, we're picking our favorite holiday 'hoods to cruise this Christmas.
Pleasanton is home to several Winter Wondelands, including this gorgeous home on Sea Eagle Court. Children are welcome to climb aboard the Christmas train, most nights feature "snow" falling on the half-hour and visitors are actually welcome to walk around and within the display.
San Ramon, Contra Costa County
The entire Vista San Ramon neighborhood lights up for the holidays. Now in its 27th year, the "Festival of Lights" features over 152 homes enthusiastically participating. Don't miss the animated nativity scene at the corner of Woodview Terrace Drive and Overlook Court. The entire neighborhood is worth a look.
Livermore is home to a magical selection of holiday homes. Don't skip this fabulous facade on Knottingham Circle, featuring a mix of old school decor and modern "green" lighting. Santas and more are mixed in with the latest in LED lighting and technology. This display, a favorite stop of Santa, will wow kids and adults alike. Seems like the folks on Knottingham Circle don't want global warming to melt Santa's workshop.
It's worth the trip to Novato for this amazing holiday home on Devonshire Drive. For 20 years, the Rombiero Family has not only decorated their home on the outside but gets just as colorful and creative on the inside. Believe it or not, the doors are actually open to the public. Each room and hallway is decorated to the hilt and hundreds of visitors cruise through on any given night. According to the Rombiero's, in 2008 the house was toured by 39,000 people. The Rombiero home on Devonshire Drive is one of the highlights of holiday horse-drawn carriage rides in Novato.
Petaluma is home to some pretty amazing holiday homes. Swing by this dazzler on Capella Ct., it has created a buzz in the Christmas-crazed Petaluma community.
Santa Clara, Santa Clara County
A city with "Santa" in its name has GOT to get into the Christmas Spirit. Santa Clara won't let you down! Add to your tour this New England-style home on Lincoln Avenue. Located near the Santa Clara University Campus, this two story spectacular features lovely lights and "snow" to give you that vintage Christmas feel.
Arlene Drive in Vacaville is lovingly known as Candy Cane Lane during the holiday season. This wonderful walking Winter Wonderland features several houses dolled up for Santa and his elves. Bring your mittens, find a place to park and explore this charming stretch of street on foot.
Don't see your holiday 'hood? Don't worry! Head to Lights of the Valley to explore the Bay Area's most festive homes.
Remember, Santa is watching. Help your friends and fellow admirers be respectful and gentle as you explore the hard work and holiday spirit of these beautiful homes.
