Christmas in Historic Ferndale

Rekindle the magic of Christmas with old-fashioned fun and small-town cheer in the Victorian Village of Ferndale, California. From the lighting of America’s tallest living Christmas tree to festive holiday shopping on Main Street to strolls past historic homes aglow in holiday splendor, Ferndale has all the qualities of the quintessential Christmas town.

America’s tallest living Lighted Christmas tree

Revel in holiday magic at the lighting of Ferndale's spectacular living Christmas tree, the tallest in America! Decked out in colored lights by the volunteer fire department, the radiant spruce at the end of Main is visible for miles, a beacon to herald the Christmas season. Experience small-town Americana at its best as the whole town turns out for the annual tree lighting and celebrates afterward with free cocoa and homemade cookies of all kinds, a tradition since 1934. Arrive early for the annual Portuguese Linguica & Beans Dinner.

christmas shopping in ferndale

You’ll find something for everyone on your list in Ferndale this season. Check out our Hospitality Night holiday open house, when Main Street merchants stay open late serving up goodies & good cheer.

Special thanks to Carl Neeley for the photos and video of previous lighting contest displays.

Make Ferndale Your Home Away from Home This Holiday Season

Lodging in Ferndale

Start planning your holiday getaway to Ferndale today with a stay in one of our historic lodging accommodations, ranging from grand historic inns to quaint Airbnbs.