Holiday Events Presented by the Walnut Creek Historical Society
What better way to kick off and enjoy the upcoming 2025 holiday season than to join family and friends at the Shadelands Ranch Museum for traditional Holiday Teas, a visit with Santa, and the annual Holiday Faire, when the historic 1903 Penniman home is transformed into a holiday boutique, overflowing with handcrafted items and gifts offered by dozens of local artisans and vendors. Reservations for Holiday Teas and Visit with Santa open October 1.
The hugely popular Shadelands Holiday Teas feature a three-course luncheon highlighted with the Ranch Museum’s delicious scones and homemade lemon curd, accompanied by the Ranch’s secret Shadelands Tea Blend, all served in the intimate setting of either the parlor or dining room.
Holiday Teas run every day for two weeks each year, starting the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Two seatings are available each day: 11am and 1:30pm. Special Champagne Teas are available on two Saturdays at 4pm: December 6, and December 13. Reservations open at 9am on October 1, by calling the Walnut Creek Historical Society’s office at 925.935.7871.
Daily Teas are $55/per person, and Champagne Teas are $65/person — and they both sell out every year. Plan to call October 1 to reserve your spot of tea, scones and lemon curd, and special seat at the Holiday Tea table.
Santa Clause is coming to Shadelands Ranch, Saturday, November 29, 2025, 10am-3pm. Enjoy a holiday meet ’n’ greet with Mr. & Mrs. Claus at the Shadelands Ranch gazebo, and bring your own camera to capture the moments. Tickets will be available for purchase beginning October 1, 2025, and everyone over the age of one year must have a ticket.
The Shadelands Holiday Faire has been a seasonal tradition at the Shadelands Ranch Museum since 1983, when the holiday spirit comes alive with displays of distinctive handcrafted gifts for everyone on your list — including yourself. This year, the Holiday Faire runs November 29-December 14, 10am-4pm daily. Admission and parking are free.
Walnut Creek Historical Society
2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek
Shadelands Ranch Museum
925.935.7871