8 Essential Davis, CA Events And Activities Happening TODAY, December 24, 2025
Finding fresh, engaging things to do in Davis, CA, on a major holiday like Christmas Eve requires local knowledge and up-to-the-minute information. As of today, Wednesday, December 24, 2025, the city is observing the holiday with a mix of specific community events and year-round attractions that remain accessible, offering a perfect blend of festive cheer and classic Davis charm. Forget the closed signs—this guide delivers the essential, confirmed activities to make the most of your day, from last-minute holiday shopping to communal dining and exploring the city's unique outdoor spaces.
This list is your definitive guide to navigating Davis on Christmas Eve, focusing on events that are confirmed to be running and permanent attractions that are always open. From the final hours of a beloved holiday market to a decades-old community tradition, there's a way to celebrate and explore the unique culture of this vibrant Central Valley city.
The Day's Confirmed Holiday Events and Festive Closures
While many businesses and city offices are closed or operating on reduced hours today, December 24, 2025, several key events and public services are still available, specifically catering to the holiday spirit and community needs.
1. Last Chance: Pence Gallery Holiday Market
The annual Pence Gallery Holiday Market is a staple of the Davis holiday season, and today marks your final opportunity to attend.
- What: A curated market featuring unique, handmade gifts, art, and crafts from local and regional artists.
- Why Visit: It's the perfect spot for last-minute, one-of-a-kind holiday shopping that supports the local arts community.
- Time: The market is typically open until the late afternoon on Christmas Eve, with hours running from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm.
- Location: Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis.
2. 39th Annual Community Christmas Eve Holiday Meal
A heartwarming tradition that ensures everyone in the community has a place to go and a hot meal on Christmas Eve.
- What: A free, full-course holiday dinner, emphasizing connection and ensuring no one feels isolated during the holiday.
- Hosted By: The Davis Food Co-op and other community partners.
- Time: Dinner is served in the late afternoon, generally from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
- Location: Davis Veterans Memorial Center, 203 E 14th St.
3. Christmas Break Open Skating
For a dose of active fun, the local skating rink often offers extended hours during the Christmas break, providing a great activity for families and students.
- What: Public open skating sessions are a fun, indoor activity to burn off some holiday energy.
- Time: Check the specific schedule, but sessions often begin around 1:00 pm on Christmas Eve.
- Location: Roller King (a short drive from central Davis).
4. Festive Dining: Christmas Eve Brunch
While many restaurants close early, some establishments offer special holiday menus. Monarch Restaurant, for example, has been known to host a dedicated Christmas Eve Brunch.
- What: A special holiday brunch to start your Christmas Eve celebrations.
- Time: Typically starts at 9:00 am.
- Recommendation: Always call ahead to confirm holiday hours and make reservations, as seating is limited.
Year-Round Davis Attractions That Are Always Open TODAY
Davis is famous for its outdoor spaces and academic institutions. The beauty of these attractions is that they are almost always open, regardless of the holiday, making them the perfect, free-of-charge activities for today. These sites enhance the city's topical authority for visitors looking for "things to do in Davis today."
5. Explore the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden
The Arboretum is arguably the most reliable and beautiful attraction in Davis, offering a tranquil escape on a busy holiday.
- The Experience: This 100-acre living outdoor museum features over 22,000 types of trees, plants, and shrubs, stretching along the Old North Fork of Putah Creek.
- Accessibility: It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is completely free of charge.
- Topical Entities: Putah Creek, UC Davis, Arboretum Teaching Nursery, Redwood Grove, Australian Collection.
- Activity: A perfect spot for a leisurely walk, a jog, or a peaceful moment of reflection on Christmas Eve.
6. Cycling and the Davis Bike Culture
Davis is famously known as the "Bicycle Capital of the United States," and today is a great day to experience it with less traffic.
- The Experience: The city is crisscrossed with dedicated bike paths and greenways, making it incredibly easy and safe to explore.
- Activity: Rent a bike from a local shop (check holiday hours) or bring your own to tour Downtown Davis, Central Park, or the UC Davis campus.
- Topical Entities: Davis Bike Loop, Bike Path System, Central Park, Downtown Davis, local bike shops.
7. A Self-Guided Tour of UC Davis Campus Highlights
The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) campus is a destination in itself, and its outdoor art and public spaces are accessible to visitors today.
- Art and Architecture: Seek out the iconic bronze "Egghead" sculptures placed strategically around the campus, including "Eye on Mrak" and "See No Evil/Hear No Evil."
- Museums (Exterior): While interior exhibits like the Manetti Shrem Museum of Art and the Bohart Museum of Entomology may be closed for the holiday, the exterior architecture and grounds are worth a visit.
- Topical Entities: UC Davis, Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, Bohart Museum of Entomology, C.N. Gorman Museum, Egghead Sculptures, Walter A. Robinson Welcome Center.
8. Sip Yolo County Wines (Check for Special Hours)
Yolo County, which encompasses Davis, is home to a thriving wine region, and some tasting rooms may be open for limited hours for last-minute purchases or a quick tasting.
- The Experience: The region benefits from complex soils and a cooling Delta breeze, producing high-quality wines.
- Local Wineries: Look into local gems like Great Bear Vineyards, which is just two miles outside Downtown Davis, or the collective of wineries at the Old Sugar Mill, though holiday closures are common.
- Recommendation: Always call ahead. Many tasting rooms, such as those associated with Berryessa Gap Vineyards or Due Vigne Winery, may be closed or require an appointment on Christmas Eve.
Beyond Today: Planning for the Rest of the Week
While today is focused on immediate activities, Davis offers a rich calendar of events throughout the year. As you enjoy the Christmas Eve activities, consider these recurring and upcoming attractions to build your topical authority knowledge of the area:
- Farmers Market: The Davis Farmers Market is a year-round event held at Central Park, though it typically does not run on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. It’s a must-visit on a non-holiday week.
- Trivia Nights: Look for popular weekly events like the Sudwerk Pub Quiz at Sudwerk Brewing Co., which resumes after the holiday break.
- Performing Arts: The Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts at UC Davis hosts a variety of shows, including the UC Davis Symphony Orchestra in the new year.
- Downtown Shopping and Dining: Explore the diverse selection of shops, local breweries, and art galleries (like The Artery) in the Downtown Davis area once normal business hours resume.
Davis, CA, on December 24, 2025, proves that a major holiday doesn't mean a lack of things to do. By blending the few confirmed festive events with the city's always-accessible outdoor and academic attractions, you can have a full, memorable, and uniquely Davis Christmas Eve. Whether you are enjoying a community meal at the Veterans Memorial Center, finishing your holiday shopping at the Pence Gallery, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk through the UC Davis Arboretum, the city offers a warm welcome.
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