Each December, Eucalyptus Avenue in San Carlos transforms into a holiday spectacle, attracting visitors from across the Bay Area. Known for its elaborate light displays and creative decorations, this residential neighborhood offers a free holiday experience unlike any other in San Carlos. Past years’ highlights include uniquely themed homes featuring everything from Hello Kitty and Star Wars statues, to gondolas and reindeer-pulled jeeps. With lights illuminating the street from December 1 to 25, the neighborhood is a must-visit for holiday enthusiasts.
Dating back to 1968
The tradition of decorating Eucalyptus Avenue, known as “Christmas Tree Lane” in San Carlos, started in 1968 when Rod and Pat Liner decorated their home with bright white lights. Their efforts inspired neighbors to join in, and the street gradually transformed into a well-known holiday display. “We are the longest residents on this street,” said Rod Liner, homeowner on Eucalyptus Street. “Everybody thought it was nice so one house did it and then another and it grew into a street that had ninety-percent white lights.”
Several years ago, Pat Liner bought a Christmas decorated mailbox, pens, and pads of paper for children who walked by could write letters to Santa Claus. With thousands of children writing a note to Santa every year, this mailbox has become a beloved part of the Eucalyptus tradition. Indeed, Eucalyptus Avenue is a hallmark of the season, drawing visitors with its charming and cohesive displays, offering a touch of small-town nostalgia with the polish of a destination-worthy experience.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Eucalyptus Avenue during the holidays requires some strategy. Lights are on daily from 5 PM to 10 PM, and weekdays offer a less crowded experience. Parking is limited, so visitors are encouraged to park a few blocks away and enjoy a 10-minute leisurely walk through the whole street. Riding inside the car is not nearly as magical as walking; yet for those who need to view the lights inside their car, one-way traffic will be implemented starting December 6 (Friday) and will be reverted back either December 23 or 26 depending on the city’s schedule. The portable bathrooms will in place on December 9 (Monday) and will be there until December 23 (Monday).
The lights are at their most captivating closer to Christmas, but even early in the season, the neighborhood shines brightly. So for those arriving closer to December 25, expect bustling sidewalks and more photo opportunities. Visitors should plan for at least an hour to fully take in the displays and snap a few keepsake photos.
A Timeless Holiday Experience
The transformation of Eucalyptus Avenue is entirely driven by its residents, who invest significant time and creativity into their decorations. The City of San Carlos has also provides logistical support to manage crowds and traffic, as the lights in Eucalyptus Ave. increasingly became more popularity over the decades. Indeed, this collective dedication has turned Eucalyptus Avenue into a Bay Area destination, drawing comparisons to other iconic holiday streets. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned holiday light aficionado, this experience is sure to leave you overflowing with holiday cheer.
Sources:
- Public Works, City of San Carlos
- Elaine Yang from Nextdoor.com
- “Neighbors on Eucalyptus Street come together to decorate their entire street with stunning Christmas lights”, ABC7 News, December 24, 2019
- “Eucalyptus Avenue Holiday Lights”, City of San Carlos Website, November 9, 2023
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About San Carlos Life
Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin are the hosts of San Carlos Life and have been residents of San Carlos for years. While running San Carlos Life together with an awesome team, Mark and Viv are also in the business of real estate. They are co-owners of Vabrato Real Estate, a luxury real estate brokerage serving the City of Good Living, and the whole of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.
With over 30 years of combined experience in the business and 95% of their clients coming in from referrals, Mark and Viv take great pride and joy in exceeding your expectations.
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