The Impeccable Christmas Lights and Gardens at Oakland’s Temple Hill

This beautiful spot is perched high above Oakland on Temple Hill and is visible from many parts of the East Bay. Whether you’re a member of this church or not, their gardens are open to everyone and are a must-see, all lit up for the Christmas holidays.

Oakland’s Temple Hill Holiday Lights and Gardens

Their gardens are all the adjectives: exquisite, extraordinary, impeccable. But don’t take my word for it, see for yourself. Not only are there flowers, but there are also fountains and music. Music, you say? Yes, calming music peacefully plays from discreet, rock-shaped speakers so you can enjoy the garden and be in the moment. While I love the flowers and just blissing out walking the property, my young daughters enjoy examining their ever-rotating varieties of flowers, roaming the sidewalks, walking across the bridges, and, of course, climbing up close to the impressive fountain waters (there are three). There are two levels of gardens, with winding pathways throughout the whole property.

Keep in mind, the temple grounds are a sacred place for some, so please enjoy them respectfully.

When to Visit Temple Hill for the Holidays

The best time to visit is after Thanksgiving, when the temple grounds are lit up with thousands of Christmas lights. This year, the lighting of Temple Hill will happen on November 27, 2026, at dusk. Lights remain on until 9 pm and run through December 31, 2025. The Temple is also putting on other special holiday events and performances.

Best Christmas Lights in Oakland?

I’m telling you not a single tree is missed! The lights are as impeccable as the gardens and the whole effect is spectacular. The Visitor’s Center will also be open for guests to explore with hot chocolate and cookies, as well as bathrooms. (Note that the displays and friendly hosts in the building are sharing a religious message.)

So add the LDS Oakland California Temple to your list of East Bay Christmas lights to visit, or at the very least as a stay-in-your-car drive-by visit.

Plan your visit to Oakland Temple Hill Gardens

When: Nov. 28-New Year’s Eve, decorations will be up all day, and lit in the evenings.
Hours: Dusk – 9pm daily, with the lighting ceremony on Nov. 28 at 6pm. The facilities are open to the public daily from 9am – 9pm.
Where: 4770 Lincoln Ave, Oakland, CA 94602
Keep in mind: Bring jackets and hats, it’s breezy up there.
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