Holly Trolley
Holiday lights, historic homes and seasonal traditions in Downtown Oxnard
A Classic Downtown Holiday Tradition
Climb Aboard for a Holiday Lights Tour
Take a holiday adventure atop a jolly double-decker trolley. The Holly Trolley tour is a unique way to experience Oxnard that only happens once per year. Guests will board a double decker bus in Heritage Square and embark on a 50-minute tour of the holiday lights. An ideal family outing featuring dazzling lights, storytelling and tons of holiday spirit. Holly Trolley rides are just one of the many holiday traditions in Oxnard. Come experience it for yourself!
A Guided Holiday Lights Tour
The Holly Trolley offers a more immersive way to experience Oxnard’s holiday season, combining elevated views, festive neighborhoods and guided storytelling along the route.
What to Expect on the Holly Trolley
Cruise through the Henry T. Oxnard Historic District along ‘F’ and ‘G’ Streets aboard the double-decker Holly Trolley, where the open-air top deck provides a clear, panoramic view of the city’s seasonal displays. From this vantage point, guests can take in the scale and detail of the holiday decorations that line the historic homes and streets.
As the trolley moves through Downtown Oxnard and toward Christmas Tree Lane, the experience shifts from city streets to a concentrated stretch of fully decorated homes. Along the way, guided narration adds context to what you’re seeing, sharing stories about Oxnard’s history, architecture and the traditions that make this annual event a local favorite.
Starting the Night at Heritage Square
Before and after your ride, Heritage Square adds even more to the experience with festive treats, photo moments and seasonal displays in a historic setting.
Gather and Return at Heritage Square
If you’re along for the sleigh ride, meet in Downtown Oxnard’s Heritage Square main plaza. Surrounded by Victorian-era homes and glowing string lights, the setting immediately feels festive. Guests can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies before boarding, making it a relaxed and social start to the evening.
After the 50-minute tour through illuminated streets and decorated homes, the trolley returns to Heritage Square. The plaza becomes a natural place to linger, take photos and enjoy the atmosphere a little longer after the ride.
Explore the Gingerbread House Exhibit
Heritage Square also hosts the annual Gingerbread House Exhibit, where community members, local businesses and families showcase detailed edible creations. Each display brings a different level of creativity, and at the end of the season, a favorite is selected among the entries.
One of Ventura County’s Brightest Holiday Displays
Christmas Tree Lane is the highlight of the Holly Trolley route, where entire blocks of historic homes come alive with lights, decorations and community creativity.
A Community-Driven Holiday Tradition
Christmas Tree Lane is a time-honored tradition in Oxnard, featuring festively lit homes throughout the Henry T. Oxnard Historic District. Drawing between 20,000 and 40,000 visitors each season, the display is entirely created and maintained by local homeowners and volunteers, making it a true community-powered celebration.
How the Tradition Grew Over Time
The tradition began in 1992 after being passed down from another Ventura County city. What started on ‘F’ Street, organized by resident Steve Bauratti, has since expanded to include both ‘F’ and ‘G’ Streets between Palm and 5th Street, transforming five blocks into a holiday showcase.
Signature Displays and Sights to Look For
Visitors can spot unique features throughout the lane, including scaled-down merry-go-rounds and the popular ‘F’ Street Railroad. These creative additions continue to evolve each year, adding new elements to the experience. From the top deck of the Holly Trolley, guests get a clear, elevated view of the full display.
A Festive Night in the Historic District
During the holiday season, Downtown Oxnard transforms into a walkable hub of lights, events and festive displays.
Experience the Holiday Energy of Downtown Oxnard
During the holiday season, Oxnard is lit up to reflect the spirit of the holidays. In Plaza Park, the tallest Christmas tree in Ventura County shines brightly over the city, serving as a centerpiece for seasonal celebrations. The annual tree lighting brings a Holiday Market filled with vendors, along with treats like hot cocoa.
Nearby, Heritage Square carries the scent of sweets from its gingerbread exhibits, while the plaza itself is decorated for the season. Together, these experiences create a lively holiday atmosphere, with the Holly Trolley connecting it all through a guided tour of Oxnard’s festive side.
Know Before You Ride
Tickets & Reservations
OX marks the spot for a new way to experience the holiday. The Holly Trolley ride is a festive tradition that you’ll want to experience with loved ones for years to come. Prepaid reservations for the Holly Trolley are required. As the rides often sell out, make your reservation early.
Departure Location
Holly Trolley double decker rides will start and drop-off in Downtown Oxnard’s Heritage Square. Heritage Square can be found at 731 South ‘A’ Street. Join us prior to departure for complementary hot cocoa and snacks to set the holiday vibe!
Tour Timing
Tours start mid-December with tour hours typically being in the evening for the best viewing of the lights. Departure time for the Holly Trolley tours are typically 6pm, 7pm and 8pm. The tour, including the refreshments served at the beginning of the ride in Heritage Square is roughly a 50-minute experience. Check the official event page for updated departure and run times.
Make It a Holiday Night Out
Downtown Oxnard is the heart of the city and the best place for a bite when you’re headed to the Holly Trolley. It’s nearby and offers more ways to experience the culture of Oxnard. Dinner and a sight-seeing tour? Let’s make it happen!
Otani’s Fish Market & Restaurant
A go-to spot for locals craving fresh seafood fare. This community pillar and family run restaurant has been serving the community for over 100 years. Come try the Snapper Sandwich, enjoy Taco Tuesdays or the all day happy hour!
A Cabo getaway is closer than you think. The tasty Ceviche, plenty of camarones, Plato de Carne Asada and more. If you’re feeling a family-style meal, the parrilladas feed up to 2-3 people! Plus, the menu boasts home-made tortillas and fresh guacamole made right at your table!
Home-style pasta, pizza, or homemade cheesecake await you at Dominick's Italian Restaurant. The Downtown Oxnard district spot is conveniently located a few moments off US Highway 101 and has been around for over 50 years. Bring the family or group of friends to start off the night.
Extend the Holiday Experience
Make your Holly Trolley visit an easy, comfortable overnight getaway.
Best Western Oxnard Inn
Turn your visit into an overnight stay at the Best Western Oxnard Inn, the only hotel located in Downtown Oxnard. Just blocks from Heritage Square and Plaza Park, it places you within easy reach of the Holly Trolley departure point, holiday lights and seasonal events. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations along with convenient access to nearby restaurants and downtown attractions.
After experiencing the festivities, consider extending your stay to explore more of the city. Browse additional options on Oxnard’s Places to Stay page to find the location and experience that best fits your trip.
Celebrate the Holidays the Oxnard Way
See What Makes the Holly Trolley a Local Favorite
Don't miss any of Oxnard’s beloved holiday traditions. The holiday lights and Experience holiday on the coast. See the historic architecture dressed in glittery lights surrounded by community and loved ones. Did you know that each year decoration, decor and displays change and update to keep the tour fresh and jolly? Come see what's new this year on the Holly Trolley in Oxnard. Spend your holiday in Clifornia’s best kept secret. OX Marks the Spot for holiday festivities