The beloved Path of Lights celebration has once again turned Point Reyes Station into a glowing winter village. Neighbors from across Marin County—from San Rafael and Novato to Fairfax, Mill Valley, and beyond—came together for the festivities.
Now in its 53rd year, this cherished West Marin tradition blends small-town charm, local craftsmanship, and community spirit into one luminous holiday weekend. There’s something about the way Point Reyes Station lights up that just feels right for the season.
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Point Reyes Station Shines for the 53rd Path of Lights
For more than five decades, Point Reyes Station has marked the holidays in its own unique way. This year’s Path of Lights kept that legacy alive.
Downtown storefronts stayed open late, welcoming families from Bolinas, Inverness, Stinson Beach, and Corte Madera. The town buzzed with energy as people wandered in and out of shops, catching up with friends and neighbors.
The main attraction? A radiant corridor of luminaria lined Shoreline Highway, casting a soft candlelit glow from Gallery Route One to the Dance Palace Community & Cultural Center. It’s a simple sight, but honestly, it’s one of Marin’s most quietly magical moments—no sweeping vistas required.
A Luminous Walk from Gallery Route One to the Dance Palace
Volunteers carefully arranged the luminaria along the sidewalks and road’s edge, creating a festive path that made the night feel special. Families from Ross, Greenbrae, and Tiburon strolled together, greeting old friends and checking out new local businesses as they followed the gentle arc of light.
The walk isn’t long, but it’s packed with atmosphere. It’s become a seasonal ritual here, as predictable as tree lightings in San Anselmo or holiday parades in Petaluma.
Holiday Flavors and Classic Carols at the Dance Palace
The Dance Palace, a longtime cultural anchor for West Marin towns like Olema and Marshall, turned into the social heart of the evening. The scent of festive treats greeted everyone who came in from the chilly coastal air.
Traditional eggnog and steaming bowls of hearty pozole tempted visitors, offering a cozy pause before the night’s musical highlight: community caroling. There’s something about a warm drink and a song that just fits this time of year.
Santa, Students, and the Lighting of the Old Oak Tree
After dusk, the crowd gathered around the old Oak Tree behind the Dance Palace. Its branches stood out against the night sky, waiting for the big moment.
With a countdown, the tree lit up, and cheers broke out—from longtime locals to newcomers from Kentfield and Strawberry. Santa joined students from West Marin School, leading the crowd in classic Christmas carols.
Voices blended on familiar tunes, echoing through downtown. It’s a scene that feels far away from the rush of Highway 101.
Artisan Market Showcases West Marin Craftsmanship
The Path of Lights weekend has also become a showcase for Marin County’s artisan economy. The holiday craft fair and artisan market filled the Dance Palace Main Hall and Church Space, turning them into bustling marketplaces.
Dozens of vendors—some familiar, some new—offered a thoughtful, locally rooted alternative to big-box holiday shopping in places like Terra Linda or Hamilton. There’s a certain satisfaction in finding gifts that don’t come off an assembly line.
Local Vendors, Handcrafted Gifts, and Gourmet Treats
The market’s offerings reflected the community’s diversity and talent, from Tomales down through Muir Beach:
One standout this year was Teresa Gutierrez-Lopez, who brought a table full of meticulously handcrafted crocheted toys. She started learning the craft at eight and began making pieces for the market back in May.
This was her first year selling. Each piece felt personal and showed her dedication—exactly the kind of spirit that makes Point Reyes Station’s artisan community so special.
Community Spirit at the Heart of a West Marin Tradition
Path of Lights stands out from the usual holiday events you’d find in bigger cities like San Francisco. The scale feels smaller, more personal.
Neighbors spot each other under scarves and wool hats. Conversations spill out from the sidewalks of Point Reyes Station, sometimes drifting into kitchen tables in Fairfax or breakfast counters in Mill Valley the next morning.
The event draws both returning and new vendors. Visitors come from all over Marin County’s towns and rural corners.
West Marin’s special character comes through in moments like these—a strong sense of place, a real commitment to local artisans, and a love for gathering. Especially when the nights stretch long and the lights feel extra bright.
Here is the source article for this story: Photos: Path Of Lights Returns To Point Reyes Station For The 53rd Annual Celebration
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