Join us this season for a joyful celebration of wonder, science, fun and coming together for all ages. From November 29 through January 5, you’ll enjoy all new features like Sock Skating all season, two event-packed weekends of WinterFest at Chabot–imagine enhanced programming throughout the Center with a seasonal theme, good cheer, and, of course, hot cocoa! Don’t miss Chabot annual favorites like First Fridays, New Year Balloon Drops, Family Astronomy and Nature Adventures, Hands-on DIY Crafting, Geminids meteor shower viewing, free telescope viewings, our new NASA Ames Visitor Center and all our exhibits that awaken curiosity and inspire wonder.
Sock Skate
November 29th-January 5th
Wear your coziest socks (or buy a pair of special Chabot Sock Skate socks on site) while you glide across our all new, icy planet-themed sock skate rinks—one for family and adults and one especially for little ones. Join us every Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm November 29 through January 5. Sock skating is included with regular admission (free for Chabot Members!) with advance reservation for 30-minute time slots.
Included with General Admission: TICKETS
How to reserve your Sock Skate Tickets.
First Friday: Shooting Stars
December 6th, 6:00pm
All-ages, family-friendly: TICKETS
$10 adults, $5 kids/seniors and Free for members.
Join us at Chabot for a night of fun at First Friday: SHOOTING STARS! Explore the wonders of the night sky with special guest speakers, dance the night away with live music, and get creative at craft stations where kids of all ages can make their own shooting star-themed art. Don’t forget to snap a stellar selfie in our photo booth! With exciting crafts, interactive activities, and plenty of fun, this will be an out-of-this-world adventure the whole family can enjoy.
Geminids Meteor Shower
December 13th-14th, 11:00pm to 3:00am
$15 adults, $7 kids/seniors; Members login for 10% discount: TICKETS
Our observation deck is the place to be dazzled and share a group experience full of “oohs and aahs” as we view the annual Geminids Meteor shower. Named for the radiant or location where the shower appears to originate, the Geminids is one of the best meteor showers to catch this year. The culprit and source of the shower is Asteroid 3200 Phaethon, a small asteroid about 3.17 miles (5.10 kilometers) across.
Bring warm clothing or optional blankets, chairs or sleeping bags.
Family Nature Adventures: Snooze and Snuggle-Hibernating Animals!
December 14th, 10:30am – 12:00pm
Families with Children $25 Adult, $35 Youth 3-8, Members receive $10 off : TICKETS
Explore an exciting adventure in the enchanting world of hibernation where we’ll uncover the secrets of how animals prepare for winter slumber. Children will embark on a captivating exploration of hibernation, a fascinating natural phenomenon. Through hands-on activities, engaging stories, and a guided walk in the breathtaking redwood forest surrounding Chabot, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how animals survive the cold winter months. Enjoy a delicious snack inspired by the foods that animals store for hibernation.
WinterFest
December 14th-15th and 21st – 22nd
Included with General Admission: TICKETS
For two magical weekends, step into a world of icy planets and far away galaxies this winter at Chabot! Glide across our sock skate rink, spin and twirl in your coziest socks, enjoy some hot cocoa and channel your inner space explorer with gingerbread rovers inspired by cosmic missions. Enjoy innovative snow-making activities and timed snowfall events, adding a touch of winter wonder to your experience. With festive tunes and interactive activities blending science and seasonal cheer, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss!
Paint & Sip: Holiday Craft Night
December 19th, 6:00pm-8:30pm
21+ Adult: $40: TICKETS
Get ready for a seasonal twist on our classic Paint & Sip! Join us for an out-of-this-world evening where you’ll craft your very own galaxy-themed ornaments & star constellation lanterns, perfect to deck your halls. Sip on warm spiced wine or other beverages as you paint stunning miniature galaxies, swirling with stars and nebulae, all while enjoying great company in a unique setting. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, you’ll leave with beautiful, personalized ornaments that bring the wonder of space to your holiday decor. Don’t miss this chance to unleash your creativity and make the universe your canvas!
Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!
Family Astronomy: Winter Solstice–The Longest Night
December 21st, 6:00pm-8:00pm
Family with children 6+ Adults $25, $15 youth: TICKETS
Explore the fascinating history, diverse cultural customs, and ancient rituals associated with the Winter Solstice. You’ll learn about the shortest day of the year, the various types and stages of night and twilight and how different cultures around the world celebrate this celestial event, from lighting candles and bonfires to creating handmade decorations and sharing stories. Guests will receive complimentary hot cider, hot chocolate, and cookies.
Balloon Drop
December 31st, 11am, 12pm, 3pm and 4pm
Tickets go on sale for members on December 1st
Tickets go on sale for General Public on December 15th
Ring in the New Year without staying up all night! Celebrate strokes of midnight around the world at 11am, 12pm, 3pm and 4pm California time! Kids will count down and celebrate with hundreds of colorful balloons dropping from above.
This popular annual event regularly sells out, so be sure to get tickets early! Get early access as a Chabot member! Member tickets go on sale two weeks before the general public.
First Friday: Blast Off!
January 3rd, 2025, 6:00pm
All-ages, family-friendly: TICKETS
$10 adults, $5 kids/seniors and Free for members.
This First Friday, prepare for liftoff at Chabot Space and Science Center, where adventure awaits! Spend a thrilling evening dedicated to the excitement of space exploration. Discover the science behind rocket launches, create your own space-inspired art to take home, and dance the night away to live music. Don’t miss this chance to blast off into an unforgettable night of discovery and fun! The perfect wrap-up to the holiday season.
