South Bay Residents Get to Experience a Magical Holiday Light Display Designed by Local Children
The South Bay in California is welcoming a brand new holiday light display, the DOCA Festival, for the 2025 holiday season. Officially opening to the public on Friday night and running through January 4, 2026, this festival boasts five glowing acres, six magical zones, and over 40 handmade attractions that visitors can explore.
The unique aspect of this festival is its community-driven approach, where local children played a significant role in designing some of the artwork. A contest was held to encourage kids' creativity, which eventually led to the creation of larger-than-life characters and structures within the festival grounds. The co-founders of the DOCA Festival, Wan Zhao and Yixin, are passionate about bringing families together through art and imagination.
According to Zhao, "We came up with one simple question: how can we bring stories, art and families together to have an immersive experience? And here we are." This vision is reflected in the festival's design, which aims to make people reconnect with their inner child. The event features a range of attractions, from walk-through exhibits to drive-thru displays, ensuring something for everyone.
As part of its holiday season programming, the DOCA Festival has lined up various events and activities, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's celebrations. Visitors can also explore other holiday light displays in the South Bay, such as Christmas in the Park's Blinky's Drive Thru at the Santa Clara County fairgrounds.
With ticket prices and requirements available on their website, visitors are encouraged to check out this unique and enchanting holiday experience designed by the community for the community.
The South Bay in California is welcoming a brand new holiday light display, the DOCA Festival, for the 2025 holiday season. Officially opening to the public on Friday night and running through January 4, 2026, this festival boasts five glowing acres, six magical zones, and over 40 handmade attractions that visitors can explore.
The unique aspect of this festival is its community-driven approach, where local children played a significant role in designing some of the artwork. A contest was held to encourage kids' creativity, which eventually led to the creation of larger-than-life characters and structures within the festival grounds. The co-founders of the DOCA Festival, Wan Zhao and Yixin, are passionate about bringing families together through art and imagination.
According to Zhao, "We came up with one simple question: how can we bring stories, art and families together to have an immersive experience? And here we are." This vision is reflected in the festival's design, which aims to make people reconnect with their inner child. The event features a range of attractions, from walk-through exhibits to drive-thru displays, ensuring something for everyone.
As part of its holiday season programming, the DOCA Festival has lined up various events and activities, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's celebrations. Visitors can also explore other holiday light displays in the South Bay, such as Christmas in the Park's Blinky's Drive Thru at the Santa Clara County fairgrounds.
With ticket prices and requirements available on their website, visitors are encouraged to check out this unique and enchanting holiday experience designed by the community for the community.
. So, California's got a new "magical" light display that was designed by local kids... how original 
. Like we haven't seen enough of this before. The fact that it was community-driven just means more people will be out in the cold and traffic to look at overpriced lights 
. And what's really magical about a bunch of handmade attractions and zones? Not much, if you ask me... 
I love that the kids got a say in designing the festival lights - it's so cool to see their creativity shine through! It's like they're bringing a touch of magic to the streets. 
The idea of making people reconnect with their inner child is so beautiful. I can imagine how enchanting it must be to walk through an immersive art experience that sparks imagination and wonder in everyone who visits. 
The fact that it's community-driven just makes it even more special - it's like the whole town came together to create something truly unique! 
i mean who wouldn't wanna see what kids came up with in a design contest? it's like they say, let the kids be in charge and watch them create something amazing 
. The fact that local children were involved in designing some of the artwork is truly remarkable, showcasing the importance of nurturing young talent and imagination 
. It's wonderful to see a festival that prioritizes family bonding and immersive experiences, rather than just commercial appeal 
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. The range of attractions, from walk-through exhibits to drive-thru displays, caters to diverse interests and age groups, making it an inclusive event for all visitors 
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. And the whole community-driven vibe is just magical 
. It's like they say, "bring back the wonder of childhood" - I think that's exactly what this festival does 
. Can't wait to see it in person! 
. and what's with all these handmade attractions? can't they just use some drones or something to save time and resources? also, isn't it kinda weird that kids designed the majority of the artwork? don't get me wrong, I love seeing community involvement, but is this really necessary for a holiday display 
those little creators are geniuses 
i love that they got to design some of the art and structures, it's like their imagination came to life 
gotta try it out with the fam this holiday season 
. And don't even get me started on the ticket prices... just another way to squeeze money from people's wallets 
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. We need more stuff like this in our lives, you know? It's not just some cheesy lights show, it's an EXPERIENCE 
. I'm totes going to check it out! 
️ I'm all for community-driven events, but is this thing gonna break the bank or what? And what's up with the drive-thru displays? Like, can't we just walk around and enjoy the lights like normal people? 
. And it's awesome that the founders are all about bringing families together through imagination... I mean, who doesn't love a good holiday light display, right? 
Apparently, Wan Zhao and Yixin had a super rad idea to let kids design some of the artwork – talk about empowering youth! 
. And can we talk about how adorable the characters are?! 
. The event is gonna be so lit – walk-through exhibits, drive-thru displays... what's not to love? 
! A festival where kids get to design the lights and attractions? Genius! I mean, who better to bring magic to a holiday display than a bunch of curious and creative kiddos? It's like they say, 'You can take the kid outta the house, but you can't take the house outta the kid' 