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Candy Cane Lane in Pleasanton is a staple holiday attraction that features a variety of decorations throughout the neighborhood. (Photo by Sophia Sucato) 
The Widmer World tradition in Pleasanton continues on this year for the first time without its founder, Bob Widmer, following his death earlier this year, (Photo by Sophia Sucato) 
Deacon Dave’s display in Livermore features more than 957,007 lights. (Photo by Sophia Sucato) 
Families bring their children to experience the holiday magic at light displays in the Tri-Valley. (Photo by Sophia Sucato) 
Decorative displays on Candy Cane Lane feature classic Christmas characters like Santa Claus and his reindeer. (Photo by Sophia Sucato)
In the spirit of the holiday season and tradition, decorative light displays throughout the Tri-Valley help families make magical memories each year.
Every December, with about 28 homes participating, 4150 Walnut Dr. in Pleasanton becomes what locals know as Candy Cane Lane, where families and friends gather to walk the neighborhood in awe of all the different holiday displays.
For about the last 60 years, Candy Cane Lane has been a classic destination for holiday sightseeing for several generations. Each house decorates in its own style, featuring live movie projections and wooden cutouts of famous cartoon characters.
More about Candy Cane Lane can be found on Instagram @candycanelanepleasanton.
Also in Pleasanton at 3671 Chelsea Court, Widmer World has also been a beloved holiday attraction for decades. Started initially in 1980 by homeowners Bob and Susan Widmer, the holiday light display was originally limited to the home’s front yard. However, 25 years ago the family decided to open their backyard to visitors, showcasing all the elaborate holiday decorations they had collected over the years.
This year marks the first that Widmer World welcomes visitors for the holidays without Bob Widmer, following his death in September at age 81. Susan and the Widmer children now carry on the tradition in his honor.
For more information about Widmer World, visit www.widmer-world.com.
Farther east down Interstate 580 in Livermore, Deacon Dave’s Christmas lights display at Casa del Pomba (House of the Dove) is a must-see holiday attraction.
Located at 352 Hillcrest Ave., the display features over 957,007 lights and a theme that changes annually. People stand in lines for several blocks to see this display which began when the homeowner, Deacon Dave Rezendes, was ordained in 1982.
He told the Weekly that the house display takes several months to plan and build, with construction starting as early as June and the pre-planning of the theme beginning months prior. In addition to the captivating spectacle outside, Rezendes also shared that inside, he has around 45 Christmas trees that he personally designs himself, incorporating family heirlooms and changing themes.
More information about Deacon Dave’s is available at casadelpomba.com.
What keeps these homeowners bringing their extravagant traditions back year after year despite the time and labor it takes? The consensus is that it makes them happy to bring joy to families and their communities for the holiday season.
