The Best Christmas Events in Orange County

Come and find your holiday spirit in the enchanting atmosphere of Dana Point Harbor's light display — Enjoy and soak up the festive vibes of our iconic “Merry Kiss Me” sign this winter season

Get ready to light up the holiday season in Orange County! We’ve rounded up the most jaw-dropping, joy-inducing yuletide events that will make your Christmas shine brighter than Rudolph’s nose. Don’t miss out on these top yuletide events – grab your sleigh and let’s go!

1. Dana Point Harbor’s Dazzling Lights

Create an unforgettable holiday experience with a visit to the illuminated Dana Point Harbor — Make memories that will last a lifetime at Dana Point Harbor’s magical winter wonderland

Dana Point Harbor transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with over 700,000 LED lights, featuring the iconic “Merry Kiss Me” sign. From November 15 to mid-January, indulge in the festive spirit with Santa photos, boat rides, and the renowned 47th annual Boat Parade of Lights—all for free!

Get into the holiday spirit and enjoy free boat rides, Santa photos, and more from now until mid-January — Light up the holidays with Dana Point Harbor’s 47th annual Boat Parade of Lights!

2. Irvine Spectrum’s Enchanting Tree Lighting

Bring your family and friends to witness the magical Christmas light show at Irvine Spectrum.

Witness the magic unfold at Irvine Spectrum as their 75-foot Christmas tree comes to life in a captivating light show every thirty minutes. Starting November 24 and running until January 7, the Giant Wheel Court becomes a radiant spectacle every evening from 5 p.m. onwards. Entry and parking? Absolutely free.

Get ready for a holiday experience like no other at Irvine Spectrum! — Join us for free festive fun under the stars at Irvine Spectrum’s Giant Wheel Court.

3. VEA Newport Beach Tree Lighting Extravaganza

On November 30, VEA Newport Beach kicks off the holiday season with a splendid tree lighting event at 5:30 p.m. Join the festivities with Santa meet-and-greets, live entertainment, and delightful food and drinks. Everyone from resort guests to the local community is invited, and entry is graciously free with complimentary valet.

4. Balboa Bay Resort’s Twinkling Tree Lighting

Make your holiday giving count: Bring an unwrapped toy and receive free treats at Balboa Bay Resort's tree lighting! — Join Balboa Bay Resort to kick off the holiday season with twinkling lights and a festive performance!

November 29 marks Balboa Bay Resort’s tree lighting spectacle, accompanied by a holiday performance. Bring an unwrapped toy to contribute to Toys for Tots and receive free treats and drinks. The festivities begin at 6 p.m., with open seating available after 5 p.m. Enjoy the spirit of the season with complimentary entry and parking.

5. Winter in the Grove’s Frosty Festivities

Garden Grove’s Village Green Park welcomes Winter in the Grove for its 6th season on December 2, from 3 to 7 p.m. Revel in the holiday spirit with free snow slides, crafts, performances, and delectable food. An evening of family-friendly festivities awaits, and both the event and parking are free.

6. Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Extravaganza

Create unforgettable family moments and enjoy a magical holiday experience with the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. — Get a front row seat to one of the most spectacular shows on water – the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade!

From December 13 to 17, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade illuminates Lido Island at 6:30 p.m. nightly. Elevate your experience with Groupon’s exclusive deal on Holiday Lights Boat Cruises at Davey’s Locker—up to 46% off, with an extra 10% discount using promo code PROMO.

Make memories to last a lifetime by watching over 30 decorated boats twinkle in the night sky — Get cozy while exploring Dana Point Harbor and all its festive lights this holiday season

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7. Snoopy House 2023 in Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa City Hall hosts Snoopy House 2023 from December 15 to 22, featuring train rides, food, letters to Santa, performances, and enchanting lights from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. An array of special events awaits on weekends, making it an ideal outing for families. Admission and parking? Absolutely free.

8. Casa Romantica’s Christmas Nights

Wander through the illuminated historical gardens of Casa Romantica Cultural Center during Christmas Nights at the Casa, running from December 15 to 21. For $10 (free for kids 12 and under), enjoy kid’s crafts, s’mores, and thousands of lights. Limited free on-site parking is available.

9. Newport Dunes Fire & Ice Festival

The Newport Dunes Resort hosts the Fire & Ice Festival from November 27 to January 1. Immerse yourself in ice skating, live music, a holiday inflatable garden, and more. The bay lights up every night from sunset to 11:30 p.m., featuring the 33rd Annual Lighting of the Bay. The event is free, with paid on-site parking.

10. Winter Fest OC: Southern California’s Ultimate Winter Festival

Running from November 24 to January 7 at the OC Fair and Event Center, Winter Fest OC is Southern California’s largest winter festival. With rides, games, snow sledding, and entertainment, tickets start at $30 for adults and $25 for children aged 3 to 12. Parking is $12 for a cashless and delightful experience.

11. Holiday Festival at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center

On December 17 from 12-4 p.m., the Muckenthaler Cultural Center hosts a holiday festival with live music, kids’ art workshops, an arts and crafts sale, and family activities. The event promises free entry and free parking.

12. Irvine Park Santa’s Village

Enjoy a winter wonderland right here in Irvine. — Make cherished memories with your family at Santa’s Village.

From November 24 to December 30, Irvine Regional Park transforms into Santa’s Village. Enjoy winter-themed activities, carnival games, crafts, and food. Don’t miss the Train of Lights for a magical ride through the park.

13. Sawdust Winter Fantasy: A Handcrafted Market Extravaganza

Sawdust’s 33rd-annual Winter Fantasy is a handcrafted market with over 160 artists’ goods. Running from November 17 to December 17 on weekends and select Fridays, tickets are $5 for children 5 and up and $10 for adults, with paid and street parking.

14. Capistrano Lights at Mission San Juan Capistrano

Capistrano Lights brings carolers, lights, selfies with Santa, and an audio tour to Mission San Juan Capistrano from December 2 to 30. Tickets range from $9 to $20, inclusive of daytime admission, with street parking available for a fee.

15. Rogers Garden Christmas Confections: A Sweet Shopping Wonderland

Get lost in a world of holiday delights at Roger's Gardens Christmas Boutique — Explore a whimsical candy shoppe dreamland with handmade ornaments and enchanting treasures

Rogers Garden invites you to experience the sweet world of holiday delights at the Christmas Boutique. Immerse yourself in a whimsical candy shoppe dreamland with unique, handmade ornaments and enchanting treasures. Join the festive shopping wonderland for an unforgettable holiday experience.

16. Christkindl Market ’23 in Huntington Beach

Deck your halls in European style with gifts from our 45 arts and crafts vendors. — Experience the magic of a traditional German Christmas at the German Christmas Market.

Step into a winter wonderland at the German Christmas Market in Huntington Beach. Enjoy live music, delicious German food, unique gifts from 45 arts and crafts vendors, and indulge in European Christmas candies. Immerse yourself in the ultimate German Christmas experience!

Leave the cold weather behind and celebrate the season at Huntington Beach's warmest holiday hotspot. — Indulge in plenty of festive food, music, and merrymaking!

17. Holidayz at the Park in Irvine’s Great Park

Delight in wintertime fun for all ages with free admission and parking — Enjoy the holidays with a free and magical experience at Irvine Spectrum

From December 2 to January 7, Irvine’s Great Park transforms into a winter wonderland with interactive light displays, music, a holiday market, and photo backdrops at the Artist Studios. Admission and parking? Absolutely free.

18. Heritage Hill Candlelight Walk

Experience the 37th annual Candlelight Walk at the Heritage Hill Historical Park from December 8 to 10. Wander through the festive grounds from 5 to 9 p.m., enjoying live music, crafts, and a visit from Santa. The event promises free admission and parking.

19. 44th Annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk

On December 3, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the 44th Annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk returns, celebrating the merchants and restaurants of Corona del Mar Village. Join the community for a day filled with fun and merriment that can’t be matched!

Get ready for a festive adventure like no other at Fashion Island! — It’s time to get into the Christmas spirit with a shopping spree at Fashion Island!

Get ready to be dazzled by the holiday madness happening all over Orange County! Grab your crew and prepare for a festive adventure that will transport you to a world of pure magic. It’s time to fully embrace the Christmas spirit and get your merry on!