Winter Events in Orange County for 2021 include many magical events with visits from Santa and fresh fallen snow. There are also many regular annual events the community enjoys every year such as the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Soak up the spirit of the season at one of these winter events in Orange County.
Ready to see the holiday lights? See our list of Places To See Christmas Lights
Aliso Viejo
All is Bright Celebration & Tree Lighting – Aliso Viejo
Aliso Viejo Town Center Fountain & Amphitheater
Thursday, December 2, 2021
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Come out and enjoy an evening with the Aliso Viejo Community for the annual All Is Bright Celebration & Tree Lighting event. Guests will enjoy a winter wonderland of snow, a visit for Santa Claus, train rides, caroling, ornament making, and the lighting of the 22-foot tall Christmas Tree. Please bring an unwrapped toy or sports equipment for the Spark of Love Toy Drive.
Breakfast With Santa – Aliso Viejo
Aliso Viejo Ranch – 100 Park Ave.
Friday, December 17, 2021
9AM – 11AM
$15 per person
Enjoy breakfast with Santa, make festive crafts, ride the train, and listen to stories read by Santa himself. Recommended for ages 2-6. Registration is required.
Christmas Chalk Walk – Aliso Viejo/Laguna Niguel (Drive Thru)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
22851 Aliso Creek Road, Aliso Viejo
Dec. 10-12, 2021
5:00 – 9:00 PM
The Christmas Chalk Walk is a unique holiday event where artists of all skill levels and ages are invited to register to participate and create chalk art depicting festive holiday scenes that celebrate the Christmas season. This year, visitors can drive through to view the amazing creations by the many talented artists displayed on easels.
Anaheim
Disney Merriest Nites – Anaheim
Disneyland Park
1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802
In addition to holiday décor throughout Disneyland Park, Mickey and friends will host 6 holiday parties on select nights in November and December. General admission starts at $165 per person and includes after-hours admission and access to select attractions and entertainment, a Christmas Fantasy Parade, snow fall on Main Street, and more. Find full event details on the Disneyland website.
Holiday Spectacular
Anaheim Hills Festival
8020 East Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim
December 18, 2021
Noon – 2PM
Celebrate the season with crafts, photos with Santa, train rides, face painting, balloon art, and more. Located in the parking lot near Hobby Lobby.
Magic Of Lights
Angel Stadium
November 19 – December 26, 2021
5PM – 10PM
$25-$45 plus service fees
Come experience the magic of this drive-thru holiday lights display at Angel Stadium.
Nutcracker Tree Lighting & Holiday Village – Downtown Anaheim
Center Street Promenade, Anaheim
December 4, 2021
10AM – 7PM
The Nutcracker Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim has been an annual tradition since 1995. The exciting day-long event includes participating vendors and a holiday bazaar to shop for unique gifts for family and friends and a candy cane costume contest. Photos with Santa will take place from 3:00 – 5:00, followed by the tree lighting ceremony.
Brea
Movies Under The Stars
City Hall Park
401 S Brea Blvd, Brea, CA 92821
Saturday, December 18, 2021
6:00 PM
Free
Come out to Movie Under The Stars for a showing of the holiday favorite, Elf! There will also be a costume contest and raffle before the movie. Bring your own blankets and chairs to bundle up.
Brea Tree Lighting Ceremony
Brea Civic Cultural Center
1 Civic Center Circle, Brea
December 2, 2021
6:30 PM
Attend the annual tree lighting ceremony, take pictures with Santa, and see live reindeer.
Buena Park
Knott’s Merry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm
8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
Enjoy the festivities at Knott’s Merry Farm with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus and the gang. For the Holiday season, Knott’s becomes a magical place to celebrate with a Christmas Crafters Village, holiday decorations, and all the excitement of the holiday season.
Christmas Tree Lighting
Buena Park City Hall
6650 Beach Blvd, Buena Park
December 3, 2021
6:00PM
Enjoy musical performances, children’s activities, food trucks a train ride, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and of course, the tree lighting.
Pirates Take Christmas! – Buena Park
Pirates Dinner Adventure
7600 Beach Blvd. Buena Park, CA
The Pirates Dinner Adventure celebrates the holiday season with their popular show, Pirates Take Christmas! The pirates take Santa and Mrs. Claus captive and attempt to steal Christmas, but can the crowd help save them and the beloved holiday? The family-friendly event is served with loads of fun, a fantastic holiday feast, and unforgettable memories. A variety of meal options are available including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free.
Candy Caneland & Craft Faire
December 4, 2021
Ehlers Event Center
10 AM – 4 PM
The annual Candy Caneland & Craft Faire will feature food and game vendors, unique gifts and goods made by crafters, and much more. Stay tuned for more details.
Corona Del Mar
Corona Del Mar Christmas Walk
Corona Del Mar Village
2855 E. Coast Highway, Corona Del Mar
December 5, 2021
11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Corona Del Mar Christmas Walk is one of the community’s most popular annual events. For 2021’s Annual Christmas Walk, the event features over 17 local bands, visits with Santa, beer and wine gardens, shopping, activities, promotions, and more.
Roger’s Gardens
2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd., Corona del Mar, CA 92625
Open Daily 9 AM – 8 PM
Visit Roger’s Gardens Home For The Holidays Christmas Boutique to enjoy fresh flowers, spectacular holiday décor for your home, real Christmas trees, silk botanicals, and more.
Costa Mesa
South Coast Plaza Tree Lighting
South Coast Plaza
Town Center Park adjacent to the Westin
November 18, 2021
7PM – 9PM
The annual tree lighting ceremony kicks off the holiday season, plus enjoy a performance by Orange County School Of The Arts and special guest Matthew Morrison. There will also be snow and a visit from Santa.
Winter Fest’s Night of Lights OC – Costa Mesa
OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, California 92626
November 26, 2021-January 2, 2022
Ticket prices range from $39.99 to $79.99 and prices are dependent on the day and time of the selected time slot.
The regular Winter Fest event is being modified this year. Night of Lights OC is a one-mile drive-through holiday lights display. Over one million magical lights, festive music, and more will all be available for you to enjoy from the warmth and comfort of your vehicle. Don’t miss this special holiday event.
Note: that the regular Winter Fest activities below will not be available for the 2021 season.
Winter Fest OC is a magical winter festival with Santa, snow, a carnival and much more. Visitors can stroll through holiday themed lands, build a snowman in the expanded snow play area, and explore the Alpine Village with a snow tubing slide, inflatable maze, craft tent, and food trucks. New this year, stroll through Victorian England and experience SoCal Dickens High Tea. Every night at 5:30 guests will enjoy the tree lighting ceremony with fresh falling snow, a parade, and watch as fireworks light up the sky. Kids will enjoy all the magic that Winter Fest has to offer including the petting zoo, bounce houses, and Meet & Greets with favorite characters like Thomas the Train, PAW Patrol, and Rusty Rivets. The whole family will feel the spirit of the season as they wander through the winter wonderland.
Holiday Snowland
Balearic Park
1975 Balearic Drive, Costa Mesa
December 18, 2021
This local park will be covered in snow to become an exciting winter wonderland.
Holiday Movie Nights
Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center
600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
7:00PM
Come out for your favorite holiday movies and hot cocoa. Bring your own folding chairs, blankets, and warm jackets. Tickets start at $5.
December 3: Elf
December 10: The Nightmare Before Christmas
Holidays Around The World
Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center
600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
December 4 & 11, 2021
11AM
Visit a winter wonderland with live performances and celebrate holiday traditions from around the world with seasonal crafts, snowfall, and much more holiday magic.
Cypress
Cypress Holiday Sing & Tree Lighting
Cypress Civic Center Green – Orange & Grindlay St.
Tuesday, December 7, 2021 – 6:00 PM
Get in the holiday spirit! Event includes refreshments, school performers, train rides, visiting with Santa, kids crafts and games, and letters to veterans and Santa.
Dana Point
Holidays At The Harbor
Dana Point Harbor
November 17, 2021 – Early January
Enjoy a stroll through holiday lights, boat rides and pictures with Santa, a Menorah lighting, live music and much more as Dana Point Harbor transforms into a Southern California holiday setting. Visit the website for complete details.
La Plaza Park Tree Lighting
La Plaza Park
34111 La Plaza St., Dana Point
December 4, 2021
4:30 – 5:30PM
Come out for the tree lighting ceremony! Santa and the elves will be there on his trolley handing out treats to kids 12 and under, plus there will be carolers, hot chocolate, and cookies.
Pines Park Tree Lighting
Pines Park
34941 Camino Capistrano, Dana Point
December 6, 2021
4:30 – 5:30PM
Come for the tree lighting and visit with Santa and his elves who will be there on the trolley handing out treats to kids 12 and under. Bring your letter to Santa! There will also be carolers, cookies, and hot chocolate.
Boat Parade Of Lights
Dana Point Harbor
December 10-12, 2021
7:30PM on the 10th & 11th
6PM on the 12th
Dana Point Harbor’s annual boat parade takes place with a Fiesta Holiday theme. The festive, decorated boats cruise the harbor for onlookers to enjoy.
Fountain Valley
Fountain Valley Tree Lighting
Recreation and Sports Park
16400 Brookhurst Street, Fountain Valley
December 4, 2021
4:30PM – 8:00PM
The holiday tree lighting event will include the Hyundai snow zone, photos with Santa, and activities for the family.
Fullerton
Fullerton Snow Day
Brea Dam Park
1700 N. Harbor Boulevard, Fullerton
Date TBA
Ticket Prices
$15 per person for Fullerton residents with advanced registration
$18 per non-resident with advanced registration
Day of admission is $18 per resident, $21 per non-resident
Each Winter, the city of Fullerton delivers fresh snow to Brea Dam Park for families to come out and enjoy a day of snowball fights, building snowmen, and sledding. Warm clothing and mittens are recommended to prevent frosty fingers and cold toes. The event includes a snow-play area, three 75-foot sled runs, a small sled run area for children five and under, blast zone, crafts and games. Food trucks will be on site to purchase food for snacks or lunch.
Fullerton Winter Market
Downtown Fullerton Plaza
Wilshire Avenue between Harbor and Pomona
TBA
12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Fullerton Winter Market is a free community event with shopping and entertainment with the goal of collecting donations for the Spark of Love Toy Drive hosted by the Fullerton Fire Department in partnership with Toys for Tots. Winter Market attendees will enjoy free pictures with Santa, Holiday entertainment, plenty of shopping for gifts from a variety of vendors, food booths, face painting, a bounce house, and a beer and wine garden.
Holiday Festival at the Muck
Muckenthaler Cultural Center
1201 West Malvern Ave, Fullerton
December 19, 2021
12PM – 4PM
Celebrate the holiday season at the Muck with family-friendly activities, live music, free art workshops for kids, and an arts and crafts sale.
Garden Grove
Living Nativity
Village Bible Church
12671 Buaro St., Garden Grove, CA
December 11 – December 13, 2021
4PM – 9PM
Walk through Bethlehem and relive the first Christmas at this living Nativity event at Village Bible Church.
Winter In The Grove
Village Green Park
12732 Main Street, Garden Grove
December 4, 2021
3PM – 7PM
Come out for a festive event featuring sliding on fresh snow, visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and the GGCF Tree Lighting Spectacular.
Huntington Beach
Bella Terra Holidays
Bella Terra
7777 Edinger Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Bella Terra Shopping Center is hosting several holiday-themed events and activities throughout the season, including photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, live holiday music, magical snowfall every half hour, hot cocoa and carols, strolling holiday characters and more. Visit the Bella Terra website for complete details and event times.
Cruise of Lights – Huntington Harbour
Huntington Harbour Mall
16889 Algonquin Street, Huntington Beach
Cancelled for 2021
Ticket Prices
Traditional Cruise Tickets – $21 per adult, $14 per child ages 2-12
Santa’s Special Night – $19 per adult, $12 per child
Extended Cruise – $32 per adult, $25 per child
Land & Sea Dinner & Cruise – $75 per adult, $68 per child
The annual Cruise of Lights, hosted by the Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Committee takes guests on a Harbour Cruise to view festive holiday lights and decorations. Participant will climb aboard a large chartered boat and head out into Huntington Harbour for a 45-minute narrated tour. The Huntington Harbour homes, docks, and boats are always bright and cheery with everything from animations and music to giant Christmas trees on the docks. You’ll see some of the most extraordinary lighting displays here in Huntington Harbour. All proceeds from the Cruise of Lights support music education programs for Orange County public and private schools by the Philharmonic Society of Orange County.
Drive Thru Nativity
First Christian Church of Huntington Beach
1207 Main St Huntington Beach, CA 92648
December 8-10, 2021
6 PM PST – 9 PM PST
Bring the whole family for this FREE, drive-thru/walk-thru event in the FCCHB parking lot. See 9 different, live scenes depicting the story of Jesus’ birth from the comfort of your car. Complete with live animals, lights, music, and more, this is a holiday event you won’t want to miss!
Holiday Movie Series
Biergarten Huntington Beach
7561 Center Ave #49, Huntington Beach, CA
December 7, 14, & 21, 2021
6PM Doors, Movie at 7PM
Free
Enjoy a holiday movie in the 5,000 square foot hall with three screens. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Pizza and snacks will be available for purchase and there will be a full bar. Admission is free and all ages are welcome. Register for your spot.
Huntington Beach Parade and Snowflake Lighting Ceremony
Downtown Huntington Beach at Main Street & Pier Plaza
Sunday, December 5, 2021
3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Waymakers Light A Light of Love features a holiday celebration to benefit the Huntington Beach Youth Shelter. The event includes a holiday parade down Main Street, a visit on the beach from Surf City Santa, entertainment, and a ceremony to mark the lighting of the snowflakes on the Huntington Beach Pier.
Huntington Harbour Boat Parade
December 11 & 12, 2021
Parade begins at 5:15 PM
Huntington Harbour
Decorated boats will don lights and holiday displays as they cruise through the waterways of Huntington Harbour.
Ocean Front Ice Skating at Pasea
Pasea Hotel
21080 CA-1, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
November 25, 2021 – January 2, 2022
$30 per person, advance tickets required
Enjoy the holidays on ice with ocean views at Pasea Hotel’s holiday ice skating rink. Experience all the holidays fun with theme nights, firepits, performances, group skates, and more.
Pacific City Holiday Happenings
Pacific City
21010 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Visit Pacific City this holiday season for fun ways to celebrate by the sea. Activities include photos on the Ocean Deck with socially distanced Santa and his Airstream trailer, holiday movie nights, cookie decorating, musical performances, carolers, puppet shows, and more. Visit the website for full details.
Surf City Winter Wonderland
Huntington Beach Pier Plaza
Main Street and PCH, Huntington Beach
November 16, 2021 – January 2, 2022
Monday – Thursday 2PM-10PM
Friday & Saturday 10AM – 11PM
Sunday 10AM – 10PM
$18-$20 per person
Experience Huntington Beach like never before with this beach-front ice skating rink right next to the Huntington Beach Pier just steps from the sand. Tickets can be purchased online.
Irvine
Tanaka Farms Christmas Tree Farm & Holiday Market
Tanaka Farms
5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612
Open daily beginning November 26, 2021
Find your Christmas Tree and shop the holiday market for wreaths, garland, and one of a kind holiday décor.
Hikari – A Festival of Lights
Tanaka Farms
5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine
Begins November 26, 2021
4:30PM – 10PM Daily
Monday-Thursday: $49 per vehicle
Friday – Sunday: $59 per vehicle
Registration required
Visit Tanaka Farms for a celebration filled with joy and light this holiday season. Tanaka Farms will shine with 30-acres full of farm-themed lighting. Choose from a wagon ride that takes you to the Land of a Thousand Lanterns and a visit to the Gingerbread Forest, or general admission (without the wagon ride) to the Gingerbread forest with crafts, photo ops, live music, and the chance to meet Santa.
Holidayz At The Park
Orange County Great Park
8000 Great Park Blvd., Irvine, CA 92618
November 20, 2021 – January 2, 2022
‘Tis the season for family fun and holiday cheer! The Orange County Great Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland with holiday-themed events, displays, and lights. The event includes light displays in Palm Court, photos with Santa, Gingerbread house decorating workshop ($55), and pajama party drive-in movie nights.
Irvine Spectrum Holidays
Irvine Spectrum
670 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, CA 92618
Holiday 2021
Celebrate the 2021 holiday season at Irvine Spectrum Center. Enjoy festive activities like the nightly tree-lightings with choreographed light shows every 30 minutes, a virtual Santa experience, skating under the stars, and more.
Irvine Spectrum Ice Rink: Skating begins November 26, 2021. Hours vary. Season passes are available for $199 and include admission and skate rental. Learn to skate sessions are available on Saturday mornings.
- Adults and Children $25 with skate rental
- Adults and Children $23 without skate rental
- Ages 3-10 $21 with double blade skate rental
- Military members or Seniors age 62+ $21 with skate rental
Irvine Civic Center Tree Lighting
Irvine Civic Center
1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine
December 4, 2021
4PM – 6:30PM
Visit with Santa Claus and enjoy live holiday music, a winter train, and the lighting of the tree. Please consider bringing a new, unwrapped gift for the toy drive for the kids of the 2/11 Marine Battalion.
La Habra
Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel & Laguna Hills
Laguna Niguel Christmas Tree Lighting
30111 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel
Saturday, December 4, 2021
5PM – 8PM
Visit with Santa and take photos with him and Mrs. Claus and other winter guests. Stay for performances, crafts, and activities for the whole family.
Laguna Niguel Chanukah Celebration & Menorah Lighting
November 28, 2021
4PM
Enjoy live entertainment, Chanukah treats, lighting the menorah, crafts and activities, and more.
Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade
29751 Crown Valley Parkway
Saturday, December 11, 2021
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
The annual Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade features over 100 exciting entries including marching bands, floats, youth groups, equestrian units, exotic cars, military members, local heroes, fun attractions, and of course, Santa. There are more than 3,000 participants in the parade and more than 10,000 community members come out to watch. Bring your own chair and scout out a spot to watch this fun annual parade. There is a free shuttle available from the Federal Building parking lot.
Winter Fantasy Sawdust Festival – Laguna Beach
Sawdust Art Festival
935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
November 20 – December 19, 2021 (Black Friday and weekends)
10AM – 7PM
Ticket Prices
Adults $10
Seniors $7
Kids, 6-12 $5
Under 5 Free
The Sawdust Festival Winter Fantasy transforms the 3-acre art village into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season, complete with lights and decorations, falling snow, Santa, art demos, live music and entertainment, and 150 artists and craft makers.
Lake Forest
Holiday Lights at Heritage Hill
Heritage Hill Historical Park
25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630
December 10-12, 2021
5:30PM – 8:30PM
During the holiday season, Heritage Hill is adorned with lights. Come out and enjoy a stroll through the festive historic buildings including the Serrano Adobe dating back to 1863, St. George’s Episcopal Mission circa 1890, the El Torro Grammar School, and the Harvey Bennett Ranch House. Plus there will be kids crafts, live entertainment, and the opportunity to visit with Santa.
Light Of The World
Saddleback Church
1 Saddleback Parkway, Lake Forest, CA 92630
December 2-19, 2021
Monday – Thursday 6PM – 10PM
Friday – Sunday 7PM – 10PM
Stroll through holiday-themed lands illuminated with lights like Candy Cane Lane, Starry Night, and Little Drummer Boy. Sip hot cocoa and enjoy Christmas music. Food will be available for purchase. Reservations are required with hourly time slots available.
Snowfest
Pittsford Park
21701 Pittsford Drive, Lake Forest CA 92630
January 29, 2022
$7 per sledder
It’s Snowfest 2021! Put on your snow gear and come out to frolic in the freshly fallen snow, with sleds and saucers available for sledding down Mount Pittsford. Sledding wristbands must be purchased in person at the Lake Forest Recreation Center. To prevent overcrowding on the slopes, a limited number of wristbands will be sold for each sledding session. The event includes a free snow play area for ages 10 and under, guest appearances by special characters, games and activities available to purchase, and food and drinks.
La Palma
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Central Park
7821 Walker Street, La Palma
December 1, 2021
4PM – 6PM
Enjoy musical performances, visiting with Santa and his elves, arts and crafts, writing letters to Santa, and the holiday tree lighting.
Los Alamitos
Winter Wonderland
St. Isidore Historical Plaza
10961 Reagan St., Los Alamitos, CA
December 4, 2021
4PM – 7:30PM
Enjoy free snow play, sledding, Santa’s Village, a tree lighting, and musical entertainment. Please consider bringing a new, unwrapped toy to donate to a child in need.
Mission Viejo
Santa’s Stop, Wave, & Go
City Hall
200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo
Saturday & Sunday November 28 – December 19
6PM – 8PM
Bring the whole family out for an evening of fun as you drive by the workshop and wave hello to Santa and Mrs. Claus. Then, drop off a letter to Santa in the mailbox located in the Kershaw Garden. Santa’s Workshop will be closed to foot traffic on the nights of Drive By events, but will be open to walk throughs on all other nights.
Newport Beach
Crystal Cove Tree Lighting Ceremony – Newport Beach
Crystal Cove Conservancy
5 Crystal Cove, Newport Beach
The Annual Crystal Cove Conservancy Tree Lighting Ceremony is a festive holiday event featuring the transformation of Crystal Cove into a winter wonderland complete with a Christmas tree on the beach, sparkling lights, Christmas ornaments, and of course, Santa on a lifeguard vehicle. Guests will enjoy shopping at the Holiday Bazaar, and sipping hot chocolate and apple cider. There will be home baked treats from the Beachcomber Café and arts and crafts activities to enjoy.
Fashion Island Holidays – Newport Beach
Fashion Island
401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach
Fashion Island helps you celebrate the holidays. The 90-foot live holiday tree will be up for photo ops, as will holiday photo stations around the Neiman Marcus – Bloomingdale’s Courtyard. Also, don’t miss the Augmented Reality photo experiences with Santa & Friends throughout Fashion Island. Want to visit with Santa one on one? Schedule a virtual visit! In the Atrium Garden Courtyard, celebrate Hanukkah with the Menorah Lighting Display. See all the details about Fashion Island’s Holiday Celebrations.
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade & Ring of Lights
Newport Landing
309 Palm St. Ste. A, Newport Beach
Boat Parade December 15 – December 19, 2021
Every year for 110 years, Newport Bay has hosted spectacular Christmas light displays on and off the water. Bayfront residents elaborately decorate their homes with holiday lights and décor to wow spectators who admire the dazzling Christmas displays. In addition to the decorated homes, there is a boat parade during the evenings of December 15-19, when hundreds of decorated boats cruise Newport Bay for all to see. The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the largest of its kind. Boaters are entered into a competition to win awards and over 1.5 million people watch the parade every year. This year, the parade will also be streamed virtually.
Newport Dunes Lighting Of The Bay & Christmas Tree Lot
Newport Dunes
1131 Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach, CA 92660
November 26 – January 1, 2021
Celebrate Newport Dune’s 30th annual Lighting of the Bay. Stroll the bay and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. The Back Bay will be lit sunset to sunup with festive floating holiday lights. On Friday and Saturday nights, cocktails and food will be available for purchase from Moe B’s Munchies beachfront grill. The Christmas Tree Lot is open daily from 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
Once Upon A Christmas
Balboa Island
Once Upon An Island – 118 Agate Ave., Newport Beach 92662
Second Week of November through the end of December
Ticket prices vary by package
Once Upon A Christmas offers magical interactive Christmas experiences for the whole family. Choose Silver Tickets, Gold Tickets, or VIP. Depending on the package you choose, you can make toys with the elves and get a tour of the workshop, talk with a real reindeer, have a Santa Mail experience, take a secret portal to the North Pole, meet and talk with Santa, and even hear him read a story by the fire. Visit Once Upon A Christmas for package details and ticket prices. Hurry! These events sell out!
Orange
Irvine Park Christmas Train – Orange
Irvine Regional Park
1 Irvine Park Road, Orange
November 26 – December 23, 2021
Weekdays: 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Weekends: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Ticket Prices:
Train Ride – $17-$20 per person (children 24 months and under are free)
Activity Tickets – $6 each or purchase of book of 15 tickets for $75
Park Entrance Fee – $3 on weekdays, $5 on weekends, $7 on holidays
Every winter, the Irvine Park Railroad transforms into a winter wonderland complete with a train ride to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. Guests will also enjoy Santa’s Village, a play area packed with fun holiday activities including the bounce house, cookie decorating, ice fishing, carnival games, blizzard ball, and Rudolph racers. All activities require a ticket. Free activities in Santa’s Village include story time with Mrs. Claus, coloring corner, and photo stations. Tickets for the Christmas Train must be purchased online in advance. (Note for 2020, some games will not be available and activities will be modified).
Tree Lighting Ceremony and Candlelight Choir Procession
Old Towne Orange Plaza
Plaza Square, Orange, CA
Sunday, December 5, 2021
3:30 PM – 7PM
Sing holiday carols at the tree lighting ceremony, plus treats, youth activities, nonprofit booths, pictures with Santa, and more. The music program will begin at 5:15.
Placentia
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Placentia Civic Center Plaza
401 E Chapman Ave., Placentia
December 2, 2021
6PM – 8PM
The tree lighting event will include performances and pictures with Santa.
Rancho Santa Margarita
Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
Lago Santa Margarita Lakeshore
21472 Avenida De Los Fundadores, Rancho Santa Margarita
December 4, 2021
5PM – 7PM
Make memories at the tree lighting event with holiday music, visiting with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a dance performance, and the telling of The Night Before Christmas.
San Clemente
Holly Jolly Trolley Trot
San Clemente Neighborhoods
TBA
The City of San Clemente Recreation Division is offering an alternative holiday celebration option for neighborhoods across San Clemente. Santa will be cruising through neighborhoods parade style on the San Clemente Trolley to spread holiday cheer and his elves will be handing out goodie bags to children along the way. Periodic stops will allow for socially-distanced photos in front of the Trolley with Santa.
Santa’s Village By The Sea
Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente
December 4, 2021
4:00PM – 8:00PM
This holly jolly holiday event includes music, food, hot chocolate, popcorn, games, and snow. Tickets or wristbands will be available for purchase for activities and snow play. The community tree lighting takes place at 4:45 followed by music, food, and shopping.
Sunsets With Santa
622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente
December 11, 12, 18, & 19, 2021
3PM – 5PM
Take photos with Santa on the San Clemente Pier with a holiday tree and the ocean. Enjoy Christmas music and special guests.
San Juan Capistrano
Capistrano Lights Nightly Program
Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano
December 4, 2021 – December 30, 2021
Tickets: $9-$19 per person
Joining in the nightly tree lighting in the Ruins of the Great Stone Church on select evenings. Enjoy the Mission in lights and sing along with the holiday songs of the 30-foot Christmas tree. A 10-foot wreath in the front courtyard provides the perfect setting for a holiday photo op. Stroll the Mission grounds to see community Christmas trees, festively lit season. Facial coverings are required.
Winterscape At The Outpost
Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park
30753 Avenida La Pata, San Juan Capistrano
December 10 -23, 2021
The first annual festival of trees and Winterscape at the Outpost includes live entertainment, food and drinks, games, ice skating, ice curling, movie nights, pictures with Santa and more. Gates open daily at 10AM and admission is $5 per person.
Santa Ana
The Elf on the Shelf: Santa’s Magical Photo Adventure
Main Place Mall
2800 N Main St. Santa Ana
November 18 – December 24, 2021
Experience an interactive Elf On The Shelf activity and get pictures taken with Santa. The walk-through will include holiday décor and selfie museums. Located on the lower level in Macy’s Court.
Plaza Navidena
Plaza Calle Cuatro – Downtown Santa Ana
November 20, 2021
5PM – 8PM
The free community event includes the tree lighting ceremony, entertainment, food, and drinks.
Santa Ana Winter Village
Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana
December 8, 2021 – January 2, 2022
Hours
December 8 – December 17
Monday – Thursday 2PM – 9PM
Friday – Sunday 10AM – 10PM
December 18 – January 2
10AM – 10PM
Christmas Eve
10AM – 5:30PM
Rent ice skates and test your skills at a world-class outdoor ice-skating rink in the middle of Orange County. The Santa Ana Winter Village offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages, with live entertainment, holiday shopping and merchandise from specialty vendors and local community groups, cuisine from local food trucks, and more.
Family-friendly activities include a festive trackless train, read a story with Mrs. Claus, or enjoy a warm treat under the festive holiday lights. On select days of the month-long event, visitors may even have an opportunity to meet Santa Claus.
A special Grand Opening event and official tree-lighting ceremony will be held on Thursday, Dec. 9, which will be attended by Santa Ana Mayor Vicente Sarmiento, Santa Ana City Councilmembers and other VIP guests.
The signature attraction of Santa Ana Winter Village is an outdoor ice rink will allow attendees to enjoy this fun winter activity. Guests 3 and up can ice-skate in 90-minute sessions, with both general skating admission and discounted Santa Ana resident rates available. Tickets can be purchased in advance to reserve a specific date and time. A limited number of tickets will also be available to walk-up guests each session. General admission for ice-skating is $12 for adults (13+) and $8 for kids (3-12). Santa Ana residents are offered discounted admission prices on Mondays; $10 for adults and $5 for children.
Admission to Santa Ana Winter Village is free of charge, with separate costs for specific activities, such as ice-skating, food trucks and merchandise vendors. Family activities such as story time with Mrs. Claus, meeting Santa Claus and live entertainment are available at no cost to attendees.
Science of Gingerbread Competition – Discovery Cube
Discovery Cube OC
2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana
The Discovery Cube Orange County invites contestants of all ages to join in the Science of Gingerbread Competition. Kids of all ages, families, scout groups, school groups, and organizations can team up to create a gingerbread house to enter into the competition. Use your imagination to build the perfect house, castle, log cabin, boat, robot or whatever your imagination can come up with. Award categories include Best Holiday Theme, Best by an Organization, Best by a Classroom, Best by a Youth Group/Troop/Scout, Best Youth 5 and Under, Best Youth Ages 6-13, Best By a Member of the Cube, and Best Science Theme.
Seal Beach/Rossmoor
Holiday Spectacular
The Shops At Rossmoor
12501 Seal Beach Blvd., Seal Beach
December 11, 2021
11AM – 1PM
Come out to the Shops to visit with Santa and get your photo taken with him, decorate holiday cookies, take a ride on the train, enjoy face painting and balloon art, and more. Event will be located between HomeGoods and PetSmart.
Rossmoor Winter Festival
Rush Park
3001 Blume Drive, Rossmoor
December 11, 2021
4PM – 9PM
The Rossmoor Winter Festival is a free family event that includes fresh snow, a visit from Santa, a petting zoo, and live entertainment. Santa hosts the tree lighting ceremony at 7:00 p.m. and guests are invited to take a Holiday Lights Trolley ride around the neighborhood to view the festive decorations in the community. Arts and crafts activities will be hosted in the auditorium. If you’re looking for snow play, there will be plenty of it for snowball fights and building snowmen, and three hills will be available for sledding. Five gourmet food trucks will be onsite for feeding hungry families and 28 vendors will be set up for your holiday shopping needs. Guests are asked to please consider bringing a new unwrapped toy or gift to donate to Operation Santa or Senior Santa.
Seal Beach Christmas Parade
Main Street, Seal Beach
December 3, 2021
7:00 PM
The Annual Christmas Parade takes place on Friday, December 3. The 2021 event will include over 2200 participants marching down Main Street from Ocean to PCH with the theme “Surf’s Up For Christmas”. Santa will be there too, so keep an eye out for him!
Seal Beach Tree Lighting
Eisenhower Park
Ocean Avenue and Main Street, Seal Beach
November 23, 2021
4PM – 8PM
Join friends and family at Eisenhower Park at the Seal Beach Pier for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Participants will enjoy sledding on real snow, visiting with Santa, sipping coffee and hot chocolate, live music, and ice skating. Enjoy an evening stroll down Main Street and get a head start on your holiday shopping.
Stanton
Stanton Christmas Tree Lighting
Stanton City Hall
7800 Katella Ave., Stanton, CA
December 9, 2021
6:30PM – 8:30PM
Join the festivities for music, holiday around the world displays, a visit from Santa, and the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony.
Tustin
Breakfast With Santa
Community Center At The Market Place
2961 El Camino Real, Tustin
December 11, 2021
Adults: $20
Kids 2-10: $15
Kids Under 2: Free
All Day
Join Santa for a pancake breakfast, crafts and games, and pictures. Space is limited so register in advance.
Holidays at The Market Place
The Market Place
2961 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92782
Holiday 2021
Happy Holidays from The Market Place in Tustin. Celebrate with festive activities including holiday trees and photo op displays, seasonal décor, augmented reality experiences with Santa and Friends, and more. Visit The Market Place website for all the holiday details.
Tustin Tree Lighting
Tustin Library Courtyard
345 E. Main Street, Tustin
December 10, 2021
7PM – 8:30PM
Villa Park
Dry Land Boat Parade
Villa Park
Sunday, December 12, 2021
5:00 PM
The dry land boat parade is a tour where over 50 vessels travel through the streets of Villa Park. The parade starts at 5:00 PM and follows a route to the Villa Park Town Center. The theme for 2020 will be “Joy To The World”. View the parade route here.
Santa Tour on a Fire Truck – Villa Park
Villa Park
Saturday, December 4, 2021
8:00 AM
The Villa Park Santa Tour on a fire truck starts at 8:00 AM and follows a route with about 32 stops at about 5 to 15 minute intervals each along the way. Note for 2020, masks are required and Santa will maintain 6 feet social distancing. Find Santa’s route here.
Westminster
Tree Lighting Ceremony & Holiday Community Sing
Westminster Civic Center
8200 Westminster Blvd., Westminster, CA
Monday, December 6, 2021
6:30 PM
In addition to the tree lighting, there will be a welcome from the Mayor, musical performances, and a visit from Santa. There will also be a canned goods collection for donation to those in need.
Yorba Linda
Breakfast With Santa
Yorba Linda Community Center
4501 Casa Loma Ave., Yorba Linda
December 11, 2021
9AM – 11:30AM
$20 Per Person
Have breakfast with Santa and enjoy crafts, live entertainment and activities with Santa himself.
Yorba Linda Holiday on Main Street
Main Street, Yorba Linda
December 4, 2021
Come out to Main Street in Yorba Linda for the annual Holiday on Main Street Celebration. The event includes holiday decorations and magical lighting, stages with live Christmas Music, pictures with Santa, activities for kids, food trucks, shopping from artisans and local businesses, and a beer garden. Gather with friends, family, and community members to enjoy the holiday season.
Related Articles
| Fairs & Festivals in Orange County | Winter Fest OC |
| Where To See The Nutcracker | Orange County 5Ks and Fun Runs |
| Orange County Outlets & Beyond | Southern California Winter Vacation Ideas |
