2025 HolidayGuide: 200+ Holiday Events for Kids in Southern California
KIDSGUIDE | HolidayGuide
200+ Holiday Events for Kids in Southern California
Updated: November 2025
It’s officially the most magical time of the year in Southern California!
We’ve rounded up 200+ of holiday events and festive attractions so you can spend less time searching and more time making memories. From twinkling tree lightings and local productions of The Nutcracker to immersive light displays and cozy winter walk-throughs, there’s a little holiday sparkle for everyone.
You’ll also find seasonal theme park makeovers, outdoor ice skating rinks, snow play parks in the mountains, and all your favorite family-friendly shows. This guide has your whole season covered.
Quick Jump:
❇️ FREE!
Apollo Lighting
Columbia Memorial Space Center | Downey
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 4-7pm
Join the Columbia Memorial Space Center for their annual Apollo Capsule Lighting event! This unique lighting ceremony also features TubaChristmas! Tuba players unite to bring the magic of the season with classic holiday tunes. Families can also enjoy plenty of hands-on STEM activities where science meets the holidays.
Holiday Events at Pretend City
Pretend City Children’s Museum | Irvine
December 6-31, 2025
December 6: Tree Lighting Ceremony with Santa
December 14: Little Latkes Hanukkah Party
December 17: Las Posadas
December 20: Kwanzaa Celebration
December 21: Winter Solstice / Christmas Celebration
December 22: Stories & Cookies with Mrs. Claus
December 31: New Year’s Eve Around the World
❇️ FREE!
Santa’s Wonderland
Bass Pro Shops | Irvine
Now – December 31, 2025
Enjoy free activities and giveaways, reserve a spot for a free 4×6 photo with Santa, weekend giveaways include wooden ornaments and bass cookie cutter. Listen to Christmas Tales with Santa on Tuesday and have a Yuletide Breakfast on November 22.
❇️ FREE!
Santa’s Arrival Celebration
MainPlace Mall | Santa Ana
Friday, November 14, 2025 • 6-8pm
Families can enjoy live holiday music, sweet treats, a kids’ accessory station, bag-charm making, and a toy pick-up stop. Children receive mini totes for activities while supplies last.
❇️ FREE!
Christmas at The Grove
The Grove | Los Angeles
Monday, November 17, 2025 • 7pm
Kick off the season with The Grove’s 24th annual tree lighting celebration hosted by Lance Bass and featuring Nick Carter, Dasha, Loud Luxury, and Kevin Woo (Mystery Saja from K-Pop Demon Hunters!). Enjoy Santa’s grand arrival, fireworks, a drone show, and the season’s first snowfall.
✳️ FREE!
Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting & Holiday Open House
Roundhouse Aquarium | Manhattan Beach
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Celebrate the season with extended aquarium hours from 3-8:30pm, live music, lights, and free hot cocoa starting at 6pm. The pier lighting begins at 7pm, with downtown shops open until 9pm for festive fun including choir performances, Santa photos, Dickens-style carolers, and more.
Spanish Immersion Super Saturdays
LangoKids Irvine | Irvine
November 22 & December 6, 13, 20, 2025
LangoKids Irvine offers themed Spanish immersion sessions featuring songs, games, crafts, and cultural lessons. Kids explore topics like global Thanksgiving traditions, science experiments, holiday cooking, and celebrations from countries including France, Israel, Finland, and Mexico, all in small, engaging classes.
❇️ FREE!
Tree Lighting & Santa Arrival
2ND & PCH | Long Beach
Thursday, November 20, 2025 • 5-8pm
Kick off the holidays by the marina with live entertainment, a holiday market, and festive fun. Enjoy crafts, photo ops, balloon art, and Santa’s arrival at 6:15pm headlined by SZN4 (from Building the Band), followed by the dazzling tree lighting and fireworks at 6:30pm.
❇️ FREE!
South Coast Plaza Tree Lighting
Town Center Park | Costa Mesa
Thursday, November 20, 2025 • 7pm
Join the Segerstrom family for a festive evening featuring performances by Pacific Symphony, South Coast Repertory, and more. The celebration begins with Santa’s arrival and the grand lighting of South Coast Plaza’s dazzling Christmas tree.
❇️ FREE!
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Signal Hill Park | Signal Hill
Thursday, November 20, 2025 • 5:15-7pm
Families can enjoy live music, festive crafts, sweet treats, carolers, a winter village area, and photos with Santa before the tree lighting at 6pm.
❇️ FREE!
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Union Station | Los Angeles
Thursday, November 20, 2025 • 6-8pm
Enjoy live music by The Beverly Belles, holiday crafts, milk & cookies, and photo ops with Santa. Carolers will fill the station with festive tunes as families gather to celebrate the 10th annual tree lighting on the historic South Patio.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Cheer on the Pier
Santa Monica Pier | Santa Monica
November 20 – December 18, 2025
Enjoy a month of holiday fun on the pier with live music, family activities, and festive displays. Highlights include Locals’ Night kickoff on November 20, Bob Baker Marionette Theater shows on December 4, 11, and 18, plus photos with Santa and a holiday car show.
❇️ FREE!
Christmas Tree Lighting
Eisenhower Park | Seal Beach
Saturday, November 22, 2025 • 4-7pm
Enjoy pictures with Santa, snow sledding, Dickens carolers, kids crafts, cocoa and cookies, and a life-size snowman during this festive community tree lighting celebration
❇️ FREE!
Venice Winter Fest
Venice | Los Angeles
Saturday, November 22, 2025 • 10am-6pm
Venice Winter Fest brings artisan markets, live music, festive bites, and winter-themed activities by the water. Families can explore holiday installations, shop local makers, and enjoy Playtime Paradise with crafts, slime, Santa photos, face painting, games, and dog adoptions.
❇️ FREE!
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Cerritos Civic Center | Cerritos
Monday, November 24, 2025 • 5-7pm
Celebrate the season with holiday music, crafts, and entertainment for all ages. Join the Cerritos City Council for the countdown to the tree lighting, then visit with Santa for photos.
❇️ FREE!
Magic on Main & 5th
Downtown Huntington Beach | Huntington Beach
Tuesday, November 25, 2025 • 4-8pm
Enjoy live entertainment, holiday craft vendors, and photos with Santa along Main Street and 5th Street. Families can explore light displays, seasonal treats, and a bustling holiday market.
Acting Out Theater Camp & Workshop
Thanksgiving Camp: November 24-25, 2025 — This fast-paced two-day workshop introduces young actors to character work, scene exploration, and the process of bringing a one-act play to life. Students experiment, learn material, collaborate with fellow performers, and wrap up the session by filming their final performance.
Winter Break Workshop: December 22-23, 2025 — In this two-day holiday workshop, participants create and star in their own themed variety show. Students write and perform skits, explore improv and theater games, and film their work to share with family and friends.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Carnival
Norwalk Town Square | Norwalk
Saturday, November 29, 2025 • 12-3pm
Celebrate the season with snow sledding, pony rides, bounce houses, and holiday crafts. Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus, enjoy storytelling, take festive photos, and join the fun with stilt walkers, face painters, and balloon artists.
❇️ FREE!
Zaferia Winter Fest
Port City Tavern | Long Beach
Saturday, November 29, 2025 • 2-6pm
This family-friendly, all ages event will feature hot cocoa, kids activities, real snow, and food and drinks for purchase.
❇️ FREE!
Lowrider Photos With Santa
Muzeo | Anaheim
Saturday, November 29, 2025 • 3-5pm
Santa rolls up in his lowrider for your holiday family photos. Come down and get your photo taken with jolly old Saint Nick in a lowrider!
Calico Holiday Fest
Calico Ghost Town | Yermo
Saturday, November 29, 2025 • 9am-7pm
Enjoy a festive day at Calico Ghost Town with Santa visits, a tree lighting ceremony, gunfighter shows, live music, games, and family activities throughout the historic town during this annual holiday celebration.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Carnival
Anaheim Town Square | Anaheim
Sunday, November 30, 2025 • 12-3pm
Celebrate the season with Santa & Mrs. Claus, real snow, cookie decorating, and festive crafts. Enjoy bounce houses, a magician, face painting, balloon art, and live entertainment for a fun-filled family afternoon.
❇️ FREE!
Hollywood Christmas Parade
Hollywood Blvd. | Los Angeles
Sunday, November 30, 2025 • 6pm
Emmy winner Luke Wilson serves as Grand Marshal for the 93rd annual parade. Enjoy marching bands, floats, classic movie cars, giant balloons, equestrians, and Santa Claus himself along the 3.2-mile route through Hollywood.
❇️ FREE!
L.A. County Tree Lighting Ceremony
Jerry Moss Plaza | Los Angeles
Monday, December 1, 2025 • 5-8pm
Families can enjoy live music, falling snow flurries, complimentary hot chocolate, and a festive market with local makers and small businesses. Hands-on art workshops offer chances to create magnets and holiday decorations, and guests are invited to bring art supplies for a community gift drive before the tree is lit.
❇️ FREE!
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Civic Center | Downey
Monday, December 1, 2025 • 6-8:30pm
Join the City of Downey for an evening with live entertainment, arts & crafts, a snow play area, vendor fair, Santa photos, and letters to Santa. The tree lights up at 6:30pm, and families can enjoy food and refreshments onsite.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Sing & Tree Lighting
Civic Center Green | Cypress
Tuesday, December 2, 2025 • 6pm
Enjoy performances from local schools, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, train rides, games, holiday crafts, letters to Santa, and cards for veterans. Hot chocolate, cookies, hot dogs, and water provided while supplies last.
✳️ FREE!
Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting
Terrace Theater Plaza | Long Beach
Wednesday, December 3, 2025 • 5-8pm
Kick off the holiday season with fireworks, falling snow, live music, and a Nutcracker performance. Enjoy photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, holiday selfie stations, and free train rides before and after the lighting. (This event is ticketed and currently sold out.)
✳️ FREE!
Tree Lighting Celebration
Paramount Blvd. & Jackson St. | Paramount
Wednesday, December 3, 2025 • 6-9pm
Enjoy Santa’s Workshop, festive character visits, hot chocolate, cookies, and live musical performances.
✳️ FREE!
Paséa Hotel Tree Lighting Ceremony
Paséa Hotel & Spa | Huntington Beach
Wednesday, December 3, 2025 • 6-8pm
Enjoy holiday carolers from Orange County School of the Arts, Santa visits, photo ops, and local vendors as the 30-foot tree lights up by the beach. Sip complimentary hot cocoa and themed treats, and drop off a toy for the Toys for Tots donation.
❇️ FREE!
Santa’s Workshop
Civic Center Plaza | Mission Viejo
December 3-21, 2025 • 6-8pm
Join the City of Mission Viejo for festive photo ops with Santa & Mrs. Claus on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. Families can explore Santa’s Village, enjoy cheerful displays, make a free craft, and snap seasonal photos.
Holiday Cooking Camps & Classes
Lil’ Chef School | Irvine
November 21 – January 2, 2025
Lil’ Chef School offers a full season of hands-on holiday cooking fun with camps and themed classes for kids and families. Thanksgiving Week Camp, Winter Camp Week 1, and Winter Camp Week 2 feature festive recipes and seasonal dishes. Additional themed sessions include Parents Night Out events, Black Friday Camp, Family Fun Pizza Night, and Adult N’ Me workshops like gingerbread cookies and a cookie exchange.
❇️ FREE!
Cal Heights Neighborhood Tree Lighting
Orange Ave. & Bixby Road | Long Beach
Thursday, December 4, 2025 • 4:30-7:30pm
Enjoy 10 tons of snow, photos with Santa, and the chance to meet a real reindeer. The evening includes live music, a 15-foot tree lighting, storytime, Nutcracker characters, food vendors, crafts, and a community toy drive.
❇️ FREE!
All Is Bright Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting
Aliso Viejo Town Center Fountain & Amphitheater | Aliso Viejo
Thursday, December 4, 2025 • 5-8pm
Enjoy holiday cheer with train rides, ornament making, community and aerial performances, magical snowfall, and a visit from jolly ole St. Nick as the city lights its 22-foot tree.
Autry After Hours: Tree Lighting & Fall Music Night
The Autry in Griffith Park | Los Angeles
Thursday, December 4, 2025 • 6-8:30pm
Enjoy a holiday tree lighting, live music, and dancing with classic holiday and country tunes by Matt Axton. Food trucks and a cash bar with seasonal cocktails will be available
❇️ FREE!
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Third Street Promenade | Santa Monica
Thursday, December 4, 2025 • 6-8pm
Enjoy live performances, snowfall along the promenade, free photos with Santa, holiday crafts, market, hot cocoa, giveaways, and a festive dance party.
❇️ FREE!
Rancho Voices: A Holiday Program
Rancho Los Alamitos | Long Beach
December 4-5, 2025 • 4-8pm
Step back in time for a 1920s-style holiday celebration with house tours, live storytelling, and docents sharing festive tales. Enjoy refreshments, browse the decorated Museum Store for unique gifts, and explore the grounds. Reservations required, parking fees apply.
❇️ FREE!
Christmas Tree Lighting
Buena Park City Hall | Buena Park
Friday, December 5, 2025 • 6pm
Join the community for a night of festive fun featuring food and dessert vendors, photo ops, and pictures with Mr. & Ms. Claus. Enjoy the return of the popular Santa train and the grand lighting of the city’s Christmas tree.
❇️ FREE!
Tree Lighting
The Centre | Lakewood
Friday, December 5, 2025 • 4:30-8pm
Celebrate the season at Lakewood’s 12th annual tree lighting and community gathering. Enjoy carnival games, falling snow, holiday music, and food trucks. Take festive photos with Santa, costumed characters, and sleighs before the tree lighting ceremony at 6:30pm.
❇️ FREE!
Winter Wonderland & Holiday Tree Lighting
Artesia Park | Artesia
Friday, December 5, 2025 • 6-9pm
Kick off the holidays with Artesia’s tree lighting at 6pm, followed by snow play, performances, and festive fun in the park. Enjoy food trucks, craft vendors, and photo ops with Santa.
❇️ FREE!
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friendship Square | Bellflower
Friday, December 5, 2025 • 6:30pm
Enjoy carolers, real snow sledding, kids activities, and visits with Santa and the Grinch during Bellflower’s annual tree lighting.
❇️ FREE!
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
City Hall Plaza | Hawaiian Gardens
Friday, December 5, 2025 • 6-8pm
Enjoy holiday music, festive décor, and the official lighting of the tree at this annual community event.
Breakfast with Santa
Newport Coast Community Center | Newport Beach
Friday, December 5, 2025 • 9:30-11am
Start the morning with breakfast burritos, crafts, train rides, and festive tunes while waiting for Santa’s grand arrival. Kids can enjoy a bounce house and a special photo with Santa.
❇️ FREE!
Black Friday Holiday Party
California African American Museum (CAAM) | Los Angeles
Friday, December 5, 2025 • 6-9pm
CAAM hosts an all-ages holiday gathering with music, festive treats, activity stations, and after-hours access to exhibitions. Guests can explore solo and group shows, including works by American Artist, J.J. Anderson, Sadie Barnette, and Sage Ni’Ja Whiston.
❇️ FREE!
French Holiday Bazaar
International School of Los Angeles | Burbank
Friday, December 5, 2025 • 4-8pm
LILA hosts a French-inspired holiday market with local artisans, festive food, and seasonal shopping. Families, neighbors, and friends can browse unique gifts, crafts, fashion, home décor, and specialty foods in a lively setting that welcomes the broader community.
❇️ FREE!
Balboa Park December Nights
Balboa Park | San Diego
December 5-6, 2025
Enjoy San Diego’s largest holiday festival with lights, live entertainment, attractions, and a wide variety of food throughout Balboa Park. Families can explore the park together during this two-night seasonal celebration.
❇️ FREE!
Candlelight Walk
Heritage Hill Historical Park | Lake Forest
December 5-7, 2025 • 5-9pm
Stroll through beautifully decorated grounds and enjoy live music, kids’ crafts, and a visit with Santa during this festive three-night celebration. Light refreshments will be available for purchase.
Holiday Sewing Workshops
Sewing Lab Los Alamitos | Los Alamitos
November 24–25 & December 22, 29, 2025
Sewing Lab Los Alamitos offers hands-on seasonal workshops for kids (ages 7 and up), each with a different project focus. The Thanksgiving Break Workshop is a 2-hour session where students choose from a variety of sewing projects. The Holiday Pajama Workshop guides kids through making their own pair of pajamas, while the New Year’s Workshop focuses on creating a sweatshirt or pants. All sessions are beginner-friendly, with students learning how to use a sewing machine and working on projects suited to their skill level.
Santa’s Village by the Sea
Avenida Del Mar & SC Community Center | San Clemente
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 4-9pm
Celebrate the holidays seaside with shopping, snow hill sledding, crafts, and live entertainment. Enjoy a Santa procession, gingerbread contest, local vendors, and a festive tree lighting at 5pm. Activity wristbands available for purchase.
❇️ FREE!
Pancakes with Santa
Santa Ana Police Department | Santa Ana
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 9-11am
The Santa Ana Police Department hosts a festive morning with pancakes, holiday cheer, and a special visit from Santa.
✳️ FREE!
Santa’s Jolly Trolley
Various Parks | Dana Point
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Santa and his elves from the Recreation Division will ride through town on the Jolly Trolley, handing out pre-packaged treats for kids (up to age 12) and collecting letters to Santa. The fun wraps up at La Plaza Park for the community tree lighting at 5:15pm.
- Sunset Park – 1:30-2pm
- Dana Woods Park – 2:30-3pm
- Sea Canyon Park – 3:30-4pm
- La Plaza Park – 4:30-5:30pm
❇️ FREE!
La Plaza Park Tree Lighting
La Plaza Park | Dana Point
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 4:30-5:30pm
Join Santa & his elves for the annual community tree lighting. Enjoy carolers, hot chocolate, and cookies before the tree lighting at 5:15pm. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for the Toy Drive.
❇️ FREE!
Santa’s Sleigh Day
Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts | Cerritos
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 11am-2pm
Families can enjoy crafts, live performances, holiday music, storytime, and festive games. Meet Santa for photos, enjoy light snacks, and sip on hot cocoa.
❇️ FREE!
Holidays by the Sea
San Pedro Town Square | San Pedro
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 4-8pm
Join the Port of Los Angeles for their annual holiday event featuring performances by the San Pedro City Ballet, snow play, holiday carolers, and a marionette show during this festive portside celebration. The tree lighting begins at 5pm.
❇️ FREE!
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Fountain Valley Sports Park | Fountain Valley
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 4:30-8pm
Join the City of Fountain Valley for an evening of holiday fun. Enjoy photos with Santa, the Hyundai Snow Zone, crafts, community performances, and a holiday market. The tree lighting begins at 5:30pm, followed by a festive fireworks show.
Skate with Santa
Irvine Spectrum Center | Irvine
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 10-11:30am
Join Irvine Spectrum Center for a festive morning on the ice with Santa. Enjoy skating, holiday music, and cheerful fun for the whole family—plus festive extras like reindeer antlers, socks, and treats.
❇️ FREE!
Illuminate Irvine
Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex | Irvine
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 3-8pm
Celebrate the season with winter-inspired activities, holiday music, and the lighting of the Holiday Tree and Palm Court.
✳️ FREE!
Winter in the Grove
Village Green Park | Garden Grove
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 3-7pm
Winter in the Grove returns with Snowtopia featuring free, unlimited snow slides and 50 tons of snow! Plus, enjoy holiday craft boutique, fun food, photo ops, free crafts and carnival games, and live entertainment.
✳️ FREE!
Winter Wonderland
St. Isidore Historical Plaza | Los Alamitos
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Kick off the holidays with free snow play and ice skating! Enjoy musical performances, snow sledding, tree lighting, and Santa’s Village.
❇️ FREE!
Christmas Tree Lighting
City Hall | Laguna Niguel
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 5-8pm
Enjoy cookie decorating, holiday crafts, games, live entertainment, and visits with Santa. Families can gather for the tree lighting ceremony at 5:30pm as the Christmas tree brightens the night during this community tradition.
Fall & Winter Camps
Ultimate Ninjas | Anaheim Hills
Thanksgiving: November 24, 25, 26, 28, 2025
Winter Break: December 22 – January 9, 2025
Looking for something amazing for your kids to do during Thanksgiving and Winter Break? Send them to Ultimate Ninjas, where kids ages 5-13 can learn to conquer Ninja Warrior style obstacle courses, just like on TV, and have a blast doing it! Campers are grouped by age and rotate through stations coached by experts who help them master new skills. Campers will also enjoy free time, games, and other fun activities! Choose from half day (morning or afternoon) or full day options to fit your schedule. Give your kids an unforgettable, active, and confidence-boosting school break at Ultimate Ninjas. Use promo code YEARENDCAMP20 for 20% OFF!
❇️ FREE!
Belmont Shore Christmas Parade: Jingle & Jammies
2nd Street | Long Beach
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 6-9pm
Line up along 2nd Street for this hometown holiday parade featuring more than 100 entries, local marching bands, festive floats, colorful costumes, and Santa. Show up in matching pajamas or onesies to match this year’s Jingle & Jammies theme and enjoy the nighttime celebration.
❇️ FREE!
La Habra Tamale Festival
Euclid St. between La Habra Blvd. & Bridenbecker Ave. | La Habra
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 10am-8pm
Enjoy tamales, food vendors, and live entertainment on three stages, plus a holiday tree lighting and fireworks. Families can check out sledding, a petting zoo, rides, a game truck, balloon art, and a free shuttle from off-site parking.
❇️ FREE!
Victorian Christmas
The Banning Museum | Wilmington
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 12-4pm
Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus, family crafts, caroling, Victorian dancers, and free cider and cookies. Tour the festively decorated Banning Mansion and enter an opportunity drawing for Disney gift cards.
❇️ FREE!
Peninsula Parade of Lights
Rolling Hills Estates
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 6pm
Ring in the season with holiday floats, marching bands, community groups, and an appearance by Santa. The parade travels from Silver Spur Road & Drybank Drive, along Silver Spur, down Roxcove, and through the Promenade on the Peninsula to Norris Center Drive.
❇️ FREE!
La Pastorela: A Mexican Christmastime Tradition
Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum | Rancho Dominguez
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 2-3pm
Enjoy a special performance of La Pastorela by the Cal State Dominguez Hills Teatro Department, presented on the museum’s historic veranda. Families can kick off the season with oriejas, champurrado, and a festive play woven with the Dominguez legacy.
❇️ FREE!
Chili Holiday
Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center | La Mirada
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 5-8pm
Celebrate the holidays with family & friends at Splash! with live entertainment, holiday crafts, coffee, hot chocolate, cookies, and plenty of chili. Kids can hop on a holiday train ride through a winter wonderland and take photos with Santa during this cozy evening event.
❇️ FREE!
Jolly Holiday
Promenade at Downey | Downey
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 3-5pm
Join Promenade at Downey for an afternoon of holiday fun with photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, meet-and-greets with the Green Man and Cindy Lou, a Candy Cane stilt walker, games with Rudolph, face painting, crafts while supplies last, and a snowfall experience.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Spectacular
The Shops at Rossmoor | Rossmoor
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 11am-1pm
Families can stop by for photos with Santa, children’s holiday crafts, and face painting. A special performance by OC Dance & Song Company takes place from 11:30am-noon.
❇️ FREE!
Santa’s Arrival Celebration
Lido Marina Village | Newport Beach
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 11:30am
Watch Santa arrive by sea in an Electric Boat and enjoy face painting, gourmet hot chocolate, cookie decorating, live music from the Holly Belles, visits from the Little Drummer Boy and Winter Ballerina, holiday brass, and more festive surprises.
❇️ FREE!
Christmas at the Beach
Beach City Provisions at Bolsa Chica State Beach | Huntington Beach
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 3-6pm
Join the Huntington State Beach Lifeguard Association and Bolsa Chica State Beach for Santa’s jet-ski arrival, photos, a bounce house, holiday karaoke, s’mores, crafts, games, educational booths, a Bark Ranger station, a beach cleanup raffle, and a short outdoor Christmas movie.
❇️ FREE!
St. Nikolaus Day & Christmas Tree Lighting
Old World Village | Huntington Beach
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 7-8pm
Old World hosts an evening of holiday music, warm drinks, food, sweet treats, and Christmas shopping, plus a 7pm tree lighting, a Christmas story reading, and a Santa meet-and-greet available earlier in the day.
Junior Aviator’s Day & Santa Claus Fly-In
Planes of Fame Air Museum | Chino
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 9am
Enjoy historic aircraft displays, hands-on activities, and Santa’s arrival by vintage biplane. Families can watch flyovers, explore the museum, enjoy photo opportunities with Santa, and take part in kid-friendly aviation experiences. Kids 11 and under free.
The Autry’s Western Wonderland Holiday Extravaganza
The Autry in Griffith Park • Los Angeles
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 11am-5pm
Enjoy photos with Santa, holiday crafts, kids games, and bouncy houses on the backlot. Families can explore Santa’s Christmas Village, listen to live holiday and Americana music, and enjoy cocoa, cider, cookies, and seasonal treats available for purchase.
❇️ FREE!
Fishing With Santa
Whittier Narrows Regional Park • South El Monte
Saturday, December 6 • 8-12pm
Kids ages 5-15 can enjoy fishing for trout and catfish with Santa! Registration begins at 8am, limited rods available. Vehicle entrance fee applies, $10.
A Very Sherman Holiday
Sherman Library & Gardens | Corona del Mar
December 6-7, 2025 • 10:30am-4pm
Sherman Library & Gardens hosts a daytime holiday celebration with handcrafted shopping, seasonal crafts, live music, hot chocolate and cookies, and photos with Santa from 12-3pm. Guests can also enjoy tacos and tamales, write Letters to Santa, and add wishes to the Wishing Tree.
Breakfast with Santa
Aquarium of the Pacific | Long Beach
December 6, 13 & 20, 2025 • 8-9am
Enjoy a festive buffet breakfast in Café Scuba with Surfer Santa and Aquarium mascots dressed in holiday outfits. After breakfast, families can explore the aquarium for more seasonal fun.
Fall & Winter Golf Camps
TGA Golf Academy | Long Beach
Thanksgiving: November 24–26, 2025
Winter Break: December 22–24 & 29–31, 2025
TGA Golf Academy hosts seasonal golf camps with low student-to-coach ratios, golf fitness and body mechanics, etiquette and character lessons, and on-course play. Camps group kids by age and skill level and include free rentals if needed. Options range from Half Day “Skill Building” sessions perfect for beginners and younger golfers, to Full Day “Development” camps that apply morning skills on the course, to Full Day Plus “Performance,” which adds a 9-hole playing lesson on Wednesday.
❇️ FREE!
San Pedro Spirit of the Holidays Parade
Downtown San Pedro | San Pedro
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 1-3pm
Celebrate 45 years of holiday tradition as the parade fills downtown with marching bands, floats, community groups, and festive spirit. Families, schools, and local organizations come together for this beloved annual celebration.
Santa at the Museum
Lomita Railroad Museum | Lomita
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 11am-3:30pm
Join the Lomita Railroad Museum for a festive day that includes a visit and photo op with Santa, hot chocolate, candy canes, and holiday crafts. Families can also enjoy model train clubs, cookie decorating, balloon animals, clowns, kids games, and food during this seasonal celebration.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Celebration
Cerritos Towne Center | Cerritos
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 12-2pm
Enjoy a festive afternoon with photos with Santa, kids’ crafts, games, face painting, and balloon twisting. Bring your camera and holiday spirit for a joyful family celebration.
Family Rave: YETI. SET. RAVE!
Yost Theater | Santa Ana
Saturday, December 7, 2025 • 2-4:30pm
Join Big Fish Little Fish SoCal for a Winter Wonderland-themed family dance party featuring live DJ sets, laser lights, confetti moments, and a multi-sensory dance floor. Kids can enjoy craft stations, a baby chill zone, toddler play areas, and more while families dance together.
❇️ FREE!
Anaheim Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting Festival
Center Street Promenade | Anaheim
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 12-7pm
Anaheim’s annual festival features a holiday vendor village, tree lighting ceremony, Santa and Mrs. Claus visits, snow play, and live seasonal performances, filling downtown with a full day of family-friendly activities.
❇️ FREE!
International Winter Holidays
Bowers Museum | Santa Ana
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 11am-3pm
Enjoy global holiday music with performances by Klezmer Juice, Chordially Yours, and Mariachi Anacatlán. Families can join art-making, face painting, and festive courtyard activities with complimentary treats.
International Tamales Festival
Downtown Long Beach
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 1-7pm
This community celebration features regional tamales from Mexico and Latin America, live music, mariachi, ballet folklórico, an artisan mercado, tequila tasting, and a Homemade Tamales Contest. Families can also enjoy dancing, shopping, and a Kids Zone with free arts and crafts.
❇️ FREE!
UbeFestmas
Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts | Cerritos
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 11am-7pm
Browse more than 70 vendors at this one-day festive marketplace. Families can enjoy an all-ages outdoor event with holiday shopping and community vibes.
❇️ FREE!
Light a Light of Love Pier Lighting Ceremony
Pier Plaza | Huntington Beach
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Join Waymakers for the annual pier lighting featuring 80 community-donated snowflakes illuminating the Huntington Beach Pier, supporting the Waymakers Youth Shelter.
❇️ FREE!
Corona del Mar Christmas Walk
Corona del Mar Village | Newport Beach
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 11am-5pm
Stroll PCH for live entertainment from over a dozen bands, Santa visits, kids’ activities, vendor gifts, street performers, beer and wine gardens, and special promotions from local merchants and restaurants throughout the village.
❇️ FREE!
Family Sundays: Christmas Open House
Casa Romantica | San Clemente
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 10am-2pm
Casa Romantica opens its doors for a festive family day with free admission and a cozy letter-writing station for kids to send notes to Santa.
❇️ FREE!
Jingle Trails
Vasquez Rocks Natural Area | Agua Dulce
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 10am-1pm
Families can enjoy holiday music, hot cocoa, s’mores, crafts, and animal meet-and-greets along the scenic trails. Come photo-ready with festive outfits and props, and leashed dogs are welcome for this outdoor holiday fun event.
Royal Sunday Brunch with Santa
Queen Mary | Long Beach
December 7, 14, & 21, 2025
Go aboard the Queen Mary with Santa Sundays at the ship’s signature Royal Sunday Brunch. Enjoy a lavish holiday spread and festive entertainment.
Breakfast with Santa
Paséa Hotel | Huntington Beach
December 7, 14, 20 & 21, 2025 • 9am & 11:30am
Enjoy Paséa’s annual holiday brunch in the Blue Room with a kid-friendly buffet, meet-and-greets with Santa, photo ops, and festive arts and crafts.
Victorian Holiday Home Tour
Heritage Museum of Orange County | Santa Ana
December 7 & 21, 2025 • 11:30am & 1:30pm
The Heritage Museum of Orange County offers docent-led tours of the 1898 Kellogg House with Victorian Christmas traditions, tea, and a sweet treat. Self-led tours also available. Enjoy blacksmith demos, art projects, nature trails, adobe walk-throughs, gardening lessons, and self-guided tours.
Fall & Winter Day Camps
Code Ninjas | Cerritos, Fullerton, Yorba Linda
Thanksgiving Break: November 24, 25, 26
Winter Break: December 22, 23, 29, 30
School’s out, STEM fun is in! Looking for something exciting and educational for your kids this Thanksgiving and Winter Break? At Code Ninjas, your child can turn their curiosity into creativity while learning real tech skills through play and discovery. Camps are packed with hands-on STEM adventures, including 3D printing, Minecraft modding, LEGO robotics, and more. Whether your child loves to build, design, or explore, there’s a camp that will spark their imagination and keep them engaged all break long. Give your kids a break that’s both fun and meaningful. Spots fill fast. Sign up today and let the STEM fun begin!
❇️ FREE!
Pines Park Tree Lighting
Pines Park | Dana Point
Monday, December 8, 2025 • 4:30-5:30pm
Celebrate the season with Santa & his elves at Pines Park. Enjoy carolers, hot chocolate, cookies, and festive fun leading up to the annual tree lighting at 5:15pm.
Candlelight Evening: Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights
Richard Nixon Library & Museum | Yorba Linda
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 • 5-8pm
Enjoy festive performances, patriotic holiday décor, and a ceremonial tree lighting at this after-hours celebration. Families can take photos with Santa, see his reindeer, stroll the candlelit gardens with hot cocoa, and visit food trucks offering seasonal bites.
A Very Tamale Holiday
Old Town Placentia | Placentia
Thursday, December 11, 2025 • 4-10pm
The City of Placentia hosts an evening of live entertainment, food vendors, local businesses, a festive beer garden, a tree lighting, and the North Pole Playground with real snow for sledding, sliding, and snowman-making.
❇️ FREE!
Santa’s Festive Forest
Camp Fire Long Beach | Long Beach
Friday, December 12, 2025 • 4-8pm
Enjoy photos with Santa, kids’ games, crafts, s’mores, cocoa, coffee, and food trucks during this family-friendly holiday evening.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Open House
Rancho Los Cerritos | Long Beach
Friday, December 12, 2025 • 4-8pm
Explore 100 years of holiday traditions with candlelit tours led by costumed docents. Enjoy pop-up exhibits, live music, festive crafts for all ages, and warm apple cider as you stroll the decorated historic grounds.
Cowboy Christmas
Barnyard Buddies at Lakewood Equestrian Center | Lakewood
Friday, December 12, 2025 • 5:15-7:15pm
Kids can enjoy a petting zoo, goat feed, crafts, cookie decorating, and photos with Santa. Adults receive admission, petting zoo access, and photos with Santa. Pony rides are available. Food truck items sold on-site.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Lights
Heritage Hill Historical Park | Lake Forest
December 12-14, 2025 • 5-9pm
Take a peaceful evening walk through twinkling light displays and holiday-themed photo spots during special park hours.
Victorian Holiday Home Tour
Howe-Waffle House | Santa Ana
December 12-14, 2025
Join the Santa Ana Historical Preservation Society for a Victorian-themed holiday tour featuring decorated rooms, light refreshments, craft activities, and a Christmas Market with local vendors. Guests can explore the historic home at their own pace and enjoy festive displays.
❇️ FREE!
Snoopy House
Costa Mesa City Hall | Costa Mesa
December 12-19, 2025 • 5:30-8:30pm
Enjoy nightly Snoopy-themed light displays, letters to Santa, train rides, stage performances, and photo opportunities with Santa from 6-8pm. Weekend activities feature guest performances and special play areas.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Spectacular
Anaheim Hills Festival | Anaheim
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 11am-1pm
Enjoy photos with Santa, kids’ crafts, face painting, balloon art, and festive fun in the courtyard near Petco. Families are encouraged to wear their favorite ugly sweaters and bring a camera to capture the holiday spirit.
Holiday Krazy Krafts Day
International Printing Museum | Carson
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 10am-4pm
Celebrate printing and paper arts with hands-on activities including letterpress keepsakes, rubber stamping, papermaking, bookbinding, marbling, and screen printing. Families can also enjoy mini museum tours and live printing demonstrations.
❇️ FREE!
Pier Holiday Celebration
Fisherman’s Wharf | Redondo Beach
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 2-4pm
Join the Redondo Pier Association for a festive afternoon with holiday photos, carolers, a DJ, and seasonal arts & crafts. Families can enjoy music, activities, and cheerful waterfront fun at the west end of the pier.
Las Posadas
Heritage Park | Santa Fe Springs
Saturday, December 13, 2025
Date confirmed, details TBA.
❇️ FREE!
Candy Caneland & Craft Fair
Ehlers Event Center | Buena Park
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 10am-4pm
Enjoy entertainment, food, games, free raffles, and a snow slide, petting zoo, plus a large craft fair with more than 100 artisans. Families can also visit Santa and explore holiday activities throughout the event.
Seasonal Clay Workshops
Art Steps | Costa Mesa, Laguna Hills, Yorba Linda
Celebrate the changing seasons and coming holidays with School Year Workshops at Art Steps! Clay Workshops feature Thanksgiving, winter holiday themes, chances to make gifts and more! Learn professional sculpture techniques and sharpen classical drawing skills. Art Steps’ talented, friendly, highly-trained teachers provide an immersive artistic experience with plenty of fun! Visit their website for details and registration information.
❇️ FREE!
Rossmoor Winter Festival
Rush Park | Rossmoor
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 4-9pm
Enjoy live music, a snow play area, kids carnival rides, food trucks, craft vendors, and a chance to meet Santa. Families can explore holiday activities and festive entertainment.
❇️ FREE!
Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade
Crown Valley Pkwy | Laguna Niguel
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 10am-12pm
See festive floats, marching bands, youth groups, exotic cars, and a cheerful visit from Santa. Families are encouraged to bring chairs for viewing, with a free shuttle available.
❇️ FREE!
Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Civic Center | Lake Forest
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 3-6pm
celebrate the holiday season with entertainment, games, crafts, special guests, and more!
❇️ FREE!
71st Annual Daisy Lane Parade
Daisy Avenue | Long Beach
Parade: December 13, 2025 • 5-7pm
Presented by the City of Long Beach and the Office of Vice Mayor Roberto Uranga, this longtime community tradition features a holiday parade with festive floats on Saturday, followed by an evening of holiday entertainment and performances on Sunday at 7pm along the Daisy Lane median.
❇️ FREE!
Snowed In at Flabob
Flabob Airport | Riverside
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 4-9pm
Enjoy free photos with Santa, kids activities, aircraft displays, a car show, local vendors, and holiday treats. Families can explore festive offerings throughout the historic airport.
❇️ FREE!
Compton Christmas Parade
Compton Blvd. to Alameda St. | Compton
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 11am-1pm
Compton’s long-running holiday parade returns with floats, community groups, and festive crowd favorites along the route.
Holiday Family Overnight
Battleship USS IOWA | San Pedro
December 13-14, 2025
Spend the night aboard the Battleship IOWA with a holiday dinner, ornament decorating, veteran storytelling, a behind-the-scenes tour, sleep in real sailor racks, breakfast, and morning STEM activities like snowball catapults, LED cards, and Morse code messages to Santa.
Santa’s Winter Wonderland
Coyote Hills Golf Course | Fullerton
Sunday, December 14, 2025 • 11am-2pm
Enjoy holiday crafts, cookie decorating, ornament making, real snow play, a snow hill slide, and a visit with Santa.
Hanukkah Festival
Skirball Cultural Center | Los Angeles
Sunday, December 14, 2025 • 12-5pm
Celebrate the first night of Hanukkah with storytelling, art making, a Light Lab, the Dreidel Lounge, a book talk with latke tasting, live music, and a community candle lighting ceremony at sundown.
❇️ FREE!
Giant Menorah Lighting
2nd & PCH | Long Beach
Sunday, December 14, 2025 • 4pm
Celebrate the first night of Chanukah with Shul by the Shore during a giant menorah lighting featuring family-friendly activities and a festive community gathering for all ages.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Family Fun Event
The Shops at Mission Viejo | Mission Viejo
Tuesday, December 16, 2025 • 2-4pm
Families can enjoy holiday music, face painting, and kids’ crafts in the Play Area. The first 150 families receive a goody bag, and Santa photos are available afterward on Level 1. Additional seasonal activities include pet photos, storytime, and singalongs.
Holiday Movies on the Mary
Queen Mary | Long Beach
December 16 & 17, 2025
Step aboard the Queen Mary for a cozy holiday movie night inside a private theater. Settle in with popcorn and snacks while watching A Christmas Story on December 16 and How the Grinch Stole Christmas on December 17 in this historic setting.
❇️ FREE!
Santa’s Holiday Caravan
La Mirada Neighborhoods | La Mirada
December 16 – December 18, 2025 • 5pm
Santa travels through La Mirada over three nights, bringing holiday cheer to different neighborhoods.
- December 16: Neff Park, Gardenhill, Biola and Foster Road neighborhoods.
- December 17: North La Mirada, Hillsborough, Creek Park, and Greenhills neighborhoods.
- December 18: Windermere Park, La Pluma and Escalona neighborhoods.
Winter Camp
Merage JCC | Irvine
December 22-26 & December 29 – January 2, 2026
Snow doesn’t usually fall here in Orange County, but we can still celebrate the winter season and all it offers. Your child will be baking, crafting, singing, learning, dancing, and playing during these JCamp days. Choose just a few days, or all of them! Register today!
✳️ FREE!
Las Posadas
Olvera Street | Los Angeles
December 16-24, 2024
Enjoy this nine-night celebration reenacting Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. Each evening features a children’s piñata, followed by a candlelit procession with traditional songs and costumes. Complimentary sweet bread and champurrado given to all after the procession.
Silent Night Silent Disco
Segerstrom Center for the Arts | Costa Mesa
Friday, December 19, 2025 • 7pm
Join The Silent DJs for a holiday-themed dance party featuring three music channels and light-up headphones. Guests can switch between holiday classics and Top 40 hits while dancing under festive lights.
Marina Park Family Fun Night
Marina Park Community Center | Newport Beach
Friday, December 19, 2025 • 5:30-8pm
Enjoy a fun family event for all ages, activities, dinner and an amazing view of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. The evening will include watching the boat parade, crafts for kids and photos with Santa!
Snowtopia
Palm Springs Air Museum | Palm Springs
December 19-22, 2025 • 6-9pm
Families can enjoy 60 tons of real snow on the tarmac, a holiday train ride, s’mores over firepits, craft-making, and photo opportunities with Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty, and elves. Inside the hangar, guests can explore holiday shopping and seasonal treats. Kids 5 and under free.
✳️ FREE!
Annual Parol Lantern Festival
Expo Arts Center | Long Beach
Saturday, December 20, 2025
The annual Parol Lantern Festival is a holiday event celebrating Filipino community and culture. It showcases the tradition of creating and displaying the parol, a star-shaped lantern signifying hope and joy. This year’s theme is Light the Way. The festival also highlights Filipino culture, small businesses, and crafting workshops to create parol lanterns.
Breakfast with Santa
LAFD Fire Station 60 | Los Angeles
Saturday, December 20, 2025 • 9am-12pm
Fire Station 60 hosts a breakfast event with photos with Santa, open house tours, games, jumpers, and prizes. Families can enjoy a morning at the station while supporting its improvement and project fund. $10 per person.
❇️ FREE!
Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace
Ventura Harbor Village | Ventura
Saturday, December 20, 2025 • 12-4pm
Celebrate the holidays by the sea with Santa and Mrs. Claus photos, live reindeer encounters, faux snowfall, roaming holiday characters, live entertainment, and family activities throughout the harbor. Guests are encouraged to bring donations for local holiday drives.
Snow Day with the Critters
Santa Ana Zoo | Santa Ana
Sunday, December 21, 2025 • 11am-2pm
Enjoy zoo-wide animal education activities, a scavenger hunt, and watch animals receive special snow enrichment treats during this family event.
❇️ FREE!
Holiday Festival
Muckenthaler Cultural Center | Fullerton
Sunday, December 21, 2025 • 12-4pm
Families can enjoy live music, kids’ art workshops, festive activities, and an arts and crafts sale. The event also features food, drinks, and plenty of holiday-themed fun throughout the grounds.
❇️ FREE!
Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Reagan Presidential Library | Simi Valley
Sunday, December 21, 2025 • 4:30pm
Celebrate Hanukkah outdoors with a ceremonial menorah lighting, children’s crafts, live music, and doughnuts while supplies last during this community gathering at the Reagan Library.
Christmas in the Garden
The Garden at Hannah’s House of Hope | Redlands
Sunday, December 21, 2025 • 3pm-6pm
This family event includes Santa visits, fire truck rides (weather permitting), a hot cocoa bar, ornament making, crafts, treat decorating, face painting, photo spots, s’mores, parkour, and sensory play. Optional Christmas terrarium activity available. Food for purchase.
Gingerbread Party
The Garden at Hannah’s House of Hope | Redlands
Tuesday, December 23, 2025 • 10am
Kids can decorate a gingerbread house, paint a ceramic ornament, learn about and propagate poinsettias, enjoy a Tomte cake story, and snack on light refreshments. Ages 3 and up; includes a small parting gift.
❇️ FREE!
L.A. County Holiday Celebration
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion | Los Angeles
Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • 3-6pm
This three-hour holiday performance features more than 20 local music, dance, and choir groups on stage. Families can enjoy a variety of cultural performances and festive entertainment during this long-running holiday tradition. Doors open early, and reservations required for entry. Reservations open December 16.
Equestfest
Los Angeles Equestrian Center | Burbank
Monday, December 29, 2025 • 10am-3pm
Families can watch horses and riders perform drills, dances, trick riding, and roping. Visitors can walk through the stables, meet riders, see different horse breeds, and explore vendors, displays, music, food, and drinks throughout the event.
Floatfest: A Rose Parade Showcase
E. Sierra Madre Blvd. & E. Washington Blvd. | Pasadena
January 1-3, 2026
A 2-mile showcase of Rose Parade floats following their appearance along the parade route. Visitors get the chance to walk within a few feet of the floats and appreciate up close, the creativity and detail of each magnificent display.
❇️ FREE!
Día de los Reyes
Olvera Street | Los Angeles
Tuesday, January 6, 2026 • 7pm
Celebrate the arrival of Los Tres Reyes with a festive procession, storytelling, and Rosca de Reyes for all attendees. After the procession, enjoy champurrado and prizes for those who discover the hidden babies in the traditional sweet bread.
A Christmas Carol
South Coast Repertory | Costa Mesa
November 29 – December 28, 2025
Make this season merry and bright with A Christmas Carol — the beloved classic that captures the heart of the holidays. Join Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and all your favorite Dickens characters on a life-changing journey filled with festive music, joyful dancing and the timeless magic of the season. It’s the perfect way to share traditions with loved ones—and rekindle your holiday spirit.
Festival Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker
Irvine Barclay Theatre | Irvine
December 6-24, 2025
Festival Ballet Theatre’s family-friendly breathtaking production features superb colorful scenery and dazzling costumes, which make this age-old tradition sparkle like new. Be swept away by Tchaikovsky’s iconic score as the Sugar Plum Fairy, our heroine Clara, and a cast of hundreds take you on a magical journey to mystical lands.
Nutcracker Tea Party: Make your experience even more magical with the pre-show Nutcracker Tea Party (additional purchase). Enjoy finger sandwiches, petit fours and scones with tea and lemonade. Characters from The Nutcracker ballet will join the party. Photo ops and a party favor for each guest is included.
A Snow White Christmas
Laguna Playhouse | Laguna Beach
December 6-28, 2025
Experience the magic of A Snow White Christmas! This festive panto from the Lythgoe Family blends timeless fairy-tale charm with dazzling pop tunes—from Lady Gaga to Bruno Mars—in a laughter-packed, interactive journey. With Muddles the jester guiding the fun—complete with zany audience banter—and a wicked Queen to boo and hiss, every moment is a riot of song, slapstick, and sparkle. Add in awe-inspiring dancing, playful puppetry of the dwarfs, and singalong moments perfect for all ages, and you’ve got a joyous holiday treat.
American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker
Segerstrom Center for the Arts | Costa Mesa
December 11-21, 2025
Celebrate the season with American Ballet Theatre’s acclaimed production of The Nutcracker, created by choreographer Alexei Ratmansky and brought to life with Pacific Symphony performing Tchaikovsky’s score. Clara’s dream unfolds through dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, a mouse army, and a cast of more than 100 performers, complemented by Richard Hudson’s sets and costumes.
VIP Sweet Seats: A limited number of Sweet Seats include prime Orchestra seating, a keepsake ornament, a collectible poster, Läderach chocolates, a holiday cookie, and a commemorative 10th Anniversary tote bag.
Disney On Ice: Let’s Dance
December 11-5: Honda Center, Anaheim
December 18-21: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
December 25-28: Toyota Arena, Ontario
January 1-4: Long Beach Arena, Long Beach
Disney On Ice: Let’s Dance! is bringing the party to SoCal, and the guest list is jam-packed with audience favorite Disney characters! Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy have become DJ’s, remixing Disney tunes into colorful stories at this all-new state-of-the-art ice show.
Goofy’s Ho-Ho Holiday Sing Along: Arrive early for special interactive holiday sing-along pre-show. Included with every show ticket.
Nochebuena: A Christmas Spectacular
The Soraya | Northridge
December 20-22, 2025
The Soraya celebrates Nochebuena’s 10th anniversary with an expanded schedule of performances, leading right into the holidays. The Soraya’s holiday favorite provides captivating entertainment that highlights Mexico’s many vibrant regions and family traditions. Throughout the decade, some of Mexico’s most beloved stars have joined the celebration, a tradition continued in 2025 with Mexican actress and multi-nominated Grammy and Latin Grammy vocalist Ximena Sariñana.
Swan Lake Jr.
La Mirada Theatre | La Mirada
Saturday, January 17, 2026 • 2pm
Introduce children to the magic of ballet through a reimagined version of Swan Lake created just for young audiences. This shortened adaptation highlights selected excerpts of Tchaikovsky’s score and showcases a colorful mix of dance styles—from classical ballet to hip-hop to jazz. Six dancers play every role, guided by a narrator who keeps the story fun, engaging, and interactive.
Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s Winter Wonderland
Bob Baker Marionette Theater | Los Angeles
November 15, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Bob Baker Marionette Theater presents a festive holiday show led by Demi Star, featuring BBMT traditions like sledding slopes, caroling penguins, Santa’s workshop, and familiar characters celebrating the season in true marionette style.
Robin Hood & the White Arrow: The Holiday Feast of Stephen
Rose Center Theater | Westminster
November 21 – December 21, 2025
Rose Center Theater presents a new musical set in Sherwood Forest, blending humor, adventure, romance, a sweeping live score, and Broadway-caliber performances. Robin Hood, Marian, and the Merry Men take on festive moments and heroic fun in this family-friendly holiday story.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
November 22: Pasadena Civic Auditorium | Pasadena
December 20: The Wiltern Theatre | Los Angeles
December 21: La Mirada Theatre | La Mirada
Talmi Entertainment’s long-running holiday tour features renowned ballerinas and danseurs from leading opera houses, vibrant new choreography blending ballet, puppetry, and acrobatics, and a cast of 40 Vaganova-trained dancers. With towering puppets, hand-painted backdrops, and elaborate costumes, this colorful production brings a lively spin to the classic story.
A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin
Terrace Theater | Long Beach
Saturday, November 22, 2025 | 7:30pm
Celebrate Home Alone’s 35th anniversary with a big-screen screening followed by a moderated interview and audience Q&A with Macaulay Culkin. Fans can enjoy stories from filming, behind-the-scenes memories, and a fun look back at this holiday classic.
Anaheim Ballet’s Nutcracker
Grove of Anaheim | Anaheim
November 28-29, 2025
Anaheim Ballet presents Clara’s journey as her Nutcracker Doll transforms a woeful winter into a fanciful feast in Candyland. Expect a towering Christmas tree, waltzing flowers, toy soldiers, and menacing mice in this classic holiday tradition featuring updated staging and memorable scenes.
Scrooge! The Musical
Chance Theater | Anaheim
November 28 – December 21, 2025
Chance Theater presents a musical adaptation of Dickens’ classic, following Scrooge through his Christmas Eve journey with Marley and the three spirits. With memorable songs and a blend of humor and heart, this production highlights the story’s themes of redemption and holiday spirit.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve
Honda Center | Anaheim
Saturday, November 29, 2025
Trans-Siberian Orchestra returns with its rock-opera style holiday show, combining electric guitars, symphonic arrangements, and a massive light display. The Ghosts of Christmas Eve brings fan-favorite songs, powerful vocals, and TSO’s signature high-energy performance for a big, arena-style holiday night.
Yuletide Cinemaland
Heritage Square Museum | Los Angeles
November 29 – December 23, 2025
Join Street Food Cinema for an immersive holiday experience featuring Victorian holiday home tours, twinkling light tunnel, food trucks, holiday market, live piano sing-alongs, photo ops, and holiday films under the stars. See the full movie schedule online.
Bob Baker’s Nutcracker
Sierra Madre Playhouse | Sierra Madre
November 29, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Bob Baker Marionette Theater brings its 1969 marionette adaptation of the classic ballet, featuring Clara, the Nutcracker, the Sugarplum Fairy, and whimsical BBMT creations. Large-scale marionettes and intricate sets create a dreamscape version of this long-loved holiday tradition.
My Gym Children’s Fitness Center | Long Beach
Thanksgiving Camp: November 25-28, 2026
Winter Break Camp: December 19 – January 2, 2026
Experience the holiday enchantment at My Gym with their exclusive 1-Week Holiday Enrollment Special for just $29! Delight in the joy of Mommy-and-Me classes tailor-made for holiday bonding and fun. From those heartwarming first steps to awe-inspiring handstands, My Gym programs kindle physical growth, nurture essential social skills, and boost self-esteem—a perfect gift for the whole family!
With options for all ages, including heartwarming newborn classes and exhilarating ninja training, there’s something for someone to unwrap. Don’t miss out on the festive opportunity to give your child the gift of boundless possibilities this holiday season.
Debbie Allen’s Hot Chocolate Nutcracker
Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center | Redondo Beach
December 4-14, 2025
Debbie Allen gives the classic Nutcracker a fresh spin with lively characters, new music, diverse choreography, aerial arts, and bold projection. Known from the Netflix documentary “Dance Dreams,” this version brings an energetic mix of storytelling and spectacle for all ages.
A Merry-achi Christmas
Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts | Cerritos
Friday, December 5, 2025 • 7pm
Maestro José Hernández joins Mariachi Sol de México for a festive holiday fiesta featuring treasured seasonal classics and favorites from the mariachi songbook.
Home Alone in Concert
Walt Disney Concert Hall | Los Angeles
December 5-7, 2025
This holiday favorite comes to life with John Williams’ score performed live to picture, conducted by David Newman. Follow 8-year-old Kevin McCallister as he outsmarts two bungling thieves in this comedy classic’s 35th-anniversary celebration for the whole family.
The Return of Peppermint Prince
Orange Coast College | Costa Mesa
December 5-14, 2025
Orange Coast College’s Repertory Theatre Company presents an original Christmas melodrama featuring sing-alongs, audience banter, and a children’s joke contest, plus a complimentary ice cream treat at intermission. The story travels to Sweetieville, where the holiday fun unfolds with a playful mix of music and mischief.
Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas
Chance Theater | Anaheim
December 5-21, 2025
Chance Theater brings back this festive holiday story filled with elegant wrapping paper, decorations, Christmas cookies, and of course, plenty of tinsel. Nancy is thrilled about her new sparkly tree topper, but when things don’t go as planned, she discovers what truly makes the season splendiferous.
The Nutcracker for Kids
Segerstrom Concert Hall | Costa Mesa
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Join Pacific Symphony for a narrated adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s ballet designed for young audiences, featuring dancers from the American Ballet Theatre. Kids can journey to the Land of Sweets with Clara and enjoy themed lobby activities, crafts, games, and an instrument petting zoo.
Studio Fusion’s The Nutcracker
CSULB University Theater | Long Beach
December 6-7, 2025 • 6pm & 1pm
This staged retelling follows Clara and the Nutcracker from the Land of the Snow to the Kingdom of the Sweets. The production features Tchaikovsky’s music, character-driven storytelling, and dancers portraying the classic roles from this traditional holiday ballet.
All About Santa
Santa Monica Playhouse | Santa Monica
December 6-7 & 13-14, 2025
Follow a North Pole story where Santa disappears and Mrs. Claus, elves, toy soldiers, and dolls keep things running while unexpected “Suits” cause trouble. Families help guide the tale in this interactive Victorian-style holiday musical filled with playful characters and cheer.
A Christmas Carol
Long Beach Playhouse | Long Beach
December 6-21, 2025
Long Beach Playhouse presents a quick-paced, highly theatrical retelling of Dickens’ classic. Scrooge meets the ghosts of Christmases Past, Present, and Future as they reveal the cost of his miserly ways and the warmth generosity can bring.
Narrated Nutcracker for Children & Families
Central Library | Huntington Beach
December 11-12, 2025
Festival Ballet Theatre’s lavish 45-minute, narrated rendition of The Nutcracker is specially designed to introduce young children to the beauty of classical ballet and music.
A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail
The Phantom Projects Theatre at La Habra Depot | La Habra
December 12-21, 2025
Families can follow Pooh, Piglet, and friends as they search for Eeyore’s missing tail in this musical adventure. The show features lively songs, lighthearted storytelling, and a theme centered on caring, sharing, and friendship.
Los Angeles Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Royce Hall | UCLA: December 12-14, 2025
Dolby Theatre | Los Angeles: December 19-28, 2025
Los Angeles Ballet follows Clara and her Nutcracker through a memorable battle with the Mouse King and into the Land of Snow and Palace of the Dolls. This version keeps classic traditions while adding a Southern California twist, from Hancock Park to Big Bear to the moonlit Pacific.
Hands-on Shop Classes for Kids
Urban Workshop | Costa Mesa
Winter Session: December & January
Spring Session: Starts January 2026
Urban Workshop is bringing shop class back! Give your kids (ages 10-16) a fun, hands-on way to learn lifelong skills through projects that blend STEM and industrial arts. Students gain confidence using both traditional hand tools and modern power tools, creating projects they’ll be proud to take home.
Program Highlights: Hands-on skill building, STEM and industrial arts exploration, use of traditional and modern tools, take-home projects, charter funds accepted, and flexible scheduling options.
Jingle & Mingle
Pasadena Playhouse | Pasadena
Saturday, December 13, 2025
Pasadena Playhouse students present a holiday concert with songs, stories, a Frozen megamix, and a community singalong. The free Holiday Open House adds crafts, mini performances, behind-the-scenes fun, and family photo spots throughout the theater.
Long Beach Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Long Beach Terrace Theater | Long Beach
December 13-14 & 20-21, 2025
The Long Beach Ballet continues to host its annual holiday tradition of presenting The Nutcracker. This production boasts a full symphony orchestra, a flying sleigh, a real live horse, on-stage pyrotechnics, and a cast of over 200.
Mariachi Divas Swingin’ Navidad
Downey Theatre | Downey
Sunday, December 14, 2025 • 5pm
Mariachi Divas bring their holiday concert back to Downey with a mix of mariachi, jazz, swing, and pop. Expect festive music, bright energy, and fun seasonal flair.
Navidad en México
La Mirada Theatre | La Mirada
Sunday, December 14, 2025
Ballet Folklórico Mexicano de Carlos Moreno returns with a holiday production highlighting Mexico’s festive traditions through music, song, and dance.
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
YouTube Theater | Los Angeles
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Cirque Musica blends acrobatics, aerial acts, and holiday music in a circus-style show featuring the ensemble’s impressive stunts and live performances. Families can enjoy a lively mix of circus artistry and familiar seasonal melodies.
A Charlie Brown Christmas Live
The Novo | Los Angeles
Friday, December 19, 2025
This touring production brings Charles M. Schulz’s classic story to the stage with the full Peanuts gang. Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, and Linus share songs, dancing, and a sweet, family-friendly take on the holiday season.
The Nutcracker
Downey Theatre | Downey
December 20-21, 2025
Dance to Your Heart’s Delight brings its 21st annual Nutcracker to the stage with a classical take on Tchaikovsky’s score and the story’s beloved characters. This holiday tradition highlights the spirit and imagination of the season in a graceful, family-friendly production.
Fiesta Navidad
Segerstrom Center for the Arts | Costa Mesa
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Enjoy a vibrant holiday concert featuring Grammy-winning Mariachi Los Camperos with festive music, colorful dance, and Mexican Christmas traditions.
A Magical Cirque Christmas
Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts | Cerritos
Saturday, December 27, 2025 • 8pm
Enjoy a holiday variety show featuring world-class cirque performers and festive musical numbers in a family-friendly production. This seasonal event blends acrobatics, choreography, and classic holiday songs into an evening of lively entertainment for all ages.
63rd Annual Cruise of Lights
Huntington Harbour | Huntington Beach
December 19-23, 2025
The Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Committee Cruise of Lights offers 50-minute narrated boat tours through the waterways of Huntington Harbour in Huntington Beach, California. In December both locals and visitors share the beauty of thousands of lights and animated displays on brightly decorated homes, docks, decks and boats. Proceeds benefit music education for Orange County school children.
Skatedogs Holiday Skateboarding Camps
Thanksgiving Camp: November 24-28 | Long Beach
Winter Camp: December 22, 23, 26 | Long Beach
Winter Camp: December 29 – January 2 | Seal Beach
Winter Camp: December 22-26 | Irvine
Winter Camp: December 29 – January 2 | Cypress
Whether you are just learning or ready to learn advanced tricks, the Skatedogs Skateboarding Camp is right for you! Make new friends, advance skills, and most importantly, have fun in their private skatepark! The camp includes lessons, free skate, games, competitions, and prizes! With quarter pipes, launch ramps, fun boxes, rails, and other fun obstacles, we will work with each skater’s individual skill level to help them be the best skateboarder they can be, in a fun and safe environment!
Holiday Boat Parades & Events
*️⃣ BOAT RIDE
Newport Beach Holiday Lights Cruise
Newport Landing | Newport Beach
November 29 – January 1, 2026
Experience Newport Harbor in full holiday décor aboard a decorated vessel on a 75-minute holiday lights cruise. View stunning estates and vessels decked out with thousands of lights.
*️⃣ BOAT RIDE
Dana Point Harbor Holiday Lights Cruise
Dana Wharf | Dana Point
December 5-6 & 19-20, 2025
Get a panoramic view of the beautiful harbor all dressed up for the season. This 60-minute boat ride takes you around Dana Point Harbor to enjoy all the light displays from the land and the sea.
✴️ PARADE BOAT RIDE
Holiday Boat Parade Tall Ship Sail
LA Waterfront | San Pedro
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 5-9pm
Join Los Angeles Maritime Institute on a tall ship sail and be part of the LA Harbor Boat Parade. Bundle up and enjoy the sunset, sit back and relax, or become part of the crew.
❇️ FREE PARADE EVENT!
Los Angeles Harbor Boat Parade
LA Waterfront | San Pedro
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 6-8pm
The annual L.A. Harbor Holiday Boat Parade at the Port of Los Angeles is a 63-year tradition of festive lights and community spirit. Decorated boats stretch about one mile, illuminating the channel, celebrating the holiday season and reflecting the vibrant spirit of the community.
*️⃣ BOAT RIDE
Boat Ride with Santa
Dana Wharf | Dana Point
December 6-7, 2025
Take a 20-minute boat ride with Santa this holiday season. Tickets are only $6 per person. Children will be able to chat and interact with Santa, but there will be no direct contact.
❇️ FREE PARADE EVENT!
Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks
Ventura Harbor Village
December 12-13, 2025
The annual boat parade returns with a new Let It Glow theme. Enjoy kids rides, carnival games, and vendors on the Harbor Village lawn. Faux snowfall and LED performers twinkle and shine along the promenade. The boat parade takes two laps throughout the harbor and the evening ends with a fireworks display.
✴️ PARADE BOAT RIDE
Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights
Dana Wharf | Dana Point
December 12-14, 2025 • 6:30pm
Enjoy a 90-minute cruise and be in the Dana Point Boat Parade! The cruise features music, cash bar, harbor views, and joins other private boaters in the parade.
✴️ PARADE BOAT RIDE
Boat Parade Cruise
Capt. Dave’s | Dana Point
December 12-14, 2025
Be part of the Dana Point Boat Parade aboard Capt. Dave’s catamarans. Santa hats and ugly Christmas sweaters encouraged. Triple fudge brownies will be served.
❇️ FREE PARADE EVENT!
Boat Parade of Lights: Carol of the Boats
Dana Point Harbor | Dana Point
December 12-14, 2025
Join Dana Point Harbor for their annual Boat Parade of Lights, this year’s theme is “Carol of the Boats”!
❇️ FREE PARADE EVENT!
Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
Burton Chace Park | Marina del Rey
Saturday, December 13, 2025
This year’s theme is “A Nightmare Before Christmas” — enjoy decorated boats and a spectacular light show.
❇️ FREE PARADE EVENT!
Shoreline Yacht Club Christmas Boat Parade
Shoreline Village | Long Beach
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 5:30pm
Join the Shoreline Yacht Club for live holiday music, dancing, a balloon twister, snow in the village, and prime views of the parade as it moves through Shoreline Marina and Rainbow Harbor.
❇️ FREE PARADE EVENT!
Huntington Harbour Boat Parade
Huntington Harbour | Huntington Beach
December 13-14, 2025 | 5:15pm
The all-volunteer Huntington Harbour Boat Parade returns with this year’s “Fun with Music” theme, featuring longtime favorites and creative new entries. Public viewing at beaches only.
❇️ FREE PARADE EVENT!
Dry Land Boat Parade
Villa Park HS | Villa Park
Sunday, December 14, 2025 • 5-6pm
Watch over fifty decorated vessels brilliantly lit with holiday lights travel throughout the city.
✴️ PARADE BOAT RIDE
Newport Beach Boat Parade Cruise
Newport Landing | Newport Beach
December 17-21, 2025 • 5-8:30pm
Want to be in the Christmas Boat Parade? Cruises travel with the parade from December 17-21 from 5-8:30pm. All other cruises are Holiday Lights cruises, not boat parade cruises.
❇️ FREE PARADE EVENT!
Christmas Boat Parade & Ring of Lights
Newport Beach
December 17-21, 2025
Watch beautifully decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes sail along the harbor. View the parade from over 50 locations including Marina Park and Balboa Village Fun Zone. Enjoy fireworks on the opening night at 6:15pm, plus drone shows every day.
❇️ FREE PARADE EVENT!
Naples Island Christmas Boat Parade
Naples Island | Long Beach
Saturday, December 20, 2025 • 6pm
See holiday-decorated boats cruise through the canals alongside brightly lit homes. Enjoy views from bridges and waterfront spots as this year’s theme, A Tropical Winter Wonderland, brings festive color to Naples Island.
Orange Unified School District
OUSD offers parents a range of educational options for children of all ages including dual-language programs in Spanish/ English and Mandarin/English.
The district has received many awards, including Golden Bell Awards from the California School Board Association, National Forum Schools to Watch, California Civic Learning Awards, 25 Gold Ribbon and 23 Distinguished School Awards from the California Department of Education.
In addition, three of their high schools have been designated as U.S. News & World Report’s “Best” for six consecutive years and 20 elementary and middle schools have been named “Best” for two consecutive years..
For more information, visit orangeusd.org or book your personal tour at orangeusd.org/learnmore. Open enrollment for 2026-2017 begins January 14!
Holiday Train Attractions & Events
The Polar Express
Southern California Railway Museum | Perris
November 20 – December 31, 2025
Relive the magic of this classic holiday story with your family on a real train. On this magical one-hour trip to meet Santa, car hosts will punch your golden ticket and dancing chefs will serve hot chocolate and shortbread cookies. Enjoy caroling and onboard entertainment and receive a silver sleigh bell from Santa.
North Pole Limited
Pacific Southwest Railway Museum | Campo
November 28 – December 21, 2025
The journey begins at the festive Campo Depot before boarding a 90-minute ride with sing-alongs, stories, and treats served by the elf crew. The train stops at the North Pole to pick up Santa and Mrs. Claus, who visit each passenger on the ride back.
Christmas Train
Irvine Park Railroad | Orange
November 28 – December 23, 2025
Take an enchanting ride through historic Irvine Regional Park to meet Santa Claus. Children can share their wish list with Santa and have their photo taken. The hop back aboard the train and enjoy Christmas lights and decorations, the Tunnel of Lights, and take the ride back to Santa’s Village.
Holiday Lights Train Ride
Griffith Park Train Rides | Los Angeles
November 28 – January 11, 2026
Take an evening ride around the mile-long track filled with twinkling lights and festive scenes. Families can also stop by the Toy Depot Gift Kiosk and seasonal photo spot. Children 18 months and under ride free.
Winter Wonderland
El Dorado Frontier | Long Beach
November 29 – December 21, 2025
Winter Wonderland offers daytime holiday rides, bounce houses, and cheerful adventures. Nighttime experience offers sparkling lights and a reserved train ride experience. Both include Santa meet & greets, snow, festive photo ops, and holiday music throughout the park.
Holiday Express Train
Metrolink Stations | LA, San Bernardino, Irvine, Riverside & Simi Valley
December 6-21, 2025
Each Holiday Express event begins with a festive station celebration featuring music, treats, crafts, and photo fun, followed by a scenic train ride with live carolers, holiday characters, and special visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Trolley Holiday Waterfront Tour of Lights
Long Beach Trolley | Long Beach
December 5-30, 2025
Board a classic cable-car trolley for a waterfront tour that showcases the best light displays around Long Beach, Alamitos Bay, and Naples Island. Narrated tour includes souvenir Santa hat, hot cocoa, and holiday music.
Coaster Holiday Express
Oceanside Transit Center | Oceanside
December 6-7 & 13-14, 2025
Join Santa for a magical experience as the Coaster Holiday Express train travels down the coastline. Santa Claus and his carolers will be on board for the hour-long trip full of fun with songs, storytelling, gifts for children, and Santa’s wish list.
Santa at the Museum
Lomita Railroad Museum | Lomita
Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 11am-3:30pm
Join the Lomita Railroad Museum for a festive day that includes a visit and photo op with Santa, hot chocolate, candy canes, and holiday crafts. Families can also enjoy model train clubs, cookie decorating, balloon animals, clowns, kids games, and food during this seasonal celebration.
✳️ FREE!
Santa Claus Visits
Fullerton Train Museum | Fullerton
Saturday, December 20, 2025
Visit with Santa and his elves and decorated railcars.
✳️ FREE!
North Pole Express
Fairview Park | Costa Mesa
December 20-21, 2025 • 10am-3:30pm
Join the Orange County Model Engineers at Goathill Junction Railroad for free rides on their miniature trains! For this special event, the train will make an extra stop at North Pole Station. Guests can get off the train and line up for a photo with Santa or The Grinch. Santa will be meeting visitors from 10am-12pm and 1-3pm. The Grinch will be available for photos from 12-1pm.
Holiday Magic Train
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
November 21 – January 4, 2026
Enjoy a one-hour scenic steam train ride with festive lights, holiday music, and hot cocoa aboard the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad’s Holiday Magic Train, offering a seasonal, vintage-style experience through the forest.
Mr. Skunk & The Giant Christmas Tree
Departs from Willits, CA (Northern California)
November 23 – December 31, 2024
Climb aboard the world-famous Skunk Train to visit the world’s largest living Christmas tree! Enjoy seasonal treats and decor on a journey through the redwoods to Mr. Skunk’s Giant Christmas Tree, a decorated redwood along the line, which also serves at the workshop for Santa Mr. Skunk.
Capistrano Lights: Mission Lights
Mission San Juan Capistrano
December 19-23 & 26-30, 2025
Celebrate the holidays at Orange County’s only Mission. Capistrano Lights: Mission in Lights returns this with 10 days and nights of holiday experiences. Families can walk the Mission corridors, enjoy the nightly 5:05pm tree lighting and music program, and take photos with Santa through December 23.
The event features the lighted California poppy garden, scented citrus garden, illuminated tunnels, halo palm trees, community Christmas trees, family wreath displays, prayer candles, and a 10-foot wreath. The life-sized nativity returns to the Ruins of the Great Stone Church, along with crafts and live musical performances, including Dickens-era Carolers and harpist Dr. Marsha Long. Hot cocoa, treats, and s’mores are available for purchase to enjoy near the firepits.
Imaginarium Zenthara
Lakewood Center | Lakewood
Now – November 9, 2025
Explore 10 themed worlds featuring romantic gardens, star-filled skies, fiery volcanoes, and undersea scenes. This immersive indoor-outdoor experience includes stunning artistry, live performances, and interactive moments that create a magical night of adventure and discovery.
Christmas Nights
123 Farm | Cherry Valley
November 6 – January 4, 2026
Stroll through lavender fields and olive trees glowing with over a million lights, explore illuminated pathways around a 1,000-year-old oak, and enjoy festive food, warm organic hot cocoa, and cozy holiday moments throughout the farm.
Winter Frolic
Kidspace Children’s Museum | Pasadena
November 7 – January 11, 2026
Kidspace transforms into a fun Winter wonderland with cold-weather activities done the SoCal way! Enjoy sock-skating, riding trikes through a winter wonderaldn, building winter sculptures with “ice blocks”, and dressing up a snowman family.
Astra Lumina
South Coast Botanic Garden | Palos Verdes Peninsula
November 6 – December 31, 2025
Astra Lumina returns to Los Angeles for an enchanted night walk at South Coast Botanic Garden that invites visitors to discover the wonder of visiting stars. Set off across mysterious grounds to discover a celestial pathway of lustrous light, cosmic visions, and astral song. A multisensory immersive experience for all ages.
Dream Glow Festival
Wild Rivers Waterpark | Irvine
November 14 – December 31, 2025
Explore glowing pathways filled with illuminated sculptures, Christmas scenes, dragons, undersea creatures, and immersive photo spots. Highlights include themed parks, an infinite mirror maze, laser portals, an interactive dance floor, and vibrant displays inspired by holiday tales and fantastical worlds.
An American Christmas
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum | Simi Valley
November 15, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Explore 26 decorated trees representing eras from the 1770s to today, each featuring lights, ornaments, and symbolic details that highlight different moments in America’s history.
Cabazon Dinosaurs / Santa Rex
Cabazon Dinosaurs | Cabazon
The Cabazon Dinosaurs are one of the most iconic roadside attractions. Santa Rex and the larger-than-life Apatosaurus (painted in bright red) are free for photo ops. Dino lights are on at 4pm daily.
Enchanted Forest of Light
Descanso Gardens | La Cañada Flintridge
November 16 – January 4, 2026
The gardens transforms into a realm of magic, mystery, and incandescence. Explore an entire town of magical “stained glass” houses, sparkling geometric installations, Flower Power on the Promenade, and lighting effects in the Ancient Forest.
United States Youth Volleyball League
USYVL aims to provide every child (ages 7-15) a chance to learn and play volleyball in a fun, safe, supervised environment. One of the main tenets of the program is to encourage children to do their best with their abilities. With an emphasis on positive reinforcement, the program seeks to build confidence and self-esteem in each child.
Enchant
Santa Anita Park | Arcadia
November 21 – December 28, 2025
Explore the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, towering sculptures, an ice-skating trail, a snow slide, and millions of lights. Enjoy live entertainment, a Christmas Village, Santa visits, Mrs. Claus story time, and themed nights like Family Photo Night, Paws n’ Claus, and Country Christmas.
Imaginarium: Land of Oz
Fairplex | Pomona
November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Follow the yellow brick road through interactive Oz-themed worlds featuring sparkling light displays, festive carnival rides, live performances, Santa visits, floating lantern wishes, creative activities, and dazzling nighttime scenes at California’s largest holiday light extravaganza.
Once Upon a Christmas
Once Upon an Island | Newport Beach
November 22 – December 24, 2025
The traditional Santa visit is transformed in an interactive, reimagined experience. Embark on a private journey through the North Pole, unlock enchanted doors, talk to Santa’s reindeer, build toys in Santa’s Workshop, and warm up by the cozy fireplace. Then, spend quality, personalized time with Santa where he knows all about your child and recalls their year of accomplishments and growth.
Festival of Lights
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa | Riverside
November 22 – January 6, 2026
Experience millions of twinkling lights, festive decorations, live entertainment, food vendors, and Santa photo opportunities throughout this long-running holiday tradition. Opening night features the Flipping of the Switch, fireworks, and performances by Matt Mauser and the Tijuana Dogs.
Wild Lights
America’s Teaching Zoo | Moorpark
November 26 – December 23, 2025
Stroll through the zoo as it transforms into a dazzling wonderland with stunning light displays, festive decorations, and plenty of family fun on select nights. This is not an animal-centered event, as many animals sleep through the evening.
Christmas on the Farm
Underwood Family Farm | Moorpark
November 28 – December 24, 2025
Enjoy the holidays on the farm with animals, photo ops, tractor-drawn wagon rides, slides, pick your own fields, letters from Santa and more! Weekend visits have additional activities like holiday trains, feeding & petting animals, goat experience, duck racing, and holiday crafts.
Holiday Road
King Gillette Ranch | Calabasas
November 28 – December 27, 2025
Walk through twinkling trails filled with giant candy canes, festive displays, and sparkling light scenes. Enjoy Santa visits on select nights, fun photo ops, face painting, a winter market, food trucks, holiday drinks, and glowing seasonal keepsakes.
Hikari: A Festival of Lights
Tanaka Farms | Irvine
November 28 – December 28, 2025
Enjoy a cozy wagon ride through dazzling light displays around the farm, stroll themed walking paths, visit the Holiday Market, and stop for photos with Santa. Kids can explore the barnyard exhibit and enjoy games like crafts, plinko, tree chop, and mini golf.
Jingle Jets
USS Midway Museum | San Diego
November 28 – December 30, 2025
Enjoy a holiday light show on the flight deck, expanded Reindeer Games, Christmas carol karaoke, themed nights, model trains, Christmas crafts, s’mores, cookie decorating, Santa’s Christmas Rush VR ride, and festive performances throughout the ship.
Winter Fest OC
OC Fair & Event Center | Costa Mesa
November 28 – January 4, 2026
This winter experiences features holiday decor and festive activities including snow play, ice tubing slide, entertainment, light show, ice skating, rides, food, drinks, and more.
Fire & Lights Festival
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort | Newport Beach
November 28 – January 4, 2026
The resort transforms their bayside oasis into a winter wonderland filled with scenic and unique festive lights. The bay features over 50 floating holiday decorations and Christmas trees. Don’t miss fire dancers, inflatables, photos with Santa, igloo bar, and more.
Solvang Julefest
November 28 – January 4, 2026
Solvang’s Danish-style holiday celebration returns with festive events, lights, seasonal music, holiday shopping, and more. Special events include the Tree Lighting Ceremony (Dec 5), Solvang Julefest Parade (Dec 6), Copenhagen Countdown (Dec 31), and Christmas Tree Burn (Jan 9). Ongoing events include light and music show, city-wide Nisser Adventure, daylight tours, and more.
Science of Gingerbread
Discovery Cube | Santa Ana & Los Angeles
December 6 – January 4, 2026
Check out Southern California’s largest gingerbread competition with over 200 entries from beginner to professional builders. Fun activities include cookie decorating, design a virtual winter snowflake, Santa Claus visits, and see a gingerbread demonstration with a pastry chef. OC details here, LA details here.
Gingerbread Wonderland at Discovery Cube
Discovery Cube Orange County | Santa Ana
December 6 – January 4, 2026
Enjoy an immersive holiday experience featuring a lively sing-along, the Runaway Sleigh Theater, an indoor toboggan slide, and the Sugar Rush Arcade filled with frosty games and challenges. Included with general admission or membership.
Winter Wonders & Holiday Lights
Wild Wonders | Bonsall
December 13-31, 2025
Enjoy festive flashlight tours featuring nocturnal animal sightings, holiday light decorations, and a special meet-and-greet with Holly Jolly the armadillo. Families can explore the grounds at night with hot chocolate and seasonal wildlife activities.
Meet the only renewable play sand on the market! There’s no silica or quartz making it non-toxic and safe for children and pets. What makes it even better? It’s dust free and it comes in fun colors.
Holidays at Theme Parks
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
SeaWorld | San Diego
November 14 – January 4, 2026
Experience more than a million twinkling lights, nightly snowfall, holiday shows, and Santa meet-and-greets. Enjoy Clyde & Seamore’s Christmas Special, live musical entertainment, Rudolph encounters, festive food and drinks, and seasonal activities throughout the park.
Holidays at Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Resort | Anaheim
November 14 – January 7, 2026
Experience the most magical time of the year with special holiday ride overlays, festive foods marketplace, the Christmas Fantasy Parade, and the “Believe…in Holiday Magic” fireworks show.
Knott’s Merry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm | Buena Park
November 21 – January 4, 2026
Enjoy festive shows like Home for the Holidays and the Peanuts ice show, stroll through the Christmas Crafts Village, see Snow and Glow, explore Santa’s Christmas Cabin, and take in twinkling lights and themed décor across the entire park.
Holidays at LEGOLAND
LEGOLAND California | Carlsbad
November 22 – January 4, 2026
Celebrate the season with a giant LEGO tree, seasonal shows, character “elfies,” festive treats, and bricktacular photo spots, including a new LEGO Santa with his sleigh and reindeer. Select nights feature holiday fireworks.
Holiday in the Park
Six Flags Magic Mountain | Valencia
November 27, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Enjoy sparkling light displays, festive live shows, winter rides, Santa visits, cookie decorating, and holiday shopping. Families can also enjoy seasonal treats, hot chocolate, and strolls through the decorated midway.
Holidays at Universal Studios
Universal Studios Hollywood | Hollywood
November 24 – January 4, 2026
Celebrate the season with Grinchmas, holiday moments in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, festive fun in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, and winter entertainment across the park.
Wild Holidays
San Diego Zoo Safari Park | Escondido
November 28 – January 4, 2026
See the Safari Park in a whole new light! Go on an expedition and travel through places that glow, shine, and twinkle. Enjoy fanciful characters, musical entertainment, festive storytelling, and culinary treats.
Jungle Bells
San Diego Zoo | San Diego
December 19 – January 4, 2026
Enjoy holiday brass performances, interactive Reindeer Games, and Dr. Zoolittle’s playful retelling of a classic tale. Explore sparkling light experiences like the Painted Jungle, Rainbow Forest, and Laser Trail filled with colorful paths and special effects.
Outdoor Ice Rinks in Orange County
Irvine Spectrum Ice Rink
Irvine Spectrum Center | Irvine
November 14 – January 2, 2026
Skate at the open-air ice rink in Giant Wheel Court with daily sessions and themed Thursday skate nights featuring a live DJ and $5 off admission for dressing up. Admission includes skate rentals, with bring-your-own options available.
Winter Fest OC
OC Fair & Event Center | Costa Mesa
November 28 – January 4, 2026
The fairgrounds transform into a large winter wonderland experience for families. Add on a 45-minute ice skating session. Rentals included with add-on price.
Outdoor Ice Rinks in Los Angeles
Ice at Santa Monica
Corner of 5th St. & Arizona Ave. | Santa Monica
November 7 – January 19, 2026
Skate on more than 8,000 square feet of shimmering ice just blocks from the ocean, with a separate tot rink for young skaters. Enjoy themed sessions, festive music, and special events like Classical Sundays and holiday countdown celebrations.
Pershing Square Holiday Ice Skating Rink
Pershing Square | Downtown LA
November 20 – January 11, 2026
Enjoy outdoor ice skating in the heart of downtown Los Angeles with a festive atmosphere suitable for first-time skaters and seasoned gliders. Admission includes skates, with lockers and gloves available.
LA Kings Holiday Ice
L.A. Live | Downtown LA
November 28 – January 10, 2026
Skate outdoors at L.A. Live on Peacock Place near Crypto.com Arena. This annual rink offers seasonal music, holiday décor, and ice skating sessions with skate rentals, plus options for lockers, socks and gloves.
Sock Skating Rink
Kidspace Children’s Museum | Pasadena
November 7 – January 11, 2026
Ok, not exactly ice skating, but a great way to introduce little ones to a rink! Slide and spin on Kidspace’s no-ice Sock Skating Rink, perfect for beginner skaters. Winter Frolic activities include trike rides through a gingerbread house, building an ice fort with “ice blocks,” and dressing up a snowman family.
YMCA of Greater Long Beach Preschools
Did you know that 90% of a human’s brain develops in the first five years of life? What many parents don’t realize is that a strong investment in our children at this critical time will pay off for the rest of their lives. Simply participating in preschool is the most impactful way to give your children the skills they need to succeed in life.
With six locations in Greater Long Beach, the YMCA provides state subsidized, year-round childcare for qualifying families. Their preschools reflect the communities that they serve, and they work with families to tailor opportunities for children to learn, grow and thrive
Indoor Ice Rinks
Public Skate Sessions
East West Ice Palace | Artesia
Skate at the home rink of Olympian Michelle Kwan with public skate sessions available on select days. Admission includes access to the rink, with skate rentals offered for an additional fee.
Public Skating
The Rinks | Multiple OC & LA Locations
Skate on NHL and Olympic-sized rinks across Anaheim, Irvine, Lakewood, Poway, and Yorba Linda. Enjoy themed nights, professional skate rentals, and skate mates for beginners. Online registration is required.
Public Skate Sessions
Ice Realm | Westminster
Public skate sessions are offered daily. Enjoy themed sessions and see the full schedule online. Ice Realm also offers the First Steps program, a free introductory learn-to-skate program designed for first-time skaters ages 4-12. Learn about upcoming First Steps sessions here.
Ice Rinks Worth the Drive
Skating by the Sea
Hotel del Coronado | Coronado
November 21 – January 4, 2026
Skate beside the ocean at Hotel del Coronado’s iconic beachfront rink. Enjoy ocean views and holiday décor and while gliding across one of Southern California’s most picturesque winter experiences.
Silver Bells Arena
Santa’s Village at Skypark | Skyforest
November 13 – January 4, 2026
The Silver Bells Arena transforms into a frozen pond for ice skating! A day pass also includes themed activities, entertainment, and adventurous holiday attractions throughout the park.
Curry Village Ice Skating Rink
Yosemite National Park | Yosemite Valley
November 14 – March 2, 2026
Skate at the historic Curry Village rink surrounded by views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley. After skating, warm up by the fire pit and enjoy one of the park’s most scenic winter traditions.
Yeti’s Snow Play
Mountain High Resort | Wrightwood
Open Thanksgiving Weekend
Make it a snow day at Yeti’s Snow Play located at Mountain High Resort. Slide down the tubing lanes, meet the Yeti and his friends, or have lunch at the Grand View Lodge located at 8,200ft. Mountain High Resort also offers skiing and snowboarding, rentals, and lessons. Visit their calendar to see when they’re open.
Opening Celebration: Celebrate the opening on November 28-30 with festive food and drinks, hot apple cider and hot chocolate bar for kids, DJ and music, face painting, and decorate your own ornaments. Meet the Yeti and his friends, Santa in his house, and explore Santa’s Village with bounce houses, photo ops and more!
Big Bear Snow Play
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Snow Play sports the longest snow tubing runs in Southern California! There’s also Glow Tubing where the runs are lit up with colored lights after dark. Plus, their Magic Carpet lift means no tiring uphill struggle in the snow! Don’t forget to check out their heated base lodge for the snack bar and games.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
Big Bear Lake
The Magic Mountain Recreation Area in Big Bear Lake is home to the world-famous Alpine Slide — Southern California’s only authentic bobsled experience. Riders navigate their own individually-controlled sleds, down cement tracks filled with high-banked turns and long straightaways. Check out their Mineshaft Coaster, a mountain coaster where you control the speed down a mile long track. There’s also a variety of other attractions including snow tubing.
Snow Play Park at Mt. Baldy Resort
Opening Day TBA
The Snow Play Park at Mt. Baldy Resort is located at the top of the Sugar Pine Chairlift. The park features multiple zones: tubing, climbing, and sledding. Snow tubing and snow play experiences are offered in 90-minute sessions at 9am or 1pm. All guests must be 40″ to ride the chair lift to the snow play area.
Big Bear Mountain Resort
Big Bear Lake
Opening Thanksgiving Weekend
Big Bear Mountain Resort comprises of Bear Mountain, Snow Summit, and Snow Valley. All locations offer skiing and snowboarding trails. Snow tubing and snow play is only offered at Snow Valley and Snow Summit. Grizzly Ridge Tube Park (located at Snow Summit), offers four 300-foot tubing lanes and magic carpet to the top. Coyote Creek Tube Park (located at Snow Valley), offers six 400-foot tubing lanes and magic carpet to the top. Snow Play is also offered at Snow Valley.
Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park
Running Springs
Opening Day TBA
It’s Southern California’s largest and oldest snow tubing park. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes are available.
Woolly’s Adventure Summit
Mammoth Mountain | Mammoth Lakes
Opening Day TBA
Mammoth is the leading mountain resort in California. It offers snowboarding, skiing, and Woolly’s Adventure Summit. Catch a ride to the top on the Magic Carpet, then mob down long lanes in a high-speed snow tube. Little ones will enjoy the Snow Play Area and thrill-seekers can hop on Mammoth’s new Mountain Coaster.
Categories: Blog
This post was written by Kidsguide
