Christmas Events in California | Making Merry Moments
California transforms into a festive wonderland during the Christmas season, with an array of events that capture the holiday spirit. From dazzling light displays and traditional parades to unique seasonal activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Featured Christmas Events in California
Main Christmas Events in California
Southern California Christmas Events
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
This is a cherished San Diego tradition. It occurs on two Sundays in December. Over 80 decorated boats travel through San Diego Bay. The theme changes every year. Thousands of people gather along the shore to watch. It is a free and spectacular event open to people of all ages.
Disneyland Resort Christmas
The Disneyland Resort goes through a thorough Christmas metamorphosis. Sleeping Beauty’s Castle is illuminated with fake snow and lights. “It’s a Small World” becomes a magnificent holiday show. You can find Santa Claus throughout the parks. Special holiday parades and fireworks are held every day. The resort is particularly stunning after dark.
Knott’s Merry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm turns into a Christmas attraction. The park hosts seasonal shows and decorations. The Charles Dickens theater is hosting “A Christmas Carol” performance. The Ghost Town section gets a Christmas makeover. Seasonal foods and snacks are provided around the park.
Los Angeles Christmas Events
Los Angeles has a varied range of Christmas events.
- The Grove has a stunning tree-lighting event.
- The Hollywood Christmas Parade marches down historic Hollywood Boulevard.
- Descanso Gardens hosts “Enchanted Forest of Light,” an interactive light show.
Central California Christmas Events
Santa Barbara Holiday Events
The “American Riviera” glows during the holidays.
- The State Street Holiday Promenade showcases festive decorations and shopping.
- Santa Barbara Zoo conducts a “Reindeer Romp” featuring actual reindeer.
- The Historic Courthouse hosts free Christmas music in the Sunken Garden.
Christmas at the missions.
California’s historic missions host special events.
- The Mission San Juan Capistrano holds “Las Posadas” processions.
- Mission Santa Barbara hosts Christmas music and liturgies. These activities introduce tourists to California’s Spanish roots.
Northern California Christmas Events
San Francisco Christmas Events
The City by the Bay celebrates in style.
- Union Square has the city’s official Christmas tree and an ice skating rink.
- Fisherman’s Wharf features a lit boat parade.
- The War Memorial Opera House hosts performances of the Nutcracker ballet.
Napa Valley Christmas
Wine country offers elegant holiday experiences.
- The Napa Valley Wine Train offers special Christmas journeys.
- Castello di Amorosa, a historic castle, presents a Renaissance Christmas festival.
- Local wineries are nicely decorated and offer seasonal sampling.
Christmas in the Gold Country
Historic towns celebrate with old-fashioned charm.
- Columbia State Historic Park is hosting an 1850s-style Christmas.
- Murphys hosts Christmas home tours and carolers.
- Nevada City decorates its Victorian structures with thousands of lights.
Mountain and Snow Christmas Events
Lake Tahoe Christmas Events
The Tahoe area becomes a winter paradise.
- Northstar California Resort offers ice skating and community festivals.
- Heavenly Village holds tree lightings and visits with Santa.
- Squaw Valley hosts torchlight parades down the mountain.
Big Bear Lake Christmas
This mountain community embraces the holiday spirit.
- The Village offers seasonal shopping and events.
- Big Bear Lake Polar Plunge provides a frigid Christmas Day swim.
- Children are delighted with Santa’s Workshop at the Convention Center.
Special Christmas Attractions
Christmas Tree Lanes
Several communities create spectacular light displays.
- Fresno’s Christmas Tree Lane is one of the country’s oldest residential holiday light displays.
- Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills boasts coordinated community decorations.
- Balboa Park in San Diego is lit up for the “December Nights” festival.
Live Nativity Scenes
Many churches and communities present living nativities.
- The Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove hosts The Glory of Christmas, which includes flying angels and live animals.
- Temecula’s Live Nativity features a marketplace and biblical themes.
These productions make the Christmas narrative come to life.
Holiday Theater Productions
Christmas shows entertain audiences statewide.
- A Christmas Carol is shown in theaters from San Diego to San Francisco.
- The Christmas Show at San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre is a tradition.
- The Radio City Christmas Spectacular takes the Rockettes to several towns.
Visiting California
Best Time to Visit
- Early December is less crowded and often provides the best experience.
- Christmas week is extremely busy and requires patience.
- Most events run from late November through December.
Weather Considerations
- Southern California beaches remain mild and pleasant.
- Mountain areas require warm clothing (jackets, hats, gloves).
- Northern California can be rainy, so pack waterproof gear.
- Always pack layers for the changing conditions.
Ticket and Booking Information
- Popular events require advance tickets.
- Book hotel accommodations early, especially for holiday weekends.
- Be aware that some events sell out months in advance.
Family-Friendly Tips
- Many events offer special children’s activities and crafts.
- Check for sensory-friendly hours at major light displays.
- Dress warmly for outdoor evening events—temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
Experience Christmas Magic Across California
California has countless Christmas celebration possibilities. You can select between beach parades and mountain festivities. The state’s diversity makes for one-of-a-kind holiday experiences. Make lasting memories with your family. Enjoy the twinkling lights and holiday entertainment. Discover what makes California Christmas celebrations so spectacular.
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