It is officially that time of year again to enjoy all of our amazing local Christmas Tree Lighting events and more throughout all of South Orange County! 2022
Aliso Viejo
Annual Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 5th 2024 | 5:00 PM – 8 PM | at the Grand Park at Aliso Viejo Town Center, Hosted by City of Aliso Viejo
Enjoy holiday cheer, train rides, ornament making, community and aerial performances, magical snow fall and a visit from jolly ole St. Nick as we light our 22-foot tree. Free
Christmas Chalk Walk
Friday December 6th-8th- 2024 | 5 to 8pm.| 22851 Aliso Creek Road, Aliso Viejo
Please help us spread the word and share this event with family and friends. As visitors sit comfortably in their cars, they will be able to view all of the finished chalk creations displayed on large easels. You’ll drive through canopies of Christmas lights, hear inspirational Christmas messages, listen to beautiful music, and have some time to think about what means most to you at this very special time of year. Join us for our in-person opening night on Friday, Dec. 6th from 5-8pm. All the artwork will be ready and on display! You can park your car and walk around, listen to live music from local musicians, visit with friends, and enjoy delicious cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate. A beautiful live nativity will be presented Friday night only. Artists are welcome to attend and visit with other artists and community members. Christmas Chalk Walk will be a drive-thru Saturday, Dec. 7th and Sunday, Dec. 8th from 5-8pm. Art will be displayed on large easels for easier viewing from the comfort of your car. Visitors will view the artwork as they drive through lighted tunnels, listen to beautiful music, and uplifting messages from our local faith and city leaders.
Crafts with Clauses
Saturday, December 15th 2024 | 9:00am – 11:00zm | Aliso Viejo Ranch 100 Park Avenue, Aliso viejo
Come to the ranch for some festive fun. Crafts, reindeer games, cookie decorating, and photos with Santa. Register now. $20 per person, for everyone 2 and up.
Dana Point
Dana Point Harbor Merry Kiss Me Lights
Wednesday November 13th – Early January @ 5pm 2024 – 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point Harbor
Dana Point Harbor Partners (DPHP) is spreading holiday cheer by hosting the annual holiday light display, consisting of over 700,000 LED lights, set to illuminate the Harbor beginning November 13. Themed light exhibits throughout the Harbor include a giant whale sculpture, lighted palm trees, giant beach-ball-like ornaments, the popular “Merry Kiss Me” arch and much more. FREE
Ritz Carlton Holiday Tree Lighting
November 24th, 2024 | 4pm 7pm | One Ritz-Carlton Drive Dana Point,
Annual holiday open house and 40-foot tree lighting ceremony. A free celebration with music, an appearance from Santa, and hot chocolate.
Gingerbread House and Holiday Cookie Decorating: Guests can gather with family and friends on December 15th. 2024 from 2:00 – 4:00pm to decorate their very own large-scale gingerbread house and holiday cookies. The talented pastry team will be on hand to provide tips and tricks for creating a gingerbread showpiece of the season. $300 per Gingerbread House. To reserve, guests can call Guest Services at 949-240-2000
Breakfast with Santa – on December 8th & 23rd from 9am – 11am, Bring the whole the family and delight in a buffet-style breakfast to please everyone’s taste-buds, including a meet and greet with Santa. Reservations are required and a fee of $95 per ticket
Pine Park Tree Lighting
December 2nd 2024 | 4:30 – 5:30pm | 34941 Camino Capistrano, Dana Point
Santa and his elves will be arriving at Pines Park on his Jolly Trolley to hand out pre-packaged treats for children up to 12 years of age. The event is from 4:30pm to 5:30pm and features carolers, hot chocolate, cookies, and the annual tree lighting at 5:15pm. Pines Park is located at 34941 Camino Capistrano. For more information call (949) 248-3536 or email [email protected]. FREE
Santa’s Jolly Trolley
November 30th, 2024 | 1:30pm-5:30PM | Dana Point
Santa and his elves from the Recreation Division will be riding on his Jolly Trolley and making stops at the park locations listed below to hand out pre-packaged treats for kids up to 12 years of age. Santa’s elves will also be collecting letters to Santa. Please include your mailing address on the letter so Santa can return a special letter to you. At our last stop, La Plaza Park, from 4:30pm to 5:30pm the annual community tree lighting ceremony will be held with carolers, hot chocolate, and cookies. The tree lighting will be held promptly at 5:15pm. For more information call (949) 248-3536 or email [email protected]. FREE
1:30pm – 2:00pm Sunset Park, 34345 Calle Naranja
2:30pm – 3:00pm Dana Woods Park, 24900 Dana Woods
3:30pm – 4:00pm Sea Canyon Park, 33093 Santiago Drive
4:30pm – 5:30pm La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza St (Tree lighting at 5:15pm)
Santa Paws Photos
December 7th & 8th, 2024 | 10am – 3pm | Dana Point Harbor
Pet Project Foundation will host the 10th Annual Santa Paws. Pet photos will be offered for a small donation with all proceeds supporting the Pet Project Foundation.
Dana Point Harbor 49th Annual Fiesta Boat Parade of Lights
December 13-15, 2024 | Dana Point Harbor
The Dana Point Harbor’s Boat Parade of Lights returns this holiday season for its 49th celebration on December 13, 14 & 15, 2024. The parade starts at 6:30pm and features the theme Santa’s Seaside Carnival. Boaters will deck out their vessels for a chance to win $10,000 in cash prizes across different award categories courtesy of Dana Point Harbor Partners. Award categories include Best Use of Theme, People’s Choice, Supervisor’s Cup, Mayor’s Cup, and more. To help visitors navigate the Harbor easily during the busy holiday season, Dana Point Harbor’s FREE shuttle service will be available daily from 7:30am to 10:00pm, offering convenient park-and-ride options. The shuttle picks up at the East Island Lot and makes stops at key locations, including Mariner’s Village, Wind & Sea, and Dana Wharf, ensuring seamless access to all the festivities. Free
Santa Photos
December 5 & 6, 2024 | 4pm – 6pm | Dana Wharf, Dana Point Harbor
Santa’s coming to the Harbor on December 5th & 6th 10 from 4pm – 6pm and taking residence in the Clock Courtyard. . The holiday display will remain up throughout the month of December for all to enjoy.
Holiday Slime in the Harbor
December 7th, 2024 | 10am – 2pm | Dana Wharf, Dana Point Harbor
Enjoy the ultimate family-friendly DIY crafts hosted by Dana Point Harbor Partners at Hansen Plaza. Discover the perfect activity to complement your boat ride with Santa with Holiday Slime. The gooey goodness includes different kinds of scents, charms and more. Borax-free. Cost is $5
Boat Rides with Santa
December 7 & 8th, 2024 | 10am – 2pm | Dana Wharf, Dana Point Harbor
Take a boat ride with Santa at Dana Point Harbor this holiday season! Tickets are $5 per person and all proceeds will benefit Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay. 20 minute boat rides around the harbor with Santa will be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please visit danawharf.com for more information.
Dana Point La Plaza Christmas Tree Lighting
November 30th, 2024 | 5:15pm | 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point
Come out for the tree lighting ceremony! La Plaza Park, from 4:30pm to 5:30pm the annual community tree lighting ceremony will be held with carolers, hot chocolate, and cookies. Bring an unwrapped toy for the Toy Drive. The tree lighting will be held promptly at 5:15pm.
Dana Point Harbor 48th Annual Fiesta Boat Parade of Lights Viewing Party at the Ocean Institute
December 13 & 14th, 2024 | 6:30-10:00pm | Ocean Institute
Enjoy the holidays with the Ocean Institute at our Annual Holiday Parade of Lights Viewing Party for the Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights. This year’s Boat Parade of Lights theme is “Carnival”. Guests are invited to view the parade from our one-of-a-kind setting that only the Ocean Institute can provide! Join them for Hot Cocoa + Coffee Bar, Cookie Decorating, Beer and wine and soft drinks for purchase, Live Entertainment, Educational and Holiday Activities, Photo booth and more! Pricing is Adults: $25 and Children: $22.
Holiday Market in Harbor
December 21st, 2024 | 10am – 4pm | Dana Point Harbor
Discover the magic of the season at the Holiday Market in Dana Point! Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift or a fun family outing, this market is the ideal way to get into the holiday spirit. See you there!
Ladera Ranch
Winter Fest
December 7, 2024 | 2:00 – 5:00pm | 28801 Sienna Pkwy, Ladera Ranch, CA
Join the festive fun at our winter celebration! Enjoy an afternoon packed with holiday performances and activities for all ages—from bouncing on inflatables to shopping at the craft fair, playing games, making crafts, and capturing magical moments with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The fun doesn’t stop there—stay until 5:00 p.m. when Santa himself will light up the park with our dazzling holiday display! This unforgettable event is sure to spark the holiday spirit and create lasting family memories. The Santa Photo Line will close at 4:15 p.m. to allow Santa and Mrs. Claus time to prepare for the Tree Lighting.
Holiday with Santa
December 15th, 2024 | 11:00 – 2:00pm | East 27612 Antonio Parkway, Ladera Ranch, CA
Santa is coming back to Ladera Ranch this year!🎅🏼 The event will feature: FREE photos with Santa, Carolers, Balloon Artists, Face Painting, Arts & Crafts and more!
Ladera Ranch celebrates the Holidays
1 Covenant Hills Drive, Ladera Ranch
Letters to Santa – December 2-13, 2024
Santa Visits – Thursday, December 5, 2025 | 4 PM – 7 PM
Laguna Beach
Crystal Cove Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Bazaar
December 7th | 10am – 6 pm | Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove will be decorating their lovely tree on the beach and showing it off the first weekend in December. Shop for gifts from local artisans, meet Santa during a beachside photo op, munch on cookies and cocoa courtesy of The Beachcomber. The Christmas tree lighting program will take place from 3:00 to 5:30. FREE
Sawdust Art Festival’s Annual Winter Fantasy
November 15th – December 15, 2024 | 10am – 7pm | Laguna Beach Sawdust (each weekend Friday – Sunday)
Open five weekends, plus Black Friday. Winter Fantasy is a one-of-a-kind holiday art festival that offers a festive shopping experience. Shop handcrafted art by 150 artists and makers in an enchanting winter wonderland with thousands of lights and decorations, falling snow, three stages of live music, community performances, carolers, puppeteers, festival holiday classes, and daily visits with Santa Claus.
Montage Laguna Beach
30801 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach
Holiday events for the whole family throughout November and December.
Gingerbread House and Holiday Cookie Decorating: Gather with family and show off your creative side during our gingerbread house decorating event with our executive Pastry team. This year’s event will take place at Studio restaurant, set against the backdrop of the Pacific. Event includes: Gingerbread House* and Cookie Decorating, Face Painting and Balloon Twister, Family Photos, Hot Chocolate and Cider Station, Welcome Champagne Toast for Adults, Cookies and Light Snacks. Dates are December 1st, 8th & 15th 11am. RESERVATIONS – (949) 715-6420
Holiday Tea: Embrace a new tradition this holiday season. Enjoy a holiday inspired Afternoon Tea from the elegant comfort of our Lobby Lounge. Tea will be served from November 9th from noon to 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays. DINING RESERVATIONS – (949) 715-6420
Gingerbread Village: Guests of all ages will delight in the life-scale gingerbread house created by Montage Laguna Beach’s talented pastry team. Paying homage to Laguna Beach and the resort’s 20th anniversary, this year’s display is inspired by our charming beach town’s iconic lifeguard tower at Main Beach. Guests can experience a sense of wonder and sweetness as they revel in the over-the-top confectionary showcase. Complimentary hot chocolate, cider and house made cookies will be available next to the gingerbread display daily from 2:00pm – 4:00pm.. FREE
Wreath Making: Join us for an interactive holiday wreath making workshop. Craft your own fresh wreath and bring a festive flair to your home holiday décor. Our expert instructor will guide you step-by-step in creating a personalized wreath with natural materials and vibrant accents. To compliment the experience, each guest will receive a complimentary glass of Champagne and a small cheese plate. On December 1st, 7th and 15th at 3pm. Reservations are also available by calling (949) 715-6420.
25 Days of Paintbox: Festive activities filled with cheer and merriment await at Paintbox. Children who are enrolled in the Paintbox and Paintbox Petite program can participate in the 25 Days of Paintbox, including ornament and cookie decorating, letters to Santa, a holiday-themed bracelet making workshop and more. Hotel and local guests may participate at an additional cost per activity. This takes place at 2pm daily and can be reserved by calling (949) 715-6005.
Hospitality Night
December 6th 2024 | 5:00pm to 10:00pm | Peppertree Parking Lot, Ocean & Forest Avenues, Laguna Beach, CA
Every first Friday in December, Laguna Beach celebrates Hospitality Night. Happenings occur in the downtown Laguna Beach village, along Forest Avenue. Street closures in the downtown area will begin at 3:30 p.m. on Friday. Portions of Forest Avenue, Ocean Avenue, Beach Street, and the Peppertree Parking Lot will be closed to vehicular traffic prior to and during the event.
Laguna Hills
Christmas Tree Lighting of Laguna Hills
December 6th, 2024 | 6:00 – 8:00pm | 25555 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Hills Community Center
Kick off the holiday season with a Christmas Tree lighting, carolers, refreshments, crafts and a visit from Santa.
Breakfast with Santa
December 14th, 2024 | 9:00 – 11:00am | 25555 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Hills Community Center
Ho, Ho, Ho! Santa will be arriving at the Laguna Hills Community Center for a morning full of holiday fun! Join us for a special celebration complete with a scrumptious breakfast, photos with Santa, and holiday crafts. Preregistration is required. $10 per person and kids under 2 are free.
Parents Night Out
December 13th, 2024 | 6:00 – 8:305m | 25555 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Hills Community Center
Parents get your shopping down, while the Laguna Hills staff watch your kids(ages 6-14). The event is free, but preregistration is required. Dinner will be served.
Holiday Dance Extravaganza
December 14th, 2024 | 7:00 – 9:00pm | 25555 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Hills Community Center
Enjoy an evening of holiday dancing from local dance studios. Light refreshments and desserts will be served.
Laguna Niguel
Laguna Niguel Christmas Tree Lighting
December 7th, 2024 | 5 – 8:00pm | 30111 CROWN VALLEY PKWY, Laguna Niguel City Hall
Join the City of Laguna Niguel for our annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony! Step into a world of holiday enchantment as our Christmas Tree comes sparkling to life filling the night with the warmth of the season! Capture timeless family memories with cookie decorating, crafts, live entertainment, games & prizes, character meet & greets, visits with Santa, & so much more. FREE
Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade
December 14th, 2024 | 10:00am-1:00pm | 29751 Crown Valley Parkway
Join us for the City of Laguna Niguel’s annual Holiday Parade! The parade begins around 10:00am and features entries cars, marching bands, and more! Be sure to stick around to see Santa pay the City a visit! The parade route starts at Nueva Vista and ends at Community Park. FREE
Lake Forest
Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
TBD | 3:00-6:00pm | 100 Civic Center Dr, Lake Forest
3rd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting. The event will begin at 4 p.m. on December 3 and include free rides, entertainment, arts and crafts, vendors selling food, and more. We’ll light the tree as the sun sets, and I have a feeling we’ll even get a visit from a special visitor, too. FREE
Heritage Hill Historical Park
Multiple dates in December 2024 | 25151 Serrano Road Lake Forest, CA 92630
Heritage Hill Historical Park | 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Candlelight Walk: December 6-8th, 2024 | 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Holiday Lights: December 13-15, 2024 | 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
During the holiday season, Heritage Hill is adorned with lights. Come out and enjoy a stroll through the festive historic buildings including the Serrano Adobe dating back to 1863, St. George’s Episcopal Mission circa 1890, the El Toro Grammar School, and the Harvey Bennett Ranch House. Plus, there will be kids crafts, live entertainment, and the opportunity to visit with Santa. Make sure to bring a camera and take your picture at a variety of holiday-themed photo opportunities! FREE
Mission Viejo
The Shops at the Mission Viejo
Various Dates in December 2024 | 555 The Shops at Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo CA 92691
Caring Santa Photo Experience is back on December 8th from 9 – 10:30am. Make your reservation for a private photo experience.
Story Time with Santa – Storytime With Santa returns to The Shops at Mission Viejo this holiday season! At the Santa Set on Level 1, near Nordstrom on Wednesday, Nov. 20 and Nov. 27 from 3pm – 3:30pm and Wednesday, December 4 and December 11 from 11am – 11:30am.
Santa Photos – The ultimate holiday tradition awaits! Secure your spot today between November 7th and December 24th here
SANTA SING-A-LONG – Spread Holiday cheer with Santa this season during Santa Sing-along at The Shops at Mission Viejo! On Thursday, Dec. 5, Dec. 12, and Dec. 19 from 11am – 11:30am
Pet Photos with Santa – Everyday is Pet Photo Day at The Shops at Mission Viejo this Holiday Season. Bring your pets to pose with Santa! Your pets are part of the family too, so don’t miss this fun
opportunity for them to see Santa too between November 7th and December 24th here
Santa’s Arrival & Lighting Ceremony
Sunday, December 1st, 2024 | 3:00pm – 6:00pm | Civic Center Plaza, 200 Civic Center Drive, Mission Viejo
Celebrate Santa’s Arrival and the official turning on of the lights at Santa’s Village. Event will include the arrival of Santa and his friends, live reindeer, activities, music, holiday performers, and food. FREE
Santa’s Workshop
December 4th – December 22nd 2024 | 6:00pm – 8:00pm | Santa’s Village, Civic Center Plaza, 200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo
Bring the whole family out for an evening of fun as you visit the workshop and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Then, drop off a letter to Santa in the mailbox located in the Kershaw Garden. Santa will be in his Workshop on Wednesday, Saturdays and Sundays only, but the village will be open to walk throughs on all other nights.. FREE
Rudolph’s Rink
Postponed until further Notice | | Santa’s Village, Civic Center Plaza, 200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo
A family fun activity! 40-minute skate sessions begin on the hour. Skate rental for this synthetic rink is $12.00 (signed waiver required for each participant/under 18 must have a parent or guardian signature). No one is permitted on rink surface without ice skates.
Santa’s Arrival and Celebration
December 1st. 2024 | 3:00 – 6:00pm | 200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo
The community is invited to help usher in the holiday season. This event will feature fun interactive activities and live entertainment for all to enjoy. The festival celebration will be held 3 to 5:30 pm at 200 Civic Center. Santa will arrive on a fire engine at 6 pm to help ring in the holiday spirit by turning on the festive lights in Mission Viejo.
Mission Viejo Brunch with Santa
TBD | 10:00am & 12:30pm | Terrace On The Green at Oso Creek | 27601 Casta Del Sol, Mission Viejo
Santa returns to Oso Creek Golf Course on Sunday, December 10 to enjoy brunch with you! This spectacular holiday event includes two seatings at 10 am and 12:30 pm. You and your family will enjoy taking photos with St. Nick on a golf cart; decorating a Christmas cookie; making a holiday ornament and other holiday crafts, as well as the talents of strolling carolers. The grand buffet will include a gourmet meat-and-cheese station; fresh fruit display; salad station; omelet station with eggs prepared your way or a build-your-own omelet; chef-manned carving station; a wide selection of breakfast specialties; and much more. Everyone will enjoy a delectable dessert station. Cost is $99.95 for adults and $39.95 for kids ages 5-12, plus tax and gratuity. Children 4 and under are free.
Christmas Tree Lighting at Kaleidoscope
December 6th, 2024 | 6:0pm-9:00pm | 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy, Mission Viejo
Join us for our Annual Kaleidoscope Christmas Tree Lighting on December 6th! Warm up with our free hot cocoa, cookie decorating, live snow globe, petting zoo and more! Meet and greet with Mickey and Mini Mouse… and of course SANTA!!! Visit the Union Market on the second floor to shop your local businesses or even catch a movie at the Regal Edwards Theater! FREE.
Grinchmass Holiday Market
December 14th, 2024 | 1:00pm-5:00pm | 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy, Mission Viejo
Get into the holiday spirit and browse through a variety of unique gifts, crafts, and goodies. Whether you’re looking for the perfect present or just want to treat yourself, this market has something for everyone. Meet the Grinch, grab a warm cocoa or coffee, enjoy the festive music, and holiday atmosphere! Don’t miss out on the chance to support local vendors and spread some Grinchmas cheer. See you there! 🤍
Rancho Santa Margarita
Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 7, 2024 | 5 – 7:00pm | Lago Santa Margarita RSM Lake, Rancho Santa Margarita
Enjoy the season’s sights, sounds, and treats with family and friends at the Lago Santa Margarita! The festivities will begin at 5:00 p.m. at the Lakeshore. Stroll through the all-new “Trail of Lights”, enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and decorate a festive stocking. Watch a holiday dance performance and storytelling of “The Night Before Christmas” while anticipating Santa and Mrs. Claus’s arrival to help light the Christmas tree at 6 p.m.! Take your professional family photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus sponsored by FatDaddy’s Bakery! See you at the Lake! FREE
Carols Around the Lake
December 14, 2024 | 6 – 8:00pm | Lago Santa Margarita, Rancho Santa Margarita
SAMLARC welcomes you to join us at the Lakeshore and Beach Club for a beautiful night filled with the sights and sounds of the season! Visit Gingerbread Lane inside the Beach Club where children can make a gingerbread craft, grab a cup of hot cocoa sponsored by Shannon Miller Realtor, a sweet treat, and take a professional family photo with Santa Claus sponsored by FatDaddy’s Bakery. Enjoy a Holly Jolly Express Train ride, listen to the Victorian Carolers, walk down the all-new trail of lights, stroll around the Lakeshore, get a photo with The Grinch and Cindy-Lou Who, and enjoy musical performances by talented local musicians throughout the evening. FREE
San Clemente
Outlets of San Clemente Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 16, 2024 | 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. | Outlets of San Clemente
Join us as we kick off the holiday season with an enchanting evening at our Santa Clemente Village! This magical celebration is packed with fun, music, and festive cheer, creating unforgettable moments for the entire family. The night kicks off with spectacular live performances by Calvary Chapel, the soulful Full Circle Boys, and the talented students from OCSA, building up to an exciting performance by headliner Caleb Lee Hutchinson. Get ready for a heartwarming visit from Santa Claus as he helps light up the season with a dazzling countdown. To top it all off, prepare to be amazed by our magical Snow Show!
Santa’s Village By The Sea
December 7th, 2024 | 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. | Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente
Hosted by the San Clemente Downtown Business Association, Puttin’ on the Glitz is a fun and festive evening of late-hours holiday shopping & dining, live music, carolers, sweet treats, street musicians, and community vendor booths offering fun for the whole family. Rock out at the Silent Disco, then stroll down to the City’s event at the community center and enjoy a sledding hill, holiday crafts and a visits with St. Nick himself. FREE
Sunsets with Santa
December 15 & 22nd 2024 | 3:00 – 5:00pm | Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente
Don’t miss this opportunity to get your picture taken with Santa Claus on the San Clemente Pier with a holiday tree and the ocean as your background. Enjoy Christmas music and special guests. FREE
Lil’ Elves Workshop
December 6th 2024 | 9:30 – 11:00am | 100 N Calle Sevilla, San Clemente
For kids ages 3-5, come and enjoy treats, crafts, sing holiday carols and enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa Claus. $18 resident and $21 non-resident.
Casa Romantica Christmas Nights 2024
December 15th – 21st, 2023(select Nights) | 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. | 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente
Roam through Casa Romantica’s historic seaside home and gardens, transformed into an illuminated and festively decorated winter wonderland at night! and enjoy thousands of twinkling lights and holiday activities for all ages. Cost $5-$15.
Casa Romantica Cookies and Cocoa with Mrs. Claus
December 7th, 2024 | 10:15 – 11:00 am | 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente
Enjoy cookies and hot cocoa with Mrs. Claus! When purchasing tickets, please only register your child.
San Juan Capistrano
Capistrano Lights
December 7th – 29th(on select nights), 3:00 – 7:30pm | 26801 Camino Capistrano, Mission San Juan Capistrano
Celebrate the holidays at Orange County’s only Mission. Join us on select days from December 7, 2024 through December 31, 2024 for daytime admission to the Mission and an evening of holiday programming and fun. Capistrano Lights: Mission in Lights returns this December with tree lighting, visits with Santa, Dickens-era carolers, full-scale nativity, light features including a lighted halo grove, new scented citrus garden, dancing swallows and more – all are included with any Capistrano Lights ticket which also includes same day admission to the Mission. The tradition also brings back Community Christmas Trees, Family Wreaths, and a harpist in the Serra Chapel. The Capistrano Lights audio tour will also be available throughout the entire month of December so guests can enjoy hearing the Gospel and the Night Before Christmas reading while learning more about Capistrano Lights evening offerings. Public Pricing: Adults: $19, Seniors: $17, Youth/Student: $14, Children (Under 4):
Holly Jolly Market – Inn at the Mission
December 8th, 2024 1:00 – 5:00pm | Inn at the Mission, 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano
Shop local with @thepopupshoppes from 1PM-5PM, snap a photo with Santa, enjoy live music by @thejameskellyband, and show off your best ugly sweater at 4PM! FREE
Holiday Princess Tea with Elsa – Inn at the Mission
December 15th, 2024 11:00 am and 2:00pm seatings | Inn at the Mission, 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano
Step into a world of icy elegance and sisterly love this holiday season! Join us for a magical tea party and enjoy some quality time with two beloved royal sisters. Dress in your finest and enjoy a festive event filled with treats and wonder!
5 Nights of Merry Moments – Inn at the Mission
December 17th-21st, 2024 | 6:00 – 8:30pm | Inn at the Mission, 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano
Enjoy free photos with Cowboy Santa, complimentary treats, and festive beverages & s’mores for purchase!
Los Rios Tea House – Holiday High Tea
November 29th to January 12th, 2024 | 31731 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano
Featuring set options for our Tea Experience, Lunch, Brunch, and a special Nutcracker Tea for children. Our holiday menu is available for a short time, book your spot early and enjoy the holiday magic with us!. The tea house has an adorable Nutcracker tea menu for kids 12 and younger for $45 and an adult menu for $89 a person. Make your reservations now to enjoy this magical event this year,
City of San Juan Capistrano Tree Lighting Event
December 7th | 4:00pm – 9:00pm | Historic Town Center Park (31852 El Camino Real)
Festivities begin at 4:00 p.m. with pre-show entertainment, followed by a musical holiday production. The tree lighting will take place at 5:45 p.m. followed by a variety of holiday activities throughout the Los Rios District. Free special event trolley services will be offered. For additional event information, please contact the Community Services Department at (949) 493-5911.
Merry Christmas on the Farm
December 16th, 2024 | 10:30 – 12:30am | 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano
Come celebrate Christmas with us on the farm! This event will take place on December 16th and new for this one – babies under 12 months are free with paid adult ticket! Join Santa’s elves for a live Magic Steps Music concert plus all day admission to Zoomars, games, crafts & Christmas fun, festive snacks & an animal feed basket to feed all the amazing Zoomars animals!
OUTSIDE OF SOUTHOC HONORABLE MENTIONS
Merry Brick-Mas
Every day from November 23rd to January 5th 2024, on select dates
Experience the Holidays at LEGOLAND® where the entire Resort is bursting with holiday cheer. There is no better time to add a little LEGO® magic to your family vacation and build memories & traditions to last a lifetime.
LOCATION:
LegoLand
Carllsbad, CA
Knott’s Merry Farm
November 22nd to January 5th, 2024
In the winter, holiday spirit shines ever brighter at Knott’s Merry Farm. Experience Knott’s amazingly festive Christmas displays with a full park transformation that includes holiday seasonal décor. Park goers of all ages can enjoy classic shows like Merry Christmas, Snoopy!, the beloved ice show starring the famous beagle himself. The streets of Calico play host to live Christmas Carolers, a Christmas Crafts Village offering one-of-a-kind gift ideas, Santa’s Christmas Cabin, the enchanting Snow and Glow experience, plus so much more. This feeling of Christmas can only be found at Knott’s Merry Farm.
LOCATION:
8039 Beach Blvd.
Buena Park, CA
