12 Festive Christmas Events In Orange County

The holiday season is upon us, and Orange County is buzzing with excitement. As the weather cools down, the festive atmosphere heats up, with a wide range of events that cater to all ages and interests. From magical light displays to joyful holiday markets, we've rounded up 12 festive Christmas events in Orange County that you won't want to miss.

Get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the best of Orange County's festive offerings. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these events are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright.

Festive Christmas Lights and Displays

Orange County is renowned for its spectacular holiday light displays. Here are a few events that will leave you mesmerized:

1. Dana Point Harbor Christmas Boat Parade

Join in the festive fun at the Dana Point Harbor Christmas Boat Parade, where elaborately decorated boats cruise through the harbor, creating a dazzling display of lights and colors. This annual event takes place on the first weekend of December and is a must-attend for anyone in the area.

2. Laguna Hills Winter Wonderland

Step into a winter wonderland at the Laguna Hills Community Center, where you'll find a magical display of lights, festive decorations, and a holiday market. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season with family and friends, and don't forget to take a photo with Santa.

3. Mission Viejo Holiday Lights and Sounds

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Mission Viejo Holiday Lights and Sounds event, featuring a stunning display of lights, music, and festive decorations. Take a stroll through the beautifully decorated streets and enjoy the holiday atmosphere.

Holiday Markets and Shopping

Looking for unique gifts or a special holiday treat? Orange County's holiday markets have got you covered:

4. Christkindl Market at the Irvine Spectrum Center

Get into the holiday spirit at the Christkindl Market at the Irvine Spectrum Center, featuring a festive market filled with unique gifts, decorations, and German-inspired food and drinks. Don't miss the stunning Christmas tree and holiday lights display.

5. Fullerton Arboretum Holiday Market

Support local artisans and vendors at the Fullerton Arboretum Holiday Market, offering a wide range of handmade gifts, decorations, and treats. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and festive atmosphere, and take home some unique holiday treasures.

6. Costa Mesa Winter Fest

Experience the ultimate winter wonderland at the Costa Mesa Winter Fest, featuring a holiday market, ice skating rink, and festive food and drinks. Take part in holiday activities, including decorating cookies and making crafts.

Family-Friendly Events

Orange County has plenty of family-friendly events to get everyone in the holiday spirit:

7. Disneyland Resort Holiday Celebration

Make this holiday season one to remember with a visit to the Disneyland Resort, featuring a range of festive attractions, entertainment, and treats. Enjoy the magical atmosphere, holiday decorations, and special events, including the Disneyland Christmas Fantasy Parade.

8. Knott's Berry Farm Merry Farm

Get into the holiday spirit at Knott's Berry Farm's Merry Farm event, featuring festive decorations, holiday treats, and special attractions, including the Calico Mine Ride and the Knott's Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair.

9. Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park ZooLights

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park, featuring a stunning light display, festive decorations, and holiday treats. Take a ride on the zoo's train and enjoy the animal encounters.

Parades and Processions

Orange County's holiday parades are a sight to behold:

10. Huntington Beach Holiday Parade

Join in the festive fun at the Huntington Beach Holiday Parade, featuring elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. This annual event takes place on the first Saturday of December and is a must-attend for anyone in the area.

11. Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, featuring elaborately decorated boats cruising through the bay, creating a dazzling display of lights and colors. This annual event takes place on the first weekend of December and is a must-attend for anyone in the area.

12. Laguna Beach Holiday Parade

Get into the holiday spirit at the Laguna Beach Holiday Parade, featuring festive floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. This annual event takes place on the first Saturday of December and is a must-attend for anyone in the area.

There you have it – 12 festive Christmas events in Orange County that are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright. From magical light displays to joyful holiday markets, there's something for everyone in the OC.

Share your favorite holiday event with us in the comments below!