The absence of wintry temperatures and fluffy snow definitely does not dampen the holiday spirit around Orange County. Rather, the area transforms into a winter wonderland with holiday lights, entertainment and decorations, and ginormous trees bedecked with all the requisite trimmings.
In essence, Anaheim and other Orange County cities are brimming with family holiday fun.
Disneyland goes all out for the season.
The celebration at the “Happiest Place on Earth” is always merry and bright. From November to January, your whole family can delight in shimmering adornments along with the aroma of holiday goodies and the sounds of songs of the season filling the air. The jolly excitement also includes a diverse array of cultural holiday celebrations, amazing fireworks displays, an awesome annual parade and the wonderfully festive atmosphere in the Downtown Disney District.
Newport Beach puts on legendary light displays.
Holiday cruises from Newport Landing start in early December and run through New Year’s Day, offering the chance to see light displays of the lavishly decorated estates that front the bay. What’s more, in mid-December, Newport Beach hosts a 5-night Boat Parade, an event that spans more than a century. Watch yachts, boats, kayaks and canoes bedecked with lights cruise Newport Bay.
111th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade.
This time-tested tradition shows no sign of stopping. Locals and visitors alike flock to watch the habor glow with festive lights.
Winter Fest brings the holiday season to the OC Fair and Events Center.
Imagine a walk-through show with two million lights, ice skating and snow play with real snow, carnival rides and arcade games, nightly tree lightings, craft activities, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus and so much more all in one spot. It’s Winter Fest and it is spectacular fun for all ages!
Ring in 2020 on a 3-level yacht in Newport Beach.
The Ambassador, a luxury yacht boasting three levels provides a quintessial Newport Beach New Year's Eve celebration. Dancing, DJ, drinks and much more. Just don't wait to reserve your spot.
There’s nightly snowfall at Knott’s Berry Farm.
Snow (of the manmade variety) falls gently every night in Ghost Town at Knott’s Berry Farm, while twinkling lights keep time with the Yuletide song “Let it Snow.” It’s all part of their Knott's "Merry Farms" festivities, a holiday tradition in Southern California. Celebrate with whimsical pageants, an ice show and calico-clad carolers that take you back in time. Festivities run from November to January.
Santa and a 50-foot Christmas tree come to Anaheim.
Downtown Anaheim gets in on the act with time-honored family-focused activities. Santa stops by in November and December for pictures and breakfast with the kiddies, and to gather up their wish lists. In December, a decades-old tradition, the Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Village, draws visitors and locals alike to enjoy craft activities, musical performances and free snow play, as well as gift shopping and the lighting of a living 50-foot tree.
These are a sampling of the merrymaking exploits that you will find in Orange County during the winter holiday season. There is no shortage of events to celebrate, so get out there and enjoy!