California Events
San Francisco Parol Lantern Festival & Stroll
Saturday, December 13, 2025
ADELANTO: 19th Annual Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. begins at corner of Seneca & Aster Road. Festive music, marching bands, drill teams, floats and more! Free, adelantoca.gov
ALPINE: Alpine Woman's Club Holiday Home Tour December 13, 2025, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $40 approx., alpinewomansclub.org | holiday homes
ALPINE: Viejas Casino Resort Ice Rink November 7, 2025-January 4, 2026, 3-10 p.m. daily at Viejas Casino & Resort. Southern California's largest outdoor ice rink. Location: 5003 Willows Road, Alpine, California $20-25 approx. for 90 minute session rental skates included, viejasoutletcenter.com/skating-rink/
BRIDGEPORT: Bridgeport Winter Ice Rink late November-March. Free admission (bring your own skates) and enjoy! Location: US 395 and Hwy 182, Bridgeport, CA. Free, monocounty.org
ALAMEDA: Christmas Tree Lane returns December 1-31, 2025 nightly. An annual favorite holiday tradition for 85 years, is a community gift to the public. Free to see and experience.
ALTADENA: Christmas Tree Lane returns December 6, 2025-January 1, 2026. The free to see event is produced by volunteer citizens carrying the 105-year tradition.
ANAHEIM HILLS: Holiday Spectacular December 13, 2025, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Parking lot near Hobby Lobby See Santa Claus at the Anaheim Hills Festival. Location: 8020 E Santa Ana Canyon Road Anaheim, CA 92808 Free, anaheimhillsfestival.com
ANAHEIM: Disneyland Festival of Holidays November 14, 2025-January 7, 2026. Christmas Fantasy Parade is back along with Haunted Mansion's Nightmare Before Christmas, and It's a Small World holiday transformation. Location: 1313 S. Harbor Blvd. Anaheim, CA. $Tickets, disneyland.com
ANGELS CAMP: Spirit of Winter Holiday Festival December 13, 2025 at The Calaveras County Fairgrounds. Location: 101 Frogtown Road, Angels Camp, CA. $, frogtown.org
ANTIOCH: Black Diamond Ballet's The Nutcracker December 5, 6, 7, 13 & 14, 2025 at El Campanil Theater. Location: 602 W. 2nd St. Antioch, CA $20-40, elcampaniltheatre.com
ATWATER: Old Town Atwater Ice Skating Center returns for its fifth season November 21, 2025-January 2026, promising affordable holiday fun.
AUBURN: Placer Theatre Ballet Nutcracker December 5-14, 2025. Location: Placer Theatre, 275 Orange Street, Auburn, CA. $20-30, placertheatreballet.org
BELL GARDENS: Bell Gardens Holiday Parade & Winter Wonderland December 13, 2025, 4-8 p.m. | Parade at 5 p.m. | Winter Wonderland at 6 p.m. Veterans Park 6662 Loveland St. Bell Gardens, CA Free, bellgardens.org
BENICIA: Christmas Parade and Holiday Market December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. in Downtown Benicia, Main Street. Free, beniciamainstreet.org
BERKELEY: Berkeley Artisans Holiday Craft Fair December 6-7 & 13-14, 2025. 100 Artists & Craftspeople Open Their Workshops & Galleries to the Public See: eastbayopenstudios.com
BETHEL ISLAND: San Joaquin Yacht Club Lighted Boat Parade December 13, 2025, 5-9 p.m. 550 Riverview Place Bethel Island, CA sjyc.org
BEVERLY HILLS: Holiday Legends presented by Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles December 13-14, 2025 at Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA. $49-129, gmcla.org
BIG BEAR LAKE: Big Bear Alpine Zoo Wild Lights November 6, 2025-January 4, 2026, 5-9 p.m. Wed-Sun. New event shines one million holiday lights on the treasured zoo where injured wildlife is cared for. $20, bigbearzoo.org
BUENA PARK: Annual Candy Cane Lane & Craft Faire, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Ellers Senior Center, 8150 Knott Avenue. Free admission, buenapark.com
BUENA PARK: Knott's Berry Farm Christmas November 21, 2025-January 4, 2026 . Enjoy Christmas Crafts Village, Snoopy's Night Before Christmas Ice Show, Santa's Christmas Cabin photos, Home for the Holidays musical production and seasonal foods, plus all the great rides in one awesome day & night. Location: 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA. $, knotts.com
BURBANK: Downtown Burbank Winter Arts Festival December 13-14, 2025, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown Burbank San Fernando Boulevard from Magnolia to Angeleno Burbank, CA Free, dtnbur.com/ events/ winter-art-festival/ 175+ handmade artisan booths
CALEXICO: Calexico Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. Christmas Joy Around the World is the 2025 theme. See floats, marching bands, equestrian units, holiday costumes and more! Free to see, calexicorecreation.org
CARLSBAD: Holidays at Legoland California November 22, 2025-January 4, 2026. Meet Lego characters, see the Lego Christmas Tree made of 360,000 Lego & Duplo bricks, life-size Lego reindeer & Santa, hear the Brass Band, and enjoy the fun. Location: One Legoland Drive Carlsbad, CA $, legoland.com/california
CAMARILLO: Camarillo Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. Theme: Candyland Christmas! Community Center Park 1605 E. Burnley Street Camarillo, CA pvrpd.org
CAMPBELL: LIGHT with Silicon Valley Gay Men's Chorus December 12-14, 2025 at Campbell United Methodist Church. Location: 1675 Winchester Blvd., Campbell, CA $40, svgmc.org/tickets
CARPINTERIA: Carpinteria Holiday Spirit Parade December 13, 2025, 3 p.m. Parade route: 9th Street, left on Linden Ave., continue up Linden Avenue, U turn at Carpinteria Ave., turn onto 6th Street.
CATHEDRAL CITY: Cathedral City SnowFest December 13, 2025, 4-8 p.m. at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza. Event features 10 tons of REAL snow! Location: 68700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero Cathedral City, CA Free, discovercathedralcity.com
CAYUCOS: Christmas in Cayucos Wonderland Walk December 13, 2025, 4-7 p.m. Downtown Cayucos Ocean Blvd. Cayucos, CA Free, cayucoschamber.com/ christmas-in-cayucos Ring in the holidays by finding something wonderful for everyone on your list! Great shopping deals offered by local merchants to
CHICO: Chico Ice Rink in the Plaza returns for the 2025/2026 season running November 14, 2025-January 4, 2026 in City Plaza. $12-15, chicorec.gov/chico-ice-rink
CHINO: Chino Youth Christmas Parade, Lights, Cameras, Action is 2025 theme for December 13, 2025, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. route: begin on Monte Vista Avenue and Riverside Drive, continue down Central Avenue to the Chino City Hall Lawn. Monte Vista Park 13196 Monte Vista Avenue Chino, California Free, cityofchino.org
CLAREMONT: The Nutcracker, ballet, at Bridges Auditorium December 13-14, 2025 with 2 performances both days. $tickets, ipballet.org
CLAREMONT: Living Nativity December 12-15, 2025 with timed entry 5-7:30 p.m. at Granite Creek Community Church. Location: 1580 N Claremont Blvd., Claremont, CA. Free tickets required due to popularity. Go to granitecreek.org/living-nativity/
CLOVIS: Live Nativity December 13-14, 2025, 6-8 p.m. Memorial United Methodist 1726 Pollasky Ave Clovis, CA. It's free. No donation required. mem-umc.org
COLFAX: Winterfest Light Parade and Festival with Fireworks. December 13, 2025, 2-8 p.m. | 6 p.m. Parade | 7:30 p.m. Fireworks Downtown Colfax colfaxchamber.com
COLTON: Colton Christmas Spectacular Parade December 13, 2025, Colton City Hall Colton, CA ci.colton.ca.us
CONCORD: Ice at the Veranda November 7, 2025-February 15, 2026 at The Veranda shopping mall. Come glide on Ice at The Veranda with open-air shopping, dining and entertainment.
COSTA MESA: Snoopy House December 12-19, 2025, 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Costa Mesa City Hall. Join the City of Costa Mesa in celebrating a tradition featuring lights displays, letters to Santa, stage performers, food vendors and the Snoopy House! Location: 77 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA. Free admission, costamesaca.gov
CORONADO: Skating by the Sea November 21, 2025-January 4, 2026 at Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave. is one of the most scenic seaside ice skating rinks in the U.S. Public invited. $, hoteldel.com
COSTA MESA: Winter Fest OC returns November 28, 2025-January 4, 2026 (Thursday-Sunday) at Orange County Fair & Event Center. Snow, ice tubing, ice skating, rides, fire pits and more. Location: 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA. $, winterfestoc.com
COSTA MESA: American Ballet Theatre The Nutcracker December 11-21, 2025 with Pacific Symphony, Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. $39-250, scfta.org
DANA POINT: Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights December 12-14, 2025. Location: Dana Point Harbor by the Water's Edge 34555 Golden Lantern Dana Point, CA danapointharbor.com
DANA POINT: Surfing Santa Competition December 13, 2025 at Salt Creek Beach. A fun surf competition where men, women and children dress like Santa or other holiday inspired characters and surf Salt Creek to benefit Surfers Healing. Location: 33333 S. Pacific Coast Hwy. Dana Point, CA. $30-60, surfingsantacontest.org
DISCOVERY BAY: Discovery Bay Lighted Boat Parade at Parade December 13, 2025, 5 p.m. Discovery Bay Yacht Club 5871 Marina Blvd. Discovery Bay, CA. dbyc.com
ESCONDIDO: Escondido Holiday Festival December 13, 2025, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Grape Day Park Escondido, CA A yearly tradition that brings community together for an unforgettable time.
ENCINITAS: Lightscape November 14, 2025-January 4, 2026, 5-8:30 p.m. at San Diego Botanic Garden includes over one million lights in artistic installations along a one-mile, easily walkable garden path. $, sdbg.org
ESCONDIDO: Wild Holidays November 28, 2025-January 4, 2026 at San Diego Safari Park. Festive decorations, incredible light displays and holiday entertainment await. Location: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA. $, sdzsafaripark.org
FAIRFIELD: Benicia Ballet Theatre Nutcracker December 13-14, 2025 at Solano Community College Theatre. Location: 4000 Suisun Valley Rd., Farfield, CA 94534. $, beniciaballet.com
FOLSOM: Folsom Ice Rink November 8, 2025-January 19, 2026 in Historic Downtown Folsom. Come have fun at the circular, 7,000-square-foot rink with REAL ice. Enjoy fire pits, Santa's Cottage and more! $, historicfolsom.org/ice-rink/
FRESNO: Christmas Tree Lane December 3-25, 2025, 6 p.m. Lights off 10 p.m. Sun-Thurs; Lights off 11 p.m. Fri-Sat. Location: North Van Ness Boulevard, Fresno, CA. Free but donations encouraged, christmastreelane.com
FRESNO: Downtown Fresno Ice Skating Rink December 5, 2025-January 9, 2026 returns to Mariposa Plaza Winter Village with twinkling streets lined with food vendors and artisans. $20, skate rental included
FOLSOM: Folsom Zoo Wild Nights, Holiday Lights December 5-22, 2025. Nighttime lights experience illuminates Folsom's beloved Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary. Location: $10; $6 optional Starlight Express Train Ride, folsomzoofriends.org
FONTANA: Fontana Christmas Parade & Festival of Winter December 13, 2025, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Parade is on Sierra Ave. & Arrow Blvd. at 10 a.m.; Miller Park 11 a.m.-4 p.m. is the location for the Festival of Winter. Fontana, CA fontana.org
FREMONT: Twilight Time Holiday Open House at the Patterson House December 5-21, 2025, 4:30-8 p.m. Location: Ardenwood Historic Farm, Fremont 34600 Ardenwood Blvd. Fremont, CA 94555 $, fremont.gov
FRESNO: 96th Annual Christmas Parade "Let it Glow" December 13, 2025, 6:30 p.m. on Fulton Street. Come see this tradition that makes your holiday complete.
FRESNO: Christmas at Kearney: Beyond Santa, Delivering Holiday Magic November 21, 2025-January 4, 2026, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays $12, valleyhistory.org
GILROY: North Pole Nights at Gilroy Gardens theme park November 28-December 31, 2025 includes Ice Skating, Santa's Workshop, Train, Lighting Displays, stage shows and more. $65-80, gilroygardens.org
GLENDORA: Glendora Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 9 a.m. The 1.25 mile parade starts downtown in the Village at Bennett and Glendora Avenue proceeding South on Glendora Avenue to Foothill. cityofglendora.org
GLENDORA: Living Nativity December 12-14, 2025, 6-8 p.m. at Church of the Open Door. Shows at 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m. Location: 701 W. Sierra Madre Ave. Glendora, CA Free, churchoftheopendoor.churchcenter.com/
GRASS VALLEY: Grass Valley Cornish Christmas Fridays November 28-December 19, 2025, 6-9 p.m. in Downtown Grass Valley. Rekindle the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas at this delightful holiday event. downtowngrassvalley.com
GROVER BEACH: Groovy Grover Holidays Grover Beach Holiday Sparkle Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. begins at 16th Street, travels west down Grand Avenue. groverbeach.org
HANFORD: Winter Wonderland Ice Skating returning November 22, 2025-January 11, 2026 at Civic Park, Downtown Hanford. Make it a date with family and friends for fun holiday ice skating. $, hanfordwinterwonderland.com
INDIO: Coachella Valley Magic of Lights Drive Thru November 10-December 31, 2025 at Empire Polo Club. Holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Location: 81800 Avenue 51, Indio, CA. $, magicoflights.com
IRVINE: Dream Glow Lights Festival November 14-December 31, 2025, Wednesday-Sunday at Wild Rivers Waterpark. West Coast debut of the newest lights spectacular for the holidays! Location: 10000 Great Park Blvd., Irvine, CA. $37-53, dreamglowfestival.com
HUNTINGTON BEACH: Ballet Repertory Theatre's The Nutcracker December 12-24, 2025 at Golden West College Mainstage Theater. Location: 15751 Gothard Street, Huntington Beach, CA. Box office (714) 895-8150 x1 $, gwctheater.com
HUNTINGTON BEACH: Huntington Harbour Boat Parade "Fun with Music" December 13-14, 2025, Dusk - 9 p.m. Huntington Beach, CA hhboatparade.org
INDIO: Coachella Valley Magic of Lights Drive Thru November 10-December 31, 2025 at Empire Polo Club. Holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Location: 81800 Avenue 51, Indio, CA. $, magicoflights.com
IRVINE: Irvine Spectrum Holiday Ice Rink November 1, 2025-January 4, 2026 next to the Giant Wheel. Skating! Location: 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, CA. $24-27 general admission, irvinespectrumcenter.com
ISLETON: Lighted Boat Parade December 13, 2025, 5-11 p.m.
Marina West Yacht Club - MWYC / Oxbow Marina
Location: Oxbow Marina Resort, 100 Oxbow Marina
Drive, Isleton, CA. marinawestyachtclub.com |
boat parades
KERMAN: Lights...Cameras...Christmas!" Parade December 13, 2025, 6 p.m. Route: Madera Avenue from C to G Streets. Mark your calendars for Kerman Christmas Parade & Holiday Boutique. Free, kermanchamberofcommerce.com
LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE: Enchanted Forest of Light November 16, 2025-January 4, 2026 features an after-dark, mile-long walkthrough of holiday lights in Descanso Gardens, a unique Southern California botanic garden that's magical during the day, and mesmerizing at night. $22, descansogardens.org
LAGUNA BEACH: Sawdust Festival Winter Fantasy November 21-December 21, 2025, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. every Friday through Sunday rain or shine! 175 award-winning artists, sculptors, jewelers and designers sell their works in the beautiful Laguna Canyon venue. Location: 935 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach, CA. $, sawdustartfestival.org
LAGUNA HILLS: Journey to Bethlehem December 12-14, 2025, 5-8 p.m. Crossline Community Church 23331 Moulton Parkway Laguna Hills, CA $ donation, ticket required, crosslinechurch.com
LAGUNA NIGUEL: Holiday Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. Over 10,000 spectators watch this epic parade featuring over 3,000 participants ranging from "tin soldier" marching bands, to floats, civic clubs, drill teams, and more, more, more!
LAKE ELSINORE: Electric Light Festival Drive-Thru November 8-December 31, 2025, 5:30-10:30 p.m. at Lake Elsinore Outlet Mall. Over a million lights in fun, fantasy scenes and shapes. Drive through or ride the train. $15-up, electriclightfestival.com
LAKE FOREST: Tree Lighting December 13, 2025, 3-6 p.m. Free to attend with free parking. Location: 100 Civic Center Drive Lake Forest, CA Free, lakeforestca.gov
LAKE FOREST: Heritage Hill Holiday Lights December 12-14, 2025, 5-9 p.m. at Heritage Hill Historical Park, 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA. Event & parking are free! ocparks.com/heritagehill
LANCASTER: Lancaster Magical BLVD December 13, 2025, 5-9 p.m. Snow activities, tree lighting, vendors and more. cityoflancasterca.org
LANCASTER: Antelope Valley Ballet Nutcracker December 13-14, 2025 at Lancaster Performing Arts Center. Location: 750 West Lancaster Blvd., Lancaster, CA. $, lpac.org
LA VERNE: Winter Wonderland December 13, 2025, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Heritage Park, 5001 via de Mansion. two snow runs, two snow play lands (with real snow!), arts and crafts, a cup of hot cocoa and a special treat at Mrs. Claus' Cozy Kitchen, " and of course, visit Santa at the gazebo! $15 wrist band, cityoflaverne.org
LITTLEROCK: Littlerock Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 3-6 p.m. Dazzling floats, marching bands, Victorian costumes, horses, ponies, children in festive holiday attire and Santa Claus! Location 82nd Street East, Littlerock, CA posted on eventbrite.com
LIVERMORE: Valley Dance Theatre Nutcracker Ballet December 13-21, 2025 at Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Street, Livermore, CA. $39-49, valleydancetheatre.com
LONG BEACH: Long Beach Ballet The Nutcracker December 13-14 & 20-21, 2025 Music performed live by Long Beach Ballet Orchestra with David Hickman at Terrace Theater. Location: 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA. $38-145, plus fees longbeachnutcracker.com
LOOMIS: Holiday Home Tour, December 13, 2025, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Select Loomis, Granite Bay, Rocklin & Roseville homes are on tour. Boutique is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $ Luncheon and VIP reception options. $45 daytime tour, loomisholiday.com | holiday homes
LONG BEACH: Long Beach Shoreline Boat Parade December 13, 2025, 5-9 p.m. Downtown Shoreline Parade route: Shoreline Marina, Rainbow Harbor, Queen Mary. shorelineyachtclub.com
LOS ALAMITOS: A Night in Bethlehem December 12-14, 2025, 5:30-9 p.m. at Long Beach East Meetinghouse. Location: 4142 Cerritos Avenue, Los Alamitos, CA. Free, but ticket required, anightinbethlehem.org
LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles Ballet Academy The Nutcracker December 13, 2025, 12 & 5 p.m. at Cal State University Northridge (CSUN) Soraya Center for the Performing Arts. Location: Plaza del Sol Performance Hall, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA. $, thesoraya.org
LOS ANGELES: LA Zoo Lights, Animals Aglow November 13, 2025-January 11, 2026, 6-10 p.m. at Los Angeles Zoo. Nighttime display with lit lantern sculptures of animals among blooming flowers, glowing rivers, and a magical Holiday Forest with majestic pine trees and the return of Santa himself. Location: 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA, $29-35, lazoo.org
LOS ANGELES: Pershing Square Holiday Ice Skating Rink returns November 20, 2025-January 11, 2026. Sharpen your blades and skills or just go to chill with themed events and great music. $, holidayicerinkdowntownla.com
LOS GATOS: Fantasy of Lights Drive Through December 9-30, 2025. Extremely popular drive-through holiday display at Vasona Lake Park sells quickly. $30/car with online sales only, parks.sccgov.org
MAMMOTH LAKES: Night of Lights Torchlight Parade December 13, 2025, 5-10 p.m. Canyon Lodge 1000 Canyon Boulevard Mammoth Lakes, CA. Free, mammothmountain.com
MARINA DEL REY: Marina Del Rey Holiday Boat Parade December 13, 2025, 4-8 p.m. Light Show at 5:45 p.m. and at 6 p.m. Parade begins "A Nightmare Before Christmas" is 2025 theme. Parking: Burton Chace Park 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA $event parking, mdrboatparade.org
MARIPOSA: A Cowboy Christmas Mountain Christmas Parade + Tree Lighting December 13, 2025, 5 p.m. in Downtown Mariposa. After the parade there is a Tree Lighting ceremony at the courthouse on Bullion Street. Santa and Mrs. Claus are on hand for photos. Free hotdogs, hot chocolate, and popcorn at the bonfire, courtesy of Mariposa Lions Club. Santa's Village presented by Rotary. Free, mariposachamber.org/ christmas-parade
MODESTO: Central West Ballet The Nutcracker December 12-21, 2025 at Gallo Center for the Arts. Location: 1000 I St., Modesto, CA. $33-79, galloarts.org
MOORPARK: A Living Nativity December 13, 2025, 7-9 p.m. Faith Lutheran Church 123 Park Lane Moorpark, CA 93021 Free BUT cash and or/ canned food donations requested, faithmoorpark.com
MORENO VALLEY: Electric Light Festival Drive-thru November 8-December 31, 2025, 5:30-10:30 p.m. at Moreno Valley Mall. Over a million dazzling lights! Location: 22631 Town Circle, Moreno Valley, CA. $, electriclightfestival.com
MORRO BAY: Morro Bay Lighted Boat Parade & Santa House December 13, 2025, 4-9 p.m. South T-Pier and Embarcadero. Presented by Morro Bay Yacht Club Morro Bay, CA. Free to see, mbyc.net
MOUNTAIN VIEW: Western Ballet's The Nutcracker December 5-7, 2025 at Mountain View Center For The Performing Arts. Location: 500 Castro St., Mountain View, CA. $50, mvcpa.com
NEWPORT BEACH: A Christmas Experience December 13-14, 2025, 5 p.m. at Liberty Baptist Church 1000 Bison Ave Newport Beach, CA 92660 libertybaptistchurch.org
NORCO: Parade of Lights & Christmas Festival December 13, 2025. A Cowboy Christmas is 2025 theme. A full day of activities and delightful Parade of Lights at 5 p.m. Free to see; $ wristband for pony rides and other kids' entertainment, norco.ca.us
OAKLEY: Oakley on Ice November 21, 2025-January 4, 2026 across from Oakley City Hall with parking at Main Street & Norcoss Lane. $, oakleyonice.com
OAKDALE: Living Nativity December 12-14, 2025, 6-8 p.m. at Oakdale Family Church of the Nazarene. Location: 1700 West F Street Oakdale, CA 95361 Free, ofcnaz.com
OAKLAND: Make the Yuletide Gay! with Oakland Gay Men's Chorus December 12-13, 2025, 7:30 p.m. at Valley Center for the Arts 90-minute concert packed with Christmas classics. $, oaklandgmc.org/tickets
OAKLAND: Fairy Winterland December 13-14, 20-21 & 27-28, 2025, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Children's Fairyland. Snow Queen, Black Santa and many more surprises. $22 general admission, fairyland.org
OCEANSIDE: Oceanside Parade of Lights December 13, 2025, 7-9 p.m. See the beautiful Christmas boat parade in the Oceanside Harbor. Location: 1950 Harbor Drive North Oceanside, CA oceansideyc.net
ORCUTT: Old Town Orcutt Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 12 p.m. orcuttchristmasparade.org
OROVILLE: Walk Through Nativity December 12-13, 2025, 6-8 p.m. at Oroville Seventh-day Adventist Church. Location: 1180 Robinson Street, 2nd & Robinson, Oroville, CA. Free, orovillesdachurch.org
OROVILLE: Oroville Holiday Parade of Lights December 13, 2025, 6-9 p.m. Christmas at the Movies is the 2025 theme. Includes a craft fair all day and fun for the entire family. Free, visitoroville.com
OXNARD: Channel Island Harbor Parade of Lights December 13, 2025, 7-9 p.m. ChannelIslandsHarbor.org 59th Annual Parade of Lights at the Channel Islands Harbor is scheduled to start at 7 p.m.
OXNARD: Nautical Night of Lights Dinner Party December 13, 2025, 6-9 p.m. Channel Islands Maritime Museum 3900 Bluefin Circle Oxnard, CA 93035 $150, cimmvc.org (805) 984-6260
PALMDALE: Palmdale Magical Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. The 2025 theme is Sparkling Season Parade. Event takes place on The Boulevard (Palmdale Blvd), Avenue S and Hillcrest Drive
PALO ALTO: Winter Lodge Seasonal Ice Rink October 18, 2025-April 12, 2026, is back with public skating sessions, lessons and more. $20 session, $6 skate rental, winterlodge.com
PALOS VERDES PENINSULA: Astra Lumina, An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst The Stars at South Coast Botanic Garden November 6-December 31, 2025, 5-10 p.m. Celestial, multisensory experience features out-of-this-world light sculptures in 9 themed areas. $30-65, astralumina.com
PERRIS: Southern California Railway Polar Express November 20-December 31, 2025. Family adventure on a magical train ride complete with dancing chefs, caroling, cookies and cocoa, re-creates the classic children’s story. $49-56, socalrailway.org
PERRIS: Perris Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Rain or shine, the parade goes on! D St. & Highway 74 North to San Jacinto Ave. cityofperris.org
PETALUMA: Holiday Lighted Boat Parade December 13, 2025, 6-8 p.m. travels Petaluma River Turning Basin Petaluma, CA petalumayachtclub.com or visitpetaluma.com
PITTSBURG: Pittsburg Yacht Club Lighted Boat Parade December 13, 2025, 6 p.m. Cruising the Delta. Location: PYC Yacht Club, 3 Marina Blvd., Pittsburg, CA 94565. Take Highway 4 towards Pittsburg and take the Railroad Avenue exit. | boat parades
PLEASANTON: Great Train Show December 13-14, 2025, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Alameda County Fairgrounds. See and experience 250 + Tables of Trains for Sale, 50+ Exhibitors from Across the Country, Huge Operating Model Train Displays, Free Workshops and Demonstrations, and Free Test Track - Test Run Your Trains at the Show Location: Pleasanton, CA $, trainshow.com
PORTERVILLE: Zalud House Old Fashioned Christmas Candlelight Tours December 5, 6, 12 & 13, 2025, 6-8 p.m. Built in 1891, the Zalud House is one of few museums in the nation that is furnished entirely with the original owners' possessions. Location: 393 N. Hockett St., Porterville, CA. $3 no reservation needed, ci.porterville.ca.us
POWAY: Poway Christmas in the Park December 12-13, 2025, 3:30-8:30 p.m. Santa, train rides, activities, food vendors and fun for all ages in Old Poway Park. Location: 14134 Midland Rd., Poway, CA. Free, poway.org
REDDING: Garden of Lights November 21, 2025-January 4, 2026 at McConnell Arboretum. Walk on the world-famous Sundial Bridge to the the Arboretum where over one million animated lights are on display select nights. $, reddinggardenoflights.org
REDONDO BEACH: King Harbor Christmas Boat Parade December 13, 2025, 5:30 p.m. Light Up the Harbor is the 2025 theme for the Christmas Boat Parade sponsored by King Harbor Yacht Club. khyc.org
REDWOOD CITY: Hometown Holidays Parade & Tree Lighting December 13, 2025, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Day-long holiday celebration with artisan vendors, pictures with Santa, entertainment, beer & wine garden, food tents and food trucks.
REDWOOD CITY: Caltrain Holiday Train December 13, 2025. Reinvented for 2025 - it's no longer a Toy Drive but a ride-on experience: caltrain.com/holidaytrain
RIVERSIDE: Mission Inn Festival of Lights November 22, 2025 - January 5, 2026. The National Historic Landmark dazzles with millions of holiday lights in Christmas displays called one of the best in the U.S. Free, missioninn.com
RIVERSIDE: BRAVA David Allan's The Nutcracker December 13-14, 2025 at Landis Performing Arts Center. Location: 4800 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA. $38-58, brava-arts.org
SACRAMENTO: Imaginarium November 21, 2025-January 4, 2026 at Cal Expo. Some exciting, new twists at the largest holiday light show in Northern California! Location: 1600 Exposition Blvd., Sacramento, CA. $25-up, imaginarium360.com
SACRAMENTO: Sacramento Ballet's The Nutcracker December 12-21, 2025 Memorial Auditorium, 1515 J Street Sacramento, CA Tickets: $35-109, sacballet.org
SACRAMENTO: Sacramento Santa Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. Downtown Sacramento Circling Capitol Park; Starts at 14th and N Streets, west on N to 10th, north on 10th, east on L Street. Fun for the family.
SACRAMENTO: Theatre of Lights November 26-December 24, 2025 performed from a balcony overlooking the the streets of Old Town. Based on Clement Clarke Moore's classic Christmas poem 'Twas the night before Christmas. Free, oldsacramento.com
SACRAMENTO: Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink November 5, 2025-January 19, 2026 at the Square on 7th & K Street. A tradition for over 30 years, the affordable holiday attraction only charges $15, skate rental included! godowntownsac.com
SAN BERNARDINO: Miracle on Court Street Holiday Village December 10-21, 2025, 5-9 p.m. with Santa, synthetic skating rink, vendors and entertainment. Free admission, sbcity.gov/parks
SAN BERNARDINO: Swimming with Santa December 13, 2025, 2-4 p.m. at Jerry Lewis Family Swim Center. sanbernardino.gov
SAN DIEGO: Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade December 13, 2025, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Route: Down 5th Avenue San Diego, CA $30 pet registration pre; $40 day of entry in parade, gaslamp.org
SAN DIEGO: Rady Children's Ice Rink November 20, 2025-January 4, 2026, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily (except holidays) at Liberty Station. Have fun while skating fees support cancer program for kids. $25 includes skate rentals, rchicerink.org
SAN DIEGO: Golden State Ballet's The Nutcracker December 12-21, 2025 with live music performed by San Diego Symphony at San Diego Civic Theatre. Location: 1100 3rd Avenue, San Diego, CA. $35-129, goldenstateballet.org
SAN DIEGO: Golden State Ballet's The Nutcracker December 12-21, 2025 with live music performed by San Diego Symphony at San Diego Civic Theatre. Location: 1100 3rd Avenue, San Diego, CA. $35-up, goldenstateballet.org
SAN DIEGO: SeaWorld San Diego Christmas Celebration November 14, 2025-January 4, 2026, 10 a.m. daily. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, musical Tunnel of Lights, themed rides and shows, shopping, food and fun for all ages. Location: 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA. $Tickets, seaworld.com
SAN DIEGO: Jungle Bells at San Diego Zoo December 19, 2025-January 4, 2026 includes light shows, reindeer games, brass band music, jugglers & acrobats, and forest pathways through holiday, lighted trees to visit polar bears, arctic foxes and reindeer. $ ticket, approx. sandiegozoo.org
SAN FRANCISCO: Union Square Ice Rink November 5, 2025-January 19, 2026. Themed days and special events add to the fun. $22 session includes skate rental.
SAN FRANCISCO: Golden Girls Christmas Episodes December 4-21, 2025 at Curran Theatre. Location: 445 Geary Street, San Francisco, CA. $, broadwaysf.com
SAN FRANCISCO: San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker December 5-28, 2025 at War Memorial Opera House. Helgi Tomasson's Nutcracker with Artistic Director Tamara Rojo and accompaniment by SF Ballet Orchestra. Location: 301 Van Ness Ave. San Francisco, CA $49-395, approx., sfballet.org
SAN FRANCISCO: Holiday Spectacular with San Francisco's Gay Men's Chorus, December 12-24, 2025, 8 p.m. Performing at 4 location this year - San Francisco, Berkeley & Rohnert Park. 90 minutes filled with festive cheer from more than 150 men of the Chorus. $35-up, sfgmc.org
SAN FRANCISCO: Parol Lantern Festival & Parade December 13, 2025, 3-8 p.m. at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. 23rd annual festival features beautiful handmade parol lanterns that light the night in a festive celebration. Location: 701 Mission St., San Francisco, CA. Free, parollanternfestival.comSAN JOSE: Christmas in the Park November 28, 2025-January 1, 2026, 12-10 p.m. daily. The two-acre park features a holiday fantasy with over 40 musical and animated exhibits, glimmering lights and a 65-foot illuminated Christmas Tree. This free attraction for the child in all of us is a holiday tradition beloved by all. Location: Plaza De Cesar Chavez, 194 S. Market St., San Jose, CA. Free, christmasinthepark.com
SAN JOSE: San Jose Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet December 13-14 & 20-21, 2025 at Center for the Performing Arts. Location: 255 Almaden Blvd., San Jose, CA. $39.50-115, sanjosetheaters.org
SAN JOSE: Blinky's Holiday Lights Drive Thru November 21-December 31, 2025, 5 p.m. at Santa Clara County Fairgrounds. More than one mile of magical scenes and displays synced to favorite holiday tunes. $25-31, approx., christmasinthepark.com
SAN JOSE: Downtown Ice November 26, 2025-January 2026 in the iconic Circle of Palms Plaza on Market Street. $, sjdowntownice.com
SAN LUIS OBISPO: Nature Nights November 26-December 27, 2025, 5-8 p.m., at San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden. Stunning lighting exhibitions and art throughout eight acres of gardens, live music each night, local culinary treats, plus regional wine and beer for sale. Location: 3450 Dairy Creek Rd. San Luis Obispo, CA. $28, slobg.org
SAN MATEO: IlluminOdyssey November 15, 2025-January 25, 2026 at CuriOdyssey, a zoo and learning center containing native, non-releasable animals such as river otter, bobcat, gray fox and more. Location: 1651 Coyote Point Drive, San Mateo, CA. $, curiodyssey.org
SAN MATEO: San Mateo on Ice November 14, 2025-January 11, 2026 in Central Park. Largest outdoor ice rink in the Bay Area features 11,000 square feet of REAL ice to skate on in sunny San Mateo - nice! $, onicerinks.com
SAN RAFAEL: Lighted Boat Parade December 13, 2025, 5 p.m. marinyachtclub.com | facebook.com/ SanRafaelLightedBoatParade/
SAN RAMON: Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Skating Rink November 7, 2025-January 4, 2026 at City Center Bishop Ranch. Many special events include Elsa, Santa Claus, Barbie and Kristi's skating clinic. $26, citycenterbishopranch.com
SANTA BARBARA: Santa Barbara Festival Ballet The Nutcracker December 13-14, 2025 at Arlington Theatre. Location: 1317 State Street Santa Barbara, CA $30-up, thearlingtontheatre.com
SANTA BARBARA: ZooLights November 12, 2025-January 11, 2026, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Santa Barbara Zoo. See thousands of handcrafted silk-covered lanterns aglow with more than 50,000 LED bulbs, depicting wild places and animals from around the globe. Location: 500 Niños Drive, Santa Barbara, CA. $21-35, sbzoo.org
SANTA CLARA: Bethlehem December 11-15, 2025, 6:30-9 p.m. at Santa Clara First Baptist Church. Location: 3111 Benton Street, Santa Clara, CA. Free, scfbc.org/bethlehem/
SANTA MONICA: ICE November 7, 2025-January 19, 2026 at 5th & Arizona. 8,000 square feet of skating ice, including a kids zone for little ones. $22 admission & skate rental, iceatsantamonica.com
SAUSALITO: Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks December 13, 2025, 6-7:15 p.m. | Part of Winterfestcelebration which takes place December 13-14, 2025. Free to see, winterfestsausalito.com
SAUSALITO: Sausalito Gingerbread House Tour December 8-31, 2025 features nearly 20 unique displays in a walking tour. Free to see, sausalito.org/gingerbread-house-tour
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE: Heavenly Village Ice Rink November 1, 2025-March 31, 2026, subject to change. Ice Skating at the outdoor rink at The Shops at Heavenly Village features central location near shopping, dining and skiing.
SUTTER CREEK: Parade of Lights December 13, 2025, 5-7 p.m. | Parade starts at 6 p.m. Parade route: Main Street. Come to this truly magical parade! Every entry must have lights, whether it be a vehicle, bike, dog, or person! suttercreek.org
TAFT: Polar Express Holiday Light Tour 11, 12, 13, 18, 19 & 20, 2025, 5 p.m. Haybale Rides begin at Westside Tech, first come first serve. $5, taftchamber.com
TEMECULA: Peltzer Ice Rink November 10, 2025-Janaury 19, 2026 at Peltzer Farm & Winery. Location: 39925 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA. $23.05 for 75 minute skate session, rental skates included, peltzerfarms.com
TORRANCE: San Pedro City Ballet Nutcracker December 12-14, 2025 at James Armstrong Theatre. Location: 478 W. 6th Street, Torrance, CA. $45, sanpedrocityballet.org
UKIAH: Ukiah on Ice December 1, 2025-January 11, 2026 next to Alex R. Thomas Plaza on School Street. Seasonal holiday ice rink open daily for holiday fun! Location: 310 S. State St., Ukiah, CA. $12, cityofukiah.com/ukiahonice
UNIVERSAL CITY: Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas November 24, 2025-January 4, 2026, showcasing the holiday makeover of three major attractions: Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Grinchmas with costumes, colors and decor. The thrills remain true to form! $95-up, tickets
VACAVILLE: Annual Living Nativity December 12-14, 2025, 6 & 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Baptist Church. 50 minute presentation using choirs, music, actors, lights, sound, and animals. Location: 401 W. Monte Vista Ave., Vacaville, CA. Free, public invited, tbcvacaville.com
VACAVILLE: The Nutcracker Ballet by Vacaville Ballet Company December 11-14, 2025 at Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre. Location: 1010 Ulatis Drive Vacaville, CA $25, vpat.net
VALENCIA: Six Flags Magic Mountain Holiday in the Park, November 28, 2025-January 5, 2026, 5 p.m. rocks each night with 2 million lights in 7 themed areas featuring dance, music & light shows, cocktail bars, holiday sweets, s'more fire pits & Santa Claus. Location: 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA. $49-75, sixflags.com/magicmountain
VENTURA: Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks December 12-13, 2025, 6:30-9 p.m. Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks Friday & Saturday 1-5 p.m. Parade Starts at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks at 8 p.m. Ventura Harbor Village Ventura, California venturaharborvillage.com
VISTA: Holiday Lights December 5-6, 12-13 and 19-20, 2025, 5-9 p.m. at Agsem (Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum.) Location: 2040 N Santa Fe Ave. Vista, CA. $10 presale, more at gate, agsem.org
VISTA: Jingle Terrace Nights December 5-20, 2025, 5:30-9 p.m. at Brengle Terrace Park Moonlight Amphitheatre. Location: 1250 Vale Terrace Drive, Vista, CA. Free, moonlightstage.com
WALNUT CREEK: Walnut Creek on Ice November 21, 2025-January 16, 2026. Skate 90 minutes for $20, ice skate rental included or $20 Ice Slide. Location: Civic Park, Walnut Creek, CA. walnutcreekonice.com
WATSONVILLE: Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Drive Through November 28-December 24, 2025 , 5:30-9 p.m. at Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. Location: 2601 East Lake Ave Watsonville, CA 95076 $20-25 per car, fairgrounds-foundation.org/ holiday-lights
WEST COVINA: Children's Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. | Santa's Village 9 a.m.-2 p.m. in Historic Old Town West Covina. Location: S. Glendora Ave. & Walnut Creek Parkway, West Covina, CA. Free to see, westcovinakiwanis.com/ christmas-parade.html
WHITTIER: Whittier Uptown Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Location: 6723 Greenleaf Avenue, Whittier, CA. whittieruptown.org
WOODLAND: Woodland Holiday Parade on Main December 13, 2025, 4-6 p.m. A Whimsical Holiday Tale is 2025 theme. Route: Main Street between West & 5th Streets. Free, facebook.com/WOODLANDPARADE
WOODSIDE: Filoli Holiday Lights November 22, 2025-January 11, 2026, 4-9 p.m. Georgian revival-style mansion's 16 acres of exquisite English Renaissance gardens are transformed into a radiant wonderland of light and color at the historic 654-acre estate (seen in Falcon Crest). $49-55, filoli.org
Events are not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to confirm before going.