Sunday, December 14, 2025

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ALAMEDA: Christmas Tree Lane returns in December 2025. Approx. dates Dec.6-31, to be confirmed. An annual favorite holiday tradition for 85 years, is a community gift to the public. Free to see and experience.

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/

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

ARCADIA: Enchant Christmas November 21-December 28, 2025 at Santa Anita Park / Racetrack. Holiday attraction includes "World's Largest Christmas Maze," ice slides, ice skating rink, Santa Village, Marketplace shops and foods & beverages. $29-up!

ARROYO GRANDE: City Tree Lighting and Snow December 14, 2025, 5-7 p.m. at Elm Street Park. Tons of snow and Santa lighting the tree at 6 p.m. plus food vendors, s'more station, horse-drawn wagon rides, bounce town and photos with Santa. Free admission, some activities charge a small fee, arroyogrande.org

ANTIOCH: Black Diamond Ballet's The Nutcracker December 5-14, 2025 at El Campanil Theater. Location: 602 W. 2nd St., Antioch, CA. $20-36, elcampaniltheatre.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

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

BAKERSFIELD: CALM Zoo Holiday Lights November 29, 2025-January 3, 2026, 5:30 p.m. Stroll through millions of lights in holiday-themed lands featuring over 200 displays. $, calmholidaylights.org

BENICIA: Sing It Yourself Messiah December 14, 2025, 2 p.m. at Benicia’s Historic Clock Tower. Location: 1189 Washington Street, Benicia, CA. Get Ready to Sing with Maestro Urs. Leonhardt Steiner and the Golden Gate Symphony. A San Francisco tradition for 30+ years, come enjoy Handel’s most-loved work with full orchestra, chorus, soloists and you! visitbenicia.org/events

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

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

BEVERLY HILLS: Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles December 13-14, 2025 at Saban Theatre. Chorus of 200 light up the stage with 25 songs and dancing.  Location: 8440 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA. $45-125, gmcla.org

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

CAMARILLO: Camarillo Christmas Parade December 13, 2025, 10 a.m. Theme: Here Comes Santa Paws! 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

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/

CLAREMONT: The Nutcracker, ballet,  at Bridges Auditorium December 13-14, 2025 with 2 performances both days.  $tickets, ipballet.org 

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

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: 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

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

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

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

DAVIS: Davis Craft and Vintage Fair, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Music, food, vintage and handmade goods Art, Crafts, Vintage, Up-cycled, Handcrafted, Spa, Food and live music! Location: Central Park, 301 C Street, Davis, CA.  daviscraftandvintage.org

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

FELTON: Holiday Lights Train November 28-29, December 6-7, 13-23, 2025. Evening ride on a beautifully lit vintage train which begins in the Santa Cruz mountains at Roaring Camp Railroads. $tickets, roaringcamp.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

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

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

HUNTINGTON BEACH: Ballet E'tudes The Nutcracker December 6, 7 & 14, 2025 at Huntington Beach High School Auditorium. Location: 1905 Main St., Huntington Beach, CA. Tickets: $, balletetudes.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

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 E'tudes The Nutcracker December 6, 7 & 14, 2025 at Huntington Beach High School Auditorium. Location: 1905 Main St., Huntington Beach, CA. Tickets: $, balletetudes.com

HUNTINGTON BEACH: Live Nativity International Celebration December 14, 2025, 5:30 p.m. at Old World Village, 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach, CA. Free, donations welcomed, oldworldhb.com

HUNTINGTON BEACH: Huntington Harbour Boat Parade "Fun with Music" December 13-14, 2025, Dusk - 9 p.m.  Huntington Beach, CA hhboatparade.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

LAKE ELSINORE: The Ballet Studio Nutcracker December 12 & 14, 2025.  Location: Lakeside HS Tom Thomas Rotary Theater, 32593 Riverside Dr., Elsinore, CA.  $45-140, tickets.temeculatheater.org

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

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

MANHATTAN BEACH: Fireworks over the Manhattan Beach Pier December 14, 2025. Location: 100 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA. Free, mbfireworks.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

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: Temple Hill Days of Christmas November 29-December 31, 2025. A beacon for spectacular holiday lights, Christmas concerts, theatrical performances, nativity and creche presentations on panoramic Temple Hill. Free, templehill.org

OAKLAND: Oakland Zoo Glowfari November 7, 2025-January 25, 2026, 4:30-9 p.m. The Wildly Illuminating Lantern Festival features wading wildlife along Africa's Nile River, ancient Egyptian structures, dinosaurs, barnyard animals and Avian Odyssey train ride. Advanced ticket purchase required: $26-41 adult, oaklandzoo.org

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

PASADENA: Holiday Tour at Castle Green, December 14, 2025, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 125-year-old Castle Green is open to the public one of only two times each year. Visit private condominiums, the Penthouse, and the iconic Bridge, as well as the ground floor that's decked in holiday finery. Built in 1898. Location: 99 S. Raymond Avenue Pasadena, CA $65.87, castlegreen.com | holiday homes

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

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 DIEGO: San Diego Bay Parade of Lights December 14 & 21, 2025, 5-8:30 p.m. An Out of This World Christmas is the 2025 theme of the 55th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights .Cost: Free to watch. sdparadeoflights.org

SANTA BARBARA: Parade of Lights & Winter Wonderland December 14, 2025, 5:30 p.m. Candy Cane Cove is 2025 theme. Route: from Ledbetter Beach down the coast to the Cabrillo Arts Pavilion, then back along the coast to Stearns Wharf. santabarbaraca.gov Event admission is free!

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 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

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

VACAVILLE: Live Nativity December 12-14, 2025, 6 & 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Baptist Church. Two shows each night - 6 & 7:30 p.m. Full 45 to 50 minutes presentation using choirs, music, actors, lights, sound, and animals. Location: 401 W. Monte Vista Ave. Vacaville, CA. Free, tbcvacaville.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

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

 

 

 

Past events

ARCATA: Holiday Craft Market December 14-15, 2024, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (closes at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec.15) at Arcata Community Center. Holiday music, food, and great shopping for handcrafted items. Location: 321 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Arcata, CA.  $2 admission to benefit  Youth Development Scholarship Fund, cityofarcata.org

 

BELL: Holiday Village & Tree Lighting December 14, 2024, 5-8 p.m. Snow play, trackless train, Santa's Arrival, live entertainment, food & more! Location: Bell Community Center, 6250 Pine Ave., Bell, CA. Free, cityofbell.org | trees

BELL GARDENS: Bell Gardens Holiday Parade & Winter Wonderland December 14, 2024, 5 p.m. Free, bellgardens.org at Bell Gardens Veterans Park. Location: 6662 Loveland Street, Bell Gardens, CA. Free, bellgardens.org

BENICIA: Benicia Christmas Parade & Holiday Market December 14, 2024, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Parade route: The parade starts at 10 a.m. at First and D Street and ends at H Street.

CAMPBELL: JOURNEY with Silicon Valley Gay Men's Chorus December 13-15, 2024 at Campbell United Methodist Church. The Journey is the reward in this holiday themed concert. Location: 1675 Winchester Blvd., Campbell, CA $35, svgmc.org/tickets

CARPINTERIA: Carpinteria Holiday Spirit Parade December 14, 2024, 3 p.m. Parade route: The parade route will start at 9th Street Free, facebook.com/ CarpinteriaParades/

CATHEDRAL CITY: Cathedral City Tree Lighting & SnowFest December 14, 2024, 4-8 p.m. Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza Santa Claus, Tree Lighting, Holiday Vendors L0cation: 68700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero, Cathedral City, CA. Free, discovercathedralcity.com

CHINO: Chino Youth Christmas Parade December 14, 2024, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. - 2nd Saturday in December. Parade route: begin on Monte Vista Avenue and Riverside Drive, continue down Central Avenue to the Chino City Hall Lawn. Stick around for a fair & carnival atmosphere with fun for all. Chino, CA. Free, cityofchino.org

COLFAX: Colfax Winterfest Parade of Lights December 14, 2024, 12-8 p.m. | 7 p.m. Annual Winterfest Light Parade starts on Mill Street in Downtown Colfax. Free, colfaxchamber.com

CORONA DEL MAR: Nights of 1000 Lights December 5-22, 2024, 5-9 p.m. at Sherman Library and Gardens. Light displays, live music, Santa and hot chocolate & s'mores. $50, thesherman.org

DOWNEY: Three-Time GRAMMY Winner Kalani Pe'a Festive Hawaiian Christmas Tour December 14, 2024, 7 p.m. at Downey Theatre. Special Guests Kumu Hula Chase Keoki Wang & Halau Na Mamo O Pana'ewa. Location: 8435 Firestone Blvd., Downey, CA. $40-65, downeytheatre.org or )(562) 861-8211

FAIRFIELD: Benicia Ballet Theatre Nutcracker  December 14-15, 2024 at Solano Community College Theatre. Location: 4000 Suisun Valley Rd., Farfield, CA 94534. $, beniciaballet.com

FAIRFIELD: Santa Splash, 12-3 p.m. at Allan Witt Aquatics Complex Have a magical time as the indoor Natatorium is turned into a Winter Wonderland! Swim in the warm waters just like Rec Swim, play games and win prizes, plus a special appearance by Santa!. $15/person pre-registration encouraged. All persons entering the facility must pay, fairfield.ca.gov

FRESNO: IllumiNature November 22, 2025-January 31, 2026, 5-9 p.m. at Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a special holiday event featuring lighted lantern displays that entertain and amaze! $, fcz.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: Christmas at Kearney: Beyond Santa, Delivering Holiday Magic November 21, 2025-January 4, 2026, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays $12, valleyhistory.org

GLENDORA: Glendora Christmas Parade December 14, 2024, 9 a.m. An Old Fashioned Christmas parade travels a 1.25 mile  route. Glendora, CA glendorachristmasparade.com 

GROVER BEACH: Grover Beach Holiday Sparkle Parade  December 14, 2024, 10 a.m. Free, grover.org

HUNTINGTON BEACH: A Christmas Carol presented by ACTS Drama Group December 5-14, 2025 at Calvary Chapel of the Harbour, 4121 Warner Ave., Huntington Beach, CA Free admission, free beverages & cookies, ccoth.com | carol

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

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

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: Festival Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker   December 5-7, 13-14 & 20-24, 2025 at Irvine Barclay Theatre. Location: 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, CA. $54-74 approx., thebarclay.org

KERMAN: A Gingerbread Village Christmas Parade December 14, 2024, 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. $27-45, descansogardens.org

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: 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

MONTEREY: Skating by the Bay November 21, 2025-January 4, 2026 at Custom House Plaza. $21.10 includes skate rental,  iceskatingbythebay.com

MT. SHASTA: Siskiyou Ice Rink November 15, 2025-February 22, 2026 in Shastice Park is an ice skater's dream at 85 feet wide and 200 feet long. $15 sessions, skate rental included, msrec.org

NAPA: Meritage Ice Skating Rink is open to public November 25, 2025-January 4, 2026. $21.42 sessions, meritageresort.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

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

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

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

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: The Great Dickens Christmas Fair November 22-December 21, 2025, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at Cow Palace. Eat, drink and be merry at this huge Victorian party with characters you'll remember from  A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Guests are encouraged to come in costume. $33-up, dickensfair.com

SANGER: Trek to General Grant, Nation's Christmas Tree December 14, 2025, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Ceremony 2:30 p.m. at Kings Canyon National Park. Round-trip bus ride and brunch from Sanger to witness historic tree and wreath laying ceremony. $150 approx. ticket includes bus ride, custom brunch, alcoholic beverages and more but act fast, space is limited, sanger.org

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

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 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: 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 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: 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: 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 JUAN CAPISTRANO: Capistrano Lights December 19-30, 2025 at Historic Mission San Juan Capistrano. All-ages, family event includes nightly musical tree lighting and decorative light displays. Admission allows you to spend the day starting at 9 a.m. and stay for the holiday programming starting at 4 p.m. and ending at 7 p.m. Location: 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA. $20, missionsjc.com

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 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

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 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

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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

VALLEJO: Six Flags Discovery Kingdom WinterFest November 28, 2025-January 4, 2026, 12-7 p.m. most days. Special holiday guests, entertainment, foods, rides & attractions like Arctic Penguins. Location: 1001 Fairgrounds Dr. Vallejo, CA 94589 $35-39, sixflags.com/discoverykingdom

 

 

Past events

LANCASTER: Antelope Valley Ballet Nutcracker December 14-15, 2024 at Lancaster Performing Arts Center. Location: 750 West Lancaster Blvd., Lancaster, CA., $25-30, lpac.org

LA VERNE: Winter Wonderland 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! Free, cityoflaverne.org

LITTLEROCK: Littlerock Christmas Parade  December 14, 2024, 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 14-22, 2024 at Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Street, Livermore, CA.  $39-49, valleydancetheatre.com

LONG BEACH: International Tamales Fest December 14, 2024, 1-8 p.m. Long Beach City College. Homemade Tamales Contest, Tequila Tasting (3-6 p.m.), Mariachi, Azteca Dancers, Mickey & Minnie, Lucha Libre, Ballet Folklorico & more! Location: 1305 E. Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, CA $15+tx & fees, playalarga.co/lbtamalesfest/

LONG BEACH: Long Beach Ballet The Nutcracker December 14-22, 2024 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 

LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles Ballet - The Nutcracker  December 13-15, 2024 at Royce Hall, UCLA. Location: 10745 Dickson Court, Los Angeles, CA. $, losangelesballet.org

LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles Ballet Academy The Nutcracker December 14, 2024, 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. $58, thesoraya.org 

MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN: Night of Lights Torchlight Parade December 14, 2024, 6-10 p.m. Location: 1000 Canyon Blvd., Mammoth Lakes, CA. Free, mammothmountain.com

MARIPOSA: Polar Express Merry Mountain Christmas Parade + Tree Lighting December 14, 2024, 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

MERCED: Live Nativity Celebration December 14, 2024, 1-4 p.m. Free hot chocolate and donuts, Centurian and angels, plus camels, sheep, llama, pig, horse and goat with animals you can pet. Location: 1979 Arden Lane, Merced, CA.  Free, facebook.com/ visitmerced | nativity

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

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

NORCO: Norco Parade of Lights and Festival December 14, 2024, 8 a.m.-9 p.m. | Parade begins 5 p.m.  Favorite Christmas Movie is 2024 theme Parade of Lights Sixth Street - Corona Avenue to Ingalls Event Center Norco, CA Free, norco.ca.us

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

PALMDALE: Magical Christmas Parade "Planes, Trains & Reindeer" December 14, 2024, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Parade takes place on Palmdale Blvd; travels 20th Street E to Poncitlan Square Palmdale, CA avchambers.org/parade

PARADISE: Northern California Ballet Nutcracker December 13-15, 2024 at Paradise Performing Arts Center. Location: 777 Nunneley Road, Paradise, CA. $22, northerncaliforniaballet.com

PLEASANTON: Great Train Show December 14-15, 2024 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 13 & 14, 2024, 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

POMONA: Hot Tub & Swim Spa December 13-15, 2024 at Fairplex.  Sale Save thousands on the largest selection of Hot Tubs & Swim Spas! Location: 1101 West McKinley Avenue Pomona, CA $ admission, parking, fairplex.com

POWAY: Poway Christmas in the Park December 13-14, 2024, 3:30 - 8:30 p.m.  Old Poway Park 14134 Midland Rd Poway, California (858)668-4576 poway.org

 

RIVERSIDE: Inland Pacific Ballet The Nutcracker December 14-15, 2024 at Fox Performing Arts. Location: Center 3801 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA. $24-84 approx., riversidelive.com

SACRAMENTO: Sacramento Santa Parade December 14, 2024, 10 a.m. Parade Route: Around Capitol Park. 14th and N start, west to 10th, north to L, east on L to 12th.

 

SAN DIEGO: Golden State Ballet's The Nutcracker December 13-22, 2024 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: Jingle, the Big Band Holiday Spectacular with San Diego Gay Men's Chorus December 14-15, 2024 at Balboa Theatre. 200 singers, dancers and musicians present San Diego's most fun holiday show. Location: 868 Fourth Ave., San Diego, CA. $31.50-up, sdgmc.org

SAN DIEGO: Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade & Battle of the Marching Bands December 14, 2024, 1 p.m. Owners and their dressed-up pets march down the decorated streets of San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter.& Route: Down 5th Avenue San Diego, CA $25 pet registration - entry in parade, gaslamp.org

 

UPLAND: Upland Hometown Holiday Parade & Faire  December 14, 2024, 2-7 p.m. | 3 p.m. Parade uplandca.gov  Route: begin at A Street and 2nd Ave and go north to 9th Street...

WHITTIER: Whittier Uptown Rockin' Christmas Parade December 14, 2024, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The parade route runs along one mile of Uptown Whittier's historic Greenleaf Avenue from Hadley Street to Mar Vista.  Whittier, CA. whittieruptown.org

SAN BERNARDINO: Swimming with Santa 3-5 p.m. at Jerry Lewis Swim Center. $5, sbcity.org/parks

WALNUT CREEK: Make the Yuletide Gay! with Oakland Gay Men's Chorus December 14, 2024, 7:30 p.m. at Del Valle Theater. 90-minute concert  packed with Christmas classics.  Location: 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek, CA   $33.85, oaklandgmc.org/tickets

WOODLAKE: Woodlake Christmas Parade, December 14, 2024, 7-9 p.m. City Hall.  Include Santa, holiday music, floats, lights, and more. Location: 350 N. Valencia, Woodlake, CA. Free, cityofwoodlake.com/calendar/

WOODLAND: Woodland Festival of Lights Holiday Parade December 14, 2024, 4 p.m. Parade route: Main Street between West & 5th Streets. Free, cityofwoodland.gov

YUBA CITY: Tree Lighting Ceremony & Christmas Stroll in Downtown Yuba City December 14, 2024, 12-8 p.m. Many free activities with fun for the family. yubacitydowntown.com

 

Events are not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to confirm before going.