Sunday, December 14, 2025

tomorrow | yesterday

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.

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 is returning for the 2025/2026 season, 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

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

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/

CORONADO: Skating by the Sea November 21, 2024-January 5, 2025, hours vary 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: Winter Fest OC returns November 2025-January 2026 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 2025-January 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 7, 2025-January 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/

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 2025-January 2026 at Civic Park, Downtown Hanford. Make it a date with family and friends for fun holiday ice skating. $, hanfordwinterwonderland.com

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

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/

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: Holidays at Filoli November 2025-January 2026 to be announced soon! Georgian revival-style mansion with 16 acres of exquisite English Renaissance gardens at an historic 654-acre estate (as seen in Falcon Crest show). $, 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

BAKERSFIELD: Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet (formerly Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker) December 14, 2024, 3 & 7 p.m. at Fox Theatre. Location: 2001 H Street, Bakersfield CA.

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.

BETHEL ISLAND: San Joaquin Yacht Club Lighted Boat Parade  December 14, 2024, 5-9 p.m. 550 Riverview Place Bethel Island, CA sjyc.org

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

CAYUCOS: Christmas in Cayucos Wonderland Walk December 14, 2024, 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

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

CLOVIS: Live Nativity December 14-15, 2024, 6-8 p.m. Memorial United Methodist 1726 Pollasky Ave Clovis, CA. It's free. No donation required. mem-umc.org/mem-umc/

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

CONCORD: Ice at the Veranda November 9, 2024-February 2025 at The Veranda shopping mall. Come glide on Ice at The Veranda with open-air shopping, dining and entertainment.

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

DISCOVERY BAY: Discovery Bay Lighted Boat Parade  at Parade December 14, 2024, 5 p.m. Discovery Bay Yacht Club 5871 Marina Blvd. Discovery Bay, CA 94505-9134 dbyc.com‎

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: 95th Annual Christmas Parade "Under the Tree" December 14, 2024, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Fulton Street. Come see this tradition that makes your holiday complete.

FRESNO: IllumiNature November 26, 2024-January 31, 2025 at Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a special holiday event featuring lighted lantern displays that entertain and amaze! $, fresnochaffeezoo.org

FREMONT: Twilight Time Holiday Open House at the Patterson House December 6-22, 2024, 4:30-8 p.m. Location: Ardenwood Historic Farm, Fremont 34600 Ardenwood Blvd. Fremont, CA 94555 $, fremont.gov

FRESNO: Holiday Sweets & Winter Treats at Kearney Mansion Museum November 29, 2024-January 5, 2025, 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: Huntington Harbour Boat Parade December 14-15, 2024 Dusk - 9 p.m. Celebrating 62 Years… Yacht Rockin' the Holidays is the 2024 theme Parking is a Huntington Harbour Mall, Algonquin St., Huntington Beach, CA hhboatparade.org

HUNTINGTON BEACH: A Christmas Carol presented by ACTS Drama Group December 6-15, 2024 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 2025-January 4, 2026 next to the Giant Wheel. Skating! Location: 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, CA. $, 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

LAGUNA HILLS: Journey to Bethlehem December 13-15, 2024, 5-8 p.m. Crossline Community Church 23331 Moulton Parkway Laguna Hills, CA $5 donation, ticket required, crosslinechurch.com

LAGUNA NIGUEL: Holiday Parade December 14, 2024

LAKE FOREST: Tree Lighting  December 14, 2024, 3-6 p.m. Free to attend with free parking. Location: 100 Civic Center Drive Lake Forest, CA Free, lakeforestca.gov

LAKE FOREST: Holiday Lights Dec.13-15, 2024, 5-9 p.m. at Heritage Hill. Free to attend with free parking. Inclement weather may cancel the events. Location: Heritage Hill Historical Park, 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA. Free,  ocparks.com/heritagehill or (949) 923-2230 

LANCASTER: Lancaster Magical BLVD Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is December 10, 2024 | Magical BLVD Christmas is December 14, 2024, 5-9 p.m. For more information & sponsorship visit the City of Lancaster's website cityoflancasterca.org

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: Long Beach Shoreline Boat Parade December 14, 2024, 5:30-7 p.m. "Christmas Stories" is 2024 theme Downtown Shoreline Parade route: Shoreline Marina, Rainbow Harbor, Queen Mary. shorelineyachtclub.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 

LOOMIS: Holiday Home Tour, December 14, 2024, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Select Loomis, Granite Bay, Rocklin & Roseville homes are on tour. Boutique is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $25 Luncheon and $100 VIP reception with private evening tour. $45 daytime tour, loomisholiday.com | holiday homes

LOS ANGELES: LA Zoo Lights, Animals Aglow November 15, 2024-January 5, 2025, 6-10 p.m. at Los Angeles Zoo. Special holiday display seen only at night 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: 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 

LOS ANGELES: Pershing Square Holiday Ice Skating Rink returns mid-November 2025-January 2026. Sharpen your blades and skills or just go to chill with themed events and great music. $, holidayicerinkdowntownla.com

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

MARINA DEL REY: Marina Del Rey Holiday Boat Parade December 14, 2024, 5:55 p.m. Fireworks, 6 p.m. Parade begins "A Margaritaville Holiday" is 2024 theme. Parking: Burton Chace Park 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA $event parking, mdrboatparade.org

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 13-22, 2024 at Gallo Center for the Arts. Location: 1000 I St., Modesto, CA. $27-73, galloarts.org

MONTEREY: Christmas in the Adobes December 13-14, 2024, 5-9 p.m. Step back into Monterey's past and see the adobes by candle light and listen to live Christmas music performed the old-fashioned way. Location: Pacific House, 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA. $32.93, pre-sale at mshpa.org

MONTEREY: Skating by the Bay to be announced: November-December 31, 2025 at Custom House Plaza. $20 includes skate rental, iceskatingbythebay.com

MOORPARK: A Living Nativity December 14, 2024, 7-9 p.m. Faith Lutheran Church 123 Park Lane Moorpark, CA 93021 Free BUT cash and or/ canned food donations requested, faithmoorpark.com

MOUNTAIN VIEW: Western Ballet's The Nutcracker December 13-15, 2024 at Mountain View Center For The Performing Arts. Location: 500 Castro St., Mountain View, CA. $47, mvcpa.com

NEWPORT BEACH: A Christmas Experience December 14-15, 2024, 5 p.m. at Liberty Baptist Church 1000 Bison Ave Newport Beach, CA 92660  libertybaptistchurch.org

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: Temple Hill Days of Christmas December 2025 information coming soon. 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

OAKLAND: Fairy Winterland December 14-15, 18-23, & 26-30, 2024, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Children's Fairyland. Snow Queen, Black Santa and many more surprises. $19 general admission, fairyland.org

OCEANSIDE: Oceanside Parade of Lights December 14, 2024, 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 14, 2024, 12 p.m. orcuttchristmasparade.org

OXNARD: Oxnard Christmas Tree Lane December 8-26, 2024, 6-10 p.m. in historic district features elegant and festive home lighting displays.

OXNARD: Channel Island Harbor Parade of Lights December 14, 2024, 7-9 p.m. 2024 theme is Sleigh Bells & Spurs: A Rockin' Rodeo Boat Parade ChannelIslandsHarbor.org 58th Annual Parade of Lights at the Channel Islands Harbor is scheduled to start at 7 p.m.

PERRIS: Perris Christmas Parade December 14, 2024, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Rain or shine, the parade goes on! D St. & Highway 74 North to San Jacinto Ave. cityofperris.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

PALO ALTO: Winter Lodge Seasonal Ice Rink October 18, 2025-April 2026, is back with public skating sessions, lessons and more. $, winterlodge.com

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

PITTSBURG: Pittsburg Yacht Club Lighted Boat Parade December 14, 2024,  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

PITTSBURG: Holiday Parade and Peppermint Playland December 14, 2024, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Holiday Parade Parade at 11 a.m. Route: On Railroad Ave. from 8th St. to 4th Street Pittsburg, CA ci.pittsburg.ca.us

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

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 14, 2024, 5:30 p.m. Tropical Holliday is the 2024 theme for the Christmas Boat Parade  sponsored by King Harbor Yacht Club. khyc.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

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.

SACRAMENTO: Imaginarium Information to be announced for 2025-2026 season 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 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: A Christmas Carol November 29-December 24, 2024 at Old Town Cygnet Theatre. Location: 4040 Twiggs St. San Diego, CA 92110 $, cygnettheatre.com | carol

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  SAN FRANCISCO: Stapleton School of the Performing Arts Nutcracker December 13-15, 2024, 1 & 5 p.m. Palace of Fine Arts Theatre 3301 Lyon Street San Francisco, CA $23.18-71.21, stapletonschool.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

SAN FRANCISCO:  Parol Lantern Festival & Parade at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. Annual Filipino celebration.

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 FRANCISCO: Union Square Ice Rink November 6, 2024-January 20, 2025. Themed days and special events add to the fun.

SAN FRANCISCO: San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker December 6-29, 2024 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: 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 28, 2025-January 1, 2026, 5-11 p.m. in History Park San Jose. More than one mile of  magical scenes and displays synced to favorite holiday tunes.  $25-31, approx., christmasinthepark.com

SAN JOSE: Downtown Ice Information to be announced about November 2025-January 2026 season in Circle of Palms Plaza on Market Street. $, sjdowntownice.com

SAN JOSE: San Jose Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet December 6-15, 2024 at Center for the Performing Arts. Location: 255 Almaden Blvd., San Jose, CA. $39.50-115, sanjosetheaters.org 

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO: Capistrano Lights December 7-29, 2024 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 16, 2024-January 26, 2025 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

SANTA BARBARA: Santa Barbara Festival Ballet The Nutcracker December 14-15, 2024 Arlington Theatre 1317 State Street Santa Barbara, CA $30-65, thearlingtontheatre.com

SANTA CLARA: Great America WinterFest  November 29, 2024-January 5, 2025. Ice Skate in front of the iconic Carousel Columbia and marvel at spectacular live shows. More than 60 rides and holiday attractions. Location: 237 W to Great America Parkway.  $ tickets

SANTA MARIA: Christmas in the Country Elks Drive-thru Holiday Lights Experience November 29-December 24, 2024 at Elks Unocal Event Center. Timed entry starts at 6 p.m. Pick available day and time online. Location: 2325 Skyway Drive, Santa Maria, CA. $40 per car, elksrec.com

SANTA MONICA: ICE mid-November 2025-January 2026 at 5th & Arizona. Details coming soon! $, iceatsantamonica.com

SAUSALITO: Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks December 14, 2024, 6-7:15 p.m. | Part of Winterfestcelebration which takes place December 14-15, 2024  winterfestsausalito.com

SAUSALITO: Sausalito Gingerbread House Tour December 8-31, 2024 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 14, 2024, 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  

TEMECULA: Mark Erickson's Nutcracker December 13-23, 2024 at Old Town Temecula Community Theater. Location: 42051 Main Street Temecula, CA 92590. $39-47, tickets.temeculatheater.org

TORRANCE: San Pedro City Ballet Nutcracker December 13-14, 2024 at James Armstrong Theatre. Location: 478 W. 6th Street, Torrance, CA. $45, sanpedrocityballet.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...

VACAVILLE: The Nutcracker Ballet by Vacaville Ballet Company  December 12-15, 2024 at Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre. Location: 1010 Ulatis Drive Vacaville, CA  $25, vpat.net

VISTA: Jingle Terrace Live 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 2, 2024-January 12, 2025 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 select days November-December 2025, 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, 2024-January 5, 2025, 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 29-December 24, 2024, 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

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO: Nature Nights November 22-December 28, 2024, 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

VACAVILLE: Live Nativity December 13-15, 2024, 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

VALLEJO: David Benoit's Charlie Brown Christmas Concert December 14, 2024, 8 p.m. at Empress Theatre. Location: 330 Virginia St., Vallejo, CA. $50-84, empresstheatre.org

VALLEJO: Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Holiday in the Park November 29, 2024-January 5, 2025, 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

VENTURA: Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks December 13-14, 2024, 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

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.