Celebrate the Season: 5 Things to Do in SoCal This December
There’s no better place to enjoy the holidays than Southern California, where twinkle lights meet ocean breezes—and snowy mountain escapes are just a short drive away. This December, we’ve rounded up five of the most magical events and experiences to make your season bright.
🎄 1. Enchant LA – Christmas Light Maze & Holiday Fest
📍 Santa Anita Park, Arcadia
✨ More info
Wander through a breathtaking maze of lights, ice skate under the stars, and browse a festive market at one of LA’s most dazzling holiday events. Enchant LA is perfect for families, couples, and anyone who wants to soak in the magic.
🚤 2. Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
📍 Newport Harbor
📅 December 18–22, 2025
✨ More info
Watch yachts and boats decked out in full holiday glam glide through Newport Harbor. The waterfront homes are just as decked out—making this one of the most iconic holiday traditions in all of SoCal.
🎡 3. Winter Fest OC
📍 Costa Mesa
📅 Now through January 5, 2026
✨ More info
Snow play, ice tubing, nightly tree lightings, fireworks, and live music—Winter Fest OC is a massive holiday festival for all ages. Don’t miss the food vendors, carnival rides, and festive photo ops!
🖼️ 4. Sawdust Art Festival – Winter Fantasy
📍 Laguna Beach
📅 Weekends, Nov. 21 – Dec. 21
✨ More info
Stroll through a festive forest of handmade art, live holiday music, and twinkling lights. The Sawdust Winter Fantasy brings together over 150 local artists and makers in a magical village setting. It's the perfect place to shop local and support SoCal creatives.
🏔️ 5. Mountain Magic: Idyllwild & SkyPark at Santa’s Village
📍 Idyllwild + Skyforest
✨ SkyPark Info
Ready for real winter vibes? Head to the mountains! Idyllwild offers charming small-town magic and crisp pine air, while SkyPark transforms into a full-blown North Pole adventure with Santa visits, skating, festive lights, and more.
✨ Whether you’re chasing snow, holiday cheer, or handmade gifts, SoCal’s December calendar is full of fun ways to make memories.
Which one are you adding to your holiday plans?