When Do Christmas Events Start In Socal? Dates Inside

The festive season in Southern California (SoCal) is a magical time, filled with a plethora of Christmas events that cater to all ages and interests. While the official start of Christmas is December 25th, the celebratory spirit begins to unfold much earlier, typically in late November and gains momentum through December. Here’s a breakdown of when and where you can experience the essence of Christmas in SoCal, including specific dates and events:

Late November

• Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train: Usually starts around the last weekend of November, this event in Orange County offers a festive one-mile train ride through Irvine Park, decorated with thousands of lights. The exact dates may vary from year to year, but it generally runs from late November to December 23rd.
• Holiday Lights at the Mission Inn: Riverside’s Mission Inn starts its festive celebrations, including tours of the inn decorated in holiday splendor, around the end of November. This event showcases the Mission Inn’s renowned holiday decorations and runs through January 6th.

Early December

• Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade: Kicks off the first week of December, this iconic parade features elaborately decorated yachts, boats, and even kayaks gliding through Newport Harbor for five nights. The event typically starts on the first Wednesday of December and continues through the following Sunday.
• San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: Takes place on two Sundays in early and mid-December, this parade celebrates the holiday season with more than 80 boats decked out in their finest decorations. The specific dates are usually announced in late October, allowing participants and spectators to plan ahead.

Mid-December

• Los Angeles County Christmas Tree Lighting: Held around the second week of December, this event marks the official start of the holiday season in LA County, featuring the lighting of a majestic Christmas tree, accompanied by music, food, and festivities. The exact date may vary, but it’s usually a week or two before Christmas.
• Santa Monica Pier Holiday Events: Throughout December, the Santa Monica Pier hosts various events, including photos with Santa, holiday movie screenings, and festive food and drink specials. Check the pier’s calendar for specific dates and times, as the events are spread out throughout the month.

Throughout December

• Knott’s Merry Farm: Knott’s Berry Farm transforms into a winter wonderland with decorated trees, holiday decorations, and special seasonal activities and shows. The park’s Merry Farm celebration usually runs from late November to January 1st, offering a month-long experience of holiday cheer.
• Disneyland Resort Holiday Time: Both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure are adorned with festive decorations, seasonal rides, and holiday-themed entertainment from mid-November through early January. The Resort offers a unique holiday experience, complete with special events, food, and merchandise.
• Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Offers an immersive holiday experience, transforming the Wizarding World into a festive, snowy atmosphere complete with seasonal decorations, food, and entertainment, typically from late November to early January.

Specific Dates to Watch Out For:

• December 1st: Many shopping centers and malls in SoCal start their holiday events and decorations around this date.
• December 24th (Christmas Eve): Many churches and community centers host special Christmas Eve services and events.
• December 25th (Christmas Day): While many attractions are closed, some, like Disneyland, remain open for special Christmas celebrations.

Conclusion:

SoCal’s Christmas events are a diverse and vibrant tapestry of festivities, offering something for everyone. From the start of December through Christmas Day and into the New Year, the region comes alive with parades, decorating events, thematic park celebrations, and community gatherings. Each year brings a fresh iteration of these events, with new attractions and themes emerging alongside traditional favorites. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, SoCal’s holiday spirit is sure to captivate and inspire, making the end of the year a truly special time.

With its rich variety of celebrations, Southern California ensures that the Christmas spirit is alive and well, providing endless opportunities for joy, connection, and the creation of lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking traditional festivities, unique attractions, or simply a place to enjoy the holiday atmosphere, SoCal has something special in store for everyone this Christmas season.