Christmas Markets Southern California 2024: Top Festive Destinations

6) Downtown Santa Monica Holiday Market

Experience the festive spirit at the Downtown Santa Monica Holiday Market. Located on the Third Street Promenade, this holiday market features local artisans offering unique, handcrafted items. It’s the perfect spot to find special gifts while supporting local talent.

The market is part of the Winterlit celebration, turning the downtown area into a holiday wonderland. You can shop, enjoy the lights, and even get photos with Santa, making it a great outing for the whole family.

Don’t miss the Holiday Conscious Market on December 2, where you can find gifts from over 40 local vendors. Many of the items focus on sustainability and creativity, ensuring you’ll find something truly special.

Whether you visit for the shopping or the festive atmosphere, the Downtown Santa Monica Holiday Market is a must-see event this holiday season.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
December 2, 6-8, 13-15, 20-22	1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA	Fridays: 3 pm – 8 pm Saturdays & Sundays: 11 am – 8 pm	Free to enter; varies per vendor

7) Old Town Temecula Christmas Market

When you visit the Old Town Temecula Christmas Market, you’re in for a festive treat.

The charming streets are filled with twinkling lights and holiday decorations.

Vendors line the sidewalks, offering unique gifts, handcrafted items, and seasonal treats.

You can find everything from holiday ornaments to homemade jams.

Live music and entertainment add to the cheerful atmosphere.

Local artists perform your favorite Christmas songs, creating a fun and lively scene.

Food stalls offer delicious options to satisfy any craving.

Enjoy hot cocoa, freshly baked cookies, and savory snacks.

Bring the whole family along.

Kids can meet Santa, ride the merry-go-round, and participate in fun holiday activities.

Make sure to explore the antique stores and quaint boutiques in Old Town.

You might find the perfect gift while soaking in the holiday spirit.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
December 1 – December 24, 2024	Old Town Front St, Temecula, CA	4:00 PM – 9:00 PM	Free admission, vendor prices vary

8) Orange County Christmas Market

Orange County embraces the holiday season with a variety of Christmas markets that capture the festive spirit.

These markets are perfect for finding unique gifts, enjoying seasonal food, and experiencing holiday entertainment.

Irvine Farmers Market and Winter Fest at the OC Event are popular spots.

At the Irvine Farmers Market, you can find fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Winter Fest offers ice skating, holiday lights, and live entertainment.

Sawdust Arts & Crafts Festival in Laguna Beach transforms into a winter wonderland.

With artists showcasing their creations, it’s a must-visit for art lovers.

The Winter Fantasy edition of the festival runs weekends from mid-November through December.

If you’re looking for family-friendly activities, head to Tanaka Farms.

Their Christmas market features tractor rides, a petting zoo, and opportunities to meet Santa.

It’s a great place for kids to enjoy the holiday spirit.

The Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival in Old Towne Orange is another highlight.

This festival focuses on supporting local artisans, making it a unique shopping experience.

You can find handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and more.

For a truly magical experience, try the Christmas Train at Irvine Regional Park.

It’s a beloved tradition where you can ride a decorated train through beautiful holiday scenes.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 17, 2023 – Jan 7, 2024	Pomona Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave	5 PM – 10 PM weekdays,	Starting at $7
Weekends mid-November through December	Sawdust Festival Grounds, Laguna Beach	Weekends	Varies
Weekends in December	Tanaka Farms, Irvine, CA	Various times	Varies
November 24 – December 23, 2023	Historic Irvine Regional Park, Irvine, CA	Various times	Varies

9) Los Angeles Zoo Lights

Los Angeles Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow is one of the biggest holiday attractions in Southern California.

From November 17, 2023, to January 7, 2024, you can experience an enchanting event filled with glowing animal sculptures and dazzling light displays.

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the interactive surprises and memorable photo opportunities.

Wander through the magical disco ball forest or marvel at the giant glittering snowflakes.

Seasonal food and drinks are available every night, perfect for indulging in hot cocoa, s’mores, churros, beer, and wine.

Special VIP-style offerings make the visit even more unique.

There are also special community nights and festive happy hours on December 7 and 14, featuring “Tinsel and ‘Tinis” and an “Ugly Sweater Night.”

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024	5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027	5:45 PM – 8:45 PM (box office)	$18 (Children), $29 (Adults)

10) Christmas in the Park, San Jose

Christmas in the Park in San Jose is a must-visit holiday event.

This annual celebration takes over Plaza de Cesar Chavez with festive displays and activities that delight visitors of all ages.

The park features over 500 decorated Christmas trees and more than 35 animated displays.

At night, you can enjoy entertainment, and kids can take photos with Santa, all for free.

Christmas in the Park is supported through donations and fundraising, making it a free event for families.

Your visit not only spreads holiday cheer but also supports the local community.

For a unique experience, don’t miss Blinky’s Illuminated Holiday, a drive-thru attraction held at Lake Cunningham Park.

This event adds a modern twist to the classic holiday tradition and serves as a fundraiser for the downtown event.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 24, 2024 – Jan 1, 2025	Plaza de Cesar Chavez, San Jose, CA	Mon-Sun: 9:00 am – Midnight	Free to the public
Nov 24, 2024 – Jan 1, 2025	Lake Cunningham Park, San Jose, CA	Mon-Sun: 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm	Varies, check website