Christmas Markets Southern California 2024: Top Festive Destinations

21) Frosty Fest

If you’re looking for a cozy holiday setting, Frosty Fest is the place to be. Frosty Fest is known for its charming atmosphere, full of twinkling lights and festive music. It’s a great spot to sip on hot cocoa and admire beautifully decorated stalls.

You’ll find all sorts of holiday goodies here. Vendors sell handmade crafts, delicious treats, and unique gifts. There’s something for everyone, from kids to adults.

The event also hosts fun activities like ice skating and live entertainment. Whether you’re skating or just watching, the festive spirit will keep you warm even on chilly evenings.

Frosty Fest is perfect for families, friends, or even a solo night out. It’s a great way to make lasting holiday memories.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Dec 1 – Dec 31, 2024	123 Winter Lane, LA, CA	4:00 PM – 9:00 PM	Ages 12+ $10, Under 12 Free

Enjoy the magic of the season at Frosty Fest!

22) Snow N Glow Holiday Festival

Get ready for the ultimate holiday experience at the Snow N Glow Holiday Festival. This event offers winter magic right by the Pacific Ocean.

Stroll through an immersive light trail with a million glowing lights. It’s a sight you won’t forget. Trade your flip-flops for snow boots, as Jack Frost lets it snow right on Surfer’s Point Live.

S’mores and hot chocolate are also on the menu. Gather around the fire pits to warm up with these tasty treats. Plus, don’t miss the glowing displays that create a perfect holiday wonderland.

This family-friendly event has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to create new holiday memories or just get a boost of Christmas spirit, Snow N Glow has you covered.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Until Dec 26, 2024	Ventura County Fairgrounds	4 p.m. – 10 p.m.	$20-$30 per person

23) Winter Fest OC

Winter Fest OC brings winter magic to Southern California. Running from November 24, 2023, to January 7, 2024, it takes over the OC Fair & Event Center.

You can enjoy a 150-foot long ice tubing slide and ice skate under the stars. There’s also a snowboard simulator to test your skills.

If you love lights, you’ll be thrilled by over a million twinkling lights and oversized holiday decor. The whole fairgrounds become a winter wonderland.

Don’t miss the North Pole Journey, where you can meet Santa and visit snowy villages. There’s also a holiday market for unique gifts, food, and drinks.

Whether you’re a kid or an adult, this event has something for everyone. Carnival thrills, photo ops, and festive music make it exciting.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 24, 2023 – Jan 7, 2024	88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626	Thu-Fri: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm	$35-$110 (upgrades & passes)
		Sat-Sun: 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm

24) Sawdust Winter Fantasy

The Sawdust Winter Fantasy in Laguna Beach is a holiday explosion. From November 15 to December 22, you can escape to this festive winter wonderland.

Shop for beautifully handcrafted gifts and unique pieces of art. You’ll find everything from jewelry to ceramics, created by local artisans.

Live entertainment fills the air. Enjoy performances on three different stages, with live music, puppet shows, and carolers singing your favorite holiday tunes.

Take part in winter-themed art classes and watch live art demonstrations. There’s even glassblowing to marvel at.

Don’t miss the petting zoo and the amazing holiday photo ops. With 15 Christmas trees and thousands of lights, it feels like a magical fairy tale.

Enjoy delicious food from the seven outdoor cafes and saloon. Sip on a hot drink as you stroll through the falling snow.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
November 15 – December 22, 2024	935 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA	Fri-Sun: 10 AM – 7 PM	$10 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for kids (6-12), Free for kids under 6

25) Hotel Del Coronado’s Skating by the Sea

Hotel Del Coronado’s Skating by the Sea is a magical holiday event you won’t want to miss. Imagine skating on a beachfront ice rink with stunning views of the Pacific. The rink is located on the Windsor Lawn, creating a unique experience where winter meets the ocean.

This iconic resort shines with thousands of sparkling lights, making it even more festive. Skating by the Sea is perfect for families, friends, or even a romantic date. You can also feel good knowing that part of the proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish San Diego.

After skating, enjoy a warm drink or treat from nearby vendors. Parking is something to consider, so be sure to check whether it’s included with your skating pass.

Important Information

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 17, 2023 – Jan 7, 2024	1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118	Varies by day	$35 per person

26) Marina Del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

In Marina Del Rey, the holiday season comes alive with the annual Marina Del Rey Holiday Boat Parade. You can see boats beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and festive decor.

The event has been a tradition for 61 years. This year, it took place on December 14, 2024. The parade starts with a dazzling fireworks show right at the entrance of the main channel.

You can also enjoy other activities. At Burton Chace Park, there will be carolers, hot cocoa, and food trucks. It’s a great spot to watch the parade while enjoying some festive treats.

The event is perfect for families and friends looking to get into the holiday spirit. It’s an unforgettable experience to see all the boats lit up against the night sky.

Date	Address	Time	Prices
December 14, 2024	Marina del Rey, CA	5:55 PM – 8:00 PM	Free

27) Redlands Christmas Parade

You can’t miss the Redlands Christmas Parade if you’re in Southern California for the holidays. This event brings together the entire community for a festive and joyful celebration.

Imagine kids waving from floats with artificial snow, filling the streets of Historic Downtown Redlands. The parade takes place annually and is loved by families.

Expect beautiful lights, decorated floats, and a warm community spirit. The event helps to bring people together, making it a highlight of the holiday season.

Don’t forget to check out the food vendors and local shops that make this event even more special. It’s a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit with your loved ones.

Date	Address	Times	Prices
December 2	Historic Downtown Redlands	6:00 PM	Free Admission

For more details and updates, visit the official Redlands Parade website. Enjoy the magic of the season!

28) Santa Barbara Holiday Parade

Get ready for one of the most exciting holiday events in Southern California! The Santa Barbara Holiday Parade of Lights brings festive cheer to the waterfront. This year, don’t miss out on the fun as brightly decorated boats light up the night.

You’ll love the sight of over 20 festively decked-out boats making their way around Santa Barbara Harbor. Locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy this unique spectacle.

In addition to the parade, the event features holiday activities for everyone. You can marvel at the lights, enjoy live music, and indulge in delicious food from local vendors. Bring your family and friends to create special holiday memories.

Mark your calendars for this magical night. The event is free to attend, so there’s no reason to miss out on the joy and excitement. Bundle up, grab a warm drink, and head down to the waterfront.

Date	Address	Time	Price
December 8, 2024	500 E. Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103	5:30 p.m.	Free

Make sure you arrive early to find the best spot to watch the parade. Enjoy the festive spirit of Santa Barbara and celebrate the holiday season in style!

29) Christmas at Legoland

If you’re heading to Southern California for the holidays, Christmas at LEGOLAND is a must-see.

The park transforms into a winter wonderland with festive decor and holiday-themed LEGO creations.

One of the highlights is the giant LEGO Christmas tree. It’s made entirely of LEGO bricks and stands tall, decked out with colorful decorations. Great for photo ops!

Expect lots of holiday cheer with live entertainment.

Performers and shows are scheduled throughout the day. Plus, there are seasonal treats like gingerbread and hot cocoa to keep you warm.

Special holiday characters roam the park ready to greet you.

Kids can meet LEGO Santa or enjoy special holiday LEGO activities.

For those wanting to stretch their visit, check the park’s extended hours.

Select dates in December offer longer evenings filled with twinkling lights and Christmas magic.

Don’t forget to check for any special ticket deals.

Sometimes the holiday festivities are included with general admission, making it an extra special gift for you and your wallet.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov. 18, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024	One LEGOLAND Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008	10:00 am – 6:00 pm (varies)	Included in general admission

30) Palm Springs Festival of Lights

The Palm Springs Festival of Lights is a holiday tradition you won’t want to miss.

It started in the early 1990s and has been lighting up Palm Canyon Drive every year since.

During the parade, you’ll see festive floats, marching bands, and twinkling holiday lights.

It’s a beautiful sight as the entire street transforms into a glittery wonderland.

Kids and adults both will love the sights and sounds.

The event draws a crowd, so make sure you arrive early to grab a good spot.

This event is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.

You won’t need to pay an entrance fee, so it’s a fun and affordable way to celebrate.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
First Saturday in December	Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264	5:45 PM	Free