Danielle Fishel Lights Up Legoland California Christmas Celebration

It’s officially the most wonderful time of the year in Carlsbad. Legoland California Resort has kicked off the holiday season in a way only they can—by lighting up a massive, 35-foot-tall Lego Christmas tree that would make even Santa stop and stare.

Actress and Dancing with the Stars alum Danielle Fishel, beloved for her iconic role as Topanga on Boy Meets World, was on hand to illuminate the park’s dazzling centerpiece during the 23rd annual tree lighting ceremony. With fireworks bursting over the Carlsbad sky and thousands of bricks twinkling below, the event marked the start of the park’s Holidays at Legoland celebration.

A Star-Studded Start to the Season

Every year, Legoland California turns into a brick-built winter wonderland. But this year’s celebration reached new heights—literally.

The Lego Christmas tree, a towering 35-foot marvel, was constructed from over 366,000 Lego and Duplo bricks. It took master model builders more than 3,000 hours to complete.

It’s not just a tree; it’s a masterpiece of creativity and craftsmanship. Oversized ornaments, candy canes, candles, and stars—all made entirely out of Lego bricks—adorn the tree.

When Fishel flipped the switch, the tree came alive with glowing lights and holiday magic. A cascade of fireworks lit up the night sky above the park.

Fishel’s presence added a touch of Hollywood sparkle to the evening. She brought extra cheer to the event, making it a moment to remember for families and fans alike.

In honor of Fishel’s participation, Legoland presented a $10,000 donation to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. There’s something about seeing a good cause woven into all the sparkle that just feels right.

Building Joy Brick by Brick

Legoland’s holiday celebration is more than just a display of lights. The park’s Holidays at Legoland event, presented by the Hallmark Channel, transforms every corner into a festive playground of creativity.

Guests stroll through streets lined with twinkling lights and enjoy the sight of falling snow. Special seasonal treats are everywhere, and honestly, who can resist a gingerbread cookie or two?

For families looking to experience something truly unique, the park offers an array of holiday-themed activities and attractions. From meet-and-greets with costumed characters to photo ops in front of giant Lego sculptures, there’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy moments.

One of the most popular features is the Elf Hat Scavenger Hunt. It’s a playful challenge that sends guests searching throughout the park for hidden Lego elf hats.

It’s a fun way to explore and adds an extra layer of adventure to the day’s festivities. Kids seem to love it, and honestly, adults get pretty into it too.

The Magic Behind the Masterpieces

What makes Legoland’s holiday celebration so special is the incredible artistry behind every display. The master model builders who work year-round to create these intricate designs are the unsung heroes of the park’s magic.

Their dedication and attention to detail are unmatched. The Lego Christmas tree is their crowning achievement of the season.

Each brick is carefully placed to ensure both structural integrity and visual perfection. The result? A tree that’s as sturdy as it is stunning.

Visitors often marvel at how lifelike the decorations appear. It’s easy to forget, even for a moment, that they’re made entirely of plastic bricks.

That’s the beauty of Legoland’s craftsmanship—it blurs the line between fantasy and reality. Guests can fully immerse themselves in the wonder of the holidays.

Whether you’re a lifelong Lego enthusiast or just looking for a little seasonal cheer, the park’s displays are bound to spark your imagination. There’s something about seeing so much creativity in one place that just sticks with you.

Festivities That Shine Bright

The Holidays at Legoland celebration runs on select dates through January 4. That gives plenty of opportunities for families to join in the fun.

Each evening brings something new to discover, from live performances and seasonal shows to themed dining experiences. The park’s entertainment lineup includes cheerful musical numbers, interactive storytelling, and appearances by some of Legoland’s most beloved characters—all decked out in their holiday best.

And of course, no holiday celebration would be complete without fireworks. On select nights, the sky above Legoland bursts into color as spectacular firework displays light up the night.

The reflections dance across the park’s Lego structures, creating an unforgettable visual experience. It’s the perfect way to end a day of family fun and festive adventure.

Giving Back and Spreading Cheer

Beyond the lights, laughter, and Lego bricks, Legoland’s holiday celebration carries a message of generosity and community. The park’s donation to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles in Danielle Fishel’s honor underscores the importance of giving back during the holidays.

It’s a reminder that the true spirit of the season lies in kindness and compassion—values that resonate deeply with families who visit the park each year. Fishel’s involvement also highlights how entertainment and philanthropy can come together to make a real difference.

Her participation not only brought attention to the event but also helped amplify the message of hope and joy that Legoland strives to share with every guest. It’s a partnership that honestly feels like what the holidays should be about.

Countdown to the New Year

As the year draws to a close, Legoland California is gearing up for another beloved tradition: the Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party on December 31. This family-friendly celebration lets children ring in the new year without staying up past bedtime, complete with a special countdown, fireworks, and plenty of fun activities.

It’s a joyful way to wrap up the holiday season and welcome the adventures of the year ahead. Parents love that the celebration is designed with kids in mind, offering all the excitement of a traditional New Year’s Eve party in a safe, festive environment.

With music, dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s one of the most anticipated events on Legoland’s calendar. It’s a fitting finale to a season filled with wonder.

Why Legoland California Is the Ultimate Holiday Destination

Families hunting for a holiday spot that blends creativity, fun, and a bit of heart—Legoland California really hits the mark. There’s something about how the park fuses the playful world of Lego with the coziness of the holiday season that just works.

Every brick, twinkling light, and burst of laughter adds to the vibe. It’s hard not to get swept up in the energy.

• Over 366,000 Lego and Duplo bricks used to build the 35-foot tree
• More than 3,000 hours of craftsmanship by master model builders
• $10,000 donation to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
• Festive activities including Elf Hat Scavenger Hunt, seasonal shows, and fireworks
• Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party to close out the season

Local or visiting, Legoland California’s Holidays at Legoland is one of those events you probably don’t want to miss. There’s this sense of community and creativity in the air, and honestly, it’s just plain fun to feel like a kid again—even if it’s just for a day.