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The holiday season in Anaheim and Orange County brings festive lights, beloved traditions, and memorable experiences for everyone. From tree lightings and parades to enchanting performances and ice skating, there’s no shortage of activities to get into the spirit. Here’s our handy guide to the top holiday happenings in the OC this season!

Disney Holiday

Disneyland® Resort Holiday Events

No holiday season in Anaheim would be complete without a visit to Disneyland® Resort, where the parks transform into a festive wonderland. Between November 15th and January 6th, enjoy “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade, featuring your favorite Disney characters, reindeer, and Santa Claus. Over at Disney California Adventure® Park, the “Festival of Holidays” celebrates the season with diverse cultural traditions and seasonal treats from around the world. Don’t miss the “Believe…In Holiday Magic” fireworks show lighting up the night sky over Sleeping Beauty Castle—it’s the perfect way to end a magical day this holiday season. Discover the holiday offers and festive Fun at Disneyland® Resort in Anaheim!

Nutcracker Holiday Village & Tree Lighting Anaheim City

 

Nutcracker Holiday Village & Tree Lighting

Start the holiday season on December 8th at Anaheim’s 30th annual Tree Lighting Festival and Holiday Village! Center Street Promenade will transform into a festive wonderland with performances, holiday crafts, local artisan shopping, and plenty of family-friendly fun. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special appearance, and there’s even a Candy Canine Dog Costume Contest for all the holiday-loving pups. Gather at City Hall at 6:00 p.m. for the grand tree lighting ceremony, followed by dazzling performances by the Anaheim Ballet, Sean Oliu, and local choirs.

Winter Fest OC

From November 22nd to January 5th, Winter Fest OC at the OC Fair and Event Center brings the magic of winter to life with over a million twinkling lights, grand holiday decor, and exciting attractions. Journey through the North Pole, skate along the enchanting Ice Trail, and dive into the new Snow Play area, perfect for building snowmen and sledding! Thrill-seekers can race down the 150-foot ice tubing slide at Snowflake Summit, while families can enjoy an expanded carnival filled with games and rides for all ages. 

 

Winterfest OC 2023 winter activities & ice skating

Irvine Regional Park Hay Rides & Pumpkin patches

Santa’s Village and Christmas Train at Irvine Park Railroad

For a magical holiday experience, visit Santa’s Village at Irvine Park Railroad from November 29th through December 23rd. Take photos with Santa, decorate cookies, and enjoy classic carnival games and rides. Board the Christmas Train to the North Pole, where children can share their wish lists with the big man himself! Expect plenty of lights, festive decor, holiday-themed food, and family-friendly fun.

Ice Skating at the Irvine Spectrum Center

Now through January 5, 2025, enjoy skating under the open sky at the Irvine Spectrum Center’s annual open-air ice rink, perfect for families, friends, and festive gatherings! Glide across the ice and embrace the holiday spirit, with special events like Skating with Santa on December 7th and themed Thursday nights featuring live DJ music for an extra dose of seasonal fun.

 

irvine-spectrum-ice-rink

Calendar Events in AnaheimWhat's Happening This Weekend?

 Want to discover more festive events in Anaheim and Orange County this holiday season? Check out our events calendar for the latest holiday happenings and joyful gatherings!

 

 

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