7 Christmas Towns In Southern California That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer
By Jasmine Vieau|Published November 08, 2023
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Jasmine Vieau
Author
Hello! I was born and raised in Toronto, lived in Miami for a decade, attended the Miami International University of Art & Design, and have resided in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, for the past 15+ years. I enjoy traveling all over the United States, Canada, and Europe - though I have a great appreciation and love for the southeastern parts of the US in particular. My past expertise lay in hospitality in the restaurant and retail world. Aside from writing, I now run an Airbnb in my home and sling vintage, so I'd like to think this all helps me with what it takes to find the best restaurants, lodging, and fun things to do and see in your state. I am an avid reader, love exploring the arts, and discovering the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Nice to meet you!
When the holiday season rolls around, Southern California may not be the first place that comes to mind, but it’s a region that knows how to get into the festive spirit. From sunny San Diego beaches to the snowy retreats of Big Bear Lake, SoCal offers a surprising array of Christmas towns ready to delight and warm your heart. In this guide, I’ll introduce you to seven charming Christmas towns in Southern California that will put a big dose of holiday cheer in your step and make your season memorable.
Celebrate the holidays in sunny Palm Springs, where the season starts with the annual Palm Springs Aerial Tramway's tree lighting and the beloved dazzling Festival of Lights Parade on Palm Canyon Drive. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at VillageFest, with local vendors offering tasty treats and unique gifts. Families can create lasting memories at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, where the WildLights display transforms the zoo into a mesmerizing wonderland. Palm Springs is the perfect destination for a warm and memorable holiday experience, catering to everyone's festive spirit. If you're looking for places to go for Christmas in Southern California, you can't go wrong with Palm Springs!
Celebrate the holidays in Solvang with a month-long Danish-style Julefest. Enjoy lights, live entertainment, family fun, shopping, and delicious culinary treats. Don't miss the Tree Lighting, the Julefest Parade, and the Maker's Market. The festivities wrap up with the stunning Solvang Tree Burn. Throughout Julefest, you can also hunt for Danish gnomes (Nisser), meet Santa, take candlelight tours, and enjoy a daily light and music show in Solvang Park. Create lasting holiday memories in Solvang, which could be considered the Christmas capital of Southern California!
Celebrate the holiday season in Big Bear Lake, Southern California's snowy paradise. With local businesses adorned in festive decorations, the magic of the season comes to life. The festivities begin with the Tree Lighting Ceremony in The Village, featuring live music and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus for cherished family photos. The Village's twinkling lights and charmingly carved bears and woodland creatures make for a jolly good time.
Just a hop across the bridge from downtown San Diego, Coronado becomes a wonderful wintertime coastal getaway. As the season rolls in, Coronado transforms into a dazzling fantasyland, featuring charming streets dressed with twinkling Christmas trees and the Hotel del Coronado's delightful Ice Skating by the Sea. And over at Loews Coronado Bay Resort, you'll find Santa gondoliers and boats decked out in colorful holiday lights, adding to the holiday magic.
Dana Point's Holidays at the Harbor offers one of Southern California's top Christmas light displays. The harbor transforms into a sparkling dreamland with over 700,000 LED lights, including a giant Christmas whale, candy cane lanes, and the popular "Merry Kiss Me" spot. Don't miss the annual Boat Parade of Lights, where decorated boats compete for cash prizes. Santa will be there for photos, and you can shop for unique gifts at local retailers, enjoy waterfront dining, and celebrate Hanukkah with a 12-foot Menorah. It's the perfect town for holiday activities.
Celebrate the holiday season in Paso Robles, a charismatic destination that offers small-town charm, family-friendly Christmas events in Southern California, award-winning cuisine, and world-class wines. Enjoy the Annual Downtown Lighting Ceremony, the cherished Christmas Light Parade, and the anticipated Vine Street Victorian Showcase. Experience the warmth of the season in this festive Wine Country setting.
Celebrate a beachy holiday in Laguna Beach this winter. Enjoy a variety of holiday events, offerings, and restaurants spruced up in holiday cheer. Don't miss the Sawdust Winter Fantasy Festival, featuring handcrafted gifts, live entertainment, Santa photos, winter-themed art classes, glassblowing demos, and more, offering a unique holiday experience by the sea. It's one of the best Christmas festivals in Southern California.
Have you had a chance to explore these towns? Do you think these spots are among the best Christmas towns in Southern California? Personally, I’m a big fan of the Paso Robles vibe – it looks so magical. How about you? I’d love to hear your thoughts and any recommendations you have!
And if you’re getting ready for a road trip to visit these holiday towns, don’t forget to put together a road trip packing list. It’ll make your adventure even more epic!
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