Breakfast with Santa - Hosted by Citrus Fresh Grill at Renaissance ClubSport - Aliso Viejo
Sunday, December

Come together for a special breakfast with family and Santa and celebrate the holidays! We'll have all your breakfast favorites; just bring your appetite, camera and letters for Santa. This is a festive event with family seating and shared tables. Early reservations are recommended as this event sells out fast.

$35.00 (adult), $15.00 (ages 4-12), $25.00 (seniors 65 plus), 3 years old and under FREE with a paying guest

LOCATION:
Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo
50 Enterprise
Aliso Viejo

INFORMATION:
For more information or to register, please stop by the Club Desk or call (949)330-5560

Santa's Coming to Anaheim Town Square - Anaheim
Saturday, November 24, 2018
12-3 pm

Free event with real snow play area, Santa photos, crafts for kids, face painting, balloon artists and train rides.

LOCATION:
Anaheim Town Square
2180 East Lincoln Avenue
(Southeast corner of Lincoln Avenue and State College Blvd)
Anaheim, CA 92806

Chance Theater presents: A Charlie Brown Christmas
December 7, 2018 — December 23, 2018

Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life in the all-new stage adaptation! Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang as they produce their own Christmas play and ultimately learn the true meaning of the season. A Charlie Brown Christmas is a present the whole family can enjoy!

Adapted from Charles M. Schulz’s timeless story, this holiday treat features the unforgettable music of Vince Guaraldi, as well as beloved holiday carols performed by the Peanuts characters. There’s no better way to discover the magic of the season!

LOCATION:
Chance Theater @ Bette Aitken theater arts Center
5522 E. La Palma Ave. Anaheim, CA

Nutcracker Christmas
December

FREE event featuring holiday craft activities, a real snow play area, a children’s train ride, free photos with Santa and holiday musical performances by local schools and community groups throughout the day. Purchase unique gifts from the Holiday Shopping Village and enjoy a wide variety of culinary treasures from the International Food Fair.

The day is capped off with a procession down Center Street Promenade led by the Combined Choirs of the Anaheim Union High School District at 5:45pm. Attendees gather around the living 50-foot Christmas tree, magically lit by a surprise guest and a holiday musical performance.

LOCATION:
Downtown Anaheim at Center St Promenade & Lemon St

INFORMATION:
714-956-3586

Fairmont Private Academy Winter Wonderland - Anaheim
Wednesday, December
3:00 pm to 05:00 pm

Come experience a true Winter Wonderland in Southern California — complete with snow and Santa to provide that magical holiday feel! It will be a wonderful time to create joyful memories with your family while you learn a little more about Fairmont Private Schools Anaheim Hills Campus.

This is a free event!

LOCATION:
Anaheim Hills Campus
5300 East La Palma Avenue
Anaheim, California, United States

INFORMATION:
Please RSVP to this event!

Anaheim Plaza - Holiday Event with Santa!
Saturday, December
11:00am - 1:00pm

Free Fun Family Event - Anaheim Plaza Food Court

Santa is coming to Anaheim Plaza. Bring your camera for a selfie with Santa. This event is for the whole family and will include giveaways for the first 100 kids, raffle prizes, balloon artist and a kid friendly DJ.

LOCATION:
Anaheim Plaza
N. Euclid St. & Santa Ana Fwy.
Anaheim, CA 92801

Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Newport Beach/Newport Bay
December 19 – 23, 2018

FREE to the public. The boat parade will light up the harbor for five consecutive nights. The parade starts at Bay Island at 6:00 p.m. and will last approximately three and a half hours. Over 250 ships participate in the parade along with hundreds of water front estates. Providing the backdrop for the parade is the Ring of Lights waterfront home and business decorating competition. FREE for spectators, entry fee for participating boats. Over million and half people view the parade each year.

For those of you that would like to be in parade Davey's Locker offers 3 general admission cruises nightly every night of the parade that are a part of the actual parade. Viewing the parade from a ship means that you see all of the parade and homes in full decor that line the waterfront. General admission tickets can be reserved over the phone.

Can't make the 5 parade nights? Newport Landing & Davey's Locker offers holiday lights cruises for the whole month of December

LOCATIONS FOR CRUISES:
December 1-31, 2018
Offered three times nightly (check websites for times)
Newport Landing
309 Palm - Suite A, Newport Beach Ca 92661
Davey's Locker
400 Main St., Newport Beach, CA 92661

INFORMATION:
949-673-1435

Nutcracker Craft Boutique - Brea
November 16 - 17, 2018
9 am

Get your holiday shopping done at our Nutcracker Craft Boutique! The Boutique features unique, hand crafted gifts from over 200 vendors. You will be able to find something for everyone on your shopping list.

$2 admission with proceeds benefit the City of Brea's Youth and Family Programs.

LOCATION:
The Brea Community Center
695 E. Madison Way (Corner of Madison & Randolph)

INFORMATION:
(714) 990-7771

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 6, 2018
6:30 pm

Light up the holiday at the City of Brea's annual tree lighting celebration. Live music and entertainment will put everyone in the holiday mood. Watch the holiday tree light up the evening and see children's eyes sparkle when Santa drops in for a visit. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served.

LOCATION:
Brea Civic & Cultural Center
1 Civic Center Circle

INFORMATION:
(714) 990-7771

Candy Caneland & Craft Faire
Saturday, December 1, 2018

A community holiday carnival that includes food and game booths sponsored by local non-profit groups, entertainment, games, petting zoo, a craft area for kids, pictures with Santa Claus, and their famous snow slides!

LOCATION:
Ehlers Community Recreation Center
8150 Knott Ave.
(Please use the free shuttle to and from the Peak Park Pool at 7225 El Dorado Dr. Look for the shuttles marked Ehlers Express)

INFORMATION:
(714) 236-3860

Christmas Walk
Sunday, December 2, 2018
11 am - 4 pm

The Annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk & Festival is one of the oldest special events the Chamber is proud to present. It is absolutely a can't miss event filled with holiday festivities for family, friends and associates. Each year the Walk brings together thousands of fun-loving people into the Village of Corona del Mar for entertainment, food, prizes and games in true holiday spirit. FREE to the public.

Complete with High School bands, Fireman's BBQ, live entertainment, restaurant tastings, beer & wine garden, bouncy houses, Santa Visits and a grand opportunity drawing full of local prizes. The merchants of Corona del Mar invite you to visit the village and their individual businesses on this spectacular day!

INFORMATION:
949-673-4050

4th Annual Nights of 1000 Lights
December 7-8, 2018
6-9 pm

Annual event featuring more lights than ever including an expanded light tunnel, RGB Triklet programmable lights, light orbs and light tubes. In the Central Garden a live-cut 20' Christmas tree will feature "natural bling" and is best described as a modern style with natural elements. There will also be a light show in the Tropical Conservatory, a flurry of fun will await visitors in the Big Shade Garden plus a red sparkle ceiling will dazzle in the Fern Grotto.

All guests will enjoy complimentary coffee, hot chocolate, cookies and a make your own 'smores station. The will also be a photo-op with Santa, holiday photo booth and fun arts and crafts activities. Additionally, there will be a no-host wine and beer bar, tamale vendor and holiday shopping available in the Garden Shop.

$10 Friends Admission; $15 Non-Member Admission; Children Under 5 Free

LOCATION:
Sherman Library & Gardens
2647 East Coast Highway
Corona del Mar, CA 92625

A Christmas Carol
November 24, 2018 - December 24, 2018

Nineteenth-century London comes to life when your family joins the SCR family for the holidays. Recapture the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas with this timeless Dickens classic and all your favorite characters—Tiny Tim and the Cratchit family, the Fezziwigs, the Ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet-to-come—and, as always, Hal Landon Jr. as everyone's favorite curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge. (“The quintessential Ebenezer Scrooge!” according to the Daily Pilot).

South Coast Repertory
(714) 708-5555

Handel's Messiah
December 9, 2018
3 pm

It's hard to image a holiday season without "Messiah," the most famous oratorio in the world. Through some of the most beautiful music ever written, "Messiah" conveys a message of hope to everyone who hears it, year after year after year. Thrill to blazing trumpets, thundering timpani and the electrifying, uplifting "Hallelujah" chorus.

LOCATION:
Orange County Performing Arts Center - Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

INFORMATION:
714-755-5799

Swedish Christmas Julbord
Friday, December
Seating Times: 4:00pm - 5:30pm
6:30pm - 8:00pm

Join the folks at Ikea Costa Mesa in December for their annual Swedish Christmas Julbord!

IKEA FAMILY Member price
$12.99 /per person & $2.99/ kids
Regular price:
$16.99/person & $4.99/child.

Seating is limited. **Restaurant closes at 1:00pm for event set-up.

LOCATION:
IKEA Costa Mesa
1475 S Coast Dr
Costa Mesa, CA

Take a Picture with Santa!
Sunday December
12-2 pm

Ho ho ho! Have you been naughty or nice? Come to IKEA Costa Mesa to get a free printed photo with Santa and a small gift to take home! Make plans to sit down with Santa from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the front entrance of the store and enjoy his visit. Don't miss out!

*Give away activities are for children 12 years old or younger, until supplies last.

LOCATION:
IKEA Costa Mesa
1475 S Coast Dr
Costa Mesa, CA

Holiday Craft Show - Cypress
November
9 am - 3 pm

Start your holiday shopping early! Featuring hand crafted items, sweet shop, bbq lunch and entertainment. Free Admission

Mrs. Claus Sweet Shoppe - Woman's Club of Cypress. Purchase a sweet treat while you stroll the craft show.
Breakfast with Santa - 8:00 - 11:00am $5 per person. Proceeds benefit Boy Scout Troop 660. Santa will be visiting from the North Pole for photos so don't forget your camera!
Burrito Bowl Lunch - 11:00am-2:30pm. Proceeds Benefit Cypress-La Palma Youth Action Committee

LOCATION:
Cypress Community Center
5700 Orange Avenue

INFORMATION:
714-229-6780

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Holiday Sing & Tree Lighting
Tuesday, December 4, 2018
6 pm

Festival Style Seating Blankets & Lawn Chairs Encouraged. Event includes School Performances, Visits with Santa, Holiday Crafts, Letters to Santa and Train Rides.

There will be a $6 meal to purchase whick will include tacos or quesadillas, chips, salsa & drink. Proceeds benefit Youth Action Committee.

LOCATION:
On the Civic Center Green Corner of Orange Avenue and Grindlay Street. (in case of rain, event will be held at the senior center)

INFORMATION:
714-229-6780

Winter Festival & Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 1, 2018
12pm - 5:30pm

FREE holiday family event sponsored by the City of Dana Point. Includes Santa visits, carnival games ($1), craft fair, Dana Point Police Services Kid Print ID, face painting, cookie decorating ($2), holiday crafts, Lego Santa's Village Workshop, the Mini Express Train, petting zoo, pony rides and the Annual Tree Lighting! Most activities are free.

Tree lighting at 5:15 pm

LOCATION:
La Plaza Park
Pacific Coast Highway, North of Golden Lantern

INFORMATION:
(949) 248-3530

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Annual Boat Parade of Light
December 7, 8 14 & 15, 2018
7:30pm to 9:00pm

Boaters from all around Orange County decorate their boats and vie for awards. You can view the parade free from anywhere in the Harbor, or make reservations at one of our restaurants to view it from a cozy and warm spot. Come on down and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.

Enjoy this holiday extravaganza throughout the harbor each night of the Boat Parade that features carolers, superheroes, games, crafts, and FREE photos with Santa, and culminates with the Boat Parade.

LOCATION:
Dana Point Harbor
34555 Golden Lantern

** Dana Wharf Sportfishing offers boat rides so you too can experience the fun of actually riding on a boat and joining in the parade. Don't miss the opportunity to become a part of this one-of-a-kind holiday experience. Reservations can be made at www.danawharf.com

Call and make your reservations at (949) 496-5794.

For more information or a boat or sponsor entry form call THE Harbor Info line at (949) 923-2255

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Boat Rides with Santa
Early December
10am to 2pm

Come aboard for a twenty-minute Harbor cruise with Santa and his helpers. Santa will be hearing those Christmas wishes as you cruise the Harbor. Bring your cameras for pictures with Santa. A $5 donation to the El Camino Real Junior Woman’s Club is suggested. No reservations required!

LOCATION:
Dana Wharf Sportfishing docks
34675 Golden Lantern - between the Jolly Roger and the Wind & Sea.

INFORMATION:
(949) 496-5794 or (949) 923-2255

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Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort Breakfast with Santa
Sunday, December 16, 2018
9am-12pm

Santa will be taking a break from checking his list twice to take pictures with your family. Enjoy breakfast, movies, and arts & crafts at Vue Restaurant.

(Adults $39, add bottomless Mimosas for $10.00 more; Children 5-12 $10)*

*Price does not include tax and gratuity.

INFORMATION/RESERVATIONS:
For more information please call us at 949-487-7577 To make a reservation please visit us at OpenTable

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Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort Christmas Dining

Christmas Eve Dinner
Enjoy a Christmas Eve Dinner at Laguna Cliffs.
December 24
5pm-10pm
Holiday Menu with reduced valet parking available.

Christmas Day Dinning
Celebrate Christmas with a four-course menu at Vue Restaurant.
December 25

Based upon availability. Reservations required. Must be 21 or older to consumer alcoholic beverages.

LOCATION:
25135 Park Lantern
Dana Point, CA 92629

INFORMATION:
For more information, please contact our Concierge at 949-487-7577 or to make reservations, please visit us at OpenTable

Tree Lighting Ceremony
Saturday, December 1, 2018
4:30 pm—8:00 pm

Free event, all are welcome! This special holiday event will feature guests from the North Pole as well as performances by various community groups, delicious food available for purchase from local non-profit organizations, games, a spectacular fireworks show, and much more!

LOCATION:
Fountain Valley Recreation Center and Sports Park
16400 Brookhurst St.
Fountain Valley, CA 92708

LOCATION:
714-839-8611

Winter Market
Saturday, December 1, 2018
12 p.m.

Come enjoy the entertainment, take free pictures with Santa (from 12-4), grab a bite to eat, do some holiday shopping and visit the beer and wine garden. For the kids there will be face painting and a bounce house. "Spark of Love" toy drive with Fullerton Firefighters will also be there for those who wish to donate. Free event.

Parking may be found in any of the free downtown lots or in the parking structures at Wilshire (enter from Harbor); Lemon Street and Chapman Avenue;and in the Transportation Center on Pomona and Santa Fe Avenue.

LOCATION:
Downtown Fullerton

The Muckenthaler Cultural Center Holiday Festival
December 16, 2018
12:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

The Muckenthaler’s annual Holiday Festival features various activities, including live stage performances and an arts and crafts fair. Plus, delicious food vendors and exclusive craft beer selections! The family-friendly event also provides free art workshops for kids, a children’s play area, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. There is no admission fee for this outdoor event.

LOCATION:
The Muckenthaler Cultural Center
1201 West Malvern Avenue
Fullerton, California 92833

Winter in the Grove
Saturday, December 1, 2018
4-8 pm

Starting this year, the best of Winterfest and Christmas Tree Lighting holiday celebrations are coming together into one exciting new event - Winter in the Grove!

Enjoy free seasonal refreshments, children's activities, a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and an unforgettable tree lighting ceremony. Unlimited snow slide rides are $5. Food will be available for purchase.

LOCATION:
The Village Green/Clock Tower
Corner of Euclid and Main.

INFORMATION:
(714) 741-5200

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Christmas 4 Kids
2018 dates coming
9:00 AM through Noon

King of Kings Christmas for Kids provides both a fun morning for the children and a mini-break or mini-shopping time for the parents. We offer games, crafts, singing, and the story of Jesus' birth in a quick fun filled atmosphere. The end of the morning concludes with a family lunch so that you and your children may all leave fed and ready for the afternoon’s activities. All of this is FREE to you!

LOCATION:
King of Kings Lutheran School
13431 Newhope St
Garden Grove

INFORMATION:
714-530-2152

Sugar Plum Fairy Tea - Huntington Beach
Saturday, November 3, 2018
4:00-6:00 pm

Come and enjoy an afternoon of fun and fantasy as The Nutcracker comes to life at the Ballet Etudes Sugar Plum Fairy Tea. This is an event that all generations will enjoy with delicious food, treats, characters in costume, live performances, Nutcracker boutique, crafts and games and more. Plus a huge raffle with fabulous prizes.

Ballet Etudes is Huntington Academy of Dance's resident non-profit youth ballet company. Our mission is to expose a new generation of children, both performers and audience members to the beauty, grace, and athleticism of ballet; and to offer this experience at affordable prices.

LOCATION:
Senior Center in Central Park
18041 Goldenwest St
Huntington Beach, CA 92648

INFORMATION/TICKETS:
Click to find information on how to download a flyer and order tickets.

Swedish Christmas Fair - Huntington Beach
Sunday, November 18, 2018
11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Swedish Christmas Market with Swedish Handicrafts, Fish Pond, Glogg Bar, Baked Goods, Swedish Food, Lucia Pageant at 1pm and at 3pm

The Swedish Womens Education Association of Orange County (SWEA) will hold their annual Christmas Fair at Old World, Huntington Beach, right before the Thanksgiving Day Holiday. This will be the 6th year the SWEA Christmas Fair comes to Old World. The SWEA Christmas Fair, takes full advantage of the large Old world Festival Hall and spacious outside patio and beer garden to accommodate the large number of vendors and the 1,000+ people that attend the event.

LOCATION:
Old World Village Festival Hall
7561 Center Avenue #49
Huntington Beach, CA 92647, USA

Miracle on Main Street
November
2-7pm

It's the most wonderful time of the year when HB Downtown fills the 2nd block of Main Street with entertainment, holiday craft vendors, and refreshments.

The event starts on the street with entertainment such as Tuba Christmas, APA's Surf City Singers, princess party characters and more! Event will include free hot cocoa and treats, photos with Santa with the tree lighting ceremony at 6 pm.

FREE event open to the public

LOCATION:
Main Street
Huntington Beach

Ballet Etudes Presents The Nutcracker - Huntington Beach
December 1, 2, 8 & 9, 2018

The Nutcracker Ballet presented by Ballet Etudes, a non-profit youth ballet company. Free parking and wheelchair accessible.

Saturday, December 1st, at 7pm
Sunday, December 2nd, at 2pm
Saturday, December 8th, at 2pm & 7pm
Sunday, December 9th, at 2pm

LOCATION:
Huntington Beach High School Historic Theater
1905 Main Street
Huntington Beach, California.

INFORMATION/TICKETS:
Tickets: $20-up
Click to order online

The Nutcracker by Ballet Repertory Theatre - Huntington Beach
December

Enjoy Ballet Repertory Theatre’s cherished 41-year-old tradition of bringing beloved holiday music to life with nearly 300 performers in dazzling costumes. Travel alongside young Clara through a magical world of life-size dolls, toy soldiers, colossal mice, and delicate snowflakes to the fabulous Land of Sweets, home of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Exuberant French, Spanish, Arabian, Russian, and Chinese dancers await you, along with twirling candy canes and waltzing flowers. With 15 enchanting performances, Orange County’s longest-running Nutcracker is the ultimate feel-good family tradition.

Ticket prices: $19 general admission; $15 seniors, veterans, students, children under 12

LOCATION:
Golden West College Theater
15751 Gothard Street
Huntington Beach, CA 92647

INFORMATION:
714-895-8150

Annual Live Nativity & International Celebration - Huntington Beach
Sunday December 16, 2018
Doors open at 5:30pm.
Show starts at 6pm and ends at 8pm.

Each year Old World Village plays host to the International Celebration of Christmas, a celebration that brings together a diverse group of churches, singers, dancers for a celebration that highlights the true meaning of the holiday season. FREE Admission.

LOCATION:
Old World Village
7561 Center Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92647, USA

Cruise of Lights
December 14-17 & 20-23, 2018

Take a narrated cruise through the waterways of Huntington Harbour to see the holiday lighted homes and decorations in this annual event.

LOCATION:
Park in the Huntington Harbour Mall lot (corner of Algonquin and Saybrook) and get on the designated buses that travel a short distance to the boat launch area.

INFORMATION:
Advanced ticket purchase call: (714) 840-7542

Storymakery  Holiday  Storybook  Workshop
Saturday, November
2 pm

There are many things to celebrate this season! We would like to invite you to Storymakery Holiday Hoopla on Saturday, November 18th. Festivities will start at 2pm celebrating our customers, the season, and the launch of expansion of our My Storymakery personalized books, where you can simply add the child's name. a heartfelt personalized dedication, and byline. 'Tis the season to take selfies with Santa and munch on some gingerbread cookies with hot cocoa. Kids of all ages are welcome!

RSVP for FREE HERE ​

LOCATION:
Storymakery
825 Spectrum Center Dr.
Irvine, CA 92618

INFORMATION/RESERVATION:
reserve online

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Winter Wonderland
Sunday, December 2 2018
3:00pm - 7:00pm

Celebrate the season as “snow” falls over the Irvine Civic Center and the community gathers for games, crafts, entertainment, food and a tree-lighting ceremony. This event includes a Joyful Jingles program and a visit from Santa Claus. Guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped gift suitable for infants or children up to age 12. Toy donations aid the Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee Holiday Drive, which benefits the families of Irvine’s adopted 2/11 Marine Battalion.

Admission is free; registration is not required.

LOCATION:
Irvine Civc Center
Irvine, CA 92618

INFORMATION:
For more information, call 949-724-6606

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Annual Home for the Holidays Pet Adoption Fair
Sunday, December 9, 2018
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

This fun event will give Orange County families the opportunity to make a homeless animal part of their loving family - just in time for the holidays!

This event will bring about 600 homeless dogs, cats, rabbits and small animals for adoption. The annual event also features dozens of pet-related vendors, gourmet food trucks, a silent auction, low-cost microchipping and an opportunity drawing. Each animal available for adoption is spayed or neutered, microchipped and evaluated by a veterinarian. Cats and dogs are vaccinated appropriate to age.

Suggested donation for the event is $2 per person or $5 per family. and parking is free.

LOCATION:
Irvine Animal Care Center
6443 Oak Canyon Road
Irvine, CA 92618

INFORMATION:
949-724-7740

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Hooray for Chanukah
December
3:30 pm

Celebrate Chanukah at Pretend City. Your child will love these rich and diverse activities about the Hanukkah miracle and the importance of many of the traditions of the holiday. We’ll have fun learning about this wonderful holiday through games, finger play rhymes, art projects and activities.

Cost is included with museum admission.

LOCATION:
Pretend City Children’s Museum
29 Hubble
Irvine, CA

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Christmas Countdown
December

It’s time to begin the 12 days of Christmas Countdown! The days that lead up to Christmas are an exciting and magical time for young children. Join us each day as we “unwrap” a new activity that celebrates the season.

Cost is included with museum admission.

LOCATION:
Pretend City Children’s Museum
29 Hubble
Irvine, CA

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Festival of Kwanzaa
December
11:30 am

Kwanzaa is here, and there are so many fun things to do! Join us each day during the Festival of Kwanzaa to “light” a candle on the Kinara. Every day, we’ll celebrate a new Kwanzaa principle through a variety of activities including making gifts for family and friends, playing Kwanzaa games and storytime. These daily activities are a perfect way to begin teaching your children about the meaning and traditions of this joyous holiday.

Cost is included with museum admission.

LOCATION:
Pretend City Children’s Museum
29 Hubble
Irvine, CA

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Hilton New Years Eve Party
December 31

Party and take the elevator home at Hilton NYE, 'When it just has to be First Class'!

LOCATION:
TBA

INFORMATION / RESERVATIONS:
Reserve and pay online for this event @ LemonDropClub.com or call 949-378-6600 for details. Special room rates at the Hilton for attendees.

Note, this is sold out every year for the last 8 years, so please get your reservation in early.
Ask for Lemondrop New Years Eve Party Rate.

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For Kids!
Annual Noon-Year’s Confetti Countdown
December 31
10 am - 5 pm

5...4...3...2...1... HAPPY NOON YEAR! Join Pretend City Children's Museum for our annual New Year's Celebration in the middle of the day! Celebrate the new year at different times throughout the day as the sun travels across the different time zones! There will be a confetti countdown 4 different times to celebrate the new year in Bangladesh, Dubai, Athens, and London, as it turns to midnight in these different cities! We will also have New Year's activities and art for our little ones to enjoy!

LOCATION:
Pretend City Children’s Museum
29 Hubble, Irvine, CA

INFORMATION / TICKETS:
949.428.3900
Online tickets

Sawdust Winter Fantasy
Five Weekends: November 17 through December 16, 2018
open 10am-7pm

This unique fair offers shoppers the opportunity to purchase unique artisan crafts from various local artists. Includes live entertainment, hands-on art projects and picture-perfect moments, the Sawdust Art Festival's Winter Fantasy will become your family's holiday tradition.

LOCATION:
Sawdust Art Festival
935 Laguna Canyon Rd

INFORMATION:
949-494-3030 -

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Laguna Playhouse presents: Beauty & the Beast
December 5 - 30, 2018

This modern version of the classic fairytale, Lythgoe Family Panto’s Beauty and the Beast: A Christmas Rose brings all the magic of the traditional British family Holiday Panto to American audiences. In this interactive experience, the audience is encouraged to CHEER for Belle, BOO for Gus and sing along with popular songs such as the BeeGees’ “Staying Alive,” The Chainsmokers & Coldplay’s “Something Just Like This,” and Edith Piaf’s “La Vie En Rose.”

LOCATION:
Laguna Playhouse
606 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92652

INFORMATION:
Box Office (949) 497-ARTS (2787)

Breakfast with Santa
December 8, 2018
9-11 AM

Join in on this special celebration complete with a scrumptious pancake breakfast, photos with Santa and holiday crafts! Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Registration closes Wednesday December 5th. Resident $10, Non-Resident $15

LOCATION:
Community Center & Sports Complex
25555 Alicia Parkway

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Orange County Christmas Lights
Thanksgiving night - New Years Eve

Free event hosted nightly from 5pm to 9 pm from Thanksgiving to New Year's Eve. Christmas Lights and Home Decorating show featuring over 100,000 lights dancing to festive music plus spectacular Department 56 snow village displays with hundreds of houses and giant hand sculpted mountains.

Come by for some warm apple cider and holiday cheer!

LOCATION:
25473 Nellie Gail Road
Laguna Hills, CA 92653

Ritz-Carlton Annual Open House & Tree Lighting Ceremony
Sunday, November 18, 2018
4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Holiday music and a special appearance from Santa Claus.

Guests are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy to be donated to Miracles for Kids. Event is complimentary.

LOCATION:
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
One Ritz-Carlton Drive
Dana Point, CA 92629

Holiday Tea at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Mondays-Thursdays
November 26 - December 13, 2018
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Treat someone special to the timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in Raya Restaurant featuring an array of teas, savory canapés, and sweet bites in an elegant oceanfront setting. $75 per person. Reservations must be made 24hrs in advance.

LOCATION:
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
One Ritz-Carlton Drive
Dana Point, CA 92629

INFORMATION:
(949)-240-2000

Yappy Howl-iday
Sunday, December 2, 2018

Santa Claus will make a special appearance for the Yappy Howl-iday Celebration. This festive gathering of canines and their companions provides Fido with the opportunity to be photographed with the “Big Dog” himself – Santa Claus. In keeping with the resort’s Season of Giving, guests are asked to bring unopened canned or dry dog food, treats or dog toys to be donated to an animal rescue organization. Proceeds support The Canine Companions Veterans Initiative.

LOCATION:
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
One Ritz-Carlton Drive
Dana Point, CA 92629

Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade
Saturday, December 8, 2018
Parade Step off time 10 a.m.

The Theme for this year's parade is 'Jingle All the Way'. The parade will include beautiful equestrian units, patriotic and inspirational military tributes, world-class athletes, spirit-filled youth groups, classic auto clubs, talented marching bands, and some of the biggest attractions in the nation!

LOCATION:
Crown Valley Parkway
between Nueva Vista and Crown Valley Community Park.

Breakfast with Santa
December 1 and 2, 2018
8:30 a.m., 9:45 a.m. and 11 a.m.

A time honored classic for Christmas, this event at the Museum includes a continental breakfast of yummy treats, a colorful craft for each child, a classic photo with Santa Claus and free admission into the Museum!

Breakfast with Santa is an annual fund raising event sponsored by the Museum Guild. All proceeds benefit The Children's Museum at La Habra. $11 Kids 2 and over, $13 Adults

LOCATION:
The Children’s Museum at La Habra
301 South Euclid Street
La Habra, CA 90631

INFORMATION:
Reservations are required for this event. For more information please call 562-383-4240 or email the Museum.

Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
Crafts & visits with Santa: 4 - 5:30 p.m.
Ceremony: 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Join your friends and family for this annual holiday favorite. Every year this event brings the La Palma community together to ring in the holiday season! Enjoy the musical talents from our local schools and join in during the Community Carol Sing Along.

Take a picture with Santa and his elves in the activities area before the event. This area will feature crafts, an opportunity to write a letter to Santa, and of course, the young and young-at-heart won’t want to miss an early visit from Santa Claus!

LOCATION:
Central Park Amphitheater
7821 Walker Street

INFORMATION:
(714) 690-3350 (will be cancelled in the event of rain)

Winter Wonderland
Saturday, December 1, 2018
4:00 to 7:30pm

Winter Wonderland at the Plaza will feature an area to play in the snow, activities, Santa’s Village, a tree lighting ceremony, refreshments, and entertainment. The event is FREE, so be sure to bundle up and bring your family and friends along to join in the fun!

Canned food drive - please bring canned goods to donate for local charities.

LOCATION:
St. Isidore Historical Plaza
10961 Reagan St, Los Alamitos, CA

Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Newport Beach/Newport Bay
December 19-23, 2018

FREE to the public. The boat parade will light up the harbor for five consecutive nights. The parade starts at Collins Island at 6:30 p.m. and will last approximately three and a half hours over 250 ships participate in the parade along with hundreds of water front estates. Providing the backdrop for the parade is the Ring of Lights waterfront home and business decorating competition. FREE for spectators, entry fee for participating boats. Over million and half people view the parade each year.

For those of you that would like to be in parade both Newport Landing and Davey's Locker will offer 3 general admission cruises nightly every night of the parade that are a part of the actual parade. Viewing the parade from a ship means that you see all of the parade and homes in full decor that line the waterfront. General admission tickets can be reserved over the phone.

LOCATIONS FOR CRUISES:
December 1-31, 2018
Offered three times nightly (check websites for times)
Newport Landing
309 Palm - Suite A, Newport Beach Ca 92661
Davey's Locker
400 Main St., Newport Beach, CA 92661

INFORMATION:
949-675-0551

Crystal Cove Tree Lighting & Holiday Bazaar
December
10 am - 5:30 pm

Tree lighting ceremony with a seasonal bazaar featuring handcrafted items by local residents and artists. The excitement builds when Santa arrives at 4 p.m. for family photos, followed by the tree lighting ceremony at dusk (approximately 5 p.m.), a holiday tradition that draws locals and visitors alike.

LOCATION:
Park in the Los Trancos lot (PCH inland at stoplight Los Trancos then walk across the street or take the shuttle.) Parking: $5/hr (max. $15).

Moreno’s Restaurant 6th Annual Christmas Boutique - Orange
Sunday, December 2, 2018
10 am - 4 pm

Bring your friends and join us for a festive day of Christmas shopping!

Shop for unique, hand crafted gifts, décor and more from 25 of Southern California’s most talented vendors while enjoying Moreno’s holiday atmosphere and tasty treats! Find something for everyone on your list while supporting a great community organization, Lestonnac Free Clinic.

Moreno's Restaurant will donate all proceeds from boutique to Lestonnac Free Clinic.

LOCATION:
Moreno's Restaurant Banquet Hall
4328 E. Chapman Ave.
Orange

INFORMATION:
Linda Moreno-Magarro at (714) 313-1319

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Tree Lighting Ceremony & Candlelight Choir Processional
Sunday, December 2, 2018
3:30 - 7 pm

Tree Lighting and Candlelight Procession includes holiday music. Local non-profit groups also provide delcious food and youth activities for a nominal charge.

Holiday Festivities begin at 3:30 p.m. Main Musical Program & Tree Lighting Ceremony begins at 5:15 p.m.

LOCATION:
Old Town Plaza
Chapman Avenue and Glassell Street

INFORMATION:
Special Events Hotline - 714-744-7278

Annual Holiday Wassail Concert
December
8 pm

A magnificent concert of holiday season favorites performed by the Chapman University Singers, University Choir and Women’s Choir along with music performed by The Chapman Orchestra.

LOCATION:
Chapman University
One University Drive
Orange, CA 92866

RESERVATIONS/TICKETS:
Tickets available online

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Christmas Painting Fun Night at Mission Art
December
3:00pm to 5pm

This workshop is a fun workshop. We will teach you how to paint with simple method. At the end of the session, participants will have 1 completed canvas to take home with them. All supplies are provided. No prior art experience is required. In fact, many times some of the best paintings are done by people who have never painted prior to the workshop. It isn't about talent; it's about the process and how much you will enjoy the painting!

For kids and adults (kids and parents also can join together). Pizza and refreshments included $38.00 each person. Ages: 6 years and up.

LOCATION:
Mission Art Center
1730 N. Tustin Street
Orange CA 92865

INFORMATION:
Space is limited!
Please call us to book your space at: 714-402-8535

Santa's Village by the Sea
Saturday, December 1, 2018
5-8 pm

Join us on Avenida Del Mar for a holiday spectacular that will include collaboration of the Downtown Business Association's Puttin' on the Glitz, Christmas at the Casa, Santa's Village by the Sea and tree lighting.

5 pm: Tree Lighting Ceremony with Santa arriving from a Firetruck down Del Mar
5-7:30 pm: Christmas at the Casa
5-8 pm: Puttin' On The Glitz | Community Center Holiday Hoopla

Free shuttle between Avenida Del Mar and San Clemente High School 2-10pm

LOCATION:
Various locations

INFORMATION:
(949) 218-5378

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Christmas at the Casa: Holiday Open House - San Clemente
December 1, 2018
5-7:30 pm

Casa Romantica’s annual holiday open house features traditional and bell choirs, a visit from Santa, a talking tree, kids crafts, holiday décor, and refreshments.

Christmas at the Casa is held in partnership with the City of San Clemente’s Santa’s Village by the Sea.

LOCATION:
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens
415 Avenida Granada
San Clemente, CA 92672

INFORMATION:
(949) 498-2139

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Casa Kinetic: Nutcracker - San Clemente
December 6-7, 2018
7-8:30 pm

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with the Nutcracker ballet. This bestselling event, performed with panache by the Orange County Ballet Theater, is a must for the whole family.

The Casa Nutcracker features choreography tailored to Casa Romantica’s intimate Main Salon.

LOCATION:
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, Main Salon
415 Avenida Granada
San Clemente, CA 92672

INFORMATION:
(949) 498-2139

Camino Real Playhouse presents: A Charlie Brown Christmas - San Juan Capistrano
November 23 - December 22, 2018

Originally broadcast in 1947 as part of the Archie Andrews radio show. We invite you now to join Archie and his pals Jughead, Veronica and Betty in another comic adventure from Riverdale. Performed as a live radio broadcast as a preview to our main show. Then join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the Peanuts gang as they mount a play, save a tree, and uncover the true meaning of Christmas in A Charlie Brown Christmas. Charles M. Schulz’s Emmy and Peabody award-winning story has warmed the hearts of millions of fans since it first aired on television more than 50 years ago. The classic television special comes to life in a stage adaptation featuring Vince Guaraldi’s timeless score.

LOCATION:
Camino Real Playhouse
31776 El Camino Real
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 675

INFORMATION:
(949) 489-8082

Mission Fine Art Gallery Holiday Party
Thursday, November 29, 2018
5 to 8 p.m.

Mission Fine Art Gallery is hosting a holiday party on Thursday, November 29, from 5 to 8 p.m. Stop by and enjoy artist and jewelry demonstrations, live music, wine tasting and appetizers.

Gallery artists are painting original holiday ornaments to decorate your home for the holidays. Bring a friend and try your luck at our Lucky Draw! Neighboring businesses are also staying open, and are offering special surprises to help celebrate the evening. Join us and kick off the holiday season in style!

Mission Fine Art Gallery is a historic public space that showcases award-winning original paintings, ceramics and jewelry. This artist-run gallery has a mission to serve the community by creating art that celebrates life, culture and the unique natural surroundings of Southern California

LOCATION:
Mission Fine Art Gallery
31760 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

INFORMATION:
949-291-7738

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 1, 2018
4 - 10 pm

Don’t miss the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration which includes dance, orchestra, mariachi and musical theater performances. Holiday activities throughout downtown following the event. Downtown shops will host “Open House” with special sales and complimentary refreshments.

Visitors can see a Live Nativity Presentation at ZOOMARS, stroll along Los Rios Street as the shops shine with holiday cheer and treats, FREE photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a FREE Christmas Train Ride, Puppet Show, Crafts and so much more!

LOCATION:
Downtown San Juan Capistrano
31852 El Camino Real

INFORMATION:
949-493-5911

Discovery CubePresents: Science of Gingerbread - Santa Ana
November 23, 2018 - January 6, 2019

Aprons on, scientists! You’ll head into the world of the classic holiday dessert and find out how science plays a crucial role in the kitchen. Our favorite goodies don’t come together magically though. We use heat, math, engineering and other important components in order to bake and create the confections everyone loves. Build a candy car out of holiday treats and then compete, sweet-to-sweet in the Gingerbread Derby, Santa Claus will make special appearances, and other fa, la, la activities are on the schedule.

LOCATION:
Discovery Cube
2500 N. Main St.
Santa Ana, CA 92705

INFORMATION:
714-542-2823

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Winter Zoobilation & International Snow Day with the Critters
December
12 noon - 3pm

All Zoo event featuring international stations, activities, educational crafts & games, animals and entertainment.

General Public - free with price of admission; FOSAZ Members - FREE; City of Santa Ana Residents - FREE.

December 1-31, 2017 (Zoobilation)

Also, for the whole month of December, the Santa Ana Zoo will be transformed into a winter wonderland called "Winter Zoobilation" with snow, lights, music and special festive decorations for all to enjoy.

LOCATION:
Santa Ana Zoo
1801 E Chestnut Ave
Santa Ana, CA

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Santa is Coming to Town at the Bowers Museum
December
1-2 pm

The Reindeer are busy napping this week preparing for their big night. Santa will roll up to Kidseum on his motorcycle at 1 PM while the children wait excitedly outside for his arrival. Children will have the opportunity to sit on Santa’s lap on his red Wells Fargo Wagon and fly around the world on the Green Screen Time Machine. Don’t forget to bring your camera for still shots and videos!

LOCATION:
Bowers Museum
2002 North Main Street
Santa Ana

INFORMATION:
(714) 567-3679

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Kidseum New Years Celebration
December 31
10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Fun New Year’s themed craft projects. In the Art Studio, kids will create hand-made reusable confetti poppers and colorful noisemakers that they can use at home during the real countdown. The kiddos will practice countdowns every hour on the hour, beginning at noon, to be ready for the New Year’s countdown. Kids can practice making as much noise as possible with their hand-crafted noise makers and practice shooting their confetti! In the Glow Cave, we will make glowing wish wands that will even glow in the dark when you take them home! At 1:30pm, after our practice countdown and blasting of colorful confetti, there will be a balloon drop in the center of Kidseum!

LOCATION:
Bowers Museum
2002 North Main Street
Santa Ana

INFORMATION:
(714) 567-3679

Annual Christmas Parade
Friday, December 7, 2018
7:00 PM to 8:45 PM

The Annual Seal Beach Christmas Parade Ushers in the Holidays each year with bands, floats, lots of kids and of course Santa. This ‘continuous motion’ parade highlights youth groups, sports groups, schools, businesses, first responders and other organizations from Seal Beach and the surrounding areas. More than 17,000 are expected on Main Street to celebrate the holidays in a hometown ‘Mayberry by the Sea’ parade.

LOCATION:
Main Street from Ocean Ave to PCH
Seal Beach, CA 90740

INFORMATION:
562-799-0179

Christmas Tree Lighting
Thursday December 6, 2018
6-7:30 p.m.

Join your family and friends for this wonderful Christmas event! The event will feature musical performances by the Rancho Alamitos High School Choir, Tree Lighting Ceremony, visits with Santa, rides on the “Polar Express”, refreshments, storybook reading, arts and crafts, displays and non-profit food booths. This year, the City will celebrate holidays around the world and showcase timeless traditions observed by members of the global community.

LOCATION:
Stanton Central Park
10660 Western Avenue

INFORMATION:
For additional information please call 890-4270

Cars & (Santa) Claus
Sunday, December 2, 2018
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Santa Claus is making a pit-stop to The Marconi on December 2nd! Get a family photo with jolly St. Nick and their red Ferrari, or simply tour the museum with a cup of hot cocoa and brownie. Purchase general admission tickets today, admission price goes up on the day of the event.

General admission is $5 per person, children under 12 get in for free.

LOCATION:
The Marconi Automotive Museum
1302 Industrial Dr
Tustin, California 92780

INFORMATION/TICKETS:
(714) 258-3001
Purchase tickets online

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Tree Lighting
Friday, December 7, 2018
6 PM

The City of Tustin Parks and Recreation Department invites you to join in the holiday fun as they celebrate their Annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony. Performances by Tustin Family and Youth Center Kids Corner Preschool, Tustin Dance Center, HBP Dance Extreme, Academy of Dance, CT Middle School Choir and Compass Bible Church. Event will also feature: Letters to Santa, a Craft Area, Booths, Pictures w/Santa and Tree Lighting.

LOCATION:
Tustin Library Courtyard
345 East Main Street
Tustin, CA 92780

INFORMATION:
714-573-3326 -

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CulinaryLab's Holiday Give-a-thon - Tustin
December
3-5 pm

Join CulinaryLab for a day of giving for the whole family! ​ They will be accepting food donations on behalf of the OC Rescue Mission. Activities for this event will include the Food Drive, Cookie Decorating, Care Package Building Station & Hot Chocolate.

Suggested Donations:​ Canned Food (meats, tuna, soup, vegetables, fruits, spaghetti sauce, peanut butter), Boxed or Bagged Food (rice, mashed Potatoes, macaroni and cheese, dry pasta) ​

LOCATION:
CulinaryLab
17231 17th St b
Tustin, CA

The Great Dry Land Yacht Parade
Sunday, December
4:30 PM

Be a part of this great event and celebration as parade participant, viewer, or vendor.

The Villa Park asphalt harbor will be filled with "Yachts and Yachts of Holiday Fun" as the annual procession of wheeled vessels sets sail for the VP Towne Centre celebration with many happy campers waving to them from neighborhood shorelines. Great food, and fun and/or funky vendors, plus musical entertainment await everyone in the Centre, as do special trophies for many unique crafts. Why knot seize the opportunity to decorate and enter your truck, trailer, ski boat, homemade submarine or jazzy yacht full of friends or kids in this wacky entourage.

LOCATION:
Parade starts at Villa Park High School & ends at Towne Centre

Annual Handel's Messiah community sing-along
Sunday, November 25, 2018
Concert times are 11 am and 1 pm

The audience is invited to sing along with the Master Chorus and Orchestra in the favorite Messiah choruses. Singers may bring their own music scores or borrow one (limited number). Baroque 18th century costumes are encouraged.

Seating is on a first-come basis, and admission is free. Donations are accepted (suggested donation $5).

LOCATION:
Richard Nixon Library

INFORMATION:
714-996-1960

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Candlelight Evenings at the Nixon Library - Yorba Linda
Wednesdays, November - December

Toy Trains, Santa Claus and White House Traditions

In the spirit of White House Christmas traditions past and present, the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum is opening its doors after hours for special Candlelight Evenings every Wednesday night this holiday season. New this year! Explore the special holiday display, A Whistling White House Wonderland! The exciting fan-favorite exhibit is back with a 10-foot mountain of model trains whistling over bridges and through tunnels.

LOCATION:
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
18001 Yorba Linda Blvd.
Yorba Linda, CA 92886

INFORMATION:
714-993-5075