Get thrilled for the holidays in Monterey Park! Our guide will help you find all the best festive events. Whether you're a Monterey Park native or a curious explorer, this guide unlocks the best of the holidays.
One of the highlights this season is the Hollywood Christmas Parade, where festive floats and celebrity appearances transform the streets into a winter wonderland. With its cheerful atmosphere and lively performances, it’s a great way to experience the holiday spirit. Christmas on the Wharf also captures attention, offering scenic views and local festivities along the waterfront. And the Mariah Carey Christmas is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring enchanting music and performances that will fill the air with joy. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Please contact us if you have suggestions or corrections!
Join the Monterey Park Discussion!
Top Holiday Events In and Around Monterey Park
- Hollywood Christmas Parade (Hollywood)
- Christmas on the Wharf (Monterey)
- HapPIER Holidays at Pier 39 (San Francisco)
- First Night Monterey (Monterey)
- Merry Farm (Buena Park)
- Mariah Carey Christmas (Hollywood)
- Christmas Tree Lane (Fresno)
- The Polar Express Train Ride (Perris)
- Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train (Orange)
- Christmas in the Adobes (Monterey)
See these and even more events listed below!
Monterey Park Holiday Light Displays
Holiday Parade of Lights
What to Expect:
Celebrating coastal California living with a diverse lighted parade.
Description:
The 2024 Holiday Parade of Lights in Pacific Grove celebrates the essence of coastal California living with its "Sand and Sea Holiday" theme. The parade features marching bands, holiday floats, dance teams, and equestrian groups, all illuminated to highlight the rich diversity of Monterey Bay. It begins at the corner of Fountain and Lighthouse, runs down Lighthouse and Park Streets, makes a U-turn, and ends at Grand Avenue.
Where: Pacific Grove | More Info: Holiday Parade of Lights
Monterey Community Christmas Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Traditional community celebration with festive music and treats.
Description:
The Downtown Monterey Tree Lighting Celebration features carols, candles, cookies, cider, and music by Mike Marotta Family & Friends, all on the lawn in front of historic Colton Hall.
Where: Monterey | More Info: Monterey Community Christmas Tree Lighting
Carmel-by-the-Sea Holiday Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Holiday tree and menorah lighting with festive activities.
Description:
Join Carmel-by-the-Sea for the annual Holiday Tree and Menorah Lighting Celebration at Devendorf Park. The event features Santa's arrival via fire truck, a menorah lighting ceremony, and the lighting of the holiday tree. Following the tree lighting, Carmel Plaza hosts an open house with live music, visits with Santa and Martin the Magical Elf, face painting, and kids' activities.
Where: Carmel-by-the-Sea | More Info: Carmel-by-the-Sea Holiday Tree Lighting
Brighten the Harbor
What to Expect:
Decorated boats cruise along the Monterey Coast.
Description:
Watch beautifully decorated boats cruise along the Monterey Coast during the Brighten the Harbor lighted boat parade, sponsored by Fisherman's Wharf Association.
Where: Monterey | More Info: Brighten the Harbor
Christmas Tree Lane
What to Expect:
Historic holiday light display along a 2-mile stretch of decorated homes.
Description:
Christmas Tree Lane is a century-old tradition where North Van Ness Boulevard in Fig Garden transforms into a one-way street lined with hundreds of trees and homes decorated with Christmas lights and decorations. Visitors can drive the 2-mile stretch from Shields to Shaw, enjoying the holiday displays until Christmas Day.
Where: Fresno | More Info: Christmas Tree Lane
Holiday Road
What to Expect:
Immersive holiday experience with interactive installations and festive activities.
Description:
Holiday Road is an immersive holiday event in Los Angeles featuring larger-than-life holiday installations, thousands of Christmas lights, Santa, Mrs. Claus, Elves, and countless candy canes. The event includes a nearly mile-long walking trail, interactive photo moments, a festive souvenir shop, premium holiday bars, and top food trucks. Guests can enjoy live Santa photos, holiday-themed face painting, and whimsical activities amidst a backdrop of carolers and seasonal treats.
Where: Calabasas | More Info: Holiday Road
Sleepy Hollow Christmas Lights Extravaganza
What to Expect:
Wildly extravagant decorations by residents.
Description:
The Sleepy Hollow Christmas Lights Extravaganza, also known as Candy Cane Lane, is one of the largest holiday decoration displays in the country. Residents of the Seaside Ranchos neighborhood in Torrance have elaborately decorated their homes for over 40 years, creating a spectacular annual holiday lights display. Visitors can walk or drive through the neighborhood to revel in the sights, sounds, and scents of the season.
Where: Torrance | More Info: Sleepy Hollow Christmas Lights Extravaganza
Monterey Park Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Hollywood Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Star-studded celebration with iconic floats and marching bands.
Description:
The Hollywood Christmas Parade is a cherished tradition that brings the Hollywood community together with dazzling floats, marching bands, and performances. It features legendary celebrities and a profound charitable mission supporting Toys for Tots and other organizations helping underprivileged children.
Where: Hollywood | More Info: Hollywood Christmas Parade
Mariah Carey Christmas
What to Expect:
Legendary singer's holiday concert with special house rules.
Description:
Mariah Carey brings her iconic holiday hits to the Hollywood Bowl, promising an unforgettable evening of music and celebration.
Where: Hollywood | More Info: Mariah Carey Christmas
John Denver’s Rocky Mountain Christmas
What to Expect:
Tribute performance to John Denver's iconic music.
Description:
Rick Schuler's performance of John Denver's music brings back the nostalgia of the 1970s with hits like "Rocky Mountain High," "Sunshine on My Shoulders," and "Take Me Home, Country Roads." The show includes heartwarming inspirational carols and holiday classics from John Denver's TV specials and Christmas albums.
Where: Anaheim | More Info: John Denver’s Rocky Mountain Christmas
Merry Farm
What to Expect:
Classic holiday festival with world-class ice skaters and unique dining options.
Description:
Knott's Merry Farm transforms the entire park into a classic holiday festival with thousands of twinkling lights, themed garland, and jumbo snowflakes. Enjoy Christmas shows, a beloved ice show starring Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang, and delectable holiday dining food. The streets of Calico host a Christmas Crafts Village and a magical Snow and Glow experience.
Where: Buena Park | More Info: Merry Farm
The Polar Express Train Ride
What to Expect:
Live theatrical onboard entertainment with Santa and his helpers.
Description:
The Polar Express Train Ride is a live production aboard a slow-moving train, featuring scripted scenes, live singing, dancing, and audience interaction. Passengers enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, read along with "The Polar Express," and meet Santa, receiving a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas.
Where: Perris | More Info: The Polar Express Train Ride
Christmas on the Wharf
What to Expect:
Free Santa visits and live holiday entertainment.
Description:
Christmas on the Wharf features dazzling decorations, live entertainment, Santa visits, holiday musical performances, and various activities like whale watching and shopping.
Where: Monterey | More Info: Christmas on the Wharf
Christmas in the Adobes
What to Expect:
Candle-lit luminarias lead visitors to each historic building.
Description:
Stroll through historic Old Monterey and explore beautifully decorated adobes, enjoying live music and stories about Monterey's history.
Where: Monterey | More Info: Christmas in the Adobes
First Night Monterey
What to Expect:
Family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration with diverse performances and interactive art.
Description:
First Night Monterey is a vibrant community celebration of the arts on New Year's Eve, featuring diverse performances, interactive art activities, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Where: Monterey | More Info: First Night Monterey
Monterey Park Other Holiday Activities
Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday experience with Santa and festive activities.
Description:
Take a festive ride through historic Irvine Regional Park to meet Santa Claus and enjoy colorful Christmas lights and decorations.
Where: Orange | More Info: Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train
Holiday Snow Village
What to Expect:
Snow activities with designated time slots and wristbands.
Description:
The Holiday Snow Village in Monterey Park offers a variety of free activities, including snow sled runs, a snow play area, and pictures with Santa. The event also features a Farmers' Market with food and artisan vendors. Attendees must register for a one-hour time slot to participate in snow activities, and wristbands are required for entry.
Where: Monterey Park | More Info: Holiday Snow Village
Stillwell's Fun in the Park
What to Expect:
Complimentary rides, bounce houses, and a petting zoo.
Description:
Stillwell's Fun in the Park is a festive holiday event at Caledonia Park featuring complimentary rides, bounce houses, a petting zoo, and entertainment. Santa Claus arrives at noon, joining Frosty the Snowman and Snow Queen.
Where: Pacific Grove | More Info: Stillwell's Fun in the Park
HapPIER Holidays at Pier 39
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration with live music and festive decorations.
Description:
HapPIER Holidays at Pier 39 features a variety of festive activities, including live music, holiday-themed decorations, and family-friendly events that create a joyful atmosphere.
Where: San Francisco | More Info: HapPIER Holidays at Pier 39
Christmas at the Inns
What to Expect:
Holiday walking tour of decorated historic inns.
Description:
Explore Pacific Grove's historic inns and properties decorated for the holidays, featuring live music and holiday treats.
Where: Pacific Grove | More Info: Christmas at the Inns
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Alhambra (2 miles)
- San Gabriel (3 miles)
- Rosemead (3 miles)
- Montebello (4 miles)
- East Los Angeles (4 miles)
- South Pasadena (4 miles)
- South El Monte (4 miles)
- Temple City (5 miles)
- Boyle Heights (5 miles)
- El Monte (5 miles)
- Pico Rivera (6 miles)
- Pasadena (6 miles)
- Maywood (6 miles)
- West Whittier-Los Nietos (7 miles)
- Bell Gardens (7 miles)
- Bell (7 miles)
- Los Angeles (7 miles)
- Arcadia (7 miles)
- Whittier (8 miles)
- Cudahy (8 miles)
- Echo Park (8 miles)
- Huntington Park (8 miles)
- Downey (8 miles)
- Silver Lake (9 miles)
- Altadena (9 miles)
- West Puente Valley (9 miles)
- South Gate (9 miles)
- South Whittier (9 miles)
- Monrovia (9 miles)
- Glendale (9 miles)
- Baldwin Park (9 miles)
- Florence-Graham (10 miles)
- Duarte (10 miles)
- Hacienda Heights (10 miles)
- La Canada Flintridge (10 miles)
- Koreatown (10 miles)
- Valinda (10 miles)
- La Puente (10 miles)
- Lynwood (10 miles)
- West Covina (11 miles)
- Norwalk (11 miles)
- La Mirada (12 miles)
- Hollywood (12 miles)
- Paramount (12 miles)
- Bellflower (12 miles)
- Willowbrook (13 miles)
- Compton (13 miles)
- South San Jose Hills (13 miles)
- Westmont (13 miles)
- Azusa (13 miles)
- Burbank (13 miles)
- Covina (13 miles)
- La Habra (14 miles)
- West Hollywood (14 miles)
- Rowland Heights (14 miles)
- Universal City (14 miles)
- Lakewood (14 miles)
- Cerritos (14 miles)
- Inglewood (15 miles)
- Walnut (15 miles)
- Buena Park (15 miles)
- Glendora (16 miles)
- Lennox (16 miles)
- Beverly Hills (16 miles)
- Culver City (16 miles)
- Gardena (16 miles)
- Tujunga (16 miles)
- Brea (16 miles)
- North Hollywood (16 miles)
- Hawthorne (17 miles)
- Studio City (17 miles)
- Fullerton (17 miles)
- Cypress (18 miles)
- Lawndale (18 miles)
- Diamond Bar (18 miles)
- San Dimas (18 miles)
- Carson (18 miles)
- West Carson (19 miles)
- Stanton (19 miles)
- Placentia (20 miles)
- Sherman Oaks (20 miles)
- Anaheim (20 miles)
- Venice (20 miles)
- Torrance (20 miles)
- La Verne (20 miles)
- Van Nuys (21 miles)
- Manhattan Beach (21 miles)
- Valley Glen (21 miles)
- Long Beach (21 miles)
- Redondo Beach (21 miles)
- Pomona (21 miles)
- Santa Monica (21 miles)
- Chino Hills (21 miles)
- Yorba Linda (21 miles)
- Lomita (22 miles)
- Westminster (22 miles)
- Seal Beach (22 miles)
- Garden Grove (22 miles)
- Encino (23 miles)
- Claremont (23 miles)
- San Fernando (24 miles)
- North Hills (24 miles)
- Orange (24 miles)
- San Pedro (25 miles)
- Montclair (25 miles)
- Chino (25 miles)
- Fountain Valley (26 miles)
- Northridge (26 miles)
- Santa Ana (26 miles)
- Rancho Palos Verdes (27 miles)
- Ontario (27 miles)
- Upland (27 miles)
- Tustin (28 miles)
- North Tustin (28 miles)
- Woodland Hills (29 miles)
- Huntington Beach (29 miles)
- Canoga Park (29 miles)
- Calabasas (30 miles)
- Rancho Cucamonga (30 miles)
- Chatsworth (30 miles)
- West Hills (31 miles)
- Costa Mesa (31 miles)
- Canyon Country (32 miles)
- Irvine (32 miles)
- Newport Beach (33 miles)
- Eastvale (33 miles)
- Santa Clarita (33 miles)
- Norco (34 miles)
- Corona (34 miles)
- Jurupa Valley (35 miles)
- Agoura (36 miles)
- Palmdale (36 miles)
- Glen Avon (37 miles)
- Agoura Hills (38 miles)
- Lake Forest (38 miles)
- Valencia (38 miles)
- Laguna Hills (39 miles)
- Fontana (39 miles)
- Simi Valley (40 miles)
- Laguna Beach (41 miles)
- Mission Viejo (41 miles)
- Aliso Viejo (41 miles)
- Rubidoux (41 miles)
- Thousand Oaks (42 miles)
- Bloomington (42 miles)
- Rancho Santa Margarita (42 miles)
- Riverside (42 miles)
- Rialto (43 miles)
- Lancaster (44 miles)
- Ladera Ranch (44 miles)
- Laguna Niguel (44 miles)