Enjoy the magic of the holidays in Paradise with our detailed guide. Whether you're deeply connected to Paradise or just making connections, our guide enhances your festive adventure.
Popular events include SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, where dazzling lights and festive displays create a whimsical holiday atmosphere. There’s also the Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park, offering a unique blend of artisanal shopping and seasonal offerings amidst beautiful park scenery. And the December Nights at Balboa Park is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring cultural performances and tasty treats from local vendors. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Paradise
- SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration (Orlando)
- December Nights at Balboa Park (San Diego)
- Holidays at LEGOLAND (Carlsbad)
- Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park (San Diego)
- San Diego Bay Parade of Lights (San Diego)
- Solvang Julefest (Solvang)
- Dana Point Harbor Holiday Lights (Dana Point)
- Big Bear Lake Christmas Celebration (Big Bear Lake)
See these and even more events listed below!
Paradise Holiday Light Displays
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
What to Expect:
Lavishly decorated boats with a "PEACE ON EARTH" theme.
Description:
The 54th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a time-honored holiday tradition featuring approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats. The parade, themed "PEACE ON EARTH," brings more than 100,000 spectators to the shores of San Diego Bay each year. The procession starts at Shelter Island and proceeds to Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, the Pier at Cesar Chavez Park, and ends at the Ferry Landing in Coronado.
Where: San Diego | More Info: San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Dana Point Harbor Holiday Lights
What to Expect:
Colorful light displays along the waterfront.
Description:
Dana Point Harbor transforms into a vibrant holiday spectacle with over 700,000 LED lights, featuring a giant whale sculpture, lit palm trees, and the popular "Merry Kiss Me" arch. Annual displays include holiday favorites like Happy Harbor Days and more.
Where: Dana Point | More Info: Dana Point Harbor Holiday Lights
Paradise Holiday Markets and Shopping
Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday celebration with live reindeer and Santa.
Description:
The Holiday Market at Petco Park features local artisan shops, Christmas lighting displays, seasonal food and beverages, Santa, live reindeer, and other holiday characters. Visitors can shop for perfect stocking stuffers and handcrafted holiday gifts while indulging in cider, mulled wine, and shortbread. The market includes a carousel, kids' Christmas Train, wintery light displays with nightly snowfall, and a beautifully decorated 40-foot Christmas Tree. Live entertainment on the Sycuan Stage in Gallagher Square adds to the festive atmosphere.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park
Solvang Julefest
What to Expect:
City-wide hunt for mischievous Danish gnomes.
Description:
Solvang Julefest is a month-long holiday celebration featuring festive lights, daily events, and traditional Danish activities. Enjoy family fun, seasonal music, holiday shopping, and culinary delights.
Where: Solvang | More Info: Solvang Julefest
Paradise Holiday Shows and Entertainment
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration with live shows and character meet-and-greets.
Description:
SeaWorld Orlando transforms into a vibrant holiday destination with millions of twinkling lights, snow flurries, and award-winning live shows. Meet beloved characters like Santa and Rudolph, enjoy ice-skating performances, and indulge in delicious holiday treats.
Where: Orlando | More Info: SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
December Nights at Balboa Park
What to Expect:
Family-friendly holiday event with free museum access and diverse cultural performances.
Description:
December Nights at Balboa Park is a two-day celebration featuring live music, STEAM activities, free photos with Santa, lights displays, and delicious food from around the world.
Where: San Diego | More Info: December Nights at Balboa Park
Holidays at LEGOLAND
What to Expect:
Interactive LEGO build zones and holiday character meet-and-greets.
Description:
Celebrate the holiday season at LEGOLAND California with a variety of festive activities, including a giant LEGO Christmas tree, holiday shows, and meet-and-greets with beloved LEGO characters.
Where: Carlsbad | More Info: Holidays at LEGOLAND
Big Bear Lake Christmas Celebration
What to Expect:
Holiday events with Santa appearances and German Christmas market.
Description:
Big Bear Lake Christmas Celebration features a variety of seasonal events, including the Village Tree Lighting Ceremony, Big Bear Christkindlmarkt, and special appearances by Santa Claus at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo. The celebration also includes live entertainment, shopping, and activities for all ages.