Enjoy the festive charm of San Jacinto with our detailed event guide. For San Jacinto regulars and one-time visitors, this guide is your key to unlocking festive delights.
One of the most enchanting events to experience this season is the Mission Inn Festival of Lights, where dazzling displays transform the streets into a winter wonderland. SeaWorld San Diego Christmas Celebration brings the holiday spirit to life with whimsical decorations and lively entertainment perfect for families. And the December Nights at Balboa Park is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring food, music, and art that celebrate the season. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around San Jacinto
- SeaWorld San Diego Christmas Celebration (San Diego)
- Mission Inn Festival of Lights (Riverside)
- December Nights at Balboa Park (San Diego)
- The Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park (San Diego)
- Magic of Lights (Palm Desert)
- The Polar Express (Perris)
- Lindsey Stirling at The Show (Rancho Mirage)
- All That Jazz Dynamic Light Show (Coronado)
- Holidays at La Quinta Resort (La Quinta)
- The Texas Tenors (Palm Desert)
See these and even more events listed below!
San Jacinto Holiday Light Displays
Mission Inn Festival of Lights
What to Expect:
Nation's largest holiday light collection.
Description:
The Mission Inn Festival of Lights is a spectacular holiday event featuring millions of twinkling lights, live entertainment, and festive decorations at the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa.
Where: Riverside | More Info: Mission Inn Festival of Lights
Santa’s Electric Light Parade
What to Expect:
Twinkling lights and festive floats in Old Town Temecula.
Description:
The Santa’s Electric Light Parade in Temecula features twinkling lights from decorated floats, holiday music from school marching bands, and festive marchers making their way down the parade route into Old Town Temecula.
Where: Temecula | More Info: Santa’s Electric Light Parade
Magic of Lights
What to Expect:
Drive-through holiday lights with digital animations and LED technology.
Description:
Magic of Lights is a drive-through holiday lights experience featuring spectacular light displays, favorite holiday scenes, and characters. The event includes larger-than-life displays like the Holiday Barbie and Bigfoot Monster Truck, as well as life-sized dinosaurs from Prehistoric Christmas.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: Magic of Lights
Enchanted Desert Glow: The Shops On El Paseo's Annual Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Dazzling decorations and special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Description:
Join us at The Shops On El Paseo in Palm Desert, CA, for our annual Tree Lighting celebration. Adorned with dazzling decorations, this event features Santa and Mrs. Claus, delightful carolers, and delicious seasonal treats. Immerse yourself in a merry atmosphere perfect for capturing holiday memories.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: Enchanted Desert Glow: The Shops On El Paseo's Annual Tree Lighting
All That Jazz Dynamic Light Show
What to Expect:
Synchronized light and sound show on historic pine trees.
Description:
The All That Jazz Dynamic Light Show features a dynamic display of lights and sound orchestrated to lively holiday jazz music, showcasing the historic Norfolk Pine tree and culminating in a finale of snow flurries.
Where: Coronado | More Info: All That Jazz Dynamic Light Show
San Jacinto Holiday Markets and Shopping
Menifee Hometown Holiday Festival
What to Expect:
Community holiday shopping with diverse vendors and festive activities.
Description:
The Menifee Hometown Holiday Festival is a community event featuring over 60 vendors, food and drinks, a visit with Santa, an Ugly Sweater Contest, and a Charity Toy Drive.
Where: Menifee | More Info: Menifee Hometown Holiday Festival
Merry Little Market
What to Expect:
Community-driven celebration of local artisans and small businesses.
Description:
The Merry Little Market is a three-day event at Promenade Temecula, featuring a rich tapestry of small businesses, artisans, and craftsmen. It offers an exquisite range of handmade goods, delectable treats, and unique treasures. Visitors are greeted by passionate entrepreneurs excited to share their stories and showcase their creations. The event celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and community support, with various activities and entertainment for all ages.
Where: Temecula | More Info: Merry Little Market
The Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday experience with live reindeer and Santa.
Description:
The Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park features local artisan shops, Christmas lighting displays, seasonal food and beverages, Santa, live reindeer, and other holiday characters. Visitors can enjoy a 40-foot Christmas Tree, a carousel, kids' Christmas Train, and live entertainment on the Sycuan Stage. Kids can tell Santa their Christmas wish, all included in the price of admission.
Where: San Diego | More Info: The Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park
San Jacinto Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Polar Express
What to Expect:
Live theatrical experience on a real train with Santa and hot chocolate.
Description:
The Polar Express is a live theatrical production aboard a slow-moving train, featuring scripted scenes, live singing, dancing, and audience interaction. Passengers enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while reading along with the classic children's book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his helpers board the train to greet passengers and give each guest the first gift of Christmas.
Where: Perris | More Info: The Polar Express
The Nutcracker Ballet Performance
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
Inland Dance Theatre presents The Nutcracker, a classic ballet featuring over 100 performers, including young dancers and professionals, at the historic California Theatre in San Bernardino. The production includes Tchaikovsky's iconic score and beloved characters like the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince.
Where: San Bernardino | More Info: The Nutcracker Ballet Performance
North Pole Village at Snow-Fest
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration with 20 themed storefronts and diverse activities.
Description:
North Pole Village at Snow-Fest features holiday-themed storefronts, a holiday tree lighting ceremony, and various activities like puppet shows, storytime reading, and a fire elf workshop. The event includes a holiday outdoor market, free train rides, and real snow in the park.
Where: Cathedral City | More Info: North Pole Village at Snow-Fest
Lindsey Stirling at The Show
What to Expect:
Unique blend of classical violin with modern dance and acrobatics.
Description:
Lindsey Stirling brings her electrifying violin performance to the stage, blending classical music with modern dance and acrobatics in a theatrical display of virtuosic musicianship.
Where: Rancho Mirage | More Info: Lindsey Stirling at The Show
The Texas Tenors
What to Expect:
Unique blend of classical and modern music.
Description:
The Texas Tenors are a renowned musical group known for their powerful performances, blending classical and modern music styles. With a rich history dating back to 2009, they have achieved significant recognition, including three Emmy Awards and numerous chart-topping albums.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: The Texas Tenors
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
What to Expect:
Heartwarming tale of childhood Christmas dreams.
Description:
A Christmas Story follows nine-year-old Ralphie Parker from Indiana as he daydreams about Christmas Day, navigating the challenges and joys of childhood.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico
What to Expect:
Rich cultural tapestry of Mexican Christmas traditions.
Description:
Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande present Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico, a vibrant show weaving cherished Mexican traditions into a heartwarming story of the season. The event features the joyous rhythms of "Bells Upon Bells" and colorful Mexican dance, capturing the spirit of Posadas, the majesty of the Reyes Magos, and the thrill of breaking piñatas.
Where: Rancho Cucamonga | More Info: Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico
Winter Lights
What to Expect:
Interactive science exhibits and original holiday songs.
Description:
Winter Lights is a holiday musical at Discovery Cube OC, featuring a heartwarming story, captivating music, and interactive science exhibits. The show blends hope, resilience, and magic, set against the backdrop of the Aurora Borealis. It includes unique characters like a science fairy and a lovable robot crafted from a toaster.
Where: Santa Ana | More Info: Winter Lights
SeaWorld San Diego Christmas Celebration
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration with marine animals and festive lights.
Description:
SeaWorld San Diego's Christmas Celebration features dazzling new Christmas shows, live reindeer, a Christmas parade, and photo-perfect moments amidst beautiful decorations, including the 320-foot SkyTower and music-activated tunnel of lights. Savor candy-topped hot chocolate and other treats while interacting with Santa and his reindeer, and enjoy thrilling rides and animal presentations with a festive twist.
Where: San Diego | More Info: SeaWorld San Diego Christmas Celebration
December Nights at Balboa Park
What to Expect:
Multicultural celebration with STEAM activities and free photos with Santa.
Description:
December Nights at Balboa Park is a two-day celebration featuring STEAM activities, free photos with Santa, lights displays, musical performances, and delicious food. The event includes a Family Zone with various activities and attractions.
Where: San Diego | More Info: December Nights at Balboa Park
San Jacinto Other Holiday Activities
Festival of the Trees Holiday Fair
What to Expect:
Unique holiday event with beautifully decorated trees and local artisans.
Description:
The Festival of Trees Holiday Fair at the Riverside Convention Center features over 46 beautifully decorated holiday trees, 50 local craft vendors, delicious holiday treats, free kids' activities, local holiday dance performances, and Santa. Children can create holiday cards and crafts to take home and visit Santa for a photo.
Where: Riverside | More Info: Festival of the Trees Holiday Fair
Photos With Santa at The Shops at Palm Desert
What to Expect:
Personalized holiday photos with Santa.
Description:
Capture memories with Santa at The Shops at Palm Desert, where festive atmosphere and holiday cheer come together.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: Photos With Santa at The Shops at Palm Desert
Holidays at La Quinta Resort
What to Expect:
Holiday activities in a historic resort setting.
Description:
La Quinta Resort offers a Vintage Holiday Special with luxurious accommodations, holiday dining options, and festive activities like Holiday Brittle cooking demonstrations and handcrafted holiday cocktails.
Where: La Quinta | More Info: Holidays at La Quinta Resort
Fontana Festival of Winter
What to Expect:
Snow play and sled rides with over 40 tons of fresh snow.
Description:
The Fontana Festival of Winter is a free community event featuring train rides, live entertainment, photo opportunities with Santa, and a variety of vendors and activity booths. It includes snow play and sled rides, making it an exciting experience for all ages.
Where: Fontana | More Info: Fontana Festival of Winter
Winter Village
What to Expect:
Outdoor ice skating in Southern California.
Description:
The Santa Ana Winter Village is a month-long celebration featuring ice skating, a holiday light show, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. It includes special events like a toy giveaway and breakfast with Santa.
Where: Santa Ana | More Info: Winter Village
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Hemet (3 miles)
- Beaumont (10 miles)
- Banning (11 miles)
- Menifee (11 miles)
- Perris (16 miles)
- Yucaipa (18 miles)
- Moreno Valley (19 miles)
- Murrieta (22 miles)
- Wildomar (22 miles)
- Lake Elsinore (23 miles)
- Redlands (23 miles)
- Temecula (23 miles)
- Palm Springs (24 miles)
- Loma Linda (25 miles)
- Riverside (28 miles)
- Highland (28 miles)
- Cathedral City (28 miles)
- Colton (29 miles)
- Desert Hot Springs (29 miles)
- San Bernardino (29 miles)
- Rubidoux (30 miles)
- Bloomington (32 miles)
- Rialto (32 miles)
- Fallbrook (33 miles)
- Glen Avon (34 miles)
- Fontana (35 miles)
- Jurupa Valley (35 miles)
- Norco (35 miles)
- Corona (35 miles)
- Eastvale (37 miles)
- Yucca Valley (38 miles)
- La Quinta (38 miles)
- Rancho Santa Margarita (38 miles)
- Ladera Ranch (42 miles)
- Rancho Cucamonga (43 miles)
- Indio (43 miles)
- Mission Viejo (43 miles)
- Lake Forest (43 miles)
- Vista (44 miles)
- Ontario (44 miles)
- Chino (45 miles)
- San Juan Capistrano (45 miles)
- Laguna Hills (45 miles)
- San Clemente (45 miles)