Holiday Happenings 2023
By: Kym Whitney
With the holiday season almost upon us, here is a list of popular events not to be missed.
115TH NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE AND RING OF LIGHTS
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the largest in the country, viewed by over 1.5 million people each year. As the Boat Parade moves its way through the Newport Harbor this December, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Committee, with the leadership of The Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, will continue with its parade route, starting and ending point at Tip of Lido Isle.
You can witness this picturesque parade from anywhere along the shore free of charge. Here are some popular locations to view the train: Balboa boardwalk on the Balboa Peninsula, along East Balboa Blvd (only the nonresidential harbor access points), Peninsula Point Beach, Pirates Cove on the southernmost part of Newport Bay (Corona Del Mar), along Bayside Drive (only the nonresidential harbor access points), all around Balboa Island, Little Island, Collins Island, Lido Park, Lido Isle, and most of the number streets on Balboa Peninsula (again only at public access points)
Another option for shoreside viewing is at one of the numerous restaurants that line the bay. Restaurants such as the A&O at Balboa Bay Resort, Guac Amigos, Louie's by the Bay, Nobu, Lighthouse Cafe, Newport Landing Restaurant, Rusty Pelican, The Winery, and Lido Bottle Works are just some of the restaurants that provide a great spot to view the parade.
For those who want to be right in the middle of the action, numerous boat tours and rentals are available through companies such as Davey's Locker, Newport Landing, Captain Newport, and Vision Electric Boat Rental.
Due to the event's immense popularity, it's worth planning ahead. Book early if you opt to view the parade at a restaurant or on a boat. If you are going to watch the boat parade shoreside at one of the free viewing locations, give yourself plenty of travel time and arrive early to get a good spot. All city parking lots will be open throughout the parade.
The parade will begin at approximately 6:30pm each night from December 13 – 17, 2023.
SAWDUST WINTER FANTASY
The 33rd Annual Winter Fantasy is fast approaching! From November 17th to December 17th, this holiday art festival will be open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for five weekends from 10am to 7pm.
With thousands of sparkling lights and whimsical decorations, visitors can expect a magical winter wonderland. The festival will showcase over 160 talented artists selling handcrafted gifts that make excellent holiday presents. In addition, visitors can enjoy three stages of live music, community performances, carolers, puppeteers, and art classes. And if that's not enough, Santa Claus will make daily visits!
www.sawdustartfestival.org/festivals/winter-fantasy
NIGHTS OF 1000 LIGHTS AT SHERMAN GARDENS
The breathtaking lights and entertainment display at Sherman Gardens will get you into the holiday spirit! The event sells out every year, so purchase your tickets early.
As you stroll through the gardens, you will see a light tunnel, a breathtaking succulent garden, a crystal disco, South Beach Christmas, and The Wishing Tree. You can also visit the Orange Train Depot, featuring model trains and citrus, to celebrate the importance of agriculture in Orange County. Along the way, you'll discover surprises like aerial silk performers and a fairy forest.
Visit Santa in his workshop and take a walk through the gnome village. Afterward, head to the fire pit for s'mores, and be sure to stop by the Garden Shop for holiday gifts.
Create memories with your loved ones at Sherman Library & Gardens this holiday season.
Available Dates: December 10, 12, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, or 22 at 8pm.
www.experience.thesherman.org/nights-of-1000-lights
5TH ANNUAL ICE RINK AT PASEA HOTEL & SPA
Imagine skating on the ice while the waves crash below you!
Aside from the breathtaking coastal scenery, there will be experiences like reserved firepit sessions, theme nights, delectable holiday cocktails and bites, group skate sessions, performances, and many more holiday treats.
www.paseahotel.com/oceanfront-ice-rink
DISNEYLAND AND DISNEY’S CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK
From November 10th to January 7th, experience the most magical time of year with celebrations throughout both parks.
Take in the sights and sounds of the joyous celebration of cherished holidays at Disney's California Adventure Park—including Christmas, Navidad, Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa, and Three Kings Day—that brighten the season through diverse festivities and beloved seasonal traditions.
On the Disneyland side, the Christmas Fantasy parade, Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty's Castle, "Believe...In Holiday Magic" Fireworks, "It's a Small World" Holiday are among the fan favorites.
WINTER FEST OC
Southern California's largest winter festival takes place at the OC Fair & Events Center in Costa Mesa from November 24th through January 7th.
Winter Fest OC brings the magic of winter to Southern California, creating an immersive experience that will leave you embracing the spirit of the season as you create unforgettable memories with loved ones, surrounded by the enchanting sights, sounds, and tastes of winter. Over a million lights, massive holiday decor, and thrilling activities await. From the North Pole Journey to the enchanting Ice Trail, a new Snow Play area, a thrilling 150-foot ice tubing slide, carnival fun, festive food, a holiday market, and live entertainment – it's an experience for the whole family to enjoy.
