California provides a variety of experiences for everyone, especially during the holiday season. Whether you’re seeking a snowy winter wonderland, a charming Christmas village, or a spectacular light show, the Golden State has it all.
Explore some of California’s towns boasting the finest Christmas light displays and discover why they are worth visiting this year.
Solvang
Solvang, nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, exudes charm as it proudly embraces its Danish heritage through genuine architecture, cuisine, and culture. Come Christmas, Solvang undergoes a magical transformation, adorned with thousands of lights, candles, and ornaments that bedeck the streets, shops, and windmills.
Indulge in the festive spirit with the annual Julefest, featuring a lively parade, a tree lighting ceremony, a nativity pageant, and captivating live entertainment.
Don’t miss the opportunity to wander through the enchanting Solvang Christmas Village, where over 100 beautifully decorated Christmas trees await. Meet Santa Claus, and discover unique gifts and delectable treats as you soak in the holiday cheer.
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Palm Springs
Palm Springs draws in sun-seekers and golf enthusiasts, but it also boasts a stylish Christmas celebration. The Festival of Lights Parade steals the spotlight during the season, drawing over 80,000 onlookers with its dazzling display of lights, floats, bands, and balloons covering more than 20 miles.
For a different festive experience, explore Wildnights at the Living Desert, adorned with over a million holiday lights and lanterns portraying exotic animals and plants.
Make sure not to overlook the opportunity to take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, transporting you to the snow-covered summit of Mount San Jacinto. There, you can relish panoramic views and partake in various winter activities.
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Riverside
Riverside houses the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, renowned for hosting a breathtaking light exhibition. This historic hotel is embellished with 5 million lights, 200 animated figures, and a massive mistletoe, forming a captivating setting for the Festival of Lights.
The event features not only fireworks but also live music, ice skating, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Take the opportunity to wander through the downtown area, where you’ll find additional shopping, dining, and entertainment choices.
Don’t miss the Riverside Art Museum, the Riverside Metropolitan Museum, and the California Museum of Photography for added cultural exploration.
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Newport Beach
Newport Beach, situated along the coast, is renowned for its top-notch beaches, restaurants, and shopping, making it a prime destination in Orange County. Adding to its charm is the longstanding tradition of hosting one of the world’s largest and oldest boat parades.
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade showcases a multitude of boats in diverse sizes and shapes, adorned with lights, music, and various themes as they gracefully sail through the harbor over a five-night period.
Witnessing the parade is a delight from various spots along the shoreline, or you can actively participate by renting a boat or opting for a cruise.
Additionally, don’t miss out on the Ring of Lights, a spirited competition among waterfront homeowners who embellish their residences and docks with impressive light displays.
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San Francisco
San Francisco consistently lives up to expectations, especially during the festive season. The City by the Bay provides a diverse range of attractions and events that will leave a lasting impression on your Christmas memories.
Witness the grand Christmas tree and ice rink at Union Square, the delightful gingerbread houses and sugar castle at the Fairmont Hotel, and the cable cars and streetcars adorned with festive lights and garlands.
Explore the Illuminate SF Festival of Light, featuring 37 light art installations spread across the city, complemented by tours, parties, and workshops. And, of course, don’t forget to marvel at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, brilliantly illuminated against the night sky.
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Final Words
Here are just a few of the California towns with exceptional Christmas light displays, but there are numerous others waiting to be explored and appreciated.
Whether you lean towards a classic or contemporary celebration, a laid-back or thrilling holiday experience, you can discover it all in the Golden State. So, pack your bags, take your camera, and prepare to immerse yourself in the enchantment of Christmas in California!
