Get ready for 50 days of festive fun in Newport Beach! From photos with Santa and dazzling tree lighting ceremonies to enjoying the famous Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, there’s so much to experience this holiday season. No need to search elsewhere for winter wonders—Newport Beach has it all. We’ve compiled a (nice) list of holiday events, seasonal hotel offers, winter activities and shopping destinations that will surely make your season merry and bright. Join us as we turn our seaside town into a captivating holiday haven, twinkling with lights, adorned with festive decor and bustling with a variety of merry festivities.

Holiday Happenings

With a host of holiday happenings this year, it’s easy to embrace the magic of the season in Newport Beach! From tree lightings and twinkling light displays to festive pop-up markets and Santa sightings, this year’s winter events are sure to make your season oh-so merry. Stop by Fashion Island between Nov. 7 and Jan. 25 for the nightly lighting of the center’s 90-foot tree, along with music, magical snowfall and a choreographed light display. The center will also host photos with Santa from Nov. 17-Dec. 24.

For those in search of a little holiday magic, don’t miss the 115th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Ring of Lights competition from Dec. 13-17, where the boat-filled harbor and homes on Balboa Island come to life with dazzling light displays! There will also be an Opening Night Holiday Market on Dec. 13 at Marina Park, where guests can shop from local artisans and makers. Other family-friendly festivities this year include an outdoor ice skating rink at Newport Dunes, Night of 1000 Lights at Sherman Library & Gardens and the 44th Annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk.

Seasonal Savings

Unwrap a bundle of holiday travel perks with Newport Beach’s exclusive holiday offers. Partners of our city extend their warmest welcomes, offering up a sleigh-full of specials that promise to add some sparkle (and savings) to your winter season. Lido House’s Newport Beach Vacation Club Package includes daily breakfast for two at The Mayor’s Table, a $100 dinner credit at The Mayor’s Table and a $100 resort credit, while VEA Newport Beach’s Endless Weekend Package grants vacationers a $100 food and beverage credit and a waived resort fee. For those looking to experience the newest accommodation in town, book Pendry Newport Beach’s Suite’n Your Stay Package for 15% off the suite life and a $100 hotel credit.

Winter Excursions

Memories are the best souvenirs, and we’re here to help you make them. Whether you’re eager for some festive family fun, a romantic getaway or a day of holiday shopping, there’s something for everyone in our city by the sea. Check out this map, which depicts the 10 different neighborhoods that make up Newport Beach, and get ready to plan your adventures!

Cruise down the coast to Corona del Mar and explore the shop-lined streets and beautiful beaches like Big Corona, then zip over to Fashion Island to grab dinner at one of the many restaurants and catch a movie at THE LOT. For those who prefer to stay at sea level, book a whale-watching tour, play a game of seaside golf or embark on a sunset gondola ride through the channels of the bay. At nighttime, stroll around Balboa Island with a cup of hot cocoa and see the dazzling Ring of Lights home decorating competition.

Gifts for Everyone

On the hunt for the perfect gift? Newport Beach is home to several top-notch shopping destinations that come alive with holiday cheer each year. Take a walk around the charming Lido Marina Village, where you’ll find a cheerful display of holiday decor and shops full of goods and apparel. Stop into Eberjey for cozy pajama sets, Le Labo for their signature scents and Stoney Clover Lane for colorful and customizable accessories! For more name-brand stores, hit Fashion Island, where holiday magic abounds and you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list. Another must-visit this season for those who love to shop is Roger’s Gardens’s Christmas Confections Boutique—a treasure trove of whimsical ornaments, seasonal decor and cherished gifts for all ages. And don’t forget to visit Newport Beach’s online pro shop for all the holiday merch and souvenirs!

Written By: Kaylin Waizinger