Things to Look Forward to This December
Step into the magic of the season with holiday events in Newport Beach, where the city comes alive with festive cheer and unforgettable experiences. From dazzling tree lightings and visits with Santa to cozy Christmas-themed lounges and the beloved Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Christmas in Newport Beach. Here’s a roundup of must-do festive moments to enjoy this December!
117th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Where: Newport Harbor
When: December 17-21
Experience the magic of the holidays with the 117th anniversary of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade! This festive celebration will take place from Dec. 17–21 at 6:30 p.m. nightly and will showcase a dazzling array of decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes. Cozy up and enjoy the boats as they bring this year’s theme, Magical Nights of Lights, to life in true Newport Beach style. This is one holiday event you won’t want to miss!
Ring of Lights Home Decorating Competition
Where: Newport Harbor
When: December 17-21
In addition to beautiful boats sailing the harbor, all waterfront homes, businesses and yacht clubs are encouraged to participate in the Ring of Lights Competition. This annual decorating competition adds to the festive feel of the boat parade and gives locals and visitors of Newport Beach a chance to explore the beautiful and festive displays. Take a Newport holiday stroll around Balboa Island and see the lights, then enjoy a meal at one of the city’s many bayside restaurants to watch the decorated boats cruise by.
Newport Dunes Fire & Light Festival
Where: Newport Dunes
When: November 28 – January 3
Celebrate the season on the bay with the return of Newport Dunes Fire & Lights Festival, featuring captivating fire dancing performances, family-friendly holiday inflatables, festive food and drinks, and photos with Santa on Saturdays through Christmas. Enjoy cozy waterfront fire pits perfect for roasting s’mores, and stroll beneath the glow of over fifty illuminated holiday displays along the bay. Free entry, food, beverages, and select activities available for purchase. On-site parking rates apply.
Night of Coastal Lights
Where: Fashion Island
When: Nov 21 – Dec 28; 5:30-8pm
The iconic Christmas tree sparkles to life with magical snowfall, festive music, and dazzling lights in the Neiman Marcus-Bloomingdale’s Courtyard, every 30 minutes beginning at 5:30 p.m through 8 p.m.
Roger’s Gardens’ The Magic of Christmas | Christmas Boutique
Where: Roger’s Gardens
When: Open daily from 9am-8pm
The Magic of Christmas at Roger’s Gardens invites you into a world of wonder and timeless tradition. This year’s boutique captures the spirit of the season with enchanting displays that blend European elegance, festive grandeur, and artisanal craftsmanship. Inspired by the charm of an old-world toy shop, this year’s boutique is filled with heirloom-quality décor, artisanal gifts, and sparkling trees. From the opulent elegance of holiday soirées to the cozy warmth of a winter lodge, each vignette is designed to enchant, inspire, and evoke timeless memories. Discover new ways to celebrate, gather, and create lasting traditions.
Visit From Santa at Lido Marina Village
Where: Lido Marina Village
When: Thursday-Friday 4-8pm; Saturday-Sunday 12-4pm
Description: This year, Santa will be trading in his sleigh for an electric boat! Don’t miss his epic arrival in a Vision Electric Boat at Lido Marina Village. You’ll find Santa strolling around the village every Thursday and Friday from 4 – 8 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 12 – 4 pm.
VEA Holiday Hideout
Where: VEA Newport Beach
When: Fridays-Saturdays; 6pm – 12am
Step into the Holiday Hideout, a winter wonderland–inspired lounge filled with festive cocktails and endless photo-worthy moments. Open on New Year’s Eve, this seasonal pop-up requires no reservations and welcomes both resort guests and the public.
Gingerbread House Artists Decorating Class
Where: The Resort at Pelican Hill
When: December 20; 2:30pm-3:45pm
Guests with a flair for baking and decorating will love this special gingerbread workshop led by local baker Sam Meyers of Sugared and Iced. Each gingerbread house is crafted for one guest to bring their personal vision to life, with an expanded selection of icing, candy decorations, and sweet treats to make every creation a holiday masterpiece. Additional friends and family are welcome to join the fun with a separate ticket that includes cookies and hot cocoa. The event takes place in La Capella, with RSVPs priced at $165 per house (one guest per house).
Holiday High Tea at Pendry Newport Beach
Where: Pendry Newport Beach
When: Wednesdays-Sundays through December 31; 12pm-3pm
Celebrate your favorite new holiday tradition with a festive edition of the classic High Tea service at Pendry Newport Beach, featuring seasonal sandwiches, sweets, and small bites infused with spiced tea flavors. Priced at $90 per adult and $54 per child, this experience includes service charge and is open to resort guests, Elwood Club members, and locals alike.
