Instagram Holiday Roundup
If there’s one thing the holidays in Newport Beach promise, it’s a season overflowing with Instagram-worthy magic. From the glittering reflections of the harbor to twinkling lights, whimsical displays, and cozy festive vignettes throughout the city, every corner feels like a holiday postcard come to life. As part of the city’s official holiday campaign, 50 Days of Festive Fun, Newport Beach transforms into a wonderland of sparkling waterfront views, charming seasonal setups, and picture-perfect moments that are impossible not to capture and share. For anyone looking for holiday activities Newport Beach or the best holiday activities near me, there’s no shortage of festive fun. In Newport Beach the holidays aren’t just celebrated, they’re beautifully framed, photographed, and remembered!
117th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
As the 117th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade lights up Newport Harbor this December, the parade, organized by the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Committee under the leadership of The Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, will follow its traditional route beginning and ending at the Tip of Lido Isle. The parade will set sail at approximately 6:30 p.m. each night from December 17–21, 2025, with participants departing from the east end of Lido Isle and making their way past prime viewing locations, including the 10.5-acre Marina Park. As the largest public viewing area along the route, Marina Park offers ample parking, a nautical-themed playground, a picnic area and a sailing center, making it an ideal gathering spot for families and visitors. Spectators can also take in the dazzling display of yachts, boats, kayaks and canoes from nearby Dine & Watch and Dine & Walk waterfront restaurants, all within easy walking distance of many viewing points.
Roger’s Gardens Christmas Boutique: The Magic of Christmas
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.
Lido Marina Village
There’s something undeniably charming about Lido Marina Village during the holidays. As the waterfront promenade twinkles to life with string lights and elegant seasonal décor, the entire village takes on a storybook feel. Stroll past chic boutiques and cozy cafés with a warm drink in hand as festive music fills the air. The village comes alive with holiday photo ops, carolers and beautifully decorated storefronts that make every corner feel magical. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift, enjoying dinner by the water, or simply soaking in the sparkling ambiance, Lido Marina Village captures the spirit of the season in true coastal style and is a top spot for holiday activities Newport Beach.
Fashion Island
The holidays at Fashion Island are pure magic, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most photographed spots in town this time of year. The massive Christmas tree twinkles in the heart of the plaza, Santa’s Village delights families with festive photo ops and the entire open-air center glows with sparkling lights and seasonal décor. From luxury boutiques to cozy cafés, every corner captures the holiday spirit and makes for the perfect Instagram moment. It’s a holiday tradition that locals and visitors love to share, adding even more sparkle to Newport Beach’s festive season.
Balboa Island
There’s no place quite like Balboa Island during the holidays. The charming neighborhood transforms into a glowing wonderland as homes and storefronts along the bay are decked out with thousands of twinkling lights and festive displays. One of the season’s most beloved traditions is strolling the island to admire the homes entered in the Ring of Lights Home Decorating Competition, where residents go all out with creative, over-the-top décor. The reflections of the lights on the water make every corner feel magical and photo-worthy, and it’s no surprise this neighborhood fills Instagram feeds all season long. Balboa Island perfectly captures the cozy, small-town holiday spirit that makes Newport Beach so special.
