Things to Look Forward to This December
December is here, and we’re bringing the cheer! In the final months of the year, Newport Beach transforms into a winter paradise, complete with a sleigh-full of holiday happenings and seasonal experiences. From tree lightings and Santa sightings to Christmas-themed speakeasies and the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, there’s so much festive fun to be had. Here are 11 things to look forward to this December in Newport Beach!
116th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Dates: Dec. 18-22 at 6:30 p.m.
Join the city of Newport Beach for the enchanting 116th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, happening from Dec. 18 to 22 at 6:30 p.m. A festive array of decked-out yachts, boats and more will be on display, offering a magical holiday spectacle that you won’t want to miss! Snuggle up and enjoy the festive ambiance as these boats light up the waves in classic Newport Beach style.
Dates: Dec.18-22
Witness waterfront homes, businesses and yacht clubs light up during the Ring of Lights Competition—a cherished Newport Beach tradition! This annual event enhances the charm of the boat parade, allowing locals and visitors of our seaside city to enjoy and participate in the holiday cheer. Stroll around Balboa Island, take in the stunning light displays, and cap off your evening with dinner at a scenic bayside restaurant.
Fashion Island’s Annual Tree Lighting + Photos with Santa
Tree Lighting Dates: Nov. 22-Dec. 29, every half hour from 5:30-8 p.m.
Photos with Santa Dates: Nov. 22 through Dec. 24
Each year, Fashion Island welcomes a majestic 90-foot white fir tree, signaling the start of the holiday season. As the tree illuminates each night every half hour, shoppers can witness the center transform into a winter wonderland, complete with snowfall, glittering decorations, music and a choreographed light display. Get some holiday shopping done, snap a few photos with Santa in his Coastal Cottage and soak up all the joy!
Dates: Dec. 5-22
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Nights of 1,000 Lights at Sherman Library & Gardens, where the grounds are transformed into a radiant holiday display. Wander through illuminated pathways featuring a grand Christmas tree, a magical light tunnel and themed areas like a Scandinavian Christmas and a Crystal Disco. Cozy up by the fire pit with s’mores, say hello to Santa and shop for unique gifts at the garden store. This enchanting event blends tradition with new surprises, offering an idyllic evening of holiday enchantment.
45th Annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk
Date: Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Don your best red and green outfit and join the fun at the 45th Annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk—a community tradition for over four decades. Featuring live music from more than 17 local bands, photos with Santa, unique vendors and activities for little ones, this is a December day you won’t want to miss. Stroll the charming streets of Corona del Mar with your elves and watch the merrymaking unfold.
Roger’s Gardens’ “Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine” Christmas Boutique
Dates: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A must-visit this season, Roger’s Gardens’ “Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine” Christmas Boutique brings a jolly dose of cheer each year to Corona del Mar. This December, the gardens have transformed into a holiday haven, complete with a glittering boutique full of sparkling ornaments and shimmering garlands, lush wreaths and merry gifts reminiscent of a European Christmas.
34th Annual Lighting of the Bay + Fire & Lights Festival
Dates: Nov. 29-Jan. 5
Experience the magic of the 34th Annual Lighting of the Bay at Newport Dunes, running from Nov. 29 to Jan. 5. Each night, over 50 vibrant light displays will dance across the waters of the Back Bay, setting a picture-perfect holiday ambiance. Elevating the experience, the Fire & Lights Festival offers dazzling entertainment from Thursday to Sunday, featuring fire dancing performances, an igloo-themed bar and marshmallow roasting around crackling fire pits. Families can also enjoy giant inflatables, a holiday-themed “Elf Yourself” photo booth and Snowzilla slides for endless fun. Entry is free, with seasonal treats available for purchase and a festive tree lot filled with fresh evergreens.
Santa’s Arrival Celebration at Lido Marina Village
Date: Dec. 7 at 11:30 a.m.
Santa Claus is coming to town! Watch Santa’s grand entrance via an electric boat at Lido Marina Village on Dec. 7 as he pulls up dockside and greets guests. Enjoy gourmet hot chocolate, face painting, visits from the Little Drummer Boy and Winter Ballerina and a live performance by the Holly Belles! After his grand arrival, you’ll find St. Nick strolling around the village spreading holiday cheer every Thursday and Friday from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12-4 p.m. through Dec. 22.
Holiday Hideout Speakeasy at VEA Newport Beach
Date: Starting Nov. 15
Beginning Nov. 15, VEA Newport Beach will host its Holiday Hideout Speakeasy experience. Throw on your best Christmas sweater or scarf and sip festive holiday libations, listen to live music and enjoy a cozy winter atmosphere that is perfect for holiday gatherings. The lounge will be open from Thursday to Saturday and will keep spirits high with a selection of festive holiday cocktails. No reservations required!
Moonlight Market at Balboa Bay Resort
Dates: Dec. 5-8
The Moonlight Market at Balboa Bay Resort brings an elevated twist to holiday shopping. Under a canopy of lights, browse a curated selection of booths featuring Newport Beach’s finest artisans. Discover unique jewelry, chic apparel and handcrafted decor while sipping on mulled wine or cider. Live music and a festive atmosphere set the perfect mood as you explore. Plus, the resort’s chefs offer gourmet bites that span global flavors, turning the evening into a delightful culinary experience. This holiday event in Newport Beach is an elegant way to find special gifts and savor the season!
Holiday High Tea & Songs of the Season at The Resort at Pelican Hill
Dates: Dec. 12-15
For a touch of timeless holiday luxury, attend the Holiday High Tea & Songs of the Season at The Resort at Pelican Hill. Held in the beautifully decorated Great Room, this event features an exquisite tea service with Perrier Jouet champagne, premium teas and an array of sweet and savory bites. Enjoy live performances of holiday classics by talented vocalists Deanna Breiwick and Brian Vu, accompanied by pianist Jocelyn Dueck. It’s a refined celebration that combines culinary delights with the magic of holiday music, and you won’t want to miss it!
