Fun holiday activities to enjoy in California in 2025

Celebrate the season with California’s festive adventures

California shines brighter than ever during the holiday season. From sparkling city streets to cozy coastal towns, there’s something for everyone looking to celebrate Thanksgiving or Christmas in 2025.

Whether you love classic traditions, quirky attractions, or outdoor adventures, the Golden State has a holiday activity that will make memories last a lifetime. Get ready to explore California like never before.

Explore Solvang’s Scandinavian holiday charm

In Solvang, California, or “Little Denmark,” the Julefest transforms the town into a Scandinavian winter fantasy with candlelit tours, Christmas markets, and traditional Danish treats. Visitors can stroll through historic streetlights, watch a parade, etc.

The cozy architecture of Solvang, with its windmills and wooden facades, adds to the feeling that you’ve stepped into a European holiday postcard. This festival extends from late November into early January, giving plenty of time to soak in the festive spirit.

Stroll through Christmas in the Park (San Jose)

Christmas in the Park in downtown San Jose is a beloved community tradition where more than 500 decorated trees light up Plaza de César Chávez Park. There are animated exhibits, live performances, etc.

The event is free to walk through, making it accessible for families who want a warm, open-air holiday experience without spending much. It usually runs from the end of November through the New Year.

See the iconic California Capitol Christmas tree

In Sacramento, the California State Capitol Christmas Tree is erected and decorated in early December, creating a central symbol of the holiday season in the city. The lighting ceremony draws locals and visitors alike, with festive music, speeches, etc.

It’s a chance to gather in a historic setting and snap memorable photos beneath the tall, shimmering tree. The tree remains lit through much of December, offering a peaceful place to reflect and celebrate holiday traditions.

Walk through L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow

At the Los Angeles Zoo, the holiday season brings Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow, a dazzling display that transforms animal exhibits into glowing lantern sculptures. Guests walk along lit paths that feature luminous trees and glowing plants.

There are interactive displays and live performers roaming the grounds, making this experience magical for kids and adults. With hot drinks, seasonal eats, and photo spots, this light show offers a playful and memorable way to celebrate the holidays.

Experience Enchant LA’s giant light maze

Enchant LA at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia is a massive Christmas light maze and holiday village. Visitors can wander through a brilliantly lit maze, glide on an ice-skating trail, and enjoy festive food and drink at cozy stalls.

The immersive, walk-through design creates a truly spectacular winter wonderland, especially as the evening sky darkens and the lights come to life. This event is scheduled to run from late November through most of December.

Ride the Christmas train at Irvine Regional Park

In Orange County, a Christmas Train ride rolls through Irvine Regional Park from mid-December, taking families along a “North Pole” style route filled with holiday cheer. Kids can craft ornaments, meet Santa, and sing along with carolers.

The pace is gentle, making it ideal for young families or groups who want to enjoy festive lights without the hustle. Tickets typically sell early, so planning ahead ensures you don’t miss this classic holiday experience.

Visit Mission Capistrano in Victorian holiday lights

Mission San Juan Capistrano lights up in a charming way during the holidays. On select nights in December, you can explore candlelit pathways, hear live holiday songs, and enjoy a serene, old-world atmosphere.

The event captures a peaceful, reflective side of the season, where history and holiday spirit blend smoothly. For visitors seeking a calm and meaningful Christmas experience, this is a wonderful place to escape the usual hustle of big city celebrations.

Watch the Dana Point Harbor Christmas Light Parade

The Dana Point Harbor Christmas Light Parade in Southern California is a magical maritime spectacle held over two weekends in December. Boats of all sizes are decked out in colorful holiday lights and glide across the harbor.

Spectators can watch from the waterfront, enjoying the views, festive music, and community cheer as the decorated vessels cruise by. This parade is part of “Holiday at the Harbor,” a larger festive celebration that includes food, local shopping, etc.

See “Holiday in Oz” at Hotel del Coronado

At the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego, the resort transforms into a whimsical “Holiday in Oz,” paying tribute to L. Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz. Guests can walk down a projected yellow brick road, see illuminated poppies, and dandelions.

A nightly light show choreographed to an Oz‑themed soundtrack brings the whole magical world to life in an immersive holiday experience. This enchanting display runs from November through early January, making it a must-see destination.

Wander through Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden

The Lightscape event at the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas offers a mile‑long walk through artistic light installations, tunnels, and glowing floral displays. At night, the 37-acre garden comes alive with flickering lights choreographed to sound.

This immersive outdoor experience feels both peaceful and grand. The event has become a beloved holiday tradition, typically running from mid-November to early January.

The internet is also talking about what U.S. travelers should know about Christmas 2025 travel.

Join a Thanksgiving charity run

Thanksgiving in the Bay Area is often marked by community-focused Turkey Trots, where people run. Events like the Bank of Marin Turkey Trot, San Jose Zoom Turkey Trail Trot, and San Francisco Turkey Trot bring together runners in costume.

Many of these races include food drives or benefit local nonprofits, adding a meaningful twist to the holiday ritual. Whether you choose a 5K, 10K, or kids’ dash, participating is a lively and generous way to start Thanksgiving Day.

In other news, don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate Christmas the sweet way at Hersheypark, Pennsylvania.

Which California holiday event are you most excited for? Comment below and like this post!

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.