California’s Holiday Festivities Light Up the State

In a season of sparkling celebrations, California’s towns and attractions have unveiled a dazzling array of holiday events, from train rides at a ranch to ocean‑side Santa arrivals.

Disneyland Train Car at Santa Margarita Ranch

Ride in an original Disneyland train car at Santa Margarita Ranch as part of the special “Christmas at the Ranch” evenings. Wholesome times await during the festive nights.

Palm Springs Visitors Center Holiday Lighting

Jet by a space‑age Palm Springs landmark for its first‑ever holiday lighting. The Palm Springs Visitors Center, “the city’s iconic mid‑century getaway,” will soon be aglow.

Ferndale’s Mega Christmas Tree

Festive Ferndale’s mega Christmas tree is a Humboldt County classic. If you want to step inside a quaint Christmas movie, head to Cream City.

Julefest in Solvang

Break out the Christmas clogs, it’s time to celebrate ‘Julefest’ in Solvang. Skål: “Hygge” and the comfy holiday pleasures are the themes of this month‑plus festivity.

Hotel del Coronado’s “A Holiday in Oz”

Hotel del Coronado’s ‘A Holiday in Oz’ has seaside ice skating and elegant teas. The grand resort has whimsical “Wizard”-ly ties; find that special magic over the holidays.

Napa Valley’s Noël Mode

Napa Valley moves into Noël mode, complete with those lighted tractors. Calistoga’s colorful parade features tractors and other big movers, with glow on the go.

Santa Arrives by Ocean

Santa arrives by ocean, not air, at these surfside California towns. The reindeer are taking the day off as a watercraft bearing Kris Kringle drops anchor in San Diego and Capitola.

Palm Springs Aerial Tram Contest

A snow‑centered contest comes to a cold conclusion in Palm Springs. At least for this year: The Palm Springs Aerial Tram’s annual guessing showdown is over for 2025.

Catalina Island Holiday Tradition

Shop Catalina Island, a holiday tradition, celebrates 32 years. A certain Mr. Claus will roll in waving from an Avalon Fire Department truck.

Cambria Christmas Market

The Cambria Christmas Market has twinkle, yes, plus treats, tunes, and train fun. The Central Coast sparkler will begin its charming run the day after Thanksgiving.

Laguna Beach Sawdust Winter Fantasy

Santa’s headed for Laguna Beach with a bounty of handmade art in his sleigh. Happy 35th, Sawdust Winter Fantasy: The creative celebration is a seasonal shopping staple.

Winchester Mystery House Holiday

Yuletide traditions, and a quirky Oddities Market, will festoon this spooky icon. The Winchester Mystery House doesn’t just approach Halloween in a big way; it embraces the holidays, too.

Living Desert Zoo Name Contest

Help name the Living Desert Zoo’s baby patas monkey. Four Swahili names are being considered for the adorable six‑month‑old girl.

Big Bear Alpine Zoo Lights

A holiday lights display will raise funds for Big Bear critters and conservation. Guests will stroll through a twinkly realm at Big Bear Alpine Zoo over several fall and winter nights.

Key Takeaways

• California’s holiday events range from train rides at a ranch to ocean‑side Santa arrivals.
• Attractions highlight unique traditions, such as Solvang’s Julefest and the Winchester Mystery House’s holiday embrace.
• Conservation and community are highlighted through naming contests and light displays.

The state’s festive calendar offers something for every traveler, ensuring that the holiday spirit shines bright across California’s diverse landscapes.