A Magical Californian Christmas: 7 Best Places to Spend Christmas in California [2025]

Wherever you are in the US, we are 100% sure that Christmas decorations and holiday lights are already gracing the streets. But if you currently live (or are planning to visit) in California, holiday festivities are a lot bigger and brighter. California is one of the best places in the US when it comes to holiday celebrations, making it a favorite destination for Christmas vacations.

To help you plan for the ultimate California Christmas vacation, we are listing 7 of the best places in California for Christmas celebrations. Most of these attractions are located in charming towns, offering unique holiday experiences. From classic Christmas celebrations to whimsical and modern holiday fun, California has the merriest ways to celebrate Christmas. Ready to explore California's best places for the holidays? Keep reading.

How is Christmas celebrated in California?

In California, Christmas vibes come from mixing classic festivities with unique coastal traditions and dazzling light shows that match the cozy weather. You can watch fancy boat parades going along the coast, hit up festive parades in Hollywood, or enjoy beautiful light displays in neighborhoods, especially at the Riverside Festival of Lights. If it's warm out, having a beach picnic or ice skating near the sand is a nice way to celebrate.

For those who want to experience Christmas a la Winter Wonderland, places like Lake Tahoe or Big Bear have you covered with their snowy and majestic scenery.

Will there be a white Christmas in California this year?

Well, it depends on the specific location you are visiting in California for Christmas. If you're up in the Sierra Nevada mountains, get ready for a white Christmas! High elevations are likely to get snow, especially with storms expected on Christmas Eve that may last into Christmas Day. So, places like Lake Tahoe are likely to be all snowy and festive. Warm weather is expected in valleys like Sacramento and Southern California's towns, so a white Christmas is unlikely there.

7 of the Best Christmas Places in California this 2025

Get into the holiday spirit by finding the perfect place to enjoy Christmas in California. Meet Santa Claus, marvel at the twinkling Christmas lights, and watch the Christmas trees glow in true festive vibes. Here are seven awesome places to visit for an annual Christmas vacation.

1. Big Bear Lake

Dreaming of a snowy Christmas escapade? Head over to Big Bear Lake for the coolest and most unforgettable white Christmas celebration. Big Bear Lake is the perfect winter holiday destination with its snow, cold weather, and charming mountain ambiance.

If you wish to stay longer, we recommend the vacation rentals around the mountain for a cozy Christmas holiday. Be sure to check them out!

2. Yosemite National Park

For an additional natural twist to your Christmas experience, swing by Yosemite National Park. Compared to the outdoor ice activities that Lake Tahoe offers, Yosemite brings you closer to the comfort and warmth of nature. Drive under the iconic El Capitan and join the festive activities at the park. Expect the park to be decked out in Christmas decor, including colorful and twinkling lights and early winter magic, before the heavy mountain snowfall begins.

If you're looking for places to stay around Yosemite during the Christmas season, try the Tenaya Lodge. Its homey and rustic ambiance exudes natural Christmas town vibes. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa as you savor the surrounding scenery. What a dreamy way to celebrate the holidays.

3. Solvang For Hygge

Just a short drive from beautiful Santa Barbara, you'll find this adorable Danish-style village filled with great wineries, sweet little shops, yummy places to eat, and cozy hotels. It's home to one of the best holiday events in the whole state! For families and couples who are looking to spend Christmas in Southern California, Solvang will showcase light shows, candlelit tours, and fun parades. You can also enjoy picturesque views, so don't forget to capture every moment spent in Solvang.

4. Nevada City Victorian Christmas Fair

Christmas in Northern California is not complete without visiting Nevada City. Its Victorian charm totally makes it one of the favorite places to visit during the holidays. Cementing its place in American history, Nevada City was part of the Gold Rush scene and houses all-authentic 1800s buildings. The overall influence of the city on the country's history was solidified with its registration as a National Historic Place.

The Victorian vibes evoke vintage holiday spirit, like a fusion of Dickens Fair in San Francisco and a traditional German Christmas Market. Experience what Christmas was like during one of the world's boldest and most defining eras. Enjoy vintage costumes, craft booths, mulled wine, and holiday music. You can also expect a visit from Santa Claus as you savor the city's dreamy and sophisticated Christmas feels.

5. Murphys, California

One of the things that makes us want to visit California at Christmas is the annual tradition of Christmas parades. Specifically, the Murphys Open House Parade features everything we adore about the Yuletide season. Celebrate the joy of the season at the Murphys Open House 2025 on Friday, December 5th, from 5 to 8 PM.

This small-town holiday event promises a delightful parade at 5:30 PM, free admission, and numerous chances to shop, dine, and enjoy tasting rooms while soaking up the festive atmosphere with caroling, hot cocoa, and photos with Santa. Be advised that street closures will occur, and the Black Bart parking lot will be off-limits during this enchanting event.

6. Disneyland® Resort

You can never go wrong with a Disney vacation. If you want to treat your inner child to the most magical time of the year, visit the Disneyland® Resort in Anaheim, California. Holidays at Disneyland® will feature fun and exciting activities for all ages. You can meet and greet your favorite Disney characters at Main Street, Disney California Adventure® Park, and Disneyland® Park. The Happiest Place on Earth's top rides and attractions will also dazzle with holiday overlays, and festive food and drinks will be available for a limited time.

Catch Mickey Mouse and friends as they spread their signature holiday magic around the resort. They will be decked out in fabulous Christmas outfits for the sweet Christmas extravaganza! We also can't contain our excitement for the Haunted Mansion Holiday. It's not every day that we get to see the famous mansion transformed into a festive Nightmare Before Christmas attraction.

7. Palm Springs & Newport Beach

Yes, we put these two fancy locations in one entry because we just can't decide which is better. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers a more chill and chilly Christmas experience for you and your family. Hop aboard an aerial tram during your visit and get to see the snowy slopes - you might even run into Mr. and Mrs. Claus if you visit on December 6 or 13!

Newport Beach, on the other hand, is known for the Christmas Boat Parade. Experience the enchantment of the parade at the harbor, where over 50 beautifully adorned boats illuminate the water with dazzling holiday lights! If you're in the Los Angeles area and seeking a delightful Christmas activity for the family—or if you simply have a youthful spirit—you shouldn't miss this!

Tips to make your California Christmas extra special and memorable.

1. Purchase your tickets or passes in advance for the best holiday deals.

Whether it's for a theme park holiday event or a Christmas light show, purchasing your tickets and passes ahead of time is highly recommended. Most holiday events are popular and may sell out soon. Securing them in advance lets you save money and avoid the crazy holiday crowds, making your getaway more enjoyable.

2. Prepare an itinerary and packing list to enjoy the holiday with ease.

The holiday season is considered peak season at various Christmas destinations. To make sure that you can explore your Christmas event or attraction completely, prepare an itinerary. This will help you prioritize your preferred experiences and attractions and allocate more time on activities you love. Similarly, making a packing list of things you should bring is essential when planning for a hassle-free Christmas escapade.

3. Take extra cash with you to shop for holiday keepsakes.

It can be just a small holiday trinket or a heartfelt Christmas card, but souvenirs are ultimate must-haves. While most holiday attractions offer cashless payment options, souvenir shops located in coastal Christmas villages and small towns may still opt for cash. Take a few dollars with you and don't forget to bring home something to remind you of your 2025 holiday experiences.

4. Know the peak days for your chosen Christmas spots and holiday events.

Want to enjoy your favorite Christmas spot without the heavy crowds? Knowing the peak days for your chosen attractions and events is a must. Get updated with their event calendars to check which days are packed with guests and tourists. Weekdays are generally more relaxed, while weekends and school breaks are considered peak days. Downloading official attraction apps will help you make the most of your holiday getaway!

5. Spend the holiday season with your favorite people.

Do we even have to explain this further? The warmth of Christmas spirit is best when shared with people who matter most to us. Treat yourself and your loved ones to unforgettable moments that they will treasure forever.

Spend Christmas in California with a fun twist.

From tall, glowing Christmas trees to heartwarming photo sessions with Santa Claus and his reindeer, the California Christmas is always phenomenal. Visit your dream Christmas spots this year, end 2025 on a festive note, and share the love and holiday spirit with your favorite people. Get those theme park tickets and reserve those event passes for an incredible winter bliss that you can always remember.

Add a fun twist to the most wonderful time of the year. Have a magical and memorable Christmas, FunExplorers!