It’s common knowledge that Newport Beach goes way over the top for the holidays.

Perhaps it’s to make up for the lack of snow and non-existent winter weather. Whatever the reason, we are NOT complaining, because Newport Beach’s annual holiday activities bring a tidal wave of holiday spirit like no snow day ever could!

Newport Beach’s Christmas Boat Parade is the premier event of the year!

The Christmas Boat Parade in Newport Beach is a nautical spectacle like you’ve never seen! For the whole month of December, the entire Newport Beach harbor lights up with Christmas decorations galore on every yacht, sailboat, and dinghy. Locals and tourists gather on the docks and bayside beaches to cheer on the boats as they glide past blaring music, holiday well-wishes, and even fake snow!

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You’ve Never Seen Homes so Bedecked with Holiday Glitz!

Not to be outshone by the Boat Parade, the entirety of Balboa Island plasters itself with its own holiday decor during an island-wide lights competition. Visitors are encouraged to walk the perimeter of the island (accessed by a flat pathway that makes a 1.5 mile loop). You’re guaranteed to encounter animatronic Santas, elves, and reindeer as well as fake snow, carolers, and the most beautifully decorated homes you’ve ever seen.

The Food Scene in Newport Beach Has Gone Totally Bonkers for Christmas!

It’s a little ridiculous how many of our local restaurants unveil a special winter menu for the month of December. And hey, we’re not complaining. But please don’t ask us to pick our favorite holiday specials. Whether it’s breakfast at Rye Goods, with their fresh baked goods featuring warm spices and seasonal fruits, lunch at the beautiful Farmhouse, with their seasonal farm-to-table menu, or dinner at Fable and Spirit, with an evolving menu that always seems to outdo itself, mind-boggling cuisine is served on every corner of town!

The Holiday Boutique at Roger’s Gardens is not to be Missed!

The purveyors of Roger’s Gardens are perfectly accustomed to folks visiting their boutique just to sightsee. In fact, the Holiday Boutique at this multi-acre garden store is more like an installation than a store. With room upon room of one-of-a-kind ornaments, holiday home decor, and a forest of the freshest Douglas firs around, Roger’s Gardens is every local’s one-stop shop for their decorating needs.

Frolic through the Miles of Lights and Holiday Cheer at OC’s Night of Lights!

A slightly newer Orange County tradition, Night of Lights is the perfect evening activity for any group or family. This year, they’re continuing their drive-thru immersive experience, where you will be dazzled by the larger-than-life set pieces and tunnels from the comfort of your car. Along with the drive thru, Night of Lights also features a 150 foot ice tubing slide, strolling holiday characters, and a whole Christmas collection of surprises. 

Newport’s Neighbors are Festive, too!

On top of all the local festivities, Newport is a 15-20 minute drive from some of Southern California’s most iconic holiday events. If your family hasn’t been to Disneyland during the holidays, book your tickets NOW! Main Street is decked out in garland, lights, and baubles of ornaments while the Disney team unveils special parades and performances just for the holidays! Meanwhile, down the Pacific Coast Highway, Laguna Beach also hosts their holiday extravaganza, Winter Fantasy. Tucked back in the eucalyptus trees, an entire artisan village transforms into Santa’s workshop incarnate. With row upon row of exquisite and unique goods for sale, along with enchanting live music and food vendors, you and your family will be transported to a winter wonderland in sunny California.

With so much to do in and around Newport Beach, you’ll need a place to rest your head! Check out our favorite vacation homes that come fully-stocked for all your seasonal shenanigans!

RENT A VACATION HOME
FOR THE HOLIDAYS!