Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Winter Wonders in Costa Mesa: Festive Activities for a Magical Holiday Escape
‘Tis the season! If you’re in the mood for some festive fun, look no further. Grab your beanies, charge up your phones, and get ready to experience Costa Mesa winter activities full of holiday vibes!
Top 5 Winter Activities & Events in Costa Mesa
Feel the Holiday Magic at Winter Fest OC
Dive headfirst into the holiday spirit at Winter Fest OC, Southern California’s largest winter festival! Glide through their enchanting ice-skating trail, enjoy winter-themed cocktails inside a cozy fireside igloo, speed down a 150-foot ice tubing slide, and experience a dazzling light show perfectly synchronized to your favorite holiday songs. It’s a must-do event with plenty of attractions for all ages and so many festive photo ops to fill your IG stories!
- Open select dates from Nov 22 – Jan 5
Find the Perfect Gift Shopping at South Coast Plaza
It’s time to get your holiday shopping done, and where better to do it than at South Coast Plaza? The magical holiday décor transforms this famous shopping destination into an atmospheric winter wonderland. Find the reindeer carousel and a whimsical Santa Express train inside the center’s festive corridors, or track down Santa to take memorable professional photos. Try your hand at holiday crafts with Santa’s Craft Shop workshops. With an unparalleled selection of high-end stores and holiday essentials, South Coast Plaza offers a luxurious holiday shopping experience.
- Santa’s Craft Shop open Dec 6 – 24
- Santa Photos available Nov 22 – Dec 24
Snap-Worthy Moments at the Town Center Park Tree
Capture the holiday spirit by visitingthe massive Christmas tree in Town Center Park to take photos, easily located right in front of The Westin South Coast Plaza. If you’re in the mood for a tasty meal, try Vaca, a renowned Spanish restaurant with a perfect view of the tree. And here’s a bonus – it’s just steps away from Segerstrom Center for Arts and South Coast Repertory so you can top off your night with a live holiday performance!
Indulge in Sweet Delights at Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee
Satisfy your craving for a sweet treat with freshly made donuts from Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee. With accolades from CN Traveler, this culinary sensation is also a local favorite. Keep an eye out for their limited-time holiday options. From bourbon delights to peppermint perfection, experience the joy of the season in every bite.
Photo by South Coast Repertory
Become Part of the Tradition with “A Christmas Carol” at South Coast Repertory
The holidays in Costa Mesa aren’t complete without watching a performance of “A Christmas Carol” at Tony Award-winning South Coast Repertory. Watching the story performed on stage is a long-held tradition and the absolute best way to enjoy this classic, heartwarming tale.
- Runs from Nov 30 – Dec 24
Even More Festive Things to Do this December in Costa Mesa
Photo by Inspired Art Wine
Holiday-Themed Painting at Inspired Art Wine
Multiple Dates from Dec 1 – 22
This December, pick up a glass (or two) of wine and let your inner artist shine with over a dozen guided painting sessions featuring winter and holiday themes.
Laser Holidays II at the OCC Planetarium
Dec 3, 14, 15, 20, & 22
Step into the LAZERDOME for a holiday-themed laser show featuring seasonal music from across the decades. Experience 21st-century holiday cheer with a unique, high-tech show that delights the senses.
Holiday Maker’s Hive Market
Dec 7
A local hub of culture, food, and style, The CAMP will host a special market that will spark your holiday spirit with vendors for gifts, singing by carolers, and a free Santa Claus photo op.
Creative Babe Market
Dec 7
Support local artisans and track down holiday gifts at this family-friendly event with 100+ local vendors. Free admission and the opportunity to meet beloved cartoon character Bluey (with photo ops) make it an ideal outing for the whole family!
DIY Winter Wreaths at the Centennial Farm Workshop
Dec 7
Say goodbye to plastic, store-bought holiday decorations and make your own winter wreath at this family-friendly workshop in the beautiful Millennium Barn. Be sure to RSVP by the Nov 30 deadline!
Photo by Segerstrom
American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker
Dec 12 – 22
This beautiful rendition of Tchaikovsky’s classic tale features dazzling choreography by the famous Alexei Rratmansky. This timeless story offers pure joy for the entire family.
Holidays Around the World
Dec 14
Discover how cultures around the world celebrate their holiday traditions through a day of live music and dance. The event is free with Plaza Pass, and be sure to bring your own folding chairs.
Snoopy House Holiday Display
Dec 13 – 20
Dec 16 (Sensory Friendly Event)
Stop by Costa Mesa City Hall for live performances, train rides, sledding, food vendors, Santa photos, and more. Admission is free for all ages.
Silent Night Silent Disco
Dec 20
Put on your holiday best and get ready for a unique disco experience. Pick up your pair of light-up headphones at the venue and get moving on the dance floor with holiday classics and hits.
Photo by Segerstrom
Joss Stone: Merry Christmas, Love
Dec 20 & 21
GRAMMY Award-winner Joss Stone will be accompanied by Pacific Symphony for two nights of soul music and Christmas magic.
Truffle Making at the Centennial Farm Workshop
Dec 21
Indulge in cocoa couture with a hands-on class. In two hours, you’ll have learned to melt, mix, chill, and roll hand-made truffles that you can take home in gift boxes for sweetening your holiday. RSVP online by December 14.
See What Else Costa Mesa Is Up To
To see all the top events happening over the holiday season, check out our Costa Mesa events calendar.
Book Your Overnight Stay
Skip the stress and tension of the in-laws’ house and instead celebrate the holiday season in comfort, peace, and style with an overnight stay at a Costa Mesa hotel. With central locations, these top options put you at the heart of the city’s seasonal festivities while offering a cozy, quiet space to return to in the evening for the ultimate relaxation. Beat the holiday rush and lock in your stay today.
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