23 Best Places to Spend Christmas in California in 2023 (w/ Map)

California is generally not thought of as a top destination to spend Christmas, but there are many cities that go all in during this festive time of year.

With a diverse range of places to visit, ranging from snowy destinations like Lake Tahoe to the charming gold rush era towns, it will be hard to choose where to spend your holidays.

Having grown up in California, I spent my holidays exploring the state with my family, and many of the places on this list hold special memories of some of my favorite Christmas celebrations.

We have spent some time at these Christmas towns in California, so we can provide you with all the details you will need for your holiday plans.

23 Best Places to Spend Christmas in California

1. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is considered one of the country’s most beautiful mountain lakes, so it is unsurprising that this is one of the top places to visit during Christmas in California.

During the chilly days of December, South Lake Tahoe becomes a snowy wonderland as a layer of snow blankets its mountain landscapes. 

Whether you want to hit the white slopes for a long-awaited snow adventure or soak in the incredible view, Lake Tahoe in winter will not disappoint.

We love to spend a portion of the holidays in Lake Tahoe by renting a cabin in the woods in West Lake Tahoe, where we can cuddle up by the fire and get wrapped up in Christmas cheer.

Taking your family to Northstar’s ice skating rink or dragging them to do thrilling snow ventures like skiing or snow tubing will surely get them in the holiday spirit. 

Come nightfall, bring them to the picturesque Heavenly Village to see sparkling lights, incredible holiday-themed decorations, and giant Christmas trees.

Also, did you know that Santa at Lake Tahoe loves hitting the slopes?

You can find Santa making turns at a few Tahoe ski resorts between the 19^th and 25^th in Homewood, Squaw, and Diamond Peak.

South Lake Tahoe is also home to the annual Festival of Winter Lights, which is a large event centered around a market of local designers and artisans. 

This festive gathering also offers lots of other entertainment, including choral performances, crafts for the kids, and a chance to visit Santa’s house.

• WHERE TO STAY: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort

2. San Francisco

From massive shopping mall windows to iconic cable cars roaming the streets, San Francisco is certainly decked with fabulous and majestic decorations fit for the holidays. 

Easily one of the best places for Christmas in California, San Francisco truly knows how to embody the winter holiday spirit.

If you’re up for some classical entertainment, secure seats for the iconic San Francisco Ballet, a highly anticipated traditional Christmas event in the city that has been practiced for over 75 years.

Make sure to seize the opportunity to witness what is considered one of the best renditions of Tchaikovsky’s classic.

The neighborhoods in San Francisco are the city’s heart and soul, and a holiday lights tour will enable you to soak in the sights and the Christmas lights.

Over at Fisherman’s Wharf, there’s an annual lighted boat parade, which features the largest and oldest boats adorned with festive lights and decorations.

We love to grab a hot bread bowl of clam chowder from Sabella & La Torre and watch the decorative boats pass by.

You can also find lots of dazzling and sparkling light on display in Ghirardelli Square and Pier 39, making San Francisco an even hotter spot for Christmas vacations in California.

• WHERE TO STAY: Fairmont San Francisco, for a festive Christmas vacation and one of the best SF hotels with views.

3. San Diego

San Diego is certainly not the first place you would think of when it comes to celebrating a California Christmas. 

Despite that, several San Diego destinations, events, and activities will be ready to get you in the Christmas spirit.

On top of your San Diego Christmas Event list should be the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. 

This Christmas tradition has been happening consistently yearly for two consecutive Sundays every December.

The Christmas boat parade takes place near Shelter Island (start point) and will feature lavishly decorated boats to fit the holiday theme.

San Diego also has the Balboa Park December Nights, arguably one of the best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast. 

It’s a two-day event that welcomes hundreds of thousands yearly to celebrate the holidays with delicious food, holiday-inspired performances, and beautiful displays.

We were lucky enough to time our visit to Balboa Park just right so that we could also watch the production of Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas for an even more festive evening.

Another festive event is at the famed Hotel Del Coronado, which offers several holiday-themed features like an outdoor skating rink, Frostbite lounge, and Beachside Igloos.

4. Los Angeles

Los Angeles might be an odd choice for a holiday vacation in California, but by the time you leave, you will be filled with holiday joy.

With only three expected days of rain and daily highs almost reaching 70ºF, you can spend the holidays with your family on a scenic road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, enjoying the views of California’s best beaches.

A must-visit during December is a stop at the LA Zoo Lights if you’re ready to embrace the Christmas spirit in LA.

Walk along the 90-foot tunnel of shimmering walls of lights or feast your eyes on the remarkable water show on the property.

For a kid-friendly activity, you can take your little gremlins for a fun 10-minute ride at the Griffith Park Trains.

Among the best Christmas places in Los Angeles is undoubtedly Universal Studios Hollywood, where they take the holidays seriously.

Another spirited destination in LA is Candy Cane Lane in El Segundo, where you can drive through the neighborhood and see the light show displays of the participating houses.

5. Disneyland

Anaheim is a Southern California city famous for being the home of Disneyland. 

This globally-themed park offers the best-themed rides, attractions, and even holiday shopping on Main Street, making it the best place to spend Christmas in California for families.

Growing up less than two miles from Disneyland, my family enjoyed visiting the park year-round, but our favorite was December for the holiday festivities.

The theme park goes all out during the winter holidays, filling the property with different Christmas decorations and even opening certain holiday-themed rides.

The haunted mansion gets an overall makeover, with additional Nightmare Before Christmas decorations to join the holiday vibe, and the It’s a Small World ride also becomes even more festive.

Disneyland also takes the entertainment up an extra notch, organizing a Christmas Fantasy Parade where you can watch your favorite Disney characters walk around Main Street.

There’s a Believe in Holiday Magic Fireworks to end the wonderful day, which is a show filled with stunning lights and stirring music to bring the holiday season to life.

6. Nevada City

A classic holiday vacation in California is incomplete without a visit to Nevada City, located in the quaint foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

This California Gold Rush-era city features a charming old town with several buildings included in the National Register of Historic Places.

My family used to drive over the hill across Highway 49 to get to Nevada City every Christmas for a chance to get in the holiday spirit.

It is arguably one of the best Christmas towns in California, with its overall atmosphere and landscape resembling a real-life Victorian City during the holiday season.

During December, they have an annual Nevada City Victorian Fair that takes place every Wednesday and Sunday of the month.

For a taste of Christmas past, be sure to try the roasted chestnuts, meat pies, giant turkey legs, and hot mulled wine.

If you have the time, there’s also a Cornish Christmas Festival in the neighboring town of Grass Valley, which is only five minutes away.

7. Long Beach (Queen Mary Christmas)

Long Beach offers a unique way of enjoying this time of the year as it’s an underrated holiday destination compared to its neighbors, Santa Monica and Los Angeles.

In the Long Beach Harbour, you can find the Queen Mary, which is a historical ocean liner from 1936, which hosts a massive Christmas event to spread the festive mood every December.

Plenty of activities are available here, including an ice skating rink, a tree lighting ceremony, and a chance to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

There’s even a movie theater that features Christmas movie classics like The Polar Express.

If you want to enjoy Long Beach more, you can ride a hydro bike to take a trip along the harbor shore.

This outdoor activity offers a fun and active experience that will allow you to see the well-decorated houses up close.

Prepare your legs since it’s a long ride that will make for a fun holiday-inspired workout.

8. Sacramento

Sacramento might not be as well known as other destinations in California for holiday festivities, but you will be surprised by what it has to offer.

While you won’t be able to find a white Christmas celebration here, the holiday season remains magical.

Sacramento goes all in on preparing for the holidays with a combination of large events and neighborhoods that get really into the holidays.

One of the best ways to experience the Christmas spirit is by taking a cruise through the Fab 40s neighborhood.

Many drive up and down the streets, but my family tradition was to fill up a thermos with hot cider and go for a walk through the neighborhood, stopping to enjoy each display.

This series of streets in Midtown Sacramento features intricate and over-the-top festive decorations on houses to celebrate the holiday cheer.

Can you imagine a greater spectacle than a parade of 100,000 twinkling lights highlighting Christmas characters and performers acting out the ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’?

The Theatre of Lights in Old Town Sacramento is an annual light and music show that is free and is viewed right from the wooden boardwalks and closed-off streets of this historic area by the river.

If you’re out on a date night, you can stop at Ballarin Cellars or one of the wine bars in Downtown Commons before heading out to see the show.

There are other fun for the holidays in Sacramento, including several annual tree lighting ceremonies, and they also set up an ice rink downtown.

9. Palm Springs

Palm Springs is the ideal Californian destination for snowbirds looking to avoid the cold and dreadful winters in other parts of the state.

This location has an average high temperature of 70ºF during December, a far cry from the freezing climate in some parts of the US.

A Palm Springs Christmas entails a chill Yuletide celebration where you can sip delicious drinks by the poolside under the warm December weather.

For those looking for more adventure, you can ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and see the snow-covered trees as you ascend toward lower temperatures.

In a matter of minutes, you will reach the top of the San Jacinto Mountains, where you can get a front-seat view of the majestic desert valley.

If you’re in Palm Springs during the first week of December, ensure you don’t miss the Festival of Lights that they organize to welcome the Christmas month.

Winter is also a great time to explore the desert during the daytime since the temperature is lower, making this the best time of year for a jeep tour or hiking.

10. Placerville

Embracing the holiday spirit in Placerville is all about getting cozy and bundling up with extra layers while taking in the sights of the annual Festival of Lights.

Placerville should be part of your list of Christmas places to visit in California.

The Placerville Christmas Tree Lighting, held annually downtown, is one of the most anticipated yearly events for locals and tourists.

The Festival of Lights is set for the Friday after Thanksgiving, serving as the perfect opportunity for people to get into the holiday spirit with glittering Christmas lights and fun activities.

Enjoy musical performances from local performers, go on a stagecoach ride across town, and walk down Main Street while feeling the festive atmosphere.

You can also take the chance to squeeze in some last-minute Christmas shopping by purchasing gifts and souvenirs for your family and friends from the small, locally-owned mom-and-pop stores.

We would make a stop to peruse the shops and take in the holiday cheer in Placerville each year on our way to cut our own Christmas Tree just up the road in Apple Hill.

11. Newport Beach

If you want all the holiday fun and decorations without the gloomy and cold winter weather, don’t hesitate to drop by Newport Beach in December.

From the smallest boat and watercraft to the fully decorated and decked-out oceanside houses, the entire town of Newport Beach truly knows how to dress to impress.

This city is not afraid to pull out all the stops during the Christmas holidays.

If you do happen to visit during the winter, be sure to give its festive celebrations and activities a try.

Among the festivities to look forward to are Fashion Island’s Annual Tree Lighting, Santa’s Arrival at Lido Marina Village, and the Ring of Lights competition.

For tourists looking to see what Newport offers, they have an old-school amusement park, scenic harbor, and remarkable beaches open for exploring.

Speaking of the harbor, Newport Beach likes to put a holiday twist to its harbor city by organizing a unique four-day holiday event: the Newport Boat Parade. 

12. Yosemite National Park

While this National Park is amazing all year round, there’s something about Yosemite in December that makes it one of the best Christmas places in California.

It’s not as crowded in winter compared to spring or summer, which adds to the peaceful nature of the park when the first snow covers the peaks, and there is a dusting on the trees.

This means you can easily book one of those Yosemite cabins to celebrate your Christmas in Yosemite.

Not all of the park will be accessible because of seasonal road and trail closures, but many of the top attractions in the valley are open and are even more gorgeous with ice and snow.

To get in the holiday spirit, head to Curry Village for a chance to ice skate on the rink, which has a stunning view of Half Dome.

You can also head to Badger Pass Ski area for a day of shredding the slopes or some tubing fun.

The main accommodations in the park, like the Ahwahanee Hotel, are popular destinations for the holidays for family getaways as they pull out all the stops. 

13. Cambria

Cambria is an unbelievably cute seaside town in California and is a well-hidden precious gem many tourists don’t even know exists.

This small town is where fun meets flavor, adventure meets leisure, and pines meet open waters.

Due to its small geographical size, there isn’t much activity or things to do here other than to enjoy the small town’s quaint feel and explore the coast.

What we love most about visiting Cambria in December is that it is quiet and is the perfect place for some rest and relaxation before the holiday madness.

Cambria takes pride in its Christmas Market, an annual festive tradition featuring authentic German drinks, food, and holiday products.

Walking through the market, you will undoubtedly feel the heart-warming environment, cheerful vibe, and festive holiday mood.

Aside from artisan shops, expect to see over two million Christmas lights, cozy fire pits, mouth-watering delights, and a fun train ride.

Aside from the Christmas market, there’s also the Holiday Twilight Tour hosted by Hearst Castle.

The tour showcases the grounds, including the grand social rooms of Casa Grande and the Casa del Sol guest house.

14. Solvang

Did you know you can experience a European-style holiday in one of the Christmas towns in California?

Solvang is a small town in the heart of the Santa Barbara wine region with an entire downtown area that feels like it was transported right out of the countryside in Denmark.

You combine this adorable architecture with lots of holiday decorations and lights adorned across the town’s windmills and thatched roofs, and you have one of the top holiday getaways in the state.

We stopped in one December to do some wine tasting at a couple of our favorite Pinot Noir producers and were blown away by this Dutch-style town with a Christmas twist.

Among the pride and joy of Solvang is its annual December Julefest, which features a giant Christmas tree lighting ceremony filled with caroling, live entertainment, and the much-awaited arrival of Santa Claus.

You can also enjoy its Christmas Market, which includes 150 local boutiques decked to the brim with holiday décor and all kinds of Danish products and goods.

Solvang is also a foodie’s dream paradise with many amazing Danish restaurants and downtown wine-tasting rooms ready for holiday bottle shopping.

15. Riverside

Riverside is generally not considered one of the places to go for Christmas in Southern California, but this Southern California town puts on an epic holiday event.

The Festival Lights at the Mission Inn attracts almost half a million tourists and spectators each year, making it one of the most anticipated Christmas events in the state.

The entire property gets decked out with holiday-inspired decorations ranging from giant nutcrackers to horse-drawn carriage rides that look right out of a fairy tale.

This accommodation is the most iconic hotel in Riverside as it is famous for its various architectural styles consisting of Mediterranean Revival, Spanish Gothic, Renaissance Revival, and Moorish Revival.

It’s a must-visit hotel, with its dramatic halls, castle towers, and picturesque patios that shine and pop during the holidays due to the extra decorations.

A tip from locals is to visit during the week, not the weekend, to avoid the big crowds of people.

Unless you book a room, it won’t cost you anything to see the million sparkles of the Christmas light displays and the hundreds of animated figures around the hotel.

16. San Jose

San Jose’s festive mood is back in full swing as December is fast approaching.

As one of the best places to spend Christmas in Northern California, there are several fun activities to do here that you won’t be able to do anywhere else.

From winter wonderland to impressive light displays, December is undeniably the best time to visit.

The top reason to visit San Jose in December is for an event called Enchant, which has the theme of Santa’s Magic Timepiece.

We have made this event an annual tradition to skate on their ice trail, explore the holiday market, and try and escape from their maze made of stunning light displays.

Another event to consider is Christmas in the Park, which is at the heart and center of San Jose’s Christmas traditions and attractions.

For this event, hundreds of thousands of people gather at the Plaza de Cesar Chavez to sip on hot chocolate, shop for Christmas trees, and enjoy the festive decorations. 

If you’re feeling up to it, drive through Willow Glen, a cute and famous neighborhood in San Jose, and see the homes and streets decorated by the locals to fit the holiday theme.

17. Santa Cruz

You should consider a California Christmas vacation to Santa Cruz to experience this city’s fun Christmas events designed for the entire family.

Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in December, when it transforms into a winter wonderland with an ice skating rink, carnival-style games, and a three-story Christmas tree.

Santa Cruz Boardwalk also has holiday rides, like the Christmas train, where you can ride vintage excursion cars decorated with colorful lights.

For wildlife and nature enthusiasts, Santa Cruz caters to your interests by offering its National Bridges State Park.

In fact, one year when we were visiting Santa Cruz in December, we saw Santa Claus catching some waves near Capitola Beach, where he came ashore to greet the kids.

Winter seems to be a perfect time to visit as the park witnesses the migration of monarch butterflies to its Eucalyptus groves.

Additionally, elephant seals return to their beaches for mating season, and whales are often spotted at Monterey Bay.

To get you in the spirit for one last holiday event, head to the Santa Cruz Fairgrounds for their drive-through light display that empowers young artists to design the displays.

If you’re visiting with friends, stop by one of these craft breweries in Santa Cruz before heading out to see the holiday displays.

18. Napa Valley

Napa Valley is at the top of our list for the best Christmas vacation in California for adults.

Being one of the country’s top wine destinations, Napa Valley should be the perfect getaway location for people who are looking for a touch of the holiday spirit and a world-class bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Napa Valley is home to over 400 wineries producing some of the world’s best wines, ranging from chardonnay to sparkling wines.

Due to the cooler temperature and smaller crowds, December is our favorite time to visit Napa Valley.

You can also book a fabulous stay at their top resorts that otherwise would have been too pricey during the busy season, including some resorts with natural hot springs in Calistoga.

If you’re in Napa Valley on December 4^th, you might get the chance to see the lighted tractor parade.

The Calistoga Tractor Parade shows off trucks and tractors adorned with sparkling lights.

The wineries also featured some amazing small events, including holiday-inspired cellar dinners and special wine tastings for rare releases.

If you decide to visit Napa with the kids, you can board the Napa Valley Wine Train, which transforms into a fun-filled Christmas train complete with fresh-baked cookies and a visit by Santa Claus. 

19. Lake Arrowhead (Skypark at Santa’s Village)

Lake Arrowhead is a small town located in the San Bernadino Mountains in Southern California that is a perfect getaway for a holiday excursion.

If you’re looking for a white Christmas in California, this destination transforms into a snow-covered lakeside town during the winter, offering a unique holiday experience.

With an average temperature of 29-46ºF, the town is cold enough to be clad in pure, white snow when Christmas arrives.

As a child, I would visit my Aunt and Uncle who lived in Lake Arrowhead for Christmas festivities and a chance to tube and sled on the fresh snow.

Lake Arrowhead houses various attractions with trademark activities, including the Heart Rock Trail for a winter hike in snowshoes and the Snowdrift Tubing Park for some time playing in the snow.

Don’t miss the chance to visit Santa’s Village at Skypark, a Christmas staple at Lake Arrowhead.

They have various featured activities, including Santa’s House, North Pole Village, Silver Bells Arena, and Santa’s Workshop.

Skypark also strives to deliver magical entertainment, offering bundles of festive performances like the Wacko Magic Show and the Yuletide Pop-Up Promenade.

For an extra holiday experience, Santa’s Village offers beloved holiday traditions, such as decorating cookies and sipping tea.

20. Big Bear Lake

When you’re looking for a snowfall winter vacation, Big Bear Lake is one of the places to go for Christmas in California.

Due to the low temperature, the town becomes a winter wonderland that can serve as a snowy escape from the warmer climate of other places in California.

Big Bear thrives in Christmas activities since the town is always drenched in snow during the holidays.

It hosts several mountain resorts that offer various winter-related fun, like snowboarding and skiing.

The Big Bear Mountain Resort and Snow Summit are some of the biggest draws to this mountain town.

At Grizzly Ridge Tube Park, you can take advantage of the cold and indulge in various winter-related activities like sledding, tubbing, and snowshoeing.

All winter, the village at Big Bear Lake will glitter under the moonlight and snowfall with elaborate holiday décor and lights.

You can take a quick stroll through the streets and discover shops and restaurants that might pique your interest.

21. Paso Robles

Paso Robles not only knows how to host some amazing holiday festivities, but the area surrounding the downtown is home to one of California’s most celebrated wine regions.

These seasonal events and some incredible opportunities to taste wine make this the best place to spend Christmas in California for couples.

When December rolls around, the winery staff and winemakers get to step back and relax as the craziness subsides, which means you might even get to chat with the very people who made the wine in the tasting room.

December also represents a perfect opportunity to score reservations at the best restaurants and book accommodations for the top resorts at seasonally low prices.

While visiting Paso Robles, you should definitely visit Vine Street, with its homes that are heavily decorated with Christmas lights and décor.

While they are not Christmas lights, Sensorio is an art installation consisting of over 100,000 bulb lights set to music that will get you in the holiday spirit.

22. Monterey & Carmel

Are you still wondering where to spend Christmas in California?

Monterey and Carmel have a list of festive activities and events you can try out.

For starters, Monterey organizes amazing performances for their locals, guests, and tourists to enjoy for the holidays.

Most notable are the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Musical at the Pacific Repertory Theatre and the Smuin’s Christmas Ballet at the Sunset Cultural Center in Carmel.

In terms of events, there’s the annual Christmas on the Wharf, where the kids can visit Santa, and the Christmas in the Adobes, which is a walking tour with live Christmas performances.

One of our favorite holiday traditions is visiting the sea otters at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is also open during winter without the summer crowds.

After exploring Monterey, make sure to head south to Carmel, which has a downtown full of charming Tudor-style buildings that are right out of a Christmas story.

The town is already charming enough, but add in some holiday lights and decor, and it may be the best place on this list for a Christmas getaway.

Carmel by the Sea hosts a long list of holiday events during the season ranging from Christmas photo shoots for dogs with Santa to a tour of the most beautiful Inns in town dressed in their holiday best.

Santa Claus will also make an appearance riding in a helicopter that sweeps in to greet the kids at the Santa Fly-in and Parade. 

So grab a cup of hot chocolate at one of the Carmel coffee shops and get into the holiday spirit.

23. Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is one of the top Christmas destinations in California, especially for those who love to ski or snowboard.

The holiday season at Mammoth Lakes will greet you with plenty of snow, ensuring you get that white Christmas you have been dreaming of.

The beauty of the forest and mountains, the festive spirit of the small community, and the crunch of snow under your feet all make for a memorable winter experience.

Upon hitting the month of December, Mammoth Lakes starts gradually embracing the Christmas mood.

Winter-related activities start pouring in left and right, ranging from festive Christmas dinners to taking photos with Santa and Wooly the Mammoth at the village.

The top event of the season is the Night of Lights, where the entire town assembles at the Canyon Lodge to see the light show and grand firework display prepared by the staff.

Book your stay at Mammoth Lakes, as it offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate the holidays with family and friends surrounded by fluffy snow that will get everyone in the Holiday spirit.

Christmas in California Map

California in Christmas: FAQs

Is there a Christmas town in California?

Yes, California does have Christmas towns.

In California, several quaint towns tend to go all out to celebrate the spirit of Christmas come the holiday season.

Towns like Solvang, Big Bear Lake, Palm Springs, and San Diego transform into stunning winter wonderlands decked out with holiday décor and twinkling lights.

These are the best places to spend Christmas in California.

Where should I go for Christmas in Northern California?

You should go to San Francisco if you plan to visit Northern California for Christmas.

San Francisco tends to go overboard when the Christmas season comes, offering various winter activities and organizing countless festive events.

The Charles Dickens Fair, Maiden Lane, and Union Square are all worthy places and attractions in San Francisco. 

Where should I go for Christmas in Southern California?

You can spend Christmas in San Diego if you plan to visit Southern California.

It houses the Balboa Park, which serves as the beacon for Christmas in the city.

Aside from that, there’s the Seaport Village, Forward House in Bankers Hill, Little Italy, and Liberty Station you can visit to experience a Christmas like no other in San Diego.

What is there to do in California at Christmas?

Sightseeing and winter activities are the top things to do in California during Christmas.

California is home to the Sierra Nevada Mountains, which means there will be plenty of snow for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or making a snowman.

There are also lots of large holiday celebrations and events across the state, ranging from holiday train parades to towns that transform into Christmas markets.

The biggest draw for Christmas in California is Disneyland, which decorates the entire park and even adds a holiday theme to many rides.

Wrap-Up: Best Christmas Towns in California

With the long list above, you can surely find the best place to spend Christmas in California.

With the thinner crowd and cooler temperature, many people are beginning to realize that December might be the best month to visit California.

Whether you prefer a warmer day for a saltwater Christmas or a festive trip in a quiet town, California has something to offer those who love the holidays.