Artistic rendering – Event may differ
South Coast Plaza Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Arrival
South Coast Plaza invites you to their cherished annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony and Santa Arrival. This festive event features enchanting performances by the Pacific Symphony, South Coast Repertory, and students from the American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie School. Experience the magic as the tree is lit and Santa makes his grand entrance, ushering in the holiday season.
What to Expect
Traditional tree lighting and Santa's arrival with performing arts groups.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Accessibility: Enable accessibility for low visionOpen the accessibility menu
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Costa Mesa
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, holiday shoppers, entertainment seekers
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa's Express Train & Reindeer Carousel
- New arrivals for the Holidays
- Gift Guides available
- South Coast Plaza Gift Cards
- Exclusive Holiday Packages from Hotel Partners
Location
Event Details
Duration
Evening event for Tree Lighting; shopping hours vary
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Pacific Symphony
- South Coast Repertory
- American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie School at Segerstrom Center for the Arts
- Members of Pacific Chorale
- Students from Orange County School of the Arts
Organizer
South Coast Plaza
Food & Drink
Beverage vendors available
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early for the Tree Lighting Ceremony to secure a good viewing spot, as it is a popular community event.
- Check the South Coast Plaza website for specific times for Santa photos and the Santa's Express Train, as these may vary.
- Consider visiting during the week for a more relaxed shopping experience and to enjoy the holiday décor without the weekend crowds.
- Take advantage of the South Coast Plaza Gift Cards, which are honored at over 250 locations, making them a versatile gift option.
- Explore the 'New for the Holidays' section on their website for curated gift ideas from various boutiques.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Tree Lighting Ceremony start?
The Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Arrival begins at 7 PM on Thursday, November 20th.
Is there an admission fee for the Tree Lighting Ceremony?
No, admission to the Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Arrival is complimentary.
Where can I take photos with Santa?
Santa will be available for photos at two dedicated locations within South Coast Plaza.
What are the general holiday shopping hours?
General holiday hours are Monday-Thursday 10 AM - 8 PM, Friday & Saturday 10 AM - 9 PM, and Sunday 11 AM - 7 PM. Department store and restaurant hours may vary.
Are pets allowed at South Coast Plaza?
No pets are allowed at South Coast Plaza, though service animals are welcome.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.