Newport Beach Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Newport Beach and nearby
The Christmas season brings a special glow to the harbors and neighborhoods around Newport Beach, where twinkling lights adorn boats and homes. You'll find everything from dazzling holiday light displays and lively concerts to charming Christmas markets and traditional tree lightings, capturing the spirit of the holidays across the coast.
This year's events include the iconic Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Holiday Lights Cruises, the vibrant Christmas Plaza in Santa Ana, and the magical Hikari – A Festival of Lights in Irvine, promising memorable celebrations for all.
Browse Christmas Near Newport Beach by Category
Christmas Shows
Pacific Chorale chamber singers perform traditional and contemporary holiday carols.
Christmas Lights
Holiday festival featuring fire dancers, floating bay lights, and giant inflatables.
Christmas Markets
Festive stroll along Pacific Coast Highway featuring over 17 live bands.
Christmas Parties
Costumed holiday pub crawl across participating Newport Beach bars.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Seasonal ride overlays, festive parades, and holiday entertainment across the resort.
Editor's Picks
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Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Holiday Lights Cruises
Decorated boats sail Newport Harbor alongside fireworks and nightly drone shows.
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Fire & Lights Festival
Holiday festival featuring fire dancers, floating bay lights, and giant inflatables.
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Carols by Candlelight
Pacific Chorale chamber singers perform traditional and contemporary holiday carols.
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Newport Beach SantaCon Bar Crawl 2026
Costumed holiday pub crawl across participating Newport Beach bars.
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Holidays at the Disneyland Resort
· Anaheim
Seasonal ride overlays, festive parades, and holiday entertainment across the resort.
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"it's a small world" Holiday Lighting
· Anaheim
Wintry boat voyage featuring whimsical décor, regional adornments and holiday tunes.
Events Happening Soon
Newport Beach Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Bigger holiday scenes worth the drive
Newport Beach Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Newport Beach?
The biggest events include the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade held mid-December and the Ring of Lights Waterfront Home Competition, both drawing large crowds to celebrate the holiday season along the bayfront.
What holiday traditions are unique to Newport Beach?
Newport Beach is known for its Christmas Boat Parade, a century-old tradition featuring decorated boats and waterfront homes competing in the Ring of Lights, creating a unique blend of nautical and neighborhood holiday celebrations.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Newport Beach?
Balboa Island and Balboa Village are among the best neighborhoods for Christmas lights, offering walkable displays of decorated homes and docks that are part of the Ring of Lights competition.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Newport Beach?
Christmas markets and local artisan vendors can be found at various community venues and seasonal fairs near Newport Beach, including neighborhood markets that highlight crafts, food, and holiday gifts.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Newport Beach?
Free activities include viewing the Ring of Lights from public walkways, attending the Christmas Boat Parade at Marina Park, and visiting neighborhood displays. Budget-friendly options often include local markets and festivals with low or no admission fees.
What are good picks for families with kids in Newport Beach?
Families can enjoy the Christmas Boat Parade, holiday markets with kid-friendly crafts and treats, and seasonal festivals like the Fire & Lights Festival at Newport Dunes, which offers activities suitable for children.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
Alberta Ballet's The Nutcracker
📍 Edmonton , AB , Canada
Live orchestra accompaniment with choreography by Francesco Ventriglia.
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