Lake Forest Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Lake Forest and surrounding areas

How we verify →
Christmas Lights (22 events) Christmas Markets (18 events) Christmas Parties (6 events) Christmas Shows (5 events) Other Christmas Activities (47 events)

For Christmas 2025, Lake Forest stages holiday activities and festive events across the main district and the Irvine Spectrum Center. From Skating Under The Stars to the Lake Forest Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holidayz at the Park, the city provides Christmas lights, Christmas markets, and winter festivals for families. Visitors can enjoy seasonal performances, outdoor skating, and neighborhood markets that create a full lineup of things to do under sparkling lights.

Find the best Lake Forest Christmas happenings this year!

Lake Forest Christmas Events

Start Here

Christmas Lights

22 events
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Holiday Lights Cruises • Dec 17 – Dec 21

Spectacular Christmas boat parade on Newport Harbor

See all christmas lights →

Christmas Markets

18 events
Los Angeles Christmas Market

Festive holiday market with artisanal vendors

See all christmas markets →

Christmas Parties

6 events
Rock Lobster Ball - New Year's Eve Party • Dec 31

New Year's Eve party with 70s/80s new wave tribute bands.

See all christmas parties →

Christmas Shows

5 events
Tis the Season! Christmas Concert • Dec 21 – Dec 22

Annual holiday concert with Santa and full orchestra

See all christmas shows →

Other Christmas Activities

47 events
A Christmas Fantasy Parade • Nov 14 – Jan 7, 2026

A magical Christmas parade with Santa and Disney characters.

See all other christmas activities →

Editor's Picks (6)

  1. Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Holiday Lights Cruises (Newport Beach)
    Spectacular Christmas boat parade on Newport Harbor
  2. Tis the Season! Christmas Concert (Costa Mesa)
    Annual holiday concert with Santa and full orchestra
  3. A Christmas Fantasy Parade (Anaheim)
    A magical Christmas parade with Santa and Disney characters.
  4. Winter Fest OC (Costa Mesa)
    Southern California's largest winter festival with real snow.
  5. Los Angeles Christmas Market (Huntington Beach)
    Festive holiday market with artisanal vendors
  6. Rock Lobster Ball - New Year's Eve Party (Huntington Beach)
    New Year's Eve party with 70s/80s new wave tribute bands.

This Week / Coming Up (6)

Paséa Hotel & Spa Holiday Season Events Fri, Nov 7
Irvine Fine Arts Center Holiday Faire Sat, Nov 8
Electric Light Festival Sat, Nov 8
Happy Harbor Days Wed, Nov 12
Knott's Merry Farm Fri, Nov 21
35th Annual Winter Fantasy Fri, Nov 21

View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Lake Forest

Discover thousands of christmas events across the country

View Full Map
Interactive map preview

Also Near Lake Forest

Rancho Santa Margarita

See all in Rancho Santa Margarita →

Ladera Ranch

See all in Ladera Ranch →

Irvine

See all in Irvine →

Newport Beach

See all in Newport Beach →

Dana Point

See all in Dana Point →

Santa Ana

See all in Santa Ana →

Lake Forest Christmas FAQ

What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Lake Forest?

The 41st Annual Tree Lighting Holiday Celebration at Market Square and the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra’s Holly Jolly Concert are among the city’s largest and most popular holiday events.

What holiday traditions are unique to Lake Forest?

Lake Forest’s tree lighting at Market Square and the Kids Only Holiday Shop at Gorton Center are cherished local traditions that bring the community together each year.

Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Lake Forest?

Market Square and several residential streets in the city are known for their festive holiday light displays, making them popular spots for seasonal walks or drives.

Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Lake Forest?

Gorton Center hosts the Kids Only Holiday Shop and other seasonal markets, while vendor stalls often appear at community events and parks throughout the city.

What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Lake Forest?

The tree lighting at Market Square, free neighborhood light displays, and public holiday concerts are great budget-friendly options for families and visitors.

What are good picks for families with kids in Lake Forest?

The Kids Only Holiday Shop, tree lighting celebration, and family concerts like the Holly Jolly Concert are excellent choices for families with children.