Newport Beach Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Newport Beach and surrounding areas
Newport Beach welcomes the festive season with lights and things to do along the harbor and Balboa Island. The Fire & Lights Festival and Breakfast with Santa offer family-friendly activities while the 2025 Holiday Christmas Concert at St. James provides seasonal music in a scenic setting. From boat parades to coastal holiday markets and illuminated waterfront walks, Newport Beach’s Christmas attractions blend seaside charm with festive events and bright lights for a memorable holiday experience.
Find the best Newport Beach Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Lights
21 eventsSpectacular Christmas boat parade on Newport Harbor
Christmas Markets
16 eventsFestive holiday market with artisanal vendors
Christmas Parties
9 eventsNew Year's Eve party with 70s/80s new wave tribute bands.
Christmas Shows
8 eventsAnnual holiday concert with Santa and full orchestra
Other Christmas Activities
44 eventsA magical Christmas parade with Santa and Disney characters.
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Holiday Lights Cruises
Spectacular Christmas boat parade on Newport Harbor
-
Tis the Season! Christmas Concert
(Costa Mesa)
Annual holiday concert with Santa and full orchestra
-
A Christmas Fantasy Parade
(Anaheim)
A magical Christmas parade with Santa and Disney characters.
-
Winter Fest OC
(Costa Mesa)
Southern California's largest winter festival with real snow.
-
Los Angeles Christmas Market
(Huntington Beach)
Festive holiday market with artisanal vendors
-
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)
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about events and activities in Newport Beach
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Newport Beach
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Also Near Newport Beach
Costa Mesa
- South Coast Plaza Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Arrival
- Merry & Bright- A Charity Holiday Festival
- South Coast Plaza Tree-Lighting Ceremony and Santa Arrival
Irvine
See all in Irvine →Huntington Beach
See all in Huntington Beach →Fountain Valley
See all in Fountain Valley →Santa Ana
See all in Santa Ana →Newport Beach Christmas FAQ
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.