Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Santa's Village at Irvine Park Railroad
Free-entry Santa's Village with festive activities and lights.
About
Step into a winter wonderland at Santa's Village, a free-entry holiday celebration. Immerse yourself in thousands of sparkling lights and capture magical moments. Enjoy festive activities like ice fishing, cookie decorating, and carnival games. While the Christmas Train requires reservations to see Santa, the village itself is open to all, offering a delightful festive experience.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families
Vibe
Festive
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Book of 15 activity tickets for $100 ($20 savings)
- Parking is free after 6:00 pm on weekdays
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.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$
Duration
Varies by activity, village open daily
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Irvine Regional Park
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Irvine Park Railroad
Practical Information
Parking
Weekdays: $3.00, Weekends: $5.00, Holidays: $7.00. Parking is FREE after 6:00 pm.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed in Santa's Village. Dogs are allowed in other areas of Irvine Regional Park and must be kept on a 6' leash.
Food & Drink
Food and snacks are available, as well as hot chocolate and coffee.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds and make the most of the activities.
- While Santa's Village is free to enter, activity tickets are sold separately; consider purchasing a book of 15 tickets for savings if planning to enjoy multiple attractions.
- Remember that separate reservations are required for the Christmas Train and Train of Lights, which are distinct from Santa's Village entry.
- Dress warmly, as the event takes place outdoors, and bring a camera to capture the festive atmosphere and light displays.
- Check the park's parking fees, which vary by day and holiday, and note that parking is free after 6:00 pm on weekdays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are reservations required for Santa's Village?
No, there are no reservations required for Santa's Village. Guests can purchase tickets for activities upon arrival. Reservations are only needed for the Christmas Train.
Is it free to enter Santa's Village?
Yes, entry into Santa's Village is free for all guests. Activity tickets can be purchased on-site.
What is the difference between Santa's Village, the Christmas Train, and the Train of Lights?
Santa's Village offers free entry with paid activities. The Christmas Train (Nov 28-Dec 23, 2025) requires advance reservations to visit Santa. The Train of Lights (Dec 26-30) requires advance reservations for a light-viewing train ride.
Can I use my activity tickets for the Christmas Train?
No, activity tickets purchased for Santa's Village are not valid for riding the Christmas Train or the Train of Lights.
Where is Santa's Village located?
Santa's Village is located behind the train station at Irvine Park Railroad, with the entrance to the right of the train station building.
