Palm Desert Other Christmas Activities 2026

Visitors can meet and take holiday photos with Santa Claus in Main Court. Special offerings include dedicated Pet Nights for four-legged family members and calmer Sensory-Friendly Santa Hours designed for children with sensory sensitivities. Guests can choose from printed sheets,...

Visitors can play in tons of real snow on an outdoor tarmac playground and meet Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, Frosty the Snowman, and elves for photo opportunities. Inside the Miles Hangar, guests can take part in craft-making, holiday shopping, and...

Participants run, walk, or stroll a 3.1-mile route through the scenic Las Palmas neighborhood, with each registered entrant receiving a full Santa suit to wear and keep. Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome on the course, and children can join...

Skaters take to an 8,400-square-foot outdoor real ice rink sheltered beneath a large white tent on the farm. Beginner skaters can use complimentary gliders to help navigate the ice. Between skating sessions, visitors can relax at picnic benches, grab bites...

Spectators gather along the route to watch brightly illuminated entries travel south toward Old Town Temecula. The procession features marching bands, decorative floats, dancers, specialty performers, and vehicles. Visitors can set up along the street to enjoy the festive holiday...

Spectators can line the streets to watch the lighted holiday procession pass by the judges booth. The community tradition brings together local organizations and marching units, followed by an after party for the crowd.

Spectators gather along Downtown Main Avenue to watch festive parade entries make their way through town. The procession features marching band performances from regional high schools. Viewers can also watch the festivities virtually via an official live stream.

Visitors can experience snow play with dedicated areas including a tot lot and youth sled runs. The event grounds host a carnival fun zone with jumpers, games, and crafts, as well as a holiday movie screening at the amphitheater stage....

Participants take a self-guided tour through selected spaces in distinctly different private residences across Redlands. Featured properties range from historic residences with antique aesthetics to modern homes with Southern California outdoor entertaining spaces. Visitors can admire unique architectural craftsmanship and...

Participants run or walk through the streets of Loma Linda while taking in scenic mountain views and challenging inclines. Young children can join the festivities in a dedicated quarter-mile Elves Trot fun run. After crossing the finish line, participants receive...

Presented by the University of Redlands Conservatory of Music, this service celebrates the birth of Jesus and themes of light, hope, and community. Audiences experience choral and instrumental offerings, spoken word narration, poetry, and dramatic tableaux. The presentation culminates in...

Participants write letters to Santa detailing their holiday wish lists, including specific preferences like book titles, clothing sizes, and colors. Letters are mailed with standard postage and include the sender's full name and return address. Eligible letters have personal information...

Guests gather at the base area to watch more than 200 skiers and snowboarders glide down the mountain with torches, creating a glowing path of light before the snowball drop. The celebration features live musical entertainment alongside the torch procession....

Head to Santa’s cozy cottage to welcome Mr. Claus to Old Town for the holiday season. The gathering marks Santa's official welcoming to the community before regular weekend visiting sessions begin.

Experience the magic of the Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade, a cherished holiday tradition transforming Palm Canyon Drive into a dazzling spectacle. This beloved event features over 80 entries, including marching bands, illuminated floats, and giant, whimsical balloons. It's...

Experience the charm of Idyllwild's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, a cherished holiday tradition for over fifty years. This free event in Idy Park features local non-profits offering crafts and gifts, alongside delicious food booths. Live music and entertainment fill the...

Palm Springs comes alive with holiday magic during the 'Palm Springs Holidays' initiative, running from Thanksgiving through January 6, 2025. This expanded celebration positions the city as a premier holiday destination, featuring the spectacular Festival of Lights Parade, charming tree...

Experience the enchantment of the holiday season at La Quinta Resort & Club, the desert's original hideaway. For nearly a century, this destination has been a tradition for families, offering twinkling lights, cozy fireplaces, and festive programming. Enjoy special holiday...

Experience the spirit of the season at Fellowship Church's Christmas Eve services. They invite you to 'Prepare Him Room' with a special series and a 'Night in Bethlehem' event. Enjoy uplifting music and a meaningful message in a welcoming atmosphere....

Temecula invites you to celebrate the holiday season with a series of enchanting events. Kick off the festivities with Santa's Arrival at Pennypickle's Workshop, followed by the magical Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. Don't miss the spectacular Santa's Electric Light Parade,...

All aboard for a magical journey on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride! Families can relive the beloved holiday classic as they embark on a festive one-hour train adventure to meet Santa Claus. Enjoy hot chocolate and treats served by dancing...

Get ready for the annual Perris CA Christmas Parade, a beloved holiday tradition! This festive event features a dazzling array of floats, energetic marching bands, impressive equestrian units, and a charming collection of classic cars. Santa Claus himself will be...

Experience the magic of the holiday season as Santa Claus makes his special arrival at Pennypickle's Workshop. Visit him in a charming, old-fashioned cottage, a cozy retreat borrowed from Professor Pennypickle. This intimate setting offers a non-commercial, family-friendly atmosphere perfect...

Get ready for a thrilling holiday celebration at the Party in Perridise – Christmas Boogie! This unique event at Skydive Perris offers an unforgettable experience for adrenaline seekers and holiday enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to skydive from the skies...

Experience a global celebration of the holiday season with 'Christmas Around the World.' This event promises a festive journey, showcasing traditions and cheer from various cultures. While specific details are still emerging, it's set to be a captivating experience for...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Breakfast with Santa event. This delightful gathering offers a chance for families to enjoy a special breakfast and create cherished memories with a visit from Santa Claus himself. It's the perfect...

Join the MVRRC 12th Annual Jingle Bell 5K Run and Kids 1-Mile Race for a festive start to the holiday season. This event offers a scenic run along the Lake Perris Dam, with options for both adults and children. Participants...

Cornerstone Community Church hosts Project TOUCH's annual Christmas Dinner for clients. Volunteers are needed for setup, serving, kids' activities, and cleanup.

Get into the holiday spirit by crafting your own fused glass ornaments and night lights. This hands-on workshop offers a chance to create unique winter-themed pieces, perfect for gifting or decorating your home. Participants can choose from a wide array...

Discover the magic of the holiday season in Redlands with a guide to festive events and activities. From the enchanting 78th Feast of Lights and the vibrant Redlands Christmas Parade to heartwarming photos with Santa and unique shopping at the...

Big Bear Lake transforms into Southern California's ultimate winter wonderland for the holidays. Experience the magic from glittering lights in The Village to Santa's visits and snow-covered landscapes. Discover seasonal events and activities for the whole family, including the Christmas...

Europa Village invites you to step into a European winter wonderland this holiday season. Experience a magical transformation with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a spirit of merriment. Enjoy delightful activities, from a European Holiday Market with unique vendors and...

Ring in the New Year with the 6th Annual NYE Beach Ball Toss, an ultimate family-friendly celebration! This event features a unique 'Beach Ball Toss' with 1,000 beach balls, a Wishing Wall for dreams and goals, games, crafts, and a...

Children can embark on Professor Pennypickle's Polar Express for a special "kids only club" evening filled with fun activities and adventures. Additionally, a Christmas Eve party offers science-themed play for kids aged 5-10, giving parents a few hours of free...