Illustration of a santa visit scene (Plaza Navideña)
Christmas Markets

Plaza Navideña

Visitors gather in downtown Santa Ana to witness the lighting of the holiday tree and enjoy live community performances. The celebration includes photo opportunities with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, and arts and crafts for families. Guests can also participate in holiday trivia, take part in a glow stick dance party, and receive seasonal treats while supplies last.

What to Expect

Holiday tree lighting and festivities in the heart of downtown Santa Ana.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown Santa Ana

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

City of Santa Ana

Food & Drink

Tamales, hot chocolate, and cookies are given away while supplies last.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and community-centered

Energy Level

Low

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

Plaza Calle Cuatro
Intersection of French St. and East 4th St.
Santa Ana, CA

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Free; tamale, hot chocolate, and cookie giveaway while supplies last.
  • Hours: 5 - 8 p.m.
  • Parking: Parking is available in downtown Santa Ana at 300 E 5th St. Regular parking rates apply; the first hour is free.

Tips & Advice

  • Get there early for the tamale, hot chocolate and cookie giveaway, because it only lasts while supplies last.
  • Park at 300 E 5th St, where the first hour is free, then walk to the plaza at French St. and East 4th St.
  • Arrive at the start so the kids can see Santa arrive just before the tree lighting ceremony in the plaza.
  • Stay until the end of the night for the glow stick dance party, which closes out the program after the community performances.
  • Local performing groups who want a spot on the program can apply through the city's Plaza Navideña community performers application.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is there for kids?

Kids can get photos with Santa, hear story time with Mrs. Claus, do arts and crafts, play holiday trivia, and join the glow stick dance party that closes the night.

Is there food?

Yes. Tamales, hot chocolate and cookies are given away while supplies last.

Where should I park?

Park in downtown Santa Ana at 300 E 5th St. Regular rates apply, but the first hour is free. The event is on the plaza at French St. and East 4th St.

Can my group perform?

Yes. The program includes several community performances, and the city takes community performer applications for Plaza Navideña.

How can a business support the event?

Sponsorship and partnership opportunities are available through the city's Community Engagement team.

Tags

community celebrationfree eventSanta visitstree lightingholiday seasonfestive atmospherefamily friendlylocal businesses

More Christmas Events Near Santa Ana

More Christmas Events near Santa Ana

Open the map around Santa Ana →

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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team