When peppermint-flavored everything starts to appear shortly after trick-or-treating wraps up, Orange County begins its annual transformation into a winter wonderland. You’ll find no shortage of fun, festive holiday events and activities, all set against the backdrop of that perpetual SoCal sunshine. While Disneyland® is undoubtedly top of mind for many people planning winter family getaways, the season’s magic certainly doesn’t stop at the park gates. From winter festivals to world-class holiday shopping, live entertainment, and so much more, Anaheim and greater Orange County have something for everyone to enjoy during the holidays.

Great Christmas Craft Festival

Saturday, November 2, 2024

Kick off your holiday shopping or just get into the festive spirit at the Great Christmas Craft Festival in downtown Anaheim. Held annually, this massive one-day event features hundreds of local artisans and makers, showcasing everything from handmade jewelry and home decor to holiday-themed crafts and decorations. Not only is it a great opportunity to pick up some one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting small businesses, but you’ll also enjoy live entertainment and plenty of local food.

A Christmas Carol at South Coast Repertory

November 30 – December 24, 2024

For a beloved classic holiday vibe, the South Coast Repertory brings a timeless tradition to life with its annual production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The atmosphere is cozy and festive, and you’ll see people of all generations in attendance. This is a longtime community favorite among things to do in Anaheim for Christmas! Regular performances are about two hours long daily from December 6-24, with preview shows running November 30 to December 5 and a special American Sign Language performance on December 14. Reserve your tickets early, as they do sell out.

Winter Fest OC

November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025 (select dates)

This tremendous annual event held at the OC Fairgrounds is truly a holiday extravaganza. It’s the largest winter festival in all of Southern California! Winter Fest OC brings the snowy magic of winter to the Golden State, and 2024 is its 10th anniversary. The family-friendly festival features an ice-skating rink, a 150-foot-long ice tube slide, snow play areas, holiday-themed carnival rides, games, and costumed characters, and several photo ops. One of the biggest draws is the nightly tree lighting ceremony, but there are several ways to ‘upgrade’ your experience, also. You can rent private igloos with fire pits, VIP cabanas, or play Polar Putt-Putt mini golf.

Knott’s Merry Farm

Knott’s Berry Farm transforms into Knott’s Merry Farm each holiday season, adding a festive and nostalgic touch to the theme park’s usual thrills. This holiday event is filled with tens of thousands of twinkling lights, literal miles of holiday decorations, and themed entertainment. Of course, the main star of the show is the classic Peanuts ice show starring Snoopy and his pals.

Families can also meet favorite holiday characters, shop for holiday gifts at the Christmas Crafts Village, try limited seasonal treats, and watch the nightly tree lighting ceremony at Santa’s Christmas Cabin. As a bonus, Knott’s Merry Farm is generally less crowded than Disneyland®, making it a perfect alternative or addition that lets you introduce younger children to the theme park experience or just take a break from holiday crowds.

Planning Your Holiday Getaway to Anaheim

Orange County as a whole is a magical place during the holiday season, offering everything from craft fairs to winter festivals and even other theme parks. When planning your winter family getaways, make Camelot Inn & Suites Anaheim your home base. Conveniently located just across the street from the park, our family suites near Disneyland® offer easy access to all the holiday happenings throughout Orange County. Plus, on the property, you can relax on the pool terrace, watch Disney®’s nightly fireworks, and enjoy convenient amenities like laundry and the grab-and-go Merlin’s Marketplace.Book your stay early, as the holiday season is one of the most popular times of year (for visitors and locals alike!). Reserve online or give us a call at (714) 635-7275. We can’t wait to be a part of your family’s holiday memories!