Christmas Events for Kids in Irvine (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

16 min read

The Irvine area has 17 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Palm Lights, Musical Delights in Irvine on November 6 to Holidayz at the Park Palm Court Light Display in Irvine, which runs through January 3. 4 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in California, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 17 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Irvine for 2026, in Irvine, Newport Beach, Tustin, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Lake Forest and Mission Viejo
  • First: Palm Lights, Musical Delights, Irvine, November 6. Runs latest: Palm Lights, Musical Delights, Irvine, through January 3
  • Free: Nutcracker in a Nutshell, 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove, Cookie Decorating at El Toro Library and Winter Animal Crafts
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our California Christmas train rides page.

Irvine Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
17 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Irvine, Newport Beach, Tustin, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Lake Forest and Mission Viejo
Season
November 6, 2026 to January 3, 2027
Free events
4
Kinds of events
tree lighting, holiday lights, Santa visit and holiday crafts
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Irvine Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Palm Lights, Musical Delights in Irvine on November 6; the last runs to January 3. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Irvine? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

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Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Irvine

6 confirmed events for kids in Irvine, soonest first.

Irvine: Palm Lights, Musical Delights

Holiday lightsIrvine Company Retail · Irvine

Host
Irvine Company Retail (opens in a new tab)
Where
Irvine Spectrum Center, 670 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618
When
Friday, November 6, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (show every 30 minutes starting at 5:15 pm), 5:15 pm
Cost
Not stated on the page
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Irvine Spectrum Center presents Palm Lights, Musical Delights from November 6, 2026, to January 3, 2027. The shopping center describes it as a dazzling, one-of-a-kind palm tree light show synchronized to a soundtrack of holiday favorites.

Shows begin at 5:15 pm each evening and repeat every 30 minutes, so families can drop in without planning around a single start time. The center also lists an outdoor ice rink, Skating Under the Stars, and Friday and Saturday night live music, which can round out an evening with children. The event is at Irvine Spectrum Center, 670 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618. Cost: Not stated on the page. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: Shows start at 5:15 pm and repeat every 30 minutes. The page does not list a price, so check with the center.

See dates and details from Irvine Company Retail (opens in a new tab)

Irvine: Hikari: Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms

Holiday lightsTanaka Farms · Irvine

Host
Tanaka Farms (opens in a new tab)
Where
Tanaka Farms, 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612
When
Friday, November 27, 2026 to Sunday, December 27, 2026 (Wednesday to Sunday, plus Dec 21 to 23; closed Dec 24 and 25), 5 to 9 pm
Cost
Kids 3 to 12 $18 to $23, adults $28 to $33
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Hikari: Festival of Lights runs November 27 to December 27, 2026, at Tanaka Farms in Irvine. It is open Wednesday through Sunday from 5 to 9 pm, with last admission at 7:30 pm, plus Monday to Wednesday, December 21 to 23. The farm is closed December 24 and 25.

Admission includes a tractor ride out to the light path, thousands of twinkling lights, a holiday corn maze, the Barnyard Educational Exhibit and photo spots. New this year is Santa's Hilltop Village, with group photos with Santa from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. Games add-ons cost $3 per ticket. Tickets are $18 to $23 for kids 3 to 12 and $28 to $33 for adults, and parking is $12 per vehicle Friday to Sunday. The event is at Tanaka Farms, 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612. Cost: Kids 3 to 12 $18 to $23, adults $28 to $33. Advance booking is recommended. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: Buy tickets online for a set entry time. Wagon rides run 5:30 to 8 pm, so arrive early. The farm is stroller friendly.

See dates and details from Tanaka Farms (opens in a new tab)

Irvine: Baby Steps with Santa at Pretend City

Story time with SantaPretend City Children's Museum · Irvine

Host
Pretend City Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
Where
Pretend City Children's Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92618
When
Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 8 to 9:30 am
Cost
$12 per adult, babies 0 to 18 months free
Ages
18 months and younger
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Baby Steps is Pretend City's program for children 18 months and younger, and the December 1, 2026 session has a holiday twist. Santa travels down from the North Pole so infants can say hello and take holiday pictures.

The morning runs from 8 to 9:30 am and includes a story time at 8:45 am in Orange Plaza, followed by a grand exit parade. Admission is $12 per adult for non-members, babies from birth to 18 months are free and members are free. The museum asks for no older siblings so the space stays calm for the little ones. The event is at Pretend City Children's Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92618. Cost: $12 per adult, babies 0 to 18 months free. Advance booking is recommended. Ages: 18 months and younger.

Parent tip: No older siblings are allowed at this program. Use the museum's RSVP link to reserve a spot.

See dates and details from Pretend City Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)

Irvine: Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Pretend City

Tree lightingPretend City Children's Museum · Irvine

Host
Pretend City Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
Where
Pretend City Children's Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92618
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to 1 pm
Cost
Included with museum admission
Ages
Young children and families
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Pretend City Children's Museum in Irvine hosts its Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, December 5. The program starts with the tree lighting at 11 am, and then cookies and hot cocoa with Santa run from 11:30 am to 1 pm.

The museum invites families to welcome winter with festive cheer and to make holiday memories in its miniature city. The program is included in museum admission, but space is limited and the museum asks families to book tickets ahead. The calendar notes that events and dates are subject to change. The event is at Pretend City Children's Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92618. Cost: Included with museum admission. Advance booking is recommended. Ages: Young children and families.

Parent tip: Book tickets in advance because space is limited. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

See dates and details from Pretend City Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)

Irvine: Holidayz at the Park Palm Court Light Display

Holiday lightsCity of Irvine · Irvine

Host
City of Irvine (opens in a new tab)
Where
Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex, 8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA 92618
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (daily from dusk to 9 pm)
Cost
Not stated on the 2026 page
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Holidayz at the Park is the City of Irvine's walkable outdoor light display at the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex. It begins on Saturday, December 5, 2026, and the city's holiday guide lists it through January 3, 2027.

Guests can drop in daily from dusk until 9 pm to stroll through the light displays, snap photos and take a family picture in Santa's sleigh. The city also lists holiday-themed classes for the whole family at the Great Park, where fees and ages vary and registration is required through the city's activity site. The event is at Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex, 8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA 92618. Cost: Not stated on the 2026 page. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: Go right after dusk for the best views, and bring a warm layer for the evening.

See dates and details from City of Irvine (opens in a new tab)

Irvine: Illuminate Irvine

Tree lightingCity of Irvine · Irvine

Host
City of Irvine (opens in a new tab)
Where
Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex, 8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA 92618
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 3 to 8 pm
Cost
Not stated on the 2026 page
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The city of Irvine describes Illuminate Irvine as one of its signature seasonal events, and the 2026 holiday page schedules it for Saturday, December 5, from 3 to 8 pm at the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex. Guests will find wintry activities, gift shopping and live performances of favorite holiday songs.

The big moment comes when the Holiday Tree and the Palm Court Arts Complex light up. According to the same page, the Palm Court lights start shining that day, so families can linger after the ceremony to enjoy them and snap photos. Between November 1 and December 12, the city also runs a toy drive for Marine families. The venue is Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex, 8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA 92618. Cost: Not stated on the 2026 page. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: Before you go, read the City of Irvine holiday page to learn how parking and admission work this year.

See dates and details from City of Irvine (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Newport Beach

3 confirmed events for kids in Newport Beach, soonest first.

Newport Beach: Nights of Coastal Lights at Fashion Island

Holiday lightsFashion Island · Newport Beach

Host
Fashion Island (opens in a new tab)
Where
Fashion Island Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale's Courtyard, 401 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660 (near Irvine)
When
Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, December 27, 2026 (nightly shows at 5:30, 6, 6:30, 7, 7:30 and 8 pm), 5:30 to 8 pm
Cost
Not stated on the page
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Nights of Coastal Lights runs nightly from November 20 to December 27, 2026, in the courtyard between Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale's at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. A towering 90-foot live Christmas tree lights up, accompanied by a snowfall effect and festive holiday music.

The scheduled show times are 5:30, 6, 6:30, 7, 7:30 and 8 pm each night, weather permitting. It makes an easy add-on to a visit with Santa at the Atrium Lawn, since both are in the same shopping center. For questions, call Guest Services at 949-721-2000. The event is at Fashion Island Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale's Courtyard, 401 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660. Cost: Not stated on the page. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: Shows are weather permitting. Call Guest Services at 949-721-2000 with questions.

See dates and details from Fashion Island (opens in a new tab)

Newport Beach: Photos with Santa at Fashion Island

Santa visitFashion Island · Newport Beach

Host
Fashion Island (opens in a new tab)
Where
Fashion Island Atrium Lawn, 401 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660 (near Irvine)
When
Friday, November 20, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (daily hours vary, see page)
Cost
Photo packages from $44.99
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Fashion Island in Newport Beach lists Photos with Santa from November 20 to December 24, 2026, on the Atrium Lawn. Santa spends the season in a custom-designed coastal cottage, and takes an occasional break from 2 to 3 pm to feed his reindeer.

Hours vary by date. From November 21 to December 12, the schedule is Monday to Friday 10 am to 7:30 pm, Saturday 10 am to 8 pm and Sunday 11 am to 6 pm. From December 13 to 20 he is there daily from 10 am to 8 pm. Photo packages run from $44.99 for the Basic package to $64.99 for the Elite package, plus tax. The page asks guests not to use personal cameras or phones during the visit. The event is at Fashion Island Atrium Lawn, 401 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660. Cost: Photo packages from $44.99. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: Hours change on Thanksgiving Eve and Christmas Eve, so check the page. Personal cameras and phones are not allowed during the visit.

See dates and details from Fashion Island (opens in a new tab)

Newport Beach: 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove

Tree lightingFreeCrystal Cove Conservancy · Newport Beach

Host
Crystal Cove Conservancy (opens in a new tab)
Where
Crystal Cove State Park Historic District, 35 Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, CA 92657 (near Irvine)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10 am to 6 pm
Cost
Listed as a free event
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Crystal Cove Conservancy hosts its 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market on Saturday, December 5, 2026, in the Crystal Cove State Park Historic District. The holiday market runs from 10 am to 6 pm with handcrafted gifts from local artisans.

Families can bring the kids for Santa's arrival and photos from 3:30 to 5 pm, then stay for the Christmas tree lighting program from 5 to 5:30 pm, which ends with the carol We Wish You a Merry Christmas. The event page categorizes it as family friendly and free. The schedule may change because of weather. The event is at Crystal Cove State Park Historic District, 35 Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, CA 92657. Cost: Listed as a free event. No registration is needed. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: The schedule may change with the weather. State park parking fees may apply, so check before you go.

See dates and details from Crystal Cove Conservancy (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Tustin

3 confirmed events for kids in Tustin, soonest first.

Tustin: Nutcracker in a Nutshell

Holiday showFreeOC Public Libraries · Tustin

Host
OC Public Libraries (opens in a new tab)
Where
Tustin Library, 345 E Main St, Tustin, CA 92780 (near Irvine)
When
Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm
Cost
Free, no registration
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Tustin Library welcomes the Tustin Dance Center for Nutcracker in a Nutshell on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, from 4:30 to 5:30 pm. The dancers present an abbreviated version of the Nutcracker ballet to celebrate the season.

The event is for all ages and no registration is required, which makes it an easy first ballet for young children. A shortened show is a good fit for little attention spans, and the free price means families can drop in without planning ahead. The event is at Tustin Library, 345 E Main St, Tustin, CA 92780. Cost: Free, no registration. No registration is needed. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: No registration is needed. Arrive a few minutes early to find seats near the front.

See dates and details from OC Public Libraries (opens in a new tab)

Tustin: Christmas Tree Lighting in Old Town Tustin

Tree lightingCity of Tustin · Tustin

Host
City of Tustin (opens in a new tab)
Where
Old Town Tustin, Main St and El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92780 (near Irvine)
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 6 to 8:30 pm
Cost
Not stated on the page
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The City of Tustin Parks and Recreation calendar lists a Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, December 4, 2026, from 6 to 8:30 pm in Old Town Tustin, at Main Street and El Camino Real. The city calendar gives the date, time and location, but no further program details yet.

Old Town Tustin is a walkable historic district, so families can combine the tree lighting with a stroll and dinner nearby. The city also lists a Breakfast with Santa on December 12 at the Community Center at The Market Place, which makes a good second outing for the same season. The event is at Old Town Tustin, Main St and El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92780. Cost: Not stated on the page. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: The city page lists few details, so check the Tustin calendar closer to the date for the evening's program.

See dates and details from City of Tustin (opens in a new tab)

Tustin: Breakfast with Santa in Tustin

Breakfast with SantaCity of Tustin · Tustin

Host
City of Tustin (opens in a new tab)
Where
Community Center at The Market Place, 2961 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92782 (near Irvine)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9 am to noon
Cost
Not stated on the page
Ages
Families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The City of Tustin calendar lists Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 12, 2026, from 9 am to noon at the Community Center at The Market Place, 2961 El Camino Real. The listing gives the date, time and place, and does not describe the menu or ticket details yet.

Breakfast with Santa events are a classic way to meet Santa in a relaxed indoor setting, and Tustin is a quick drive from Irvine. Because the city page does not list pricing or registration, parents should check the Tustin Parks and Recreation page or call before planning to attend. The event is at Community Center at The Market Place, 2961 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92782. Cost: Not stated on the page. Ages: Families.

Parent tip: The listing does not say whether tickets or registration are required, so confirm with the city before you go.

See dates and details from City of Tustin (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Huntington Beach

2 confirmed events for kids in Huntington Beach, soonest first.

Huntington Beach: Christmas Market OC

Santa visitChristmas Market OC at Old World Village · Huntington Beach

Host
Christmas Market OC at Old World Village (opens in a new tab)
Where
Old World Village, 7561 Center Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 (near Irvine)
When
Sun November 15, Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Sat December 5, Sun December 6, Sat December 12, Sun December 13, Sat December 19 and Sun December 20, 2026, 2 to 5 pm
Cost
No admission price listed
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Christmas Market OC runs from November 15 through January 3 at Old World Village in Huntington Beach, with the indoor shopping village open daily. The outdoor biergarten and food booths open Wednesday through Sunday starting November 18.

For children, the main draws are the Santa Meet and Greet in the Festival Hall, listed on Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 5 pm on set dates from November 15 through December 20. Wiener Dog Races take place in the center of the village on November 15 and December 6. Live music plays on the garden stage on weekends, and the market is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Parent tip: Santa is only there on the listed weekend dates, so check them before you drive. The biergarten area is also an adult drinking space.

See dates and details from Christmas Market OC at Old World Village (opens in a new tab)

Huntington Beach: Bella Terra Tree Lighting

Santa and Mrs. ClausBella Terra · Huntington Beach

Host
Bella Terra (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bella Terra, The Park near Solita, 7777 Edinger Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 (near Irvine)
When
Friday, November 20, 2026, 4 to 7 pm
Cost
No admission price listed
Ages
Whole family
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The shopping center in Huntington Beach hosts its tree lighting on Friday, November 20, 2026, from 4 to 7 pm in The Park, the fountain area near Solita. The tree is lit at 5 pm.

Two vocal groups, Jingle 5 and The Holly Belles, perform during the evening. Costumed characters walk through the crowd, including candy cane stiltwalkers, a drummer boy and ballerina, the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Head Elf. Mr. and Mrs. Claus are on hand for visits and photos, and there is a holiday photo booth and a set of kids activities. It is an easy first stop of the season for families with younger children.

Parent tip: Come before 5 pm to find a spot near the tree and to meet the characters before the crowd builds.

See dates and details from Bella Terra (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Costa Mesa

1 confirmed event for kids in Costa Mesa, soonest first.

Costa Mesa: Winter Animal Crafts

Holiday craftsFreeOC Public Libraries · Costa Mesa

Host
OC Public Libraries (opens in a new tab)
Where
Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library, 1855 Park Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (near Irvine)
When
Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 10:30 to 11:30 am
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages, families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library hosts Winter Animal Crafts on Wednesday, December 23, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:30 am. Children make their own wintery animal using cotton balls, paint or paper, and the instructions are given in English and Spanish.

The program is listed for kids and families, including children from birth to 5 and ages 6 to 11, and it is free with no registration listed. It is a quiet winter-break activity, and the finished creature makes a nice decoration for the holidays. The event is at Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library, 1855 Park Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627. Cost: Free. No registration is needed. Ages: All ages, families.

Parent tip: The program is bilingual in English and Spanish. No registration is listed.

See dates and details from OC Public Libraries (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Lake Forest

1 confirmed event for kids in Lake Forest, soonest first.

Christmas events for kids in Mission Viejo

1 confirmed event for kids in Mission Viejo, soonest first.

Mission Viejo: Santa's Arrival and Lighting Ceremony

Tree lightingMission Viejo Activities Committee · Mission Viejo

Host
Mission Viejo Activities Committee (opens in a new tab)
Where
Civic Center Plaza, 200 Civic Center Dr, Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (near Irvine)
When
Sunday, November 29, 2026, 3 to 6 pm
Cost
Not stated on the page
Ages
Kids of all ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Mission Viejo Activities Committee hosts Santa's Arrival and Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, November 29, 2026, at Civic Center Plaza. The festival celebration runs from 3 to 5:45 pm and is open to kids of all ages.

Children can enjoy make-and-take craft projects, holiday games and a petting zoo, with snacks and goodies available for purchase and live band and dance performances on the main stage. At 6 pm Santa arrives on a fire engine and, with help from the children, lights up the city's holiday lights. A shuttle runs from the City Hall lot to North Paseo from 3 to 7 pm. The event is at Civic Center Plaza, 200 Civic Center Dr, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. Cost: Not stated on the page. Ages: Kids of all ages.

Parent tip: Use the shuttle from the City Hall lot, which runs from 3 to 7 pm. Call 949-830-7066 with questions.

See dates and details from Mission Viejo Activities Committee (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our California Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, San Diego, Sacramento, Fresno, Bakersfield, Riverside, Anaheim, Stockton, Modesto, Santa Barbara, Oxnard, Santa Rosa and Palm Springs. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Irvine Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Irvine in 2026?

We confirmed 17 Christmas events for kids in Irvine for 2026 on each host’s own page: Palm Lights, Musical Delights in Irvine (November 6), Christmas Market OC in Huntington Beach (November 15), Nutcracker in a Nutshell in Tustin (November 17), Bella Terra Tree Lighting in Huntington Beach (November 20), Nights of Coastal Lights at Fashion Island in Newport Beach (November 20), Photos with Santa at Fashion Island in Newport Beach (November 20), Hikari: Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms in Irvine (November 27), Santa's Arrival and Lighting Ceremony in Mission Viejo (November 29), Baby Steps with Santa at Pretend City in Irvine (December 1), Christmas Tree Lighting in Old Town Tustin in Tustin (December 4), 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove in Newport Beach (December 5), Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Pretend City in Irvine (December 5), Holidayz at the Park Palm Court Light Display in Irvine (December 5), Illuminate Irvine in Irvine (December 5), Breakfast with Santa in Tustin in Tustin (December 12), Cookie Decorating at El Toro Library in Lake Forest (December 18) and Winter Animal Crafts in Costa Mesa (December 23). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Irvine, California?

For families in and around Irvine, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Palm Lights, Musical Delights (Nov 6 to Jan 3, shows every 30 minutes starting at 5:15 pm, not stated on the page); Hikari: Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms (Nov 27 to Dec 27, Wed to Sun, 5 to 9 pm (open Dec 21 to 23, closed Dec 24 and 25), kids 3 to 12 $18 to $23, adults $28 to $33); Baby Steps with Santa at Pretend City (Tue, Dec 1, 8 to 9:30 am, $12 per adult, babies 0 to 18 months free); Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Pretend City (Sat, Dec 5, 11 am tree lighting, cookies and hot cocoa with Santa 11:30 am to 1 pm, included with museum admission); Holidayz at the Park Palm Court Light Display (Daily, Dec 5 to Jan 3, from dusk to 9 pm, not stated on the 2026 page); Illuminate Irvine (Sat, Dec 5, 3 to 8 pm, not stated on the 2026 page). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Irvine section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Newport Beach, California?

For families in and around Newport Beach, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Nights of Coastal Lights at Fashion Island (Nightly, Nov 20 to Dec 27, shows from 5:30 to 8 pm, not stated on the page); Photos with Santa at Fashion Island (Nov 20 to Dec 24; weekdays 10 am to 7:30 pm, weekends and later dates vary, photo packages from $44.99); 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove (Sat, Dec 5, market 10 am to 6 pm, Santa 3:30 to 5 pm, tree lighting 5 to 5:30 pm, listed as a free event). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Newport Beach section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Tustin, California?

For families in and around Tustin, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Nutcracker in a Nutshell (Tue, Nov 17, 4:30 to 5:30 pm, free, no registration); Christmas Tree Lighting in Old Town Tustin (Fri, Dec 4, 6 to 8:30 pm, not stated on the page); Breakfast with Santa in Tustin (Sat, Dec 12, 9 am to 12 pm, not stated on the page). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Tustin section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Huntington Beach, California?

For families in and around Huntington Beach, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Christmas Market OC (Santa on select weekends, 2 to 5 pm; market Nov 15 to Jan 3, no admission price listed); Bella Terra Tree Lighting (Fri, Nov 20, 4 to 7 pm, tree lighting at 5 pm, no admission price listed). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Huntington Beach section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Costa Mesa, California?

For families in and around Costa Mesa, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Winter Animal Crafts (Wed, Dec 23, 10:30 to 11:30 am, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Costa Mesa section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Lake Forest, California?

For families in and around Lake Forest, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Cookie Decorating at El Toro Library (Fri, Dec 18, 3 to 4 pm, free, no registration). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Lake Forest section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Mission Viejo, California?

For families in and around Mission Viejo, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Santa's Arrival and Lighting Ceremony (Sun, Nov 29, festival 3 to 5:45 pm, Santa arrives at 6 pm, not stated on the page). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Mission Viejo section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Irvine?

Yes. 4 of the 17 events here are free: Nutcracker in a Nutshell in Tustin, 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove in Newport Beach, Cookie Decorating at El Toro Library in Lake Forest and Winter Animal Crafts in Costa Mesa. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Irvine this December?

Santa appears at Christmas Market OC in Huntington Beach (November 15), Bella Terra Tree Lighting in Huntington Beach (November 20), Photos with Santa at Fashion Island in Newport Beach (November 20), Hikari: Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms in Irvine (November 27), Santa's Arrival and Lighting Ceremony in Mission Viejo (November 29), Baby Steps with Santa at Pretend City in Irvine (December 1), 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove in Newport Beach (December 5), Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Pretend City in Irvine (December 5) and Breakfast with Santa in Tustin in Tustin (December 12). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Irvine?

Holiday story times on this page: Baby Steps with Santa at Pretend City in Irvine. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in Irvine?

Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Pretend City in Irvine (Sat, Dec 5, 11 am tree lighting, cookies and hot cocoa with Santa 11:30 am to 1 pm) and Breakfast with Santa in Tustin in Tustin (Sat, Dec 12, 9 am to 12 pm). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.

Which Irvine Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Baby Steps with Santa at Pretend City in Irvine (18 months and younger).

Are there kids' Christmas events in Irvine on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: Palm Lights, Musical Delights in Irvine (through January 3), Nights of Coastal Lights at Fashion Island in Newport Beach (through December 27), Photos with Santa at Fashion Island in Newport Beach (through December 24), Hikari: Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms in Irvine (through December 27) and Holidayz at the Park Palm Court Light Display in Irvine (through January 3).

How much is Palm Lights, Musical Delights in Irvine?

Not stated on the page. Palm Lights, Musical Delights is on Friday, November 6, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (show every 30 minutes starting at 5:15 pm), 5:15 pm at Irvine Spectrum Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Christmas Market OC in Huntington Beach?

No admission price listed. Christmas Market OC is on Sun November 15, Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Sat December 5, Sun December 6, Sat December 12, Sun December 13, Sat December 19 and Sun December 20, 2026, 2 to 5 pm at Old World Village. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Nutcracker in a Nutshell in Tustin?

Free, no registration. Nutcracker in a Nutshell is on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Tustin Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Bella Terra Tree Lighting in Huntington Beach?

No admission price listed. Bella Terra Tree Lighting is on Friday, November 20, 2026, 4 to 7 pm at Bella Terra, The Park near Solita. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Nights of Coastal Lights at Fashion Island in Newport Beach?

Not stated on the page. Nights of Coastal Lights at Fashion Island is on Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, December 27, 2026 (nightly shows at 5:30, 6, 6:30, 7, 7:30 and 8 pm), 5:30 to 8 pm at Fashion Island Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale's Courtyard. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Photos with Santa at Fashion Island in Newport Beach?

Photo packages from $44.99. Photos with Santa at Fashion Island is on Friday, November 20, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (daily hours vary, see page) at Fashion Island Atrium Lawn. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Hikari: Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms in Irvine?

Kids 3 to 12 $18 to $23, adults $28 to $33. Hikari: Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Sunday, December 27, 2026 (Wednesday to Sunday, plus Dec 21 to 23; closed Dec 24 and 25), 5 to 9 pm at Tanaka Farms. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa's Arrival and Lighting Ceremony in Mission Viejo?

Not stated on the page. Santa's Arrival and Lighting Ceremony is on Sunday, November 29, 2026, 3 to 6 pm at Civic Center Plaza. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Baby Steps with Santa at Pretend City in Irvine?

$12 per adult, babies 0 to 18 months free. Baby Steps with Santa at Pretend City is on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 8 to 9:30 am at Pretend City Children's Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Christmas Tree Lighting in Old Town Tustin in Tustin?

Not stated on the page. Christmas Tree Lighting in Old Town Tustin is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 6 to 8:30 pm at Old Town Tustin. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove in Newport Beach?

Listed as a free event. 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10 am to 6 pm at Crystal Cove State Park Historic District. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Pretend City in Irvine?

Included with museum admission. Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Pretend City is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to 1 pm at Pretend City Children's Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holidayz at the Park Palm Court Light Display in Irvine?

Not stated on the 2026 page. Holidayz at the Park Palm Court Light Display is on Saturday, December 5, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (daily from dusk to 9 pm) at Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Illuminate Irvine in Irvine?

Not stated on the 2026 page. Illuminate Irvine is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 3 to 8 pm at Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Breakfast with Santa in Tustin in Tustin?

Not stated on the page. Breakfast with Santa in Tustin is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9 am to noon at Community Center at The Market Place. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Cookie Decorating at El Toro Library in Lake Forest?

Free, no registration. Cookie Decorating at El Toro Library is on Friday, December 18, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at El Toro Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Animal Crafts in Costa Mesa?

Free. Winter Animal Crafts is on Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 10:30 to 11:30 am at Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Irvine?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Irvine Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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