Costa Mesa is one of those hidden gems in Southern California that somehow manages to bring snow to the holiday season, even when the weather is mild and sunny. As one of the only towns to California to host multiple winter-themed events, you will want to add it to your list, especially if you have kids who can’t get enough of the snow, ice skating and snow tubing.
But what can you expect when looking for things to do in Costa Mesa at Christmas? Snow Land, Snoopy’s House, Family Brunch with OC Pride, performances of The Christmas Carole, small business shopping events, Christmas concerts and theater events at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and of course, the annual Winterfest OC at the OC Fair and Event Center.
WinterFest OC
- Address: OC Fair and Event Center, 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
- Dates: weekend after Thanksgiving through the first week of January
- Website
Every year, when Winterfest OC rolls around, my kids know it is Christmas. As East Coasters now living in Southern California, no snow and palm trees can get tough when you are used to grey drizzle, and if we were really lucky, a flurry of snow.
At Winterfest OC, we can pretend that we live in a winter wonderland thanks to unlimited snow tubing, ice skating, a million twinkling lights, a holiday market, Santa visits, festive foods and more.
Keep an eye out for half price tickets throughout the season, especially right around Christmas Day. We always save a ton when we visit on these special nights, so our whole family can enjoy Winterfest OC without breaking our holiday budget.
Snoopy House
- Address: Costa Mesa City Hall, 77 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa CA
- Date: Week before Christmas
Visit Snoopy’s House for free nightly events, including photos with Santa, train rides, letters to Santa, and stage performances. Snoopy’s House will be decorated with holiday lights, and the kids can enjoy carolers, miniature sledge rides, and more.
Live Nativity
- Address: 1734 Orange Ave, Costa Mesa CA
- Date: December
- Website
The entire family can enjoy and experience a live-action nativity scene. The event is free and will have a petting zoo and more for families to enjoy.
Family Holiday Brunch
- Address: 151 Kalmus Dr #J7, Costa Mesa CA
- Date: Sunday in December, 10 am to 1 pm
- Website
Gather the family for this incredible brunch hosted by OC Pride and celebrate Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Christmas together.
There will be games, crafts, and a delicious spread of food, plus story time with Mrs. Claus. Check-in begins at 9:45 am, and you can purchase tickets on their website.
Holiday Small Business Boutique
- Address: Burn Boot Camp, 2675 Irvine Ave, Costa Mesa CA
- Date: Saturday in mid-December, 8 am to 12 pm
Support local businesses in Costa Mesa and have a morning of fun shopping. There will be holiday treats, a visit from Santa, and a ton of shopping.
Holiday Snow Land
- Address: Balearic Park, 1975 Balearic Dr, Costa Mesa CA
- Date: Saturday in mid-December
Over 40 tons of snow will transform a park into a winter wonderland. Take the kids out to spend some time at this winter wonderland, where there will be cookie decorating, face painting, photos with Santa, and more.
OC Mix Holidays By Design
- Address: SOCO and The OC Mix, 3313 Hyland Ave #A18, Costa Mesa CA
- Date: Saturday in mid-December, 9 am to 3 pm
- Website
Get in the holiday spirit with workshops, music, food, and drinks at the OC Mix Holiday. A series of holiday workshops will be spread throughout the event with live music and incredible drinks.
Get your tickets online to attend this fun event.
A Christmas Carol
- Address: South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa CA
- Date: Weekend after Thanksgiving through Christmas
- Website
The South Bay Repertory will hold its version of A Christmas Carol to celebrate the holiday season. Families with kids ages six and up are welcome to take a seat and watch the performance live.
The show is two hours long, with a 15-minute intermission. Tickets are available online.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
- Address: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa, CA
- Dates: Throughout the holiday season
- Website
Performances throughout the Christmas season
- American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker
- Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
- Annual Fiesta Navidad
- Tis the Season! Pacific Chorale
- Holiday Organ Spectacular: Pacific Symphony
- The Pan American Nutcracker Suite Reimagined
- Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert
Pin it and Start Planning Your California Christmas!
