Best Christmas Festivals & Parades in Los Angeles 2026

Plan your visit with the top Los Angeles Christmas festivals and parades in 2026, including community celebrations and holiday street events.

Celebrate the season with the best Christmas festivals and parades in Los Angeles for 2026. From neighborhood holiday celebrations and community festivals to spectacular Christmas parades, these annual events bring live entertainment, seasonal activities, and holiday traditions to communities across Los Angeles.

The Best Christmas Festivals & Parades in Los Angeles This Season

Find the top Christmas festivals and parades in Los Angeles, including community celebrations, holiday entertainment, and family friendly events throughout the 2026 season.

1. Belmont Shore Christmas Parade — Long Beach

Kick off the Southern California holiday season at one of Long Beach's most spectacular and beloved community traditions. The Belmont Shore Christmas Parade returns to transform East 2nd Street into a sparkling holiday wonderland buzzing with energy. This nighttime celebration is a definitive hometown favorite, showcasing over 100 dazzling entries that include elaborate floats designed by local businesses, dozens of energetic marching bands, local dignitaries, and a highly anticipated appearance by Santa Claus himself. Spectators line the 1.2-mile route to soak up the bright lights, live music, and pure holiday cheer that make this one of the best Christmas events in California.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Free Admission
Street Address: 5200 Second Street, Long Beach, CA 90803 | (Route spans between Livingston Drive and Bayshore Avenue)
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: Yes (Leashed dogs allowed)
Parking: Street Parking (Plan to arrive early as local traffic closures begin in the afternoon)
Website: https://www.belmontshore.org/christmasparade

Insider Tip: Take advantage of the parade's unique "double back" route design, which lets you catch a perfect view of every float and performer as they make their loop! To secure a front row spot, keep in mind that East 2nd Street closes to traffic at 4:00 PM sharp, serving as the official signal to start setting up your lawn chairs and blankets along the sidewalk.

2. Light Up Main Street — Santa Clarita, CA

Old Town Newhall transforms into a bustling winter festival across five walkable blocks on Main Street. Visitors can play in a 20 ton real snow zone, watch live ice sculptors, and enjoy carnival games. The event features artisan shopping stalls, food trucks, and photo opportunities with Santa and adoptable pets. The entire street illuminates at dusk during the official tree lighting ceremony.

Dates: Saturday, November 21st, 2026
Admission: Free
Street Address: 24500 Main St, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes (Includes pet photo opportunities at Santa Paws)
Parking: Free parking structure located at 9th Street and Railroad Avenue
Website: htt p s://oldtownnewhall.com/events/light-up-main/

Insider Tip: Head to the Chill Zone hosted by the Include Everyone Project near the library if your family needs a quiet, low sensory space during the festival.

3. Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade & Ring of Lights — Newport Beach

Over one million visitors flock to Newport Harbor each year to witness one of the nation's largest decorated vessel parades. Hundreds of watercraft ranging from modest sailboats to luxury yachts go all out with millions of sparkling lights and animated displays. Bayfront homeowners join the competition as well, transforming their estates into bright holiday wonders along the shore. Viewing spots line the perimeter of the harbor, creating a mesmerizing coastal celebration.

Dates: December 16th, 2026 through December 20th, 2026
Admission: Free public shore viewing
Street Address: Newport Harbor, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
Parking: Public parking lots at Balboa Pier, Newport Pier, and Marina Park
Website: https://christmasparadeboats.com/

Insider Tip: Marina Park offers spacious lawn seating, public restrooms, and excellent sight lines for watching the parade. Bring folding lawn chairs and blankets, and plan to arrive before 5:00 PM to secure parking in the park's designated lot.

Tips for Attending Christmas Festivals and Parades in Los Angeles

Arrive early: Popular parade routes and festival entrances fill up well before start times. Aim to arrive at least 45 minutes early for prime viewing.
Dress for the weather: Most festivals and parades are entirely outdoors and run for hours. Layer up and bring hand warmers for cold weather cities.
Bring snacks and water: Food vendors at large events often have long lines. Packing snacks keeps everyone happier through long waits.
Plan transit ahead: Major parades and festivals draw huge crowds. Public transit is usually faster than driving, and parking fills up early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Los Angeles festivals and parades this season.

When are Christmas parades and festivals held in Los Angeles?

Most Christmas parades in Los Angeles take place between Thanksgiving weekend and mid-December. Holiday festivals typically happen throughout the month of December. Check individual listings for exact dates.

Are Christmas festivals and parades in Los Angeles free?

Most Christmas parades in Los Angeles are free to attend. Conversely, many festivals are ticketed events or have paid attractions. Check individual listings for specifics.

Are Los Angeles Christmas parades and festivals kid friendly?

Yes! Christmas parades and holiday festivals are among the most family friendly holiday events in Los Angeles, with characters, floats, music, and entertainment designed for all ages.

Where is the best place to watch a Los Angeles Christmas parade?

Each parade has its own ideal viewing spots. Arrive early as popular routes fill up well before start times. Check individual listings for route specific recommendations.

Can I add my event to this guide?

We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!

Christmas Festivals and Parades Worth the Drive from Los Angeles

Los Angeles isn't the only place worth visiting for Christmas festivals and parades this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own seasonal celebrations worth the trip.

Solvang, California — 2 Hours 20 Minutes from Los Angeles

Head to Solvang for one of California's favorite holiday celebrations during Solvang Julefest. The annual Solvang Julefest Parade fills the village with festive floats, marching bands, equestrian groups, and community organizations, creating a classic small town Christmas tradition.

Santa Barbara, California — 1 Hour 45 Minutes from Los Angeles

Experience one of Santa Barbara's signature holiday traditions at the Santa Barbara Parade of Lights, where illuminated boats, decorated kayaks, and paddle boards light up the waterfront before a fireworks finale over the harbor. Arrive early to enjoy the Winter Wonderland festivities on City Pier, complete with holiday activities, snow play, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.