Great Things to Hear This Holiday Season in Orange County, CA

It’s that time of the year! Here in Orange County, it may not feel much like what most of America thinks of when they think of the holiday season. Some days still call for T-shirts and shorts and the chance of a snow day is out of the question. As such, any displays of Santa are likely to have him on a surfboard rather than a sleigh, wearing board shorts and sunglasses.

But some things are the same. We have decorations popping up on every street corner, carol singers in the malls and enough neighborhood light displays to brighten those mild Californian winter nights. So, whether you live here or are just passing through, here are some of the events you shouldn’t miss out on this holiday season.

Newport Beach Harbor Parade

One of the most exciting events in the calendar is always the Newport Beach Harbor Parade. One of the country's top holiday happenings according to the New York Times, here you will see all manner of floating vessels decked out with holiday lights, enthralling spectators with their glittering displays. More than 100 boats, yachts and other water-vehicles join in the parade.

This event has been in operation since a Venetian gondolier called John Scarpa put lights on the outside of his boat and showed off his boat along the harbor. Now it has grown to become a holiday favorite for Newport residents, as well as holiday enthusiasts from across the region. And today the tradition is a little more elaborate than when it started, with some people choosing to spend more than $50,000 decorating their boats for the event. 

Residents and visitors can enjoy the show from a host of public viewing locations including the new 10.5-acre Marina Park. The spectacle goes on for five days in mid-December from Wednesday until Sunday. Actual times can be found on the website. The shows usually start at 6.30 p.m. and finish about 2.5 hours later. Be sure to make it for either the opening or closing night, where spectacular fireworks will start about 9:00 p.m.  from the Balboa Pier.

Christmas Panto

Haven’t heard of panto? Not many people have! It’s a UK tradition enjoyed around the holiday season for many years. An interactive theatre show featuring modern twists on fairy-tale stories, shows usually feature lots of music and comedy, with audience interaction an essential component.

This year, enjoy a panto performance of “Beauty and the Beast: A Christmas Rose” at the Laguna Playhouse from Dec 5 – 30. They encourage the audience to cheer for Belle, boo for the unpopular Gus and sing along to the carefully curated list of popular hit songs.

Winter Fest OC

It might be 60 degrees outside, but who says you can’t go ice skating, go down an ice slice, or make snowmen? That’s the idea behind Winter Fest OC, which brings a slice of winter to the OC fairgrounds.  There are also carnival rides, the largest rocking horse in the world, and shows by some of your children/grandchildren’s favorite TV shows including Thomas the Tank Engine and Paw Patrol. Winter Fest OC runs from Dec 20. through to Jan 6. Check their website for more details on schedules and prices.

Knotts Merry Farm

For most of the year, this farm calls itself Knotts Berry Farm. However, come the holiday season the B is replaced a M, and the farm turns into the merriest of places, with Christmas cheer for all ages. Enjoy the delights of the ice show with Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang. There is a nightly tree lighting ceremony, a Christmas Crafts village, stunning holiday decorations and a snow spectacle in the Ghost Town. For something the whole family can enjoy, make sure you join in the celebrations! The events run on select days from November – January.

Tournament of Roses Parade

Lists of holiday events in Southern California would not be complete with a mention of the New Year’s Day Rose Parade. From humble beginnings in 1890, the parade is now a must-see for not just those in Southern California, but millions of people around the world. Beginning at 8am in Pasadena, the floats go 5 ½ miles down Colorado Blvd, featuring floral-decorated floats, horses, performing bands and lots of good-natured cheer. If you make only one event on this list, this one has to be it.

For all of your hearing needs, visit Orange County Physicians' Hearing Services

There’s no reason to miss out all of the upcoming holiday fun due to your hearing loss. The first step towards improved hearing and a better quality of life is a simple hearing exam. ‘Tis the season for better hearing–schedule your appointment today!