California Towns That Offer Unique and Festive Holiday Events

California offers families an array of holiday festivities that celebrate the season in unique and heartwarming ways. While Monterey County has plenty of holiday spirit, a road trip can be an unforgettable experience, especially with children. Here’s a look at some California towns known for their charming holiday events that make for memorable family outings.

Solvang: A Danish Christmas Wonderland

• Drive Time from Monterey: About three hours
• Known as the “Danish Capital of America,” Solvang transforms into a fairytale Christmas village each December. The annual Solvang Julefest features illuminated streets, Danish-style Christmas decor, and charming shops with unique holiday gifts. Families can enjoy horse-drawn trolley rides, explore Santa’s Village for kids, or join the annual tree-lighting ceremony and parade. The town’s European feel and festive decorations offer an enchanting escape that feels like a trip abroad without a long flight.

Nevada City: Victorian Christmas

• Drive Time from Monterey: About four hours
• This quaint Gold Rush town brings the spirit of a classic Dickens novel to life each holiday season with its Victorian Christmas celebration. Visitors can walk along lamp-lit streets, enjoy carolers in period attire, and watch street performers bring festive cheer. Vendors offer traditional holiday treats, unique crafts, and handmade gifts, making this an ideal destination for finding one-of-a-kind presents. Kids will love the festive atmosphere, horse-drawn carriages, and a visit from Father Christmas himself!

San Francisco: Holiday Lights and Union Square Magic

• Drive Time from Monterey: About two hours
• San Francisco becomes a holiday playground in December, with Union Square as its epicenter. The towering Christmas tree, Menorah, and ice-skating rink set a festive tone for the season. Families can explore the stunning holiday displays at the historic Fairmont Hotel, which even features a two-story gingerbread house. The San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker is a beloved tradition, or you can take the kids on a cable car ride past holiday-lit streets and decorated storefronts. The city offers both modern and traditional holiday fun for all ages.

Mendocino: Festival of Lights

• Drive Time from Monterey: About six hours
• With its stunning coastal scenery, Mendocino hosts a magical Festival of Lights at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Thousands of lights illuminate the gardens, creating whimsical scenes and sparkling pathways. The event includes family-friendly activities, holiday treats, and visits with Santa Claus. Mendocino’s natural beauty, paired with the festive light displays, creates an atmosphere that is peaceful and enchanting, offering families a unique and memorable experience.

Julian: A Christmas in the Mountains

• Drive Time from Monterey: About seven hours.
• The small mountain town of Julian, located near San Diego, is famous for its apple pies and cozy, rustic atmosphere, which takes on extra charm during the holidays. Julian’s Country Christmas celebration includes tree lighting, horse-drawn carriage rides, and caroling. The historic downtown is decorated with festive lights and wreaths, creating an old-fashioned holiday atmosphere. Try a slice of Julian’s famous apple pie for a special treat, and warm up with hot cider as you stroll through this holiday wonderland.

Cambria: Christmas Market

• Drive Time from Monterey: About three hours
• Cambria’s Christmas Market is modeled after traditional European holiday markets and features more than two million lights, unique crafts, holiday treats, and visits from Santa Claus. Located on California’s Central Coast, this event offers families a magical experience with twinkling light displays, live music, and cozy, decorated cabins selling handcrafted gifts. The light tunnel is a must-see, creating a magical experience for kids and adults—reserve tickets in advance, as this event sells out quickly.

Sacramento: Theatre of Lights

• Drive Time from Monterey: About three hours
• Sacramento’s historic Old Sacramento district transforms into a lively holiday celebration with the Theatre of Lights show. This nightly performance combines live narration, music, and dazzling light displays that tell the classic tale of “‘ Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The show is projected onto historic buildings, creating a unique immersive experience. In addition to the show, families can enjoy horse-drawn carriages, festive decorations, and shops filled with holiday treats and gifts. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the holidays with a mix of history and modern holiday cheer.

Tips for Families Planning a Holiday Outing

• Book Accommodations Early: These holiday events can draw large crowds, so book hotels early if you plan to stay overnight.
• Check for Tickets and Reservations: Some events require tickets. Purchasing in advance can save time and ensure you get all the benefits.
• Arrive Early: Parking and crowds can be challenging, especially on weekends, so arriving early will help you make the most of your visit.

These California towns each bring their unique flair to the holiday season. Whether your family is looking for a quiet, cozy Christmas or an extravagant display of holiday lights, visiting one of these festive destinations will add joy and sparkle to your holiday season. So grab your coats, load up on hot cocoa, and explore some of California’s best holiday offerings!