From Boat Parades to Holiday Shopping, Here’s How to Welcome the Season in Newport Beach
If you think heading to the snow is the only way to celebrate the holiday season, think again! Where 72 and sunny is a typical Christmas Day and spotting Santa surfing isn’t out of the question, the holiday season in Newport Beach is unrivaled. From waterfront shopping at Lido Marina Village to the famous Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, there’s so much magic that awaits. Whether you’re a local and this is your favorite season or your whole family is trading in the sand for the snow this year, here are our top-eight picks for how to spend the holidays in Newport Beach.
Holiday Happenings
Santa’s Arrival Celebration
Saturday, Dec. 2, 11:30 a.m.
Santa’s comin’ in hot on a Vision Electric Boat this year! Bring the kiddos to the picturesque Lido Marina Village for this festive celebration filled with cookie decorating, face painting, live music and a light snowfall. Mr. Claus ditched the sleigh this year and decided to cruise to town on a colorful boat to kick off the holiday season, creating a whimsical, unforgettable experience for the entire family! Say ho, ho, ho to Santa before shopping, dining and getting in the holly, jolly spirit of the season.
Home for the Holidays
Saturday, Dec. 9, noon
What better gift to give this holiday season than a new furry friend? Take a visit to Priceless Pets on the Lido Deck from noon to 3 p.m. on Dec. 9 and consider adopting a pet for you or a loved one. Make this season extra special by welcoming a new fluffy companion into your home—the ultimate way to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime! To celebrate the newest family member, there will be gourmet hot chocolate, a photo booth for you and your pup and live music. Major warning: These cute little faces will be irresistible!
115th Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Kickoff
Wednesday, Dec. 13, 4-9 p.m.
The annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is back and better than ever! Before the parade officially kicks off, join local makers at the Female Maker Market on the Lido Deck. With over 30 artists and artisans in attendance, it’s the place to stroll around with your family and friends and find that perfect, thoughtful gift for someone special or for your annual white elephant exchange. Sip hot cocoa and enjoy live music from The Holly Belles from 5:30 to 7 p.m., and stick around for the first night of the boat parade to see which ones sparkle and dazzle this year!
Holiday Shopping
Sugar Paper
Lido Marina Village is your one-stop shop to knock out all of your holiday gift-buying this year, starting at Sugar Paper. Festive wrapping paper and gift bags, along with 2024 planners, notebooks and the most adorable cards fill the shop. You’re guaranteed to have the cutest gifts under the tree! You’ll also find last-minute stocking stuffers like candles, mugs and desk essentials. If you go early enough, the team will help you create custom holiday cards to send out to all of your family and friends. Signed, sealed, delivered!
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Eberjey
Everyone loves getting a new cozy loungewear or PJ set, and there’s no better place to shop than Eberjey. For your mom, grandma, bestie or sister, make a stop at Eberjey for the softest pajama sets and cozy essentials. Especially for those matching Christmas morning jammies, choose among plaid, stripes and solid holiday colors. In need of some inspo? Click here to see their curated gift guides to make shopping a breeze.
The Great
The Holiday Collection at The Great reimagines classic silhouettes in this season’s best colors, patterns and fabrics. Stepping into The Great, you’ll immediately feel the nostalgic magic of the holiday season, where beautiful dresses and cozy flannels fill the store. It’ll be hard to resist not shopping for yourself here, so go ahead and treat yourself to a new outfit for this year’s holiday party! It’s the ideal spot to grab something for just about anyone on your list (yes, even Dad!).
Holiday Dining
Circle Hook
Head to Circle Hook for the catch of the day and a warm, comforting bowl of chowder. Waterfront views make this the perfect spot for lunch or simply a break from the hustle and bustle of shopping. Sister restaurant to Bear Flag Fish Co., the high-quality and fresh selection of seafood reminds you exactly why you stayed in Newport Beach this holiday season. Where else can you dine outside in December without a jacket?
Zinqué
Once your holiday shopping is seemingly finished and you’ve done the most holiday activities you can handle for a weekend, unwind with a glass of wine and bite to eat at Zinqué. While the outdoor patio is obviously a vibe, we love cozying up indoors by the expansive, blue-tiled fireplace during the winter months. Order the famous Le Bowl and save room for dessert. Your reward? A slice of decadent olive oil cake.
Taylor is a graduate from the University of Southern California with a degree in journalism. She is our Los Angeles and Orange County editor. You can find her dining at a new restaurant, in the ocean or planning her next adventure. Say hello!
