Jingle bells Jingle bells….Jingle All the Way!
Santa Claus is coming along riding down his way….!
Yes, the Christmas festivities are just approaching and everyone is planning to have a fantastic Christmas getaway this year.
Are you also the one who wants to have a luxurious Christmas vacation? Why not head to the West Coast?
The region boasts of some of the best places to go for Christmas, offering spectacular lights, festive events, and warm climates, making it perfect for celebrating the holiday season.
And this is the reason, we are here to guide you to the 10 best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast. Get ready to explore the colorful cities, charming towns, and stunning landscapes that make the West Coast an ideal place to experience the magic of Christmas.
Key Takeaways:
- West Coast Christmas destinations offer spectacular lights, festive events, and warm climates.
- We’ve curated a list of the 10 best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast.
Discovering Best Places to Go for Christmas on the West Coast
So, are you ready to head to West Coast for celebrating Christmas?
The following cities on the West Coast
1- Los Angeles, California
When Christmas bells start to chime, Los Angeles, fondly dubbed as the “City of Angels”, transforms into a festive wonderland, making it a top destination for a West Coast holiday sojourn. This is one of the top and best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast offering unlimited attractions including historic sites, landmarks, theme parks, zoo, beaches, shopping and dining fun.
At the heart of LA’s yuletide festivities is the iconic LA Zoo Lights. This annual spectacle sees the zoo illuminated with myriad twinkling lights and 3D projections. Stroll along Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by glittering displays as luxury stores compete for the most opulent holiday window.
For those looking to glide into the festive spirit, ice-skating rinks pop up across the city; the rink at Pershing Square being particularly popular with its skyline backdrop. Last but not least, the Los Angeles Christmas Market is a must-visit for artisan gifts and gourmet treats. Other major attractions include Universal Studios Hollywood, Griffith Observatory and Park, Hollywood Walk of Fame, The Getty Center, Venice Beach and much more.
With so much to offer, Los Angeles is a top Christmas destination on the West Coast that you don’t want to miss. Attend the exciting events, grab some hot cocoa at the markets, explore the stunning attractions, and enjoy the rich traditions that make Los Angeles a holiday paradise.
2- San Francisco, California
Welcome to San Francisco, one of the best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast. The city offers a plethora of festive events, markets, and attractions that are sure to get you into the holiday spirit.
San Francisco has a variety of Christmas events that are worth checking out. Don’t miss the annual tree lighting ceremony at Union Square, which also features an ice skating rink and pop-up shops. If you’re a fan of Victorian-era traditions, head to the Great Dickens Christmas Fair, where you can experience a holiday-themed recreation of 19th-century London.Christmas Markets
Don’t forget to pay a visit to the San Francisco’s markets. The Holiday Ice Rink and Winter Park at Embarcadero Center features more than 60 local vendors selling handmade crafts and artisanal foods.
3- San Diego, California
San Diego is a charming Christmas destination on the West Coast that offers plenty of festive events and activities. During the holiday season, the city lights up with colorful decorations, and there’s always something to see and do.
How one can miss the amazing San Diego Zoo while celebrating Christmas festivities. Other major attractions include USS Midway Museum, SeaWorld San Diego, Coronado Beach, La Jolla Cove, Gaslamp Quarrter and more.
The city of San Diego hosts several Christmas events every year, including the annual December Nights festival at Balboa Park.
Another popular event is the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade, which takes place in December and features colorful floats, marching bands, and other fun attractions.
This amazing city is home to several fantastic Christmas markets, including the Little Italy Mercato Holiday Market. This market offers unique gifts, local crafts, and delicious food, making it the perfect place to shop for family and friends during the holiday season.
3- Portland, Oregon
Portland is a charming city that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, making it a perfect Christmas destination on the West Coast. The city’s festive events, unique markets, and classic holiday attractions will make your visit to Portland unforgettable.
As the holiday season approaches, the city lights up, quite literally, with the famous ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo, where millions of LED lights transform the venue into a luminous display of festive scenes.
Venturing into downtown, the Portland Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at Pioneer Courthouse Square kicks off the festive mood. As Christmas carols echo through the crisp air, you can indulge in delightful seasonal treats from local vendors.
Portland’s Christmas markets offer unique gifts and holiday treats. The Portland Saturday Market, known as the largest arts and crafts market in the U.S., transforms into a festive holiday market during the Christmas season. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, jewelry, and seasonal food and beverages.
If you’re searching for a unique gift, the Holiday Ale Festival offers the chance to sample rare winter brews from dozens of craft breweries.
5- Paso Robles, California
Want to have more places as the options for best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast?
Paso Robles, a gem nestled halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, offers a unique holiday experience on the West Coast. Renowned for its world-class wineries, this charming city comes alive with a festive spirit during Christmas. The vineyards, dressed in a million twinkling lights, offer special holiday tastings, and one can savor the unique blend of fine wine with seasonal treats, making it a must-visit for every wine aficionado.
Downtown Paso Robles is another treat for the senses during the holiday season. The Victorian-era buildings are adorned with festive decorations, and the annual ‘Vine Street Victorian Showcase’ takes visitors on a whimsical journey back in time with carolers, live performances, and open houses.
Lastly, the city’s ‘Light Up the Night’ parade is a spectacle not to be missed. Floats, bands, and dance troupes parade through the streets, lighting up the town with holiday cheer. A trip to Paso Robles ensures a Christmas filled with warmth, wine, and wonder.
6- Seattle, Washington
If you want to witness a real Christmas gem on the West coast, you should head to Seattle in Washington.
Situated in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle, with its iconic skyline and vibrant culture, comes alive during the Christmas season, making it a must-visit on the West Coast. Start your festive journey at the Pike Place Market where the air is infused with the aroma of roasted chestnuts and fresh pine wreaths.
The Seattle Center, transformed into a Winterfest wonderland, boasts an enchanting ice-skating rink, mesmerizing light displays, and the famous Space Needle adorned with twinkling lights.
One cannot miss the unparalleled experience of the Argosy Christmas Ship Festival. As you sail the chilly waters, choirs onboard sing carols, echoing off the city and mountain shores. Leavenworth, just a couple of hours away, offers a Bavarian-style Christmas market vibe, though Seattle’s own unique festivities are second to none.
Many other attractions of Seattle include Discovery Park which is the city’s largest park, offering trails, beaches, and stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, Fremont Troll that’s an 18-foot-tall public sculpture located under the Aurora Bridge in the Fremont neighborhood.
7- Sacramento, California
One of the best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast is the magical city of Sacramento in California state.Despite its Mediterranean climate, the city comes up as a winter wonderland at the time of Christmas. The city is abundant in historical sites, modern festivities and much more.
One of the major attractions is the historic Old Sacramento Waterfront, which takes a festive turn with twinkling lights adorning the 19th-century buildings. Here, visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, adding a touch of vintage elegance to the holiday atmosphere. The Theater of Lights is another must-see, a mesmerizing light and sound show that narrates the Christmas story against the backdrop of the district’s historic architecture.
If you want to experience the real winter charm, the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink is a must-visit attraction for you, beckoning families and couples to lace up their skates and glide under the canopy of shimmering Christmas lights. Pair this with the city’s festive markets, and you have the perfect Christmas destination on the West Coast.
8- Honululu, Hawaii
When one thinks of Christmas, snowy landscapes and chestnuts roasting over an open fire might come to mind. But in Honolulu, Hawaii, the festive season is celebrated with a unique tropical flair. Swap your winter coat for a Hawaiian shirt and dive into a Christmas experience like no other on the West Coast. This will surely be a unique and unforgettable experience for you on the occasion of Christmas.
The city is bedecked with shimmering lights, and the towering Honolulu City Lights are a sight to behold. Just imagine: enormous sculptures of Santa and Mrs. Claus relaxing on a sandy beach. The island vibe merges harmoniously with the holiday spirit, presenting a laid-back yet festive atmosphere.
Join the Waikiki Holiday Parade, which commemorates Pearl Harbor survivors and witnesses gleaming floats, bands, and performers. Don’t forget to attend a traditional luau, where the sound of ukuleles fills the air and hula dancers tell tales of old Hawaii. To cap off your day, relax on the pristine beaches with a view of the serene Pacific, as you await the fireworks that often light up the night sky during the season. Honolulu offers a Christmas experience that seamlessly blends traditional festivities with island charm.
9- San Jose, California
Don’t worry! The list is not end here. We have more best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast. And San Jose comes up as another magnificent option for you to celebrate Christmas in an amazing way.
The city’s historic downtown area is transformed into a winter wonderland with ‘Christmas in the Park’, a beloved annual tradition. Here, visitors can marvel at over 500 decorated trees, animated exhibits, and hundreds of musical and theatrical performances. The city also boasts the impressive ‘Winter Wonderland’ amusement park, ideal for families, and a holiday-themed outdoor ice skating rink right in the heart of the downtown district.
Don’t miss the chance to wander Santana Row, adorned with sparkling lights and holiday decorations. Whether you’re looking for a classic holiday experience, unique shopping opportunities, or gourmet dining, San Jose delivers a magical Christmas experience that combines old-world charm with modern elegance.
10- Healdsburg, California
The city is situated in the heart of Northern California’s renowned wine country and offers an intoxicating blend of rustic charm and sophisticated elegance during the Christmas season. Stroll through the picturesque downtown square adorned with twinkling lights, where boutique shops and art galleries invite you to find unique holiday gifts. The scent of mulled wine fills the air as local wineries showcase their finest selections, perfect for warming up on a crisp winter’s day. Special events like the annual tree lighting ceremony and horse-drawn carriage rides add to the magical ambiance.
But what truly sets Healdsburg apart are its world-class dining experiences. From cozy bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, culinary enthusiasts will find an array of delightful dishes that incorporate the bounty of Sonoma County. Pair it with a local Cabernet or Pinot, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable Christmas getaway.
Conclusion
From the vibrant city of San Francisco to the charming town of Portland, these destinations offer some of the most spectacular lights, festive events, and warm climates for celebrating the holiday season. You have got the 10 best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast.
We hope that this article has provided you with ample inspiration for your next West Coast Christmas getaway. Whether you want to visit popular Christmas markets or enjoy magical Christmas events, these top Christmas destinations on the West Coast have got you covered.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on a memorable holiday adventure filled with joy, excitement, and unforgettable experiences.
Find out more resources to plan the best Christmas holidays!
1- 33 Fun Things to do in California with Kids for Christmas
2- 15 Stunning Places to See Christmas Decorations Los Angeles
3- 11 Best Christmas Hotels in Southern California 2023
4- 17 Fun Things to do in California During Christmas
FAQs
Q1 : Can you recommend the best Christmas events in San Francisco?
A: Some of the best Christmas events in San Francisco include the Union Square ice skating rink and the festive lights in neighborhoods like Nob Hill. You can also check out the annual Great Dickens Christmas Fair or the holiday-themed performances at the San Francisco Ballet.
Q 2: What are some popular Christmas attractions in Los Angeles?
A: Los Angeles offers a variety of Christmas attractions, such as the Holiday Boat Parade in Marina del Rey and the festive decorations at The Grove. You can also visit the iconic Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city’s holiday lights.
Q 3: Are there any unique Christmas traditions in San Diego?
A: San Diego has its own unique Christmas traditions, like the annual December Nights festival in Balboa Park. You can also explore the holiday-themed displays at the San Diego Botanic Garden or enjoy the festive atmosphere at the Hotel del Coronado.
Q 4: What are some must-see Christmas markets in Portland?
A: Portland has some charming Christmas markets, including the Portland Saturday Market’s Festival of the Last Minute and the Scandinavian-inspired Christmas Bazaar. You can also find unique holiday gifts at the Portland Night Market or the craft market at Pioneer Courthouse Square.
Q 5: What are the best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast?
A: The best places to go for Christmas on the West Coast include San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego,Portland and Honululu. These cities offer spectacular lights, festive events, and warm climates, making them perfect for celebrating the holiday season.