Best Holiday Family-Friendly Activities and Events in Huntington Beach

Every holiday season, snowflakes light up the Huntington Beach Pier. Each of the 80 snowflakes is donated by members of the local community for the Light a Light of Love Pier Lighting Ceremony by the Waymakers Huntington Beach Youth Shelter. Donations benefit this emergency, crisis and intervention program for abused, homeless, and struggling children. The snowflakes are illuminated each night in December, starting at 5 p.m. 

The Surf City Nights Farmers Market takes place every Tuesday on Main Street in Downtown Huntington Beach from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Olive Street and Main Street are close to traffic and open to local farmers and artisans offering seasonal fruits and vegetables—organic and non-organic—fresh-cut flowers, local honey, gourmet salt, olive oils and vinegar, baked goods, dried fruit and nuts, and more. Tuesdays from November 22 to December 20, the market transforms into Magic on Main Street and features light displays, local seasonal delicacies, and a beautiful oceanfront ice skating rink.

Nothing says "winter wonderland in Huntington Beach" like ice skating where the sand meets the snow. You'll get that quintessential west coast feel at The Ice Rink at Paséa. You can skate by the ocean and watch the sunset and when the weather gets "cold," bundle up by a bonfire pit. Get tickets here. 

Located at the base of the historic Huntington Beach Pier, the Surf City Winter Wonderland is smack dab in the middle of Downtown Huntington Beach. Once you're on the ice, however, it feels as though you've stepped away from all of the hustle-and-bustle. Enjoy a day or night out with family and friends by skating to the sounds of crashing waves and following it up by supporting local downtown businesses and restaurants. Reserve tickets here.

There is an abundance of holiday-themed events going on throughout the month of December at Bella Terra. Sign the kids up for a ballet class with Mrs. Claus, get dressed up in your jolliest outfits for photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, or simply enjoy some festive music while shopping. Bella Terra is also hosting a Kids Club on December 5, where kids can decorate holiday cookies, make mini wreaths, and enjoy festive hot chocolate.

Santa's back with his Airstream on the Ocean Deck at Pacific City from November 25 through December 24, 2022. He's waiting to hear your wishes and take photos that you'll always treasure. While you're there you can watch special holiday season a cappella or jazz performances and even have your pup's photos taken with Santa. Something new is happening every week at Pacific City now through the holidays!

Kick back and relax on a beautifully restored Classic Wood Boat, a Luxury Yacht, or a Harbor Cruiser to experience the picturesque Huntington Harbour during the holidays with Prince Charters. The private boat cruise is guided by a licensed captain and has something for every budget. Book your holiday cruise today here.