Winter Checklist of Southern California Attractions

Trade chilly weather for sunshine and a SoCal getaway this winter. From festive theme parks and holiday lights to seasonal events, shopping and family-friendly attractions, there’s plenty to see and do throughout Buena Park and beyond.

Snoopy on Ice at Knott's Merry Farm in Buena Park

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Knott’s Merry Farm (Buena Park, CA)

Nov. 20, 2026 - Jan. 3, 2027

Head to the winter wonderland of Knott’s Merry Farm for nightly snowfall, festive décor and seasonal entertainment. Enjoy holiday treats, Christmas shopping, a chance to meet Santa and appearances from Snoopy and the PEANUTS gang in their holiday best.

Breakfast with Santa (Buena Park, CA)

Start your day with a festive Breakfast with Santa at Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant, located right outside Knott’s Berry Farm. Enjoy a festive breakfast, meet Santa and get into the holiday spirit before heading into the park.

Pirates Take Christmas (Buena Park)
Celebrate the season with Pirates Take Christmas, a holiday dinner show where Santa and Mrs. Claus find themselves caught up with a crew of mischievous pirates. Enjoy a three-course meal while watching an action-packed show filled with audience participation, holiday humor and plenty of Christmas cheer.

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Spirits of Yule (Buena Park, CA)

Nov 17, 2026 - Jan 03, 2027

Get into the darker side of the holidays at The Cauldron’s Spirits of Yule. This seasonal celebration brings dark Christmas décor, ambient music, photo opportunities and holiday-themed food and drinks, with the chance to encounter Krampus.

Tree Lighting Ceremony (Buena Park, CA)

December 4, 2026 Kick off the holiday season at the City of Buena Park’s Christmas Tree Lighting. Enjoy festive décor, photo opportunities, food and dessert vendors, and a chance to take a picture with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The celebration also brings back the Santa Train, along with live performances to keep the holiday cheer going.

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Candy Caneland and Craft Faire (Buena Park, CA)

December 12, 2026

Shop for unique gifts and support local artisans at the Candy Caneland & Craft Fair at Ehlers Event Center. Browse handmade goods while enjoying festive activities, a snow slide and play area, free raffle, photos with Santa, food and games, plus local entertainment for a fun-filled holiday outing.

Holidays at Disneyland Resort ( 5 miles from Buena Park, CA)

Nov 13, 2026 - Jan 6, 2027

Both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure transform for the holiday season with festive décor, seasonal entertainment, holiday treats and Christmas celebrations throughout the parks. After a day at the parks, continue the holiday fun at Downtown Disney with more shopping, dining and seasonal décor.

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Snow Day with the Critters (13 miles from Buena Park, CA)

Add a little winter fun to your SoCal getaway at the zoo in Santa Ana during Snow Day with the Critters. Enjoy snow-themed fun, animal encounters and festive activities for a family-friendly winter outing.

Huntington Harbour Boat Parade (13 miles from Buena Park, CA)

Dec 12-13th, 2026
Watch decorated boats cruise through Huntington Harbour during this annual holiday tradition. Find a spot along the waterfront to take in the festive lights and enjoy a free holiday outing by the water.

Winter Fest OC (20 miles from Buena Park, CA)

Nov 27, 2026 - Jan 3, 2027

The OC Fair and Event Center transforms into a winter wonderland with Winter Fest OC. Enjoy over a million twinkling lights, an immersive North Pole experience, an ice skating trail, a 150-foot ice tubing slide, snow play, carnival games, festive food, a holiday market and live entertainment.

After a long day of excitement, choose from over a dozen comfortable and affordable hotels in Buena Park. Check out our ‘suite’ hotel and ticket deals. To start planning your SoCal vacation, order your FREE Buena Park Travel Guide. For a more personalized experience, meet Berry—your Buena Park AI planner. Berry tailors your trip with the best attractions, dining, and deals,so you can start your custom trip with ease.

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