Experience the Magic of Christmas in California’s Best Towns: Six Hidden Holiday Hotspots You Need to Visit in 2025

Published on December 20, 2025

As the holiday season draws near, many are looking for that perfect escape from the bustling crowds and over-commercialized destinations. For those seeking a more personalized holiday experience, California’s smaller towns provide an ideal getaway, offering festive charm, cozy atmospheres, and holiday traditions you won’t find in major cities. Whether you’re looking to explore Christmas markets, light displays, or simply relax in a beautiful, seasonal setting, here are five Christmas towns in California that are trending for 2025.

These destinations are perfect for travelers seeking a romantic winter retreat, a family-friendly holiday, or just a peaceful escape to enjoy some good food, music, and beautiful decorations. From the coastal charm of Solvang to the historic spirit of Ferndale, California’s lesser-known towns bring the holiday magic to life in their own unique ways.

1. Solvang – A European-Style Christmas Market in California

Solvang, a charming town nestled in Santa Barbara County, offers a European-style Christmas experience that’s hard to beat. Originally founded by Danish settlers, the town transforms during the holiday season into a whimsical holiday village complete with Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and festive Danish pastries.

The highlight of Solvang’s Christmas season is its Julefest, a month-long celebration that runs from November 28, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Visitors can enjoy holiday parades, a tree-lighting ceremony, and explore the Christmas markets offering handmade gifts and local crafts. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by the town’s Danish-inspired architecture, making it a quaint and unforgettable spot for a Christmas getaway.

For an added holiday treat, Solvang’s wine country makes it the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy a Christmas celebration that’s also paired with the finest wines.

What to Do:

• Explore the Julefest Christmas Market for handmade goods and local treats.
• Visit local bakeries for traditional Danish pastries like kringle and ebelskiver.
• Take a holiday wine tour through the Santa Ynez Valley.

2. Cambria – A Magical Christmas Market and Light Display Experience

Nestled along the central California coast, Cambria offers a charming Christmas market and an outdoor light display that is sure to leave visitors in awe. The Cambria Christmas Market runs from November 28 to December 31, 2025, and is a must-see for anyone in the area. The market is modeled after traditional European Christmas markets, with artisan vendors, festive food, and fire pits creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for a winter stroll.

Cambria’s three million lights illuminate the town during the holiday season, making it a visual delight for visitors. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, enjoying the live music, or just marveling at the light displays, Cambria offers a picture-perfect holiday experience.

What to Do:

• Visit the Cambria Christmas Market for crafts, food, and live music.
• Enjoy the holiday light displays spread across the town.
• Take a stroll along the coastline to experience the beauty of Cambria during the festive season.

3. Ferndale – Historic Charm with a Living Christmas Tree Lighting

If you’re looking for a classic, Americana holiday experience, Ferndale is the place to be. Known for its Victorian architecture and small-town charm, Ferndale hosts one of the most unique Christmas traditions in California — the lighting of the largest living Christmas tree on Main Street. This event, supported by the local fire department, is a community favorite and draws visitors from all over the region.

Ferndale’s streets are lined with Christmas lights, and visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the charming town. For those interested in history, Ferndale’s old-fashioned downtown with art galleries and antique shops offers a step back in time with each visit.

What to Do:

• Watch the living tree lighting ceremony on Main Street.
• Enjoy a carriage ride through the historic district.
• Visit the local shops for vintage gifts and unique items.

4. Nevada City – A Victorian Christmas in the Heart of Gold Rush Country

Nevada City offers something truly magical during the Christmas season — a Gold Rush-era downtown transformed into a Victorian Christmas street fair. The Nevada City Victorian Christmas event, running from December 7–21, 2025, features roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, carolers, and roaming performers, providing a complete holiday immersion.

This event has been celebrated for over 40 years and continues to grow, offering a perfect blend of history and holiday cheer. The town itself is a charming escape, with artisans selling their goods and locals dressed in Victorian costumes to add to the festive atmosphere.

What to Do:

• Attend the Victorian Christmas street fair.
• Explore historic buildings and visit the Gold Rush-era shops.
• Enjoy local food and warm drinks while walking through town.

5. Kernville – A Community-Led Christmas Celebration

Kernville is a small town with a big heart when it comes to Christmas celebrations. Known for its community-driven spirit, Kernville’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony was recently brought back to life with the help of donations after previous setbacks, making it a symbol of local unity. This heartwarming event is a reminder of the small-town charm that defines the holiday season in Kernville.

The holiday season in Kernville is all about family fun, and the tree-lighting ceremony marks the start of a season filled with local events, festive dinners, and community gatherings. It’s an excellent destination for travelers seeking a genuine, down-to-earth Christmas experience.

What to Do:

• Attend the community Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
• Experience local holiday festivities and events.
• Visit nearby nature reserves for a winter outdoor adventure.

6. Santa Barbara – Coastal Christmas in the Sun

If you’re seeking a beachside Christmas, Santa Barbara offers the perfect mix of coastal charm and holiday cheer. Known for its mild weather, this California city is a fantastic spot to enjoy Christmas by the sea. Santa Barbara’s annual Parade of Lights is one of the most anticipated holiday events, featuring decorated boats, fireworks, and a community celebration.

Visitors can also enjoy the winter holiday markets, wineries, and local events like holiday concerts and Christmas-themed walks. It’s a great option for those who want to experience holiday magic without the chill of the winter months.

What to Do:

• Attend the Parade of Lights on the waterfront.
• Enjoy wine tasting at Santa Barbara vineyards.
• Explore holiday markets and enjoy local seafood.

Conclusion: Unforgettable Christmas Holidays Await in California’s Best Small Towns

Whether you’re searching for a family-friendly Christmas getaway, an authentic Victorian celebration, or simply an escape to nature, California’s hidden gems offer the perfect destinations to create unforgettable memories in 2025. These towns showcase everything from holiday lights to local traditions and unique celebrations — each bringing their own distinct flair to the Christmas season.

If you’re planning a Christmas trip to California, be sure to check out these top towns to find your ideal holiday retreat. Escape the crowds, enjoy local festivities, and bask in the beauty of California’s festive spirit.