When we think of California, we immediately picture beaches, palm trees, and sunshine. Many people resort to Malibu beach houses or Indian Wells vacation rentals. This might not seem like the stereotypical Christmas that involves cold weather, snow, and winter wonderland. However, there are hidden beauties in the Golden State, so don’t be hasty to write it off for the holiday season.
- Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is regarded as one of California’s most famous national parks and a must-visit place for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Yosemite is accessible from one of California’s busiest airports because it is only approximately a 4-hour drive east of San Francisco.
One of the activities that you can do is ice skating. Yosemite National Park has hosted ice skating events for visitors ever since 1928. In the middle of Yosemite Valley, a magnificent outdoor skating rink called the Curry Village Ice Rink is family-friendly. If you’re not much of a skater, there are fire pits right next to the rink where you can enjoy toasting marshmallows and making s’mores while the kids enjoy the fantastic rink.
If you’re troubled about the accommodation, don’t be because you have many options to choose from. Yosemite offers a variety of winter housing choices, from charming, affordable motels to luxurious hotels that place you close to the grandeur of Yosemite’s natural treasures. The region also includes stunning vacation rentals and cabin rentals all throughout. Also, there are a lot of services that offer packages, so you don’t have to worry about anything!
- Disneyland Christmas Vacation
Everyone is a kid at heart, and if you want to experience the magic, this is the best place for you. Christmas at Disneyland has returned to its usual wonderful form, with festive performances, decorations, and fun. Remember that reservations are necessary to enter, so make sure to buy your tickets and schedule your travel days in advance.
There is no way to experience everything the holiday season offers in just one or even two days. You’ll need around four days to truly feel like you’ve experienced the park in its entirety. Also, staying that long is necessary if you want to ride all the rides and participate in other park activities outside the holiday season.
Disneyland also offers Resort Hotel Vacation Packages, which may be accessible through their website. Here’s a pro tip: If you book a room at one of the Disneyland hotels, it is best to connect your hotel reservation to your app. This may allow you to view a broader range of available park reservations.
You’ll have a great experience, even if you have to go during the busier weeks. The good news is that the parks stay open later and provide additional entertainment during peak periods.
- Christmas Festivals
Even in the city, something is always going on if you don’t want a full retreat. You can always visit various Christmas festivals that showcase parades, lights, shows, and other activities that can be suited for everyone.
A nighttime experience called L.A. Zoo Lights has animated, illuminating animals created using LED lights, lasers, 3-D projections, and interactive displays. Unfortunately, All of the zoo’s animals, excluding reindeer, are not visible to visitors for everyone’s safety. This event provides a breathtaking wildlife-focused experience by exploring an immersive landscape full of magnificent lantern sculptures of animals among blooming flowers and towering trees.
Also, the famous Descanso Gardens transforms into Enchanted: Forest of Light. An interactive nighttime experience unlike any other in Los Angeles, Enchanted Forest of Light features a mile-long stroll through distinctive lighting displays in some of Descanso Gardens’ most popular spots. While some exhibits invite interaction, others are only meant to be watched and appreciated. Food and beverages are also served as you go through your enchanted journey.
Conclusion
As the popular saying goes, “Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year.” Surprisingly, Californian Christmases are chock-full of surprises as they break the misconception of an endless summer. The bottom line is spending the holidays may be outdoors or within your vicinity. However, no matter where you celebrate the holidays, the most essential element is to be with everyone you love. Merry Christmas!
