One of my favorite memories growing up was watching neighborhood light displays around the holidays.
My mom would make us some hot chocolate and we’d all scurry into the car before exploring the homes around us for the best showcase of holiday cheer. Each year, we’d pick our favorite neighborhoods to visit and research which new places to experience. And in Southern California, it’s always a great night to explore.
The holiday season in Orange County is a time of enchantment when neighborhoods transform into sparkling wonderlands adorned with festive lights and decorations.
Here are eleven neighborhoods that stand out for their mesmerizing holiday displays in case you’re feeling the Christmas spirit:
Newport Beach - Balboa Island
Balboa Island in Newport Beach is a perennial favorite for holiday light displays. The waterfront homes and streets come alive with twinkling lights, creating a magical ambiance.
Stroll along Marine Avenue to witness the charming storefronts and houses decked out in dazzling decorations. Don't miss the opportunity to take a ferry ride to appreciate the lights along the coastline.
Laguna Niguel - Nellie Gail Ranch
Nellie Gail Ranch in Laguna Niguel is renowned for its extravagant holiday decorations. The large estate properties are bedecked with an array of lights, inflatable characters, and themed displays.
This neighborhood hosts an actual contest with their residents for the best light displays, so you know they’ll be top notch.
Drive through streets like Gallup Circle and Hidden Trail Road to witness some of the most extravagant and meticulously decorated homes in the county.
Mission Viejo - Candy Cane Lane
The 'Candy Cane Lane' neighborhood in Mission Viejo lives up to its festive name during the holiday season.
Nestled in the Pinecrest and Pacific Hills communities, this area features beautifully decorated homes and streets adorned with dazzling lights. Visitors can either drive through or take a leisurely stroll to soak in the holiday spirit.
Irvine - Woodbridge
Woodbridge in Irvine is a hotspot for captivating holiday lights. Residents go all out, adorning their houses and lawns with intricate decorations and luminous displays. Streets like Blue Lake South and West Yale Loop are popular for their stunning exhibits, making them must-visit destinations for a festive experience.
Yorba Linda - East Lake Village
East Lake Village in Yorba Linda is a hidden gem during the holiday season. With its expansive lake and beautifully decorated homes, this neighborhood exudes festive cheer. Take a leisurely walk around the lake or drive along Avenida De Las Flores to witness stunning light displays and festive decorations.
Dana Point - Monarch Beach
Monarch Beach in Dana Point offers a luxurious holiday experience. The St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort hosts extravagant light displays and festive events, creating a lavish and magical atmosphere.
Visitors can revel in the beauty of the resort's decorations and explore nearby neighborhoods for additional holiday cheer.
San Clemente - Talega
Talega in San Clemente boasts charming holiday displays that captivate residents and visitors alike.
The community comes together to create a festive ambiance, with beautifully decorated homes and streets. Explore Avenida Talega and the surrounding streets for a delightful holiday lights experience.
Huntington Beach - Bolsa Chica
Bolsa Chica in Huntington Beach offers a mix of coastal charm and holiday spirit. The neighborhood's houses showcase a variety of festive decorations and lights, especially along Bolsa Chica Street.
Take a leisurely drive to appreciate the dazzling displays and immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere.
Anaheim Hills - Nohl Ranch
Nohl Ranch in Anaheim Hills is known for its beautifully illuminated homes and streets during the holiday season. The neighborhood exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere with its festive displays.
Drive through streets like Nohl Ranch Road and Equestrian Drive to witness the captivating lights.
Fullerton - Sparkle Ball Hill
Fullerton's Sparkle Ball Hill, located near the intersection of Dorothy Lane and Euclid Street, is a must-visit destination for holiday lights enthusiasts.
Residents hang sparkling balls in trees, creating a mesmerizing display of shimmering lights. The area glows with a magical charm that is sure to delight visitors.
Santa Ana - Floral Park
Floral Park in Santa Ana is known for its historic homes and impressive holiday displays.
During the festive season, the neighborhood becomes a picturesque sight with elaborately decorated houses adorned with lights and festive ornaments. Take a leisurely drive or walk through this charming area to experience the holiday magic.
Tips for Enjoying the Holiday Lights
Plan Your Route: Create a route that includes multiple neighborhoods to maximize your holiday lights experience.
Check Timings: Some neighborhoods might have specific hours when the lights are on. Plan your visit accordingly.
Be Respectful: Remember that these neighborhoods are residential areas. Drive slowly, respect traffic rules, and be mindful of pedestrians and other visitors.
Bring Snacks and Hot Drinks: Consider bringing snacks and hot beverages to enjoy during your drive or walk through the neighborhoods.
Orange County offers an abundance of neighborhoods that go above and beyond in creating magical holiday light displays.
Just down the street from our office in Cypress, you can also find a tremendous display at Edgemont Circle near City Hall. Almost every house on this block shows off their holiday passion each year, and it’s yet another aspect of the city that makes it a wonderful place to live.
There’s no shortage of great places throughout the entire county and region.
From the sparkling waterfront homes in Newport Beach's Balboa Island to the extravagant decorations in Laguna Niguel's Nellie Gail Ranch, each neighborhood offers a unique and enchanting experience during the holiday season.
Embrace the festive spirit, gather your loved ones, and embark on a captivating journey through these twelve delightful neighborhoods to witness the joy and wonder of the holidays in Orange County.
