By Arielle Nguyen
I don’t mean to get all sappy, but Christmas trees are slowly starting to get spruced up with holiday delights! And I mean every word in that sentence.
However, there are activities lined up in Southern California, most of which don’t require much of an investment!
If you’re looking to have a vibrant walk with family, take photos of a candy cane archway or simply admire the lights, Dana Point Harbor hosts the annual “Happy Harbor Day” lights! Lasting from Nov. 16 to Jan. 1, 2024, this Southern California event displays over 700,000 LED lights, illuminating the walkways, stores, restaurants, the grounds and the evening sky for all.
The Harbor Lights feature many free Instagrammable spots, such as the “MERRY KISS ME” sign, the light-up whale and the candy-cane walkway.
In addition, visit the Harbor for the Annual Boat Parade of Lights, a parade of festive boats and photo opportunities with Santa! This year, the parade lasts from Dec. 8-10, starting at 6:30 P.M. each day. If you want to be part of the parade on one of the boats, you’ll experience holiday music, close-up views of the boats, a bar and many scenic views. Keep in mind that this event requires a booking fee!
My family and I have been attending the Harbor Lights for two years now, and we always start by entering the Wharf. Around the Wharf are restaurants, cafes and shops, along with restrooms. The lights are always a vibrant, nostalgic display, and I feel like every trip brings new experiences and memories.
Disney always had a big place in my heart … when I had tickets. However, one of the best things about the Disneyland Park is Downtown Disney: a separate, Disney-themed shopping center. Here, you’ll find restaurants, cafes and food carts with the typical Disney treats including the Mickey candy apples, macarons and character-themed ice cream bars. You’ll even find a free, open spot to watch the Disneyland fireworks without paying a cent.
The best part? Admission into Downtown Disney is 100% free!
Starting at 9:30 P.M. and 9 P.M. during the winter/cooler months, you’ll experience 15 minutes of colorful, booming and whimsical fireworks.
My favorite place to watch the Disneyland fireworks is the Disneyland Esplanade or the area between the two theme parks of Disneyland. The Esplanade is a vast, empty area with a perfect view of the fireworks over the Disneyland Monorail. I recommend sitting closer to the Disney California Adventure Park’s entrance.
Just across the Hobby Lobby on Edinger resides Timeless Treasures Boutiques, an open market pop-up created with the “MOST TALENTED artisans, crafters, makers, decorators and upcyclers!” This boutique houses over 50 small businesses, all with different interests — pet treats and clothes, custom jewelry, clothes, sports and soap — you name it. And there’s myrrh — around the holidays, the boutique casts a dreamy, winter wonderland feel over the shops.
Timeless Treasures Boutiques also proudly sponsors the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI OC), the SAFE Rescue Team and Boys & Girls Club in Huntington Valley. The boutique offers mentorship, crafts and time to these organizations. In return, you come home with unique items, apparel and more.
The Timeless Treasures Boutiques will reopen on Dec. 7 through Dec. 17, just before the holidays.
During the winter months, there are many opportunities to hang out with friends and family, especially if you love photographable spots such as Dana Point Harbor. If you like supporting small businesses, perhaps you’ll enjoy exploring the Timeless Treasures Boutiques pop-up! Or maybe you’re looking to get back into Disney, a nostalgic collection of imagination.
Above all, these places provide wonderful leisure time if you just want to spend time with loved ones during the holidays.
