December Events near Newport Coast CA

Sawdust Winter Fantasy Through Dec. 9

Our festival grounds will be transformed into a winter wonderland where exhibitors create, display and sell original creations. 10am-6pm. (Weekends Only - Open Rain or Shine) 935 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach. 949-494-3030 / www.sawdustartfestival.org

Christmas Train Through Dec. 23

The Irvine Regional Park Railroad train station will be transformed with festive holiday lights and decorations, serving as the entrance to Santa's Village. www.irvineparkrailroad.com

Knott's Merry Farm Through Dec. 31

Knott's Berry Farm is filled with the magic of the season as it transforms into Knott's Merry Farm and celebrates "A Charlie Brown Christmas" with seasonal entertainment, decorations and a colorful Christmas parade. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. www.knotts.com

Holiday Ice Rink Through Feb. 18

Irvine Spectrum Center will be transformed into a winter wonderland when the festive outdoor Holiday Ice Rink returns to Giant Wheel Court this holiday season. 71 Fortune Drive. www.skatespectrum.com

Christmas at the Beach Dec. 1

Enjoy the Balboa Village as it becomes a holiday experience. As dusk arrives, stay for the annual tree lighting ceremony. 2-6pm. 600 East Bay Avenue, Newport Beach. www.ExplorOcean.org

Boat Rides with Santa Dec. 1-2

Come aboard for a twenty-minute Harbor cruise with Santa and his helpers. $3 Donation is appreciated. 10am-2pm. Dana Point Harbor: 34675 Golden Lantern. (949)496-5794 or (949)923-2255 or www.danapointharbor.com and www.danawharf.com

Light a Light of Love Dec. 2

Join Mr. and Mrs. Claus in celebrating the lighting of the giant illuminated snowflakes on the Huntington Beach Pier. There will also be a children's parade down Main Street and entertainment at Pier Plaza. 3:30-6:30pm. www.cspinc.org

Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights Dec. 7-8, 14-15

Boaters from all around Orange County decorate their boats and vie for awards. You can view the parade free from anywhere in the Harbor, or make reservations at one of our restaurants to view it from a cozy and warm spot. 7:30pm. www.danapoint.org

Lighting of the Bay 2012 Dec. 7

Join us for special Musical Performance by Orange County's Song & Dance Company and the Corona Del mar High School Choir. Special appearance by Santa! 6pm. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina: 1131 Back Bay Drive. www.newportdunes.com

Huntington Harbour Boat Parade Dec. 8-9

Celebrates the Philharmonics Society of Orange County's Cruise of Lights 50th anniversary. Take in the spectacle as beautifully decorated boats parade through the harbor. 5:15-10pm. Huntington Harbour: 16370 Pacific Coast Highway. 714-840-7542 / www.hhboatparade.org

Balboa Island Holiday Home Walking Tour Dec. 9

Eight holiday decorated beach cottages and dazzling homes on Balboa Island. Be sure to visit our Museum on Marine Avenue for some refreshments and our stores for your Holiday shopping. (949) 533-1114 or (949) 723-2304

South Coast Singers Holiday Concert Dec. 14, 16, 22

A dynamic choral group. Friday, Dec. 14th 7:30, South Shores Church, Dana Point. Sunday, Dec. 16th 4:00, Geneva Presbyterian, Laguna Woods. Saturday, Dec. 22nd 4:00, St. Andrew's by-the-Sea, San Clemente. www.southcoastsingers.org

Santa Paws Dec. 15

Bring down your favorite pet and have their picture taken with Santa for a small fee. All fees go to support the Pet Project Foundation. 10am-3pm. Dana Point Harbor - El Torito Courtyard: 34555 Golden Lantern.

www.petprojectfoundation.org

Cruise of Lights Dec. 15-23

Experience the most spectacular holiday light show on water and see thousands of lights on boats, decks, docks and homes, plus incredible animation. 5:30-8:30pm. Huntington Harbour: 16889 Algonquin Street. (714) 840-7542 / www.cruiseoflights.org

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Dec. 19-23

The parade features approximately 200 elaborately decorated boats and draws more than one million spectators each year. 6:30pm. Newport Landing: 309 Palm Street. 949-675-0551 / www.christmasparadeboats.com

New Year's Eve Gala Dec. 31

Ring in the New Year with BB Jazz! This popular annual event includes entertainment, dinner, dancing and party favors. $100-$185. 7pm. Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa: 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy. 714-377-7574 / www.bbjazz.com

New Years Eve - Hotel HB Dec. 31

Hotel Huntington Beach will be throwing a special New Year's Eve party featuring a multi-course menu, party favors, live entertainment and dancing. Special room rates are also available. 7667 Center Avenue. 714-908-5178

Courtesy of  MarleneDietrich@REaltor.com www.MarleneDietrichNewportCoastRealtor.com