As the sun sets on the Pacific and palm trees sway in the ocean breeze, Long Beach transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. Forget the snow and mittens, because here, cheer takes on a sun-kissed twist. Dive into this vibrant city and discover its top 10 gems, guaranteed to warm your heart and fill your holidays with sparkle.
- Shoreline Village: Step into a festive postcard come to life. Stroll along the pier adorned with twinkling lights, browse artisan shops for unique gifts, and savor holiday treats from waterfront eateries. Live music fills the air, and holiday cheer dances on the waves, making this a must-visit for soaking up the holiday spirit.
- Queen Mary Christmas Festival: Embark on a festive voyage aboard the legendary Queen Mary. Picture dazzling lights casting an amber glow on the historic ship, carolers serenading from decks, markets overflowing with treasures, and even a visit from Santa Claus himself. It’s a feast for the senses, promising a voyage to remember.
- Aquarium of the Pacific: Dive into an underwater holiday wonderland. Witness the dazzling spectacle of marine life illuminated by holiday hues, participate in holiday events like SCUBA Santa encounters, and learn about the ocean’s connection to the holiday season. It’s a holiday adventure for the whole family, reminding us that holiday joy knows no bounds.
- Belmont Shore Christmas Boat Parade: Prepare to be mesmerized by a holiday flotilla gliding through the canals of Belmont Shore. Yachts decked in holiday finery, twinkling lights dancing on the water, and holiday music echoing through the air – it’s a holiday parade fit for royalty. Grab a warm drink, find a cozy spot along the canals, and let the holiday spirit wash over you.
- The Pike at Rainbow Harbor: Channel your inner child at this holiday playground. Skate under twinkling lights on the outdoor ice rink, catch a holiday movie marathon, or browse for holiday treasures at festive shops. Savor holiday cocktails, indulge in holiday meals with ocean views, and let the holiday spirit ignite your inner spark.
- Marina Lights: Embark on a dazzling drive-thru journey through Alamitos Bay. Millions of twinkling lights transform boats, palm trees, and the harbor into a holiday dreamscape. Wind down your windows, crank up the holiday tunes, and let the holiday magic work its spell. It’s a holiday light show unlike any other, guaranteed to leave you starry-eyed.
- Downtown Long Beach: Immerse yourself in a holiday wonderland on two legs. Stroll down streets adorned with holiday finery, shop at holiday markets bursting with local crafts, and soak up the holiday vibes. From holiday window displays to carolers filling the air with music, downtown Long Beach is a holiday feast for the senses.
- Museum of Latin American Art: Celebrate Hispanic Christmas traditions at this vibrant museum. Enjoy holiday performances, view holiday art exhibits showcasing nativity scenes and holiday festivities, and participate in hands-on holiday workshops. It’s a unique way to experience the diversity of holiday traditions and add a touch of cultural flair to your holidays.
- Rancho Los Alamitos: Step back in time and experience a Victorian Christmas at this historic adobe ranch house. Tour the holiday decorated home, learn about holiday traditions from the 19th century, and savor holiday music and refreshments. It’s a holiday journey through time, reminding us of the enduring spirit of the season.
- Angels & Orchids at Descanso Gardens: Escape to a serene holiday paradise. Wander through lush gardens illuminated by millions of twinkling lights, marvel at intricate light sculptures, and lose yourself in the holiday glow. This peaceful holiday retreat is the perfect place to unwind, reflect on the season’s meaning, and create lasting holiday memories.
So, ditch the snow boots and trade your parka for a swimsuit. Long Beach awaits with its holiday sun-kissed charm, inviting you to experience a Christmas unlike any other. From dazzling lights to holiday festivities, embrace the warmth of the season.