Southern California, USA

Things To Do With Kids In SoCal This Winter

1. Tanaka Farms - Hikari Festival of Lights

Tanaka Farms - Hikari Festival of Lights is a fun way to spend the night in OC. There were so many things to do, and the kiddos loved it! We started our evening by going on the wagon ride. There is a stroller parking station where you can leave your stuff. It takes you through beautifully lit strawberry fields and lots of lights. 

The wagon makes a quick stop and gifts everyone with a Japanese orange. As you can tell, my little one was amazed. The wagon continues to the other side of festival grounds. It does not take you back to where you started, so be ready to carry your little ones without a stroller. I wish I had brought my baby carrier. If your little ones are able to walk, they can run around freely through this part of the festival grounds. My son loved this part. 

When we finished the full loop, we went back for our stroller and went to the free mini petting zoo and then headed to the arts and crafts section. There is also an option to take a photo with Santa! 

We then grabbed a delicious pulled pork sandwich from the shops and enjoyed live Christmas carols. Before leaving, we purchased some honey from the shop on our way out. Overall, a great winter activity for everyone in the family! Thank you @TanakaFarms for having us! We had so much fun!  #tanakafarms #hikarilights! 

2. Fullerton Sparkleballs 

Every year, homes near Yale street (right past Fullerton College) decorate the streets and their homes. Some people park their cars, walk around and purchase homemade hot chocolate from a stand while they enjoy the lights. Others stay in their car and drive around the streets. The best part is it is free and not as packed as the Brea Eagle Hills Lights! We usually blast Christmas music when we go. The kids love it. 

3. Dana Point Harbor

The harbor has a cute light set up every night and it is free. They even have events like boat rides with Santa. And for the Dog Moms and Dads, there are photo options with Santa and your furry one! 

4. Newport Beach Boat Cruises

Newport Beach Holiday Lights cruise is usually available on Groupon. Here, the kiddos can enjoy a boat ride while you see all the beautifully decorated houses. They even sell warm cider or hot chocolate. Bring a coat! It gets pretty cold. 

5. The Mission Inn - Festival of Lights

I loved it, its now open for the holiday season. They decorate the hotel all around with bright lights. Throughout the street, they sell cookies and hot chocolate and have street vendors. Plus there ate lots of etores to check out. During the Festival of lights, they let you walk through a portion of the hotel! There is a parking garage behind the hotel for a fee, but the event itself is free! 

-Out of Office.

With love, Erica