This southern California tradition begins with a Christmas parade featuring holiday decorated yachts, kayaks, sail and power boats. More than 80,000 people gather at San Diego's waterfront to watch them sail around the San Diego Bay according to the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights press release. The parade is followed by a spectacular fireworks show held over the water. Spectators can attend this event for free and should note that parking is limited.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
1220 Rosecrans Street
San Diego, CA 92106
619-224-2240
sdparadeoflights.org
Due to migration patterns, whale watching in the winter time provides an opportunity to see various whale species, dolphins and other marine life. Gray Whales migrate along the coast of southern California from December to April according to Dana Wharf. Whale watching cruises depart seven days a week. Tickets are $29 for adults and $19 for kids as of April 2010.
Dana Wharf Whale Watching
34675 Golden Lantern
Dana Point, CA 92629
949-496-5794
danawharf.com
Visit Big Bear Mountain Resorts to be surrounded by snow covered mountains during the winter time. The mountain resorts consist of Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Stay in a luxury hotel or rent a secluded cabin on the scenic Big Bear Lake. Enjoy fine dining, spa services and outdoor activities like hiking, biking and fishing. This famed ski resort has snowmaking machines that cover 198 acres of the property according to Big Bear Mountain Resorts.
Big Bear Mountain Resorts
880 Summit Boulevard
Big Bear Lake, CA92315
909-866-5766
bigbearmountainresorts.com
You can have a white Christmas in sunny southern California at Disneyland. There is a Christmas parade, winter fireworks show and Santa Claus.The Haunted Mansion has a "Nightmare Before Christmas" theme and Sleeping Beauty's Castle is adorned with ornaments and icicle lights. Watch snowfall in various areas of the park and listen to holiday music played through the park's speakers. Visitors should note the park's blackout dates on the Disneyland website before planning their trip to Disneyland. Disneyland has their winter theme decorations from November through January.
Disneyland
1313 South Harbor Boulevard
Anaheim, CA 92802
714-781-4000
