Winter Fest OC is back for 2026!

The Magic is Back: Your Ultimate Guide to Winter Fest OC 2026!

Hey everyone! Get ready to unpack your favorite winter coats because Southern California’s largest winter festival is officially returning to the OC Fair & Event Center. 

From November 27, 2026, through January 3, 2027, Costa Mesa transforms into an absolute winter wonderland. We love Winter Fest OC!!!! 

Whether you are planning a memory-making family day, a cozy holiday date night, or a festive outing with your favorite group of friends, Winter Fest OC is bringing major upgrades this year. From real snow and ice tubing to massive new interactive zones, here is everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

The Big Highlights for 2026

• The All-New Holiday Light Trail: Included right in your general admission, this brand-new immersive experience features seven uniquely themed zones. You can wander through the Peppermint Tunnel, the Singing Forest, and the Aurora Snowfall Walk. Don't miss the Grand Cove, where colossal illuminated trees, a real pine forest, and a stunning starfield create the ultimate holiday backdrop.

• Massive New Bounce Land: A brand-new 20,000-square-foot inflatable world packed with obstacle courses, slides, and climbing structures.

• Snowflake Summit: Take a thrilling ride down a nine-lane ice tubing slide.

• SoCal’s Largest Outdoor Rink: Lace up your skates for a classic winter experience right under the stars.

We absolutely love Winter Fest OC and have made a tradition out of visiting every year to kick off the holidays. Here are some of my tips to make the most out of your festive fun too...

• Pro Tip #1: Lock in Early Bird Pricing. Buy your tickets before November 10 to get the best possible rate.

• Pro Tip #2: Enjoy Total Flex-ibility. All passes are now "Flex Passes." This means you can buy your tickets early to save money, but you don't have to lock in your actual arrival date until later. If you plan on going multiple times, look into the Season Pass for the best value.

• Pro Tip #3: Skip the Lines. If ice tubing is at the top of your bucket list, grab the Snowflake Summit Fast Pass to get express lane access and maximize your slide time.

Some pricing info... *** Children ages 2 and under are free.

Admission Pass Tiers

• Snow Pass ($25.99): Includes general admission, the new Holiday Light Trail, ice tubing, snow play, and Santa visits.

• Winter Pass ($45.99): Adds unlimited ice skating, the 20,000 sq. ft. Bounce Land, and Polar Putt-Putt.

• Platinum Pass ($101.99): Adds unlimited carnival rides, a tubing Fast Pass, and VIP Lounge access.

• Season Pass ($47.99): Unlimited Snow Pass entries for the entire season.

Add-Ons & Extras

• A la carte add-ons: Bounce Land, Ice Skating, Carnival Wristbands, and Tubing Fast Passes can be purchased separately to upgrade a base Snow Pass.

• Fireside Private Igloos: Premium VIP rentals for up to 10 people (admission sold separately).

• Parking: $15 per vehicle, charged by the venue.

All early-bird tickets are Flex Passes, meaning you buy now to save and pick your date later!

Upgrades available as well...

Grab your tickets early at www.WinterFestOC.com and follow @WinterFestOC on social media to keep up with all the magic. 

See you out on the ice!

Dream Glow Festival at Wild Rivers 2026

Dream Glow Festival 2026: Orange County’s Ultimate Holiday Light Experience is Back!

Hey everyone, tis the season, and I love it already...

If you are looking for the perfect, family-friendly holiday activity right here in Orange County, I have some glowing news for you.

The Dream Glow Festival is officially returning to Wild Rivers Waterpark in Irvine for its second year!

We had so much fun last year! The best part is you make the most of the evening to what you like. Take it slow and wander, grab a private cabana, taste some holiday eats and treats... it's all in one place amongst the magical feeling of holiday lights and winter wonder.

From November 6 through December 30, 2026, the waterpark will trade its water slides for winter magic, transforming into a dazzling nighttime wonderland. We are talking more than 1,000 handcrafted light displays spread across three entirely new, magical worlds.

Here is a sneak peek (my expereince last year) at what you can expect at this year's festival, plus all the details you need to plan your visit.

Three Immersive Worlds to Explore

This year, the festival is introducing three unique themes that will take you on a journey through imagination and holiday cheer:

• Sweet Dreams: A whimsical world packed with vibrant, colorful, and sugary displays.

• Outer Space: A glowing, cosmic adventure that will make you feel like you are walking among the stars.

• Christmas Fantasy: The ultimate holiday experience complete with festive lights and enchanting snow scenes.

Interactive Fun & Snow in SoCal!

It isn't just about walking and looking—there is plenty to keep the kids (and adults) entertained:

• Quests & Challenges: Participate in interactive activities throughout the park for a chance to win fun prizes.

• Arctic Snow Village: Yes, real winter vibes in Irvine! Enjoy actual snow machines, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and indulge in delicious seasonal treats.

Know Before You Go

• Where: Wild Rivers Waterpark | 10000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA 92618

• When: November 6 – December 30, 2026 (Starts at 5:00 PM nightly)

• Tickets: Adults start at $37, children start at $25, and kids under 3 get in free!

• Parking: Free (we love to see it!)

• More Info: Grab your tickets and plan your night at www.dreamglowfestival.com.

Are you planning to take the family to Dream Glow Festival this year? Let me know in the comments which world you are most excited to see! All opinions are ny own.