Things to Do in Orange County This November 2026: Holiday Events, Veterans Day Celebrations & Family Fun

November has arrived in Orange County, bringing cooler coastal evenings, holiday traditions, community celebrations, and plenty of reasons to get out and explore. From Día de los Muertos festivals and local artisan markets to Veterans Day ceremonies and the first signs of Christmas, there is something happening throughout Orange County for everyone.

Whether you're looking for a fun family outing, unique holiday shopping, live entertainment, or a festive evening by the harbor, here are some of the best local events to add to your November calendar.

Celebrate Culture & Community

Día de los Muertos Celebrations

Celebrate the traditions of Día de los Muertos at several Orange County community events.

• Dana Point Día de los Muertos – November 1: Enjoy traditional ofrendas, live bands, dancing, chalk art, crafts, food, and family-friendly activities at La Plaza Park from 2–7 PM.
• San Clemente Día de los Muertos – November 2: Visit Max Berg Plaza Park from 2–5 PM for sugar skull crafts, face painting, Ballet Folklórico, Danza Azteca performances, traditional food, and music.
• Santa Ana Viva la Vida Festival – November 7: Downtown Santa Ana comes alive from 3–10 PM with colorful altars, live performances, art, and cultural programming.

Veterans Day: Honoring Those Who Served

November is also a time to recognize and honor the men and women who have served our country. Communities throughout Orange County are hosting ceremonies, parades, and special events.

Some local celebrations include:

• Buena Park Veterans Honor Lunch & Resource Fair – November 4: Noon at Veterans Memorial, Ehlers Event Center.
• La Palma Veterans Day Ceremony – November 7: 11 AM at the Community Center.
• Stanton Veterans Day Ceremony – November 11: 9–10:30 AM at City Hall. Pre-registration required.
• Huntington Beach Veterans Day Ceremony – November 11: 11 AM at Huntington Beach Pier.
• Irvine Veterans Day Ceremony – November 11: 11 AM–12:30 PM at Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park.
• Fullerton Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony – November 11: Parade begins at 10 AM along Harbor Boulevard, followed by a ceremony at Hillcrest Park.
• Dana Point Veterans Day Services – November 11: 10–11 AM at Strands Vista Park.
• Ladera Ranch Veterans Day Event – November 11: 10 AM–1 PM at Town Green.

These gatherings offer a meaningful opportunity to come together as a community and show appreciation for our veterans.

Holiday Shopping & Local Artisan Markets

If you're ready to get a head start on holiday shopping, November is filled with opportunities to support local artisans and discover one-of-a-kind gifts.

• Sugar Plum Arts & Crafts Festival – November 6–8: Featuring more than 185 artisans offering holiday décor, personalized gifts, antiques, jewelry, fashion, baked goods, and more at the OC Fair & Event Center.
• Irvine Holiday Faire – November 7: A festive marketplace celebrating art, creativity, and community at the Great Park beginning at 10 AM.
• Artisans Market – November 8: Browse artists, crafters, designers, and food vendors at Aliso Viejo Ranch from 11 AM–3 PM.
• The Great Junk Hunt – November 13–14: Explore four buildings of unique vintage finds, creative displays, food, music, and shopping at the OC Fair & Event Center.
• Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay Craft Fair – November 14: Shop handcrafted gifts and festive finds from local artisans at Dana Point Community Center from 10 AM–3 PM.
• Mission Viejo Gifts & Goodies Holiday Boutique – November 21: Discover more than 80 crafters featuring holiday décor, jewelry, toys, pottery, clothing, bath and body products, and more from 8 AM–4 PM.

The Holiday Season Begins!

It's officially the start of the holiday season in Orange County, and some of our favorite annual traditions are making their return.

Christmas Fest at Old World
November 11 – January 3

Step into a German-style Christmas wonderland at Old World Huntington Beach. Enjoy twinkling lights, festive decorations, freshly baked treats, activities, and live music.

Happy Harbor Days at Dana Point Harbor
November 12 – January 10

Take a stroll through Dana Point Harbor and enjoy the annual holiday displays, including Happy Harbor Days, Merry Kiss Me, and more. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the waterfront during the holiday season.

Seal Beach Christmas Tree Lighting
November 21 | 4–7 PM

Head to Eisenhower Park for pictures with Santa, snow sledding, Dickens Carolers, a life-size snowman, cookies, and cocoa.

Magic on Main Street – Huntington Beach
November 24 | 4–7 PM

Enjoy live entertainment, holiday craft vendors, photos with Santa and his friends, and festive activities in downtown Huntington Beach.

Fire & Lights Festival – Newport Dunes
November 27 – January 3

Celebrate the season with the 36th Annual Lighting of the Bay, festive concessions, Santa photos, fire dancer performances, inflatables, a toboggan tunnel, fire pits, and family-friendly activities on Thursday through Sunday evenings.

Mission Viejo Santa's Arrival & Lighting Ceremony
November 29 | 3–5:45 PM

Bring the family for holiday games, make-and-take crafts, a petting zoo, and festive treats at Civic Center Plaza.

Family Fun & Unique Experiences

Looking for something a little different? November has plenty of options for families and anyone looking to try something new.

• Repticon – November 7–8: Explore reptiles and exotic animals, meet experienced exhibitors, and shop for pet supplies at the OC Fair & Event Center.
• Elf Yourself 5K – November 21: Enjoy a festive race featuring a post-race expo, restaurant samples, vendors, kids' activities, bounce houses, Santa photos, and hot chocolate.
• Kids' Day In – November 23: A fun Friendsgiving day for children ages 6–12 in Yorba Linda, featuring crafts, games, sports, a movie, and pizza lunch.
• Fiddler on the Roof – November 12–December 20: Catch this heartwarming musical at The Gem Theatre in Garden Grove. Check the theater website for showtimes.
• Alzheimer's OC Back to the '80s Fundraiser – November 14: Enjoy an evening of music, entertainment, and fundraising at VEA Newport Beach.

Don't Miss These Ongoing Local Favorites

Looking for something to add to your regular weekend routine? Check out these recurring community events:

• Harbor After Dark – First Fridays: Enjoy extended shopping hours, live music, and food and drink specials at Dana Point Harbor.
• San Clemente Village Art Faire – First Saturdays: Browse handcrafted art, jewelry, photography, ceramics, home décor, and more at the San Clemente Library.
• Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk – First Saturdays: Explore local artists, galleries, pop-up vendors, live music, and performances from 5–10 PM.
• Anaheim Cars and Coffee Classics – First Sundays: Visit Center Street Promenade from 8 AM–noon for classic cars, local vendors, shopping, and food.

Enjoy Everything Orange County Has to Offer

One of the things I love most about living and working in Orange County is the incredible variety of experiences right in our own backyard. From the coastal charm of Dana Point and San Clemente to the vibrant downtown communities of Huntington Beach, Santa Ana, and Newport Beach, there is always something new to discover.

November is a wonderful reminder that home is about more than just the house you live in. It's about the community, the traditions, and the experiences that make a place special.

As we head into the holiday season, I hope you'll take some time to explore a new neighborhood, support a local business, attend a community event, and enjoy everything Orange County has to offer.

Happy November and happy exploring!

Thinking about making a move in Orange County? I'd love to help you find a home and community you'll love.

Dawn Nicolaisen | Coastal Realtor
L3 Real Estate | Costa Mesa, CA