With the holiday season just around the corner, SoCal is getting ready to celebrate in its own way. And while the region might not be known for the thick blankets of snow that transform other parts of the country into winter wonderlands, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the snowy fun…
Winter Fest OC is returning this November with an even bigger lineup of holiday attractions and winter activities!
What to expect at Winter Fest OC this year?
The 12th annual Winter Fest OC will take over the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa from November 27, 2026, through January 3, 2027. The festival transforms the fairgrounds into a holiday wonderland, with more than 40 attractions and experiences for families, couples, and friends.
One of its biggest draws is the 150-foot Snowflake Summit, an ice tubing hill where guests can race downhill as many times as they like. There’s also a Snow Play Zone with freshly fallen real snow, a snow carousel, and a snowball-tossing area.
New for 2026, the festival is introducing unlimited ice skating, with 45-minute sessions and skate rentals included. Another major addition is Inflatable Land, a massive 20,000-square-foot playground measuring 100 by 200 feet, packed with obstacle courses and slides. Its Bounce Pass also includes Polar Putt-Putt, a new nine-hole mini golf course.
Beyond the snow and rides, this year’s lineup features more than 30 carnival rides, nightly Christmas tree lightings at 5:45 p.m., live entertainment, seasonal treats, and visits with Santa through December 24. Guests can also explore a brand-new seven-zone Holiday Light Trail, featuring themed displays and plenty of festive photo opportunities.
SoCal’s largest winter festival
First launched in 2014, Winter Fest OC has grown into one of Orange County’s signature holiday traditions. Organizers describe it as Southern California’s largest winter festival, bringing together snow activities, carnival attractions, holiday lights, and seasonal entertainment in one location.
The event takes place at OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Admission prices vary depending on the pass and availability.
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