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Winter Holidays in Big Bear Lake

Welcome to SoCal's Winter Wonderland!

From glittering lights in The Village, to visiting Santa's Hut, and glistening snow across the mountain landscape. The holidays in Big Bear are a truly magical time. Discover seasonal events and activities the whole family can enjoy and create memories to last. Happy Holidays!

December & Holiday Events

Mountain Christmas Boutique

Nov. 28 - 30

Get some Christmas shopping in at the Mountain Christmas Boutique arts and crafts event. Browse one of a kind gifts from over 40 vendors and bring the kids to meet Santa and enjoy arts and crafts.

see event

Village Tree Lighting Ceremony

Nov 29 at 4:30 PM

The annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Christmas Tree Corner invites everyone to say hello to Santa and Mrs. Claus!

see event

Big Bear Fire Station Tree Lighting

Nov 30 at 5 PM

Celebrate the start of the holiday season during the second Tree Lighting Ceremony of the season! Join the Big Bear Fire Dept at Station 282 and meet Santa as he rides into town on a fire engine at 5:30 PM. Live music, refreshments and family fun will be provided.

see event

Mall in the Hall

Dec 2 - 6

Beginning at 9 AM each day, get some holiday shopping in at the hospital browsing for great items and gifts. A Bake Sale will be held on Dec 2 & 3 from 9 - 4 PM in the hospital conference room.

see event

Sidewalk Astronomy

Dec. 7, 5 PM – 8 PM

Join the Bear Valley Astronomical Society for "Sidewalk Astronomy" in The Village. Peer through the telescopes to view stars, planets, and more!

see event

Paint Parties on Tap

Dec. 9, 3:30 PM

Paint & Sip Party at Deep Forest Designs Studio. $35/painter, all materials included, BYO drinks and snacks!

see event

Art in the Wild

Dec. 10, 6 PM - 8 PM

A creative event for PARENTS & KIDS — ages 7 and up — to connect with each other and our natural surroundings. Lead by Tamara Claiborne of TamsArt, this is a special time to create memories and art together!

see event

Santa Claws at Big Bear Zoo

Dec 14 & 21

Say 'Hello!' to Santa 'Claws' while you visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo this holiday season! Santa will be making special appearances. This event is included with general admission.

see event

Festival of Lights Holiday Competition

Register until November 26, Vote from December 1 - 31, and see Winners January 4, 2025

The holiday season has arrived in Big Bear, and with it the Big Bear Lake Festival of Lights Competition! This community event invites local businesses and residents to light up the valley and decorate their homes and storefronts.

see contest

Big Bear Christkindlmarkt

Dec 14

Christkindlmarkt is the ultimate German Christmas celebration with shopping, live entertainment, games and activities, a Wishing Tree, and photo opps with St. Nick and Christkindl. Located at Big Bear Convention Center at 42900 Big Bear Blvd.

See event

Metalachi: The First & Only Heavy Metal Mariachi Band

Dec 14 at 8 PM

Metalachi brings their one-of-a-kind heavy metal and mariachi to The Village Sports Bar. With a reputation for incredible musicianship and a show that's as hilarious as it is musically impressive, Metalachi will have you headbanging one minute and laughing out loud the next.

see event

The Nutcracker Ballet

Dec 14 at 7 PM; Dec 15 at 2 PM

Moonridge School of Dance proudly presents the full length Nutcracker Ballet! This production will showcase the talent of our valley’s youth and many of our community members as well. At Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center, 39707 Big Bear Blvd.

see event

Christmas Market & Craft Fair

December 14 & 15

Get into the holiday spirit at the Big Bear Lake Elks Lodge and shop unique, last-minute gifts. Whether you're shopping for treasures or just soaking in the holiday cheer, there's something for everyone! 10AM - 4PM, 40611 Village Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

A Ghost Story of Christmas

Dec 19, 20, and 21 at 7:30 PM and Dec 22 at 2 PM

Big Bear Theatre Project brings A Christmas Carol to the stage in a spectacular one man performance.

see event

Grand Menorah & Chanukah Celebration

Dec. 29 at 4:30 PM

Chabad of Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear hosts the 3rd Annual Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Celebration in The Village!

Holiday Lodging Incentives

Lodging Deals

Big Bear Hostel

Save up to 20% when you stay 3-7 or more nights! Stay 3 nights - Save 5% Stay 4 nights - Save 10% Stay 5+ nights - Save 15% Stay 7+ nights - Save 20% *Must click on discount link on our homepage and book direct at BigBearHostel.com *Subject
For info, email fun@bigbearhostel.com or call (909) 866-8900

Big Bear Vacations

Book 4 Nights and your 4th Night is Completely FREE with Big Bear Vacations! Valid for stays in November 2024.*Select Properties Only. Cannot Be Combined with Any Offer. Promo Code: THNX

Cool Cabins

With multiple specials available, there are many ways to save when you spend the holiday in Big Bear. LINK