The community is invited to join Crystal Cove Conservancy for its 23rd annual holiday winter family festival and tree lighting on Saturday, Dec 7th. The celebration will feature Orange County’s only “on the beach” holiday tree and runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Tree lighting will be at approximately 5:15 p.m., after sunset.

The Historic District will be decorated with traditional mid-century décor to bring the holiday magic to Crystal Cove.

Festivities begin at 10 a.m. with a seasonal bazaar featuring handcrafted treasures by local residents and artists as well as old-fashioned holiday decorations. The excitement builds when Santa arrives from the North Pole and makes his grand entrance on the shores of Crystal Cove at 4 p.m. Family photos can be taken with Santa and/or on the sand in front of the tree.

Strolling carolers from Costa Mesa High School  will join the event at 3 p.m., and complimentary hot chocolate, apple cider and The Beachcomber Café will provide home baked goodies. Guests are encouraged to wear their holiday sweaters and festive wear.

Guests can park at the Los Trancos parking lot on the inland side of Pacific Coast Highway or at the Pelican Point lots north of the Historic District lot for $5 per hour or for a maximum of $15 for the entire day. The Beachcomber shuttle bus will be available from the Los Trancos parking lot for $1.50 each way. Additional shuttle service will also be available from the Pelican Point parking lots (P-1, P-2, P-3, P-4). Carpooling or car services like Uber or Lyft are recommended as the Los Trancos parking lot usually fills to capacity.

Crystal Cove is located at 8471 North Coast Hwy.