Laguna Beach Holidays 2026: Your Local Guide
Cesar Gomez November 9, 2026
Cesar Gomez November 9, 2026
Laguna does the holidays its own way: handmade art in the canyon, Santa downtown and a whole town that turns out for one big block party. Here are the two traditions locals plan their December around.
The Sawdust grounds at 935 Laguna Canyon Road turn into a holiday art village for five three-day weekends, open Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This is the festival's 36th winter season.
More than 180 artists sell one-of-a-kind jewelry, ceramics, paintings and glasswork. You'll also find glassblowing demos, art classes, carolers, puppet shows, photos with Santa and falling "snow" under the eucalyptus trees.
Local tip: Skip the mall. A piece from a Laguna artist makes a better gift, and you're supporting the people who make this town what it is.
On the first Friday of December, the City of Laguna Beach and the Chamber of Commerce throw the best block party of the year. It's free and runs from about 5 to 9 p.m. downtown.
The night centers on the Peppertree Lot (Lot 2) on Forest Avenue. Santa arrives to light the tree at 6:10 p.m. The Laguna Community Concert Band plays at 6 p.m. and Laguna JaZz takes over at 7 p.m. Downtown shops stay open late with holiday open houses.
The two events overlap, so you can do both on the same weekend. Spend Friday afternoon at Winter Fantasy, then head downtown for the tree lighting.
Laguna's art community and small-town traditions are why so many buyers fall for it. If you're curious about life here, from Village cottages to ocean-view homes in Top of the World, explore our Laguna Beach neighborhood guide or reach out to The Gomez | Align Group.
When is Hospitality Night in Laguna Beach in 2026?
Friday, December 4, 2026, from about 5 to 9 p.m. downtown. Santa lights the tree at 6:10 p.m.
When is Sawdust Winter Fantasy 2026?
Weekends from November 20 to December 20, 2026, Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sources: Sawdust Art Festival; Visit Laguna Beach; Orange Coast magazine; City of Laguna Beach; Laguna Community Concert Band.
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