It’s that time of year! We’ve packed up our turkeys and fallen hard into the holiday season and if you’re anything like us, you know Christmas in Long Beach is a vibe—cozy ocean breezes, twinkling lights, and that festive cheer you can’t help but soak up. But let’s be real: the holidays can also get expensive. Between gifts, travel, and all those tempting peppermint mochas, it adds up fast! That’s why we’ve rounded up some amazing free events during Christmas in Long Beach that’ll bring the holiday magic and you don’t have to spend a dime. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a cozy date night, here are the best free Christmas activities to check out. Ready to dive into some merry (and totally free) fun? Let’s go!
1. Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting
Location: Terrace Plaza, 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
Date: December 4, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Description:
Kick off the holiday season with this dazzling Christmas Tree Lighting celebration in downtown Long Beach. The event features one of the largest and most beautiful trees in the area, bringing the community together for an evening of holiday cheer.
What to Expect:
This is the big one in downtown Long Beach. Picture a 67-foot Christmas tree decked out in over 500,000 lights, live holiday music, and even a fireworks show to wrap it all up. Kids will love meeting Santa (perfect for photos), and there are food trucks if you get hungry.
Pro Tips:
- Parking: Nearby garages like The Pike or street parking (arrive early).
- What to Wear: It’s outdoors, so bring a cozy jacket and comfy shoes.
- Kid-Friendly?: Absolutely. Tons of families attend.
- Freebies: The event itself is free, but bring a little cash if you want to grab a hot chocolate or snack.
2. Belmont Shore Christmas Parade
Location: East Second Street (Livingston Drive to Bayshore Avenue)
Date: December 7, 2024
Time: Starts at 6:00 PM
Description:
This beloved annual parade brings holiday magic to Belmont Shore with festive floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself. A true community tradition, it’s a must-see event for all ages.
What to Expect:
This parade is a local favorite, with over a dozen marching bands from local schools, floats, and even Santa making a grand appearance. The entire street comes alive with lights, music, and cheerful vibes.
Pro Tips:
- Parking: Park a few blocks away and walk; it gets packed so arrive early.
- What to Wear: Layer up—it’s chilly once the sun sets.
- Kid-Friendly?: Totally. Kids will love the floats and candy being tossed to the crowd.
- Freebies: Free to attend, and there’s often free candy for the little ones.
3. Christmas at Shoreline Village
Location: Shoreline Village, 429 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach, CA 90802
Date: December 14, 2024
Time: All day
Description:
Shoreline Village transforms into a festive wonderland during the holidays. With carolers, twinkling lights, and waterfront views, it’s the perfect spot for some seasonal cheer and Instagram-worthy moments.
What to Expect:
Stroll through a winter wonderland along the waterfront, with live Christmas carolers, twinkling lights, and festive décor. Bring your camera for a cute Santa photo-op (selfies encouraged).
Pro Tips:
- Parking: Shoreline Village has a parking lot (free for 2 hours with validation).
- What to Wear: Casual holiday attire; it’s a relaxed vibe.
- Kid-Friendly?: Definitely. Kids can meet Santa and soak up the holiday spirit.
- Freebies: The event itself is free, including Santa visits and entertainment.
4. Naples Island Annual Holiday Boat Parade
Location: Naples Islands Canals and Alamitos Bay
Date: December 21, 2024
Time: Parade starts at 6:00 PM
Description:
Celebrate the holidays with a unique Long Beach tradition, where local boat owners go all out decorating their vessels with lights and festive themes. The parade lights up the canals and creates a magical atmosphere.
What to Expect:
A unique Long Beach tradition. Locals decorate their boats with dazzling lights, and they parade through the canals and bay. Find a spot along the canals or Alamitos Bay to enjoy the show.
Pro Tips:
- Parking: Park near Marine Stadium and walk over; arrive early to snag a spot.
- What to Wear: It gets breezy near the water, so bundle up.
- Kid-Friendly?: Yes, and it’s a great way to get kids excited about the holidays.
- Freebies: The best part? It’s totally free to watch. Bring some hot cocoa or your favorite adult beverage and have fun!
Final Tips for Free Christmas Fun in Long Beach
- Plan Ahead: These events get crowded, so arrive early for the best spots.
- Bring Snacks: Packing drinks and snacks can save you from pricey Starbucks runs, food trucks, and restaurants.
- Check the Weather: While Long Beach is mild, it’s still winter—dress accordingly.
- Have Fun: Don’t stress; soak up the magic of the season.
So, grab your Santa hat and hit up these awesome events to make this Christmas in Long Beach unforgettable and wallet-friendly. See you there!
