As the winter chills breeze through, the heart of Anaheim transforms into a festive paradise, eagerly awaiting the influx of jubilant crowds, both locals and tourists alike. Visit Anaheim, the city’s premier destination organization, stands at the forefront, orchestrating a symphony of events, culinary adventures, and conventions set to the tune of holiday cheer.
Australia’s Gateway to Festive Joy: Last-Minute Packages and Flights.
Anaheim extends a warm holiday welcome to our Aussie friends, offering last-minute specials that promise an unforgettable Yuletide escape. Luxury Escapes brings you the Stylish California Hyatt Escape package, a sublime offering of 6 nights at the prestigious Hyatt Regency Orange County. Located a mere 10-minute drive from the magical Disneyland Resort, this package caters to two adults and a child, complete with a room upgrade and a 3-Day 1-Park per day Disneyland Resort Theme Park Ticket per person. This comes to you at the inclusive price of $3,851, with taxes and fees accounted for. Queenslanders rejoice for a new chapter in travel unfolds with United’s launch of a direct flight from Brisbane to LAX, available four times a week starting December 1st.
Epicentre of Celebration: Hotels and Attractions.
The Grand Californian Hotel, a beacon of holiday spirit, unveils its “Grand” Gingerbread House – a 7-feet tall, 12-feet vast masterpiece crafted from over 600 pounds of gingerbread, with over 20 hidden Mickeys awaiting your discovery. The holiday cheer spills over into a plethora of live entertainment options, ranging from piano performances to carolling sessions.
Disneyland Resort, from November 10, 2023, to January 7, 2024, dressed in its festive best, hosting limited-time experiences like the Disney Festival of Holidays and Disney ¡Viva Navidad! At Knott’s Merry Farm, witness the transformation into a winter wonderland from November 17, 2023, to January 7, 2024, complete with Christmas musicals, dining options, and a mesmerizing ice show.
Festive Fervor: Events and Attractions.
Downtown Anaheim’s Center Street Promenade morphs into a holiday haven with the Anaheim Tree Lighting & Nutcracker Holiday Village on December 3. Dive into local crafts, savour delectable food, and partake in a whimsical dog costume contest. Muzeo Museum & Cultural Center invites you to the “Muzeo Express: Holiday Train Exhibit,” a treasure trove of historical delights and hands-on activities for all ages.
A Confluence of Cultures: Conventions Galore.
BlizzCon makes its grand return to the Anaheim Convention Center on November 3 – 4, 2023, marking a momentous occasion for gaming aficionados. Christina Dawson, Senior Vice President of Operations at Visit Anaheim, notes, “Anaheim is home to some of the country’s largest consumer shows, and now that they all have returned, this demonstrates the success of the destination’s recovery strategies.” DesignerCon follows suit, gracing the Anaheim Convention Center from December 15 – 17, 2023, celebrating the design world in all its facets.
Culinary Excursions and Holiday Shopping.
The Anaheim Packing District immerses itself in festive flair, hosting themed treats and decorations all season. On November 25, Shop Small Saturday takes center stage with a pop-up market featuring over 50 women of color-owned businesses. The holiday spirit continues with the “Eat, Drink & Be Merry Market” on December 9 & 10, while visitors can also indulge in Selfies with Santa on December 10.
Brews and Cheers: A Toast to the Festive Season.
Unsung Brewery’s annual St. Nick beer returns, offering a taste of the holidays with flavours reminiscent of Snickerdoodle cookies and cinnamon toast crunch as the year draws to a close, ring in the New Year with a live performance from Darden The Band and an East Coast Countdown at the historic Anaheim Packing House.
For an exhaustive guide to all things Anaheim, spanning hotels, events, conventions, and more, visit visitanaheim.org.
Written by: Jason Smith