Orange County Once Again Readies to Celebrate the Holidays with Music and More

After nearly two years of lockdown, isolation, social distancing and online-only performances, this holiday season appears to be a return to (nearly) pre-pandemic normalcy. Orange County arts and cultural institutions are once again opening their doors and outdoor spaces, inviting visitors and supporters to celebrate the holidays in communal fashion.

(Remember to bring a mask, though, just in case! And proof of vaccination may be required at some venues. Check before you go.)

Here's a look at some of the best O.C. holiday offerings in the areas of culture, visual arts, theater, dance, music and food, brought to you by Voice of OC's talented arts and culture writers.

Hanukkah Festivities Across OC: Menorah Lightings, Spin the Dreidel and More

Jewish people and others celebrate the customs of Hanukkah at various events in Orange County that highlight ancient traditions and symbols.

Holiday art and culture events are blossoming all over Orange County - lights, carols, and nutcrackers are in abundance. For the next few weeks, we'll be featuring just a few of the many opportunities to celebrate that you can learn about at SparkOC.com. For any in-person events, be sure to check the venue's audience guidelines in advance for the latest health and safety protocols. 

Striking 12

The Chance Theater in Anaheim celebrates the holidays with this combination concert and musical theater production inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Match Girl"  DETAILS »

Opening Celebration: Muzeo Express

Saturday brings the official opening of the beloved holiday model train exhibit presented every year by Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center - admission is free  DETAILS »

New Swan Shakespeare Festival - YouTube Collection

The beloved summer Shakespeare Festival staged at UC Irvine has launched a free, streaming collection of monologues and short performances to keep bard-loving audiences satisfied until the 2022 season  DETAILS »

Sugar Plum Fairy Ballet & Tea Party

Tea and delicious dessert treats will accompany this opportunity for kids to hear the Nutcracker story and take pictrues with the characters, with proceeds benefiting the Laguna Ballet  DETAILS »

The Bizarre Bazaar

This unique holiday shopping opportunity lets lovers of the Pageant of the Masters purchase one-of-a-kind props, costumes, and other creations from the Pageant archive collection  DETAILS »