Celebrate the Holidays at Crystal Cove Conservancy: A Season of Art, Light, and Community by the Sea
Crystal Cove State Park (Monday, November 17, 2025) — The holidays are shining bright at Crystal Cove State Park. This December, Crystal Cove Conservancy invites the public to experience a season of creativity, community, and coastal beauty through a series of festive events celebrating art, nature, and togetherness.
Nestled between the sea and the bluffs, Crystal Cove Historic District transforms into a seaside wonderland each December. From the shimmering artwork and artisan creations showcased in the Holiday House at Cottage #46, the turquoise cottage, to the glow of our Tree Lighting and Holiday Bazaar, every moment captures the spirit and beauty of Crystal Cove.
Visitors can stroll the Historic District cottages, take in the salty air, and enjoy heartwarming activities designed to inspire creativity and connection.
Each event blends the spirit of giving with the Conservancy’s mission to protect Crystal Cove and turn it into an outdoor classroom for all. From plein air art workshops overlooking the ocean to family art days exploring the mysteries of the tidepools, guests will find plenty of ways to make memories that last long after the season fades
“Each season at Crystal Cove tells its own story,” said Kate Wheeler, President and CEO of Crystal Cove Conservancy. “In winter, the pace slows and the light lants low, inviting us to pause and reconnect—with nature, with one another, and with the work of protecting this extraordinary place. Our holiday traditions remind us that community and conservation go hand in hand.”
Everyone is invited to join the festivities and celebrate the holidays by the sea!
List of Activities:
Holiday House
Open: November 14, 2025 – January 7, 2026
Location: Cottage #46, the turquoise cottage
Description:
Art is at the heart of this year’s Holiday House. Step inside Cottage #46 to explore a seasonal gallery and artisan marketplace filled with handcrafted ornaments, ocean-inspired gifts, and nature-themed décor—all created in the spirit of creativity, conservation, and coastal heritage. Learn More Here >
29th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Bazaar
Date: December 6, 2025
Location: Crystal Cove State Park Historic District
Details:
- Bazaar: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tree Lighting Program: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
- Santa Meet & Greet: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Description:
A beloved Crystal Cove tradition, this festive celebration invites families and friends to gather for an afternoon of holiday cheer. Enjoy live carolers, local artisan shopping, and cookies and cocoa from the Beachcomber Cafe, and the highlight of the evening—the lighting of the iconic Crystal Cove holiday tree against the backdrop of the Pacific. Learn More Here >
Holiday Plein Air – Family Painting Workshop
Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Cottage #46
Description:
Join us for a hands-on, family-friendly art class where children and parents paint Crystal Cove’s iconic holiday tree overlooking the ocean. Led by a local plein air artist, this class celebrates creativity and togetherness. A parent or guardian must accompany each child. Capacity is limited to 12 painters. $40 per person. Learn More Here >
Holiday ArtFest – Family Art Day in the Commons
Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Carolers: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Performance by Orange High School)
Location: Education Commons
Description:
Dive into the magic of the season with a day of hands-on art, nature, and learning. Families can enjoy holiday-inspired crafts, educational puppet shows, and tidepool-themed projects inspired by winter’s King Tides—a true “gift from Mother Nature.” Learn More Here >
About Crystal Cove Conservancy
Crystal Cove Conservancy is the nonprofit partner of Crystal Cove State Park, dedicated to protecting the park’s natural, cultural, and historic resources while cultivating future environmental stewards through education and community engagement.
Learn more at www.crystalcove.org.