DANA POINT, CA — Are you looking to fill up your holiday calendar?
The City of Dana Point announced its holiday itinerary for the 2026 season.
The city will kick off the season with holiday lights throughout the city. Starting Nov. 12, residents will enjoy holiday lights on Del Prado, Doheny Park Road, Pacific Coast Highway, Coast Highway in Capistrano Beach, Park Lantern, Camino de Estrella and at the Dana Point Community Center.
The festivities will continue as Dana Point Harbor Partners bring back the Happy Harbor Days whales, the "Merry Kiss Me" photo op, towering palm trees and the Harbor VW bus.
According to the city, this year's exhibit will shine across the all-new Harbor entrance, the island, and Bump Out Park near Baby Beach.
Here's a run-down on seasonal activities in Dana Point, per city officials.
"Visit the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo St., Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., to visit the Giving Tree in the lobby. Pick up a gift tag from the front desk and help brighten the holiday season for a local Dana Point senior. Each tag includes a gift suggestion for a male or female senior. Purchase the gift and return it, along with the tag, in a gift bag to the Recreation Division office by Monday, December 7. For more information, visit danapoint.org or call (949) 248-3530."
"Presented by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, the Dana Point Turkey Trot returns for its 49th year on Thanksgiving morning. Voted one of the best Turkey Trots in the nation, this beloved community tradition attracts more than 15,000 runners, walkers, volunteers, spectators, and supporters each year. Participants can choose from a 5K, 10K, Combo 15K, Kids' 1-Mile Gobble Wobble, and a two-day Health & Fitness Expo. Known for its beautiful ocean-view course, festive atmosphere, and family-friendly spirit, the Turkey Trot is the perfect way to start Thanksgiving morning. For event information and registration, visit TurkeyTrot.com."
"Santa and his elves at the North Pole are eagerly awaiting local letters. If you would like to write Santa a letter, print your name and address on the letter clearly, so Santa can return a special letter to you. The deadline to submit letters is Monday, December 7. For more information, visit danapoint.org or call (949) 248-3530.
Mail your letter to:
Letters to Santa
c/o City of Dana Point Recreation
34052 Del Obispo St.
Dana Point, CA 92629"
"Santa and the city Recreation Division elves will travel throughout Dana Point on Santa's Jolly Trolley, stopping at parks across the City to hand out pre-packaged treats to children ages 12 and under. Santa's elves will also collect letters to Santa. Be sure to include your mailing address so Santa can send a special reply!
The final stop of the day will be La Plaza Park, where the community will gather for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony featuring carolers, hot chocolate, cookies, and a toy drive. The tree lighting will take place promptly at 5:15 p.m.
Jolly Trolley Schedule
1:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Sunset Park, 34345 Calle Naranja
2:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Dana Woods Park, 24900 Dana Woods
3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. | Sea Canyon Park, 33093 Santiago Drive
4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. | La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza St. (Tree Lighting at 5:15 p.m.)
For more information, visit danapoint.org or call (949) 248-3530."
"4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., La Plaza Park.
Join the Dana Point community for the annual La Plaza Park Tree Lighting Ceremony. Santa and his elves will arrive on the final stop of Santa's Jolly Trolley, bringing pre-packaged treats for children ages 12 and under.
Enjoy holiday carolers, hot chocolate, cookies, and festive fun as we celebrate the season together. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to support the community toy drive.
Tree Lighting Ceremony: 5:15 p.m.
For more information, visit danapoint.org or call (949) 248-3530."
"4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., Pine Park.
Celebrate the holiday season at the annual Pines Park Tree Lighting. Santa and his elves will arrive aboard Santa's Jolly Trolley with pre-packaged treats for children ages 12 and under. Enjoy carolers, hot chocolate, cookies, and festive holiday fun before the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:15 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to support the community toy drive.
For more information, visit danapoint.org or call (949) 248-3530.
"The Dana Point Harbor's 51st Annual Boat Parade of Lights will set sail December 11,, 12 and 13 starting at 6:30 p.m."
"The Dana Point Youth Board's Annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest will take place December 14 through December 20. During the contest period, Youth Board members will visit participating homes and judge entries in the following categories: Best Overall, Most Creative, and Best Use of Theme.
Participants will also have their homes featured on the Candy Cane Lanes Map, published on the City's website and social media channels. To enter, email recreation@danapoint.org. The deadline to register is December 14. Winners will be notified after January 6, 2027. For more information, visit danapoint.org or contact the Recreation Division at (949) 248-3530."
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