Looking for things to do this winter in Orange County? We may not get snow, but our lack of true winter temperatures makes it possible to still have great outdoor festivals and events worth attending whether you’re a local or a tourist! From family-friendly events to outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season.

Ready to dive in? Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Orange County this winter.

1. Go Sledding in Lake Forest

• Dates: January 25, 2025
• Location: Pittsford Park, Lake Forest

Did we say sled in Lake Forest? Yes, we did! For one special day, the city of Lake Forest is making it possible to sled, saucer, or engage in other fun attractions at Snowfest. They’ll also have food and drink available!

Sledders get to enjoy the snow during one of 3 timeslots at 10:30 AM, 12 PM, and 1:30 PM. You can get your wristbands for $10-$15 at the Lake Forest Sports Park and Recreation Center.

Can’t make it? There are also lots of places just outside of Orange County where you can enjoy the snow as well!

2. Slither into the Year of the Snake at UVSA Tết Festival

• Dates: January 31 – February 2, 2025
• Location: Garden Grove Park, Garden Grove

Celebrate the Year of the Snake! Hosted at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, the UVSA Tết Festival honors the Vietnamese Lunar New Year! It includes a cultural village with traditional Vietnamese exhibits, performances, and various contests, reflecting the richness of Vietnamese culture.

Admission is $9 to those 2+. On Saturday, February 1 from 12 PM-1 PM, they also offer free entrance to those wearing traditional outfits and military or scout uniforms (this excludes religious outfits and costumes).

3. Celebrate Black History and Culture at the Black History Parade & Unity Festival

• Dates: February 1, 2025
• Location: Center Street Promenade, Anaheim

Taking place each year in Anaheim, this FREE annual event is put together by the Orange County Heritage Council and celebrates the richness of Black history and culture. This year’s theme is “We Are One,” celebrating “unity, diversity, and community spirit.”

The festivities begin with a fun and vibrant parade featuring community groups that kicks off at 10 AM that travels from Lincoln Avenue and Anaheim Blvd down to Centerstreet Promenade where the Unity Festival is held from 12-4 PM. The festival features keynote speakers, live entertainment, exhibitors, food vendors, educational booths, and more. What makes this event particularly special is the great collaboration and participation from local schools, organizations and businesses.

4. Run the Surf City USA Marathon

• Dates: February 1 – 2, 2025
• Location: Huntington Beach (Intersection of Huntington St and the PCH)

Get ready to cheer (or run!) at the Surf City USA Marathon, a signature Orange County event! The course takes participants along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, giving it some of the best views any marathon runner could ask for (not to mention the course is flat, which is another great plus!). If you want to participate but aren’t quite ready to run a full marathon, we have good news as they also host a half marathon, 5K, a beach mile option!

Even if you’re not running, it’s worth stopping by to soak up the excitement. You can grab a spot near the pier to watch the runners and the waves simultaneously, sip on a beer at the Beer Garden, or visit and browse through a variety of vendor booths located around the area.

5. Explore the Laguna Beach Music Festival

• Dates: February 12 – 16, 2025
• Location: Laguna Art Museum and Laguna Playhouse, Laguna Beach

A co-presentation of Laguna Beach Live! and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County, the Laguna Beach Music Festival is an annual celebration of classical and contemporary music, featuring a variety of concerts and performances. It’s a great opportunity to witness renowned performers and composers that come out to perform.

It’s a great experience for any music lover with a mix of concerts, artist talks, and educational programs. To view the full program and purchase tickets, click here.

6. Sample Food from OC’s Best Eateries during Orange County Restaurant Week

• Dates: March 2 – 8, 2025
• Location: Various locations across Orange County

OC Restaurant Week is an exciting gastronomic event across all of Orange County! During this week, a variety of restaurants across the region offer special prix-fixe menus at multiple price points, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the local culinary scene. This event provides an excellent opportunity for food enthusiasts to experience the unique flavors and culinary offerings of Orange County, from high-end dining to casual eats.

They also feature a special VIP Launch Party on March 1st, where you can sample featured restaurant menu options all in one place! Buy tickets here.

7. Go Whale Watching in Newport or Dana Point

• Dates: All Winter Long
• Location: Newport Beach or Dana Point Harbor

Winter is prime whale-watching season. And while you can certainly enjoy some great whale watching options throughout Orange County (like Newport Beach), did you know Dana Point is known as the Whale Watching Capital of the World?!

Hop aboard a boat to see migrating blue, fin, and humpback whales and you might even see some dolphins and sea lions as well! Getting to witness the marine life in their natural habitat is pretty magical, and it’s made even more so with the cool ocean breeze and stunning coastal views. Just remember to bring a jacket—it get’s cold out there on the water!

8. Celebrate Whale Migration at the Dana Point Festival of Whales

• Dates: March 7 – March 9, 2025
• Location: Dana Point Harbor

After you watch them, why not celebrate them too?! The 54th annual Festival of Whales celebrates the migration of the California Gray Whale. While you can enjoy great art, food, music, education, and activities every day of the weekend, each day also offers up something unique.

Be sure to keep an eye out for when they post their full calendar of events, but generally you can expect the following highlights: Friday includes a Welcoming of the Whales Ceremony, Saturday features their popular Magical Migration Parade and Whales, Tails & Ales Street Fair, And Sunday the festival closes out with a concert on the water.

Do you know of any other hidden gems or a must-do activities happening this winter in Orange County? Comment below!