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Redlands Holiday Guide (2024)

Christmas in Redlands Last updated

From festive lights displays and holiday parades to photos with Santa and holiday boutiques, discover why the Holidays in Redlands are a can’t-miss!

It could be the twinkling holiday lights, the cheerful festive music, or simply the overall spirit of joy that makes the holidays in Redlands so special. We believe it’s a wonderful combination of all these elements and more! Here are some of our favorite events and festivities—we can’t wait to celebrate the season with you!

What to do in Redlands this Christmas

The following are some of our favorite events and festivities. ‘Tis the season!

Enjoy holiday-inspired music, songs, and spoken words at the 77th Feast of Lights. The event will be held at the University of Redlands Memorial Chapel on the following days and times:

  • Friday, December 6, 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, December 7, 7:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, December 8, 4:00 p.m.

Redlands Christmas Parade

This fun annual event is a family-friendly affair, the Redlands Christmas Parade is designed to inspire the imaginations of children and promote connection within our Redlands’ community. It will be held on December 7th at 6 PM along State Street. This year's theme is "The Magic of Christmas."

Get your photo taken with Santa in the Selfie Photo Booth. This is a free event held at the Redlands Visitors Center on December 8th from 12 PM - 2 PM. All children will receive a small gift from Santa and photos can be texted, emailed or AirDropped to your smartphone

Redlands YMCA Holiday Boutique and Pantry

Shop ‘til you drop at the Redlands YMCA Holiday Boutique. Discover unique treasures from local makers December 7 - December 8, 2024.

Experience the charm of the season during the YMCA Holiday Home Tour on December 8, 2024. The tour features six of Redlands' most festive homes, showcasing everything from traditional decorations to contemporary celebrations. This enjoyable event is perfect for sharing with a loved one and offers fantastic inspiration for your own holiday decor!

The Light Up The Night: Musical Light Show will be on display December 17 through December 26, 2024 from sundown to 9pm. Visitors are invited to tune in to 102.5 FM to enjoy the music-and-light experience or enjoy the show from the sidewalk.

Visit the Redlands Visitors Center to send your letter to Santa! Letters will be accepted all day on November 21 and December 15. Santa and his Elves will reply to every letter.

The Metrolink Holiday Express Train offers a magical, family-friendly holiday adventure aboard a beautifully decorated train on December 21, 2024. Passengers will enjoy a ride in one of eight themed cars, complete with live carolers, visits from Santa and his elves, and appearances by other beloved holiday characters. Before boarding, guests can partake in a lively welcome event featuring children's activities and live entertainment, creating a truly unforgettable holiday celebration for all ages.

For those too excited to wait until midnight, the Redlands Visitor Center rings in the new year at 4 p.m., which is the stroke of midnight in London. Ten…Nine…Eight…... When the crowd finishes their countdown at 4 p.m., the Beach Ball Drop begins.

400 Inflated beach balls will descend from above, floating down on the families like warm snowflakes with a goal for the participants to keep them bouncing overhead for as long as possible.

Guests may also write on the Wishing Wall, whether it is a personal goal, a dream for the future, or doing something for the first time.

  • 3:00 p.m. - 5 p.m.
  • If raining bring an umbrella — Beach Balls & water go together.

Redlands Chamber NYE Orange Drop

A giant orange, twice the size of the previous year's, has been constructed to be dropped from a crane! The Redlands Chamber NYE Orange Drop will kick off at 6 PM and culminate in the drop at 9 PM on Citrus Ave., between 6th and 8th streets. Attendees can look forward to a kids' activity zone, live music, confetti cannon towers, various food and dessert vendors, a VIP section, and more. Unlike past years, the NYE Orange Drop will not take place at midnight, allowing more of the community to join in the festivities and enabling families to celebrate the countdown to midnight in their own special way. Don’t miss out on this free New Year’s event that Redlands truly deserves!

Redlands Christmas Shopping Guide

In addition to Redlands’ holiday events, the town is also filled with great places to shop for gifts, discover seasonally-inspired bites, and raise a holiday toast. Make this the most magical Christmas yet. 

Did we miss a Redlands holiday event you love? Let us know! We’d love to include your recommendation.