The Top Big Bear Christmas Events

Experience the Magic of Christmas in Big Bear

Trade the crowded city for the peaceful charm of Big Bear Lake this holiday season. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you explore a beautiful lakeside village filled with festive cheer. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the fire or dive into alpine adventure, Big Bear offers the perfect blend of both.

From glowing light displays and cozy markets to snow tubing, skiing, and family fun, Big Bear transforms into a winter wonderland each November. Here’s your guide to the best holiday events and activities that make Christmas in Big Bear truly unforgettable.

Alpine Zoo Wild Lights: A Holiday Spectacle

Big Bear shines brighter than ever with the debut of Alpine Zoo Wild Lights, the first immersive, nature-inspired holiday light walk in the San Bernardino Mountains.

Set within the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, this dazzling experience features nearly two million LED and solar-powered lights, celebrating wildlife, community, and holiday spirit.

Event Highlights
Ribbon Cutting: November 5, 2025
Public Nights: November 6, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (Closed Christmas Day)
Hours: 5–9 PM, Wednesday–Sunday (extended Thanksgiving & holiday hours)
Tickets: $20 Adults | Free for Members & Children under 5

Explore four themed light zones, sip warm cocoa at the Moonridge Coffee Co. Zoo Café, and take in stunning displays celebrating the region’s wildlife and night skies — all while supporting the Care for Big Bear sustainability initiative.

Christkindlmarkt: A Big Bear Holiday Tradition

Step into a world of German charm and mountain-town cheer at the annual Big Bear Christkindlmarkt, held at the Big Bear Convention Center.

This festive holiday market offers traditional food, music, handmade gifts, and family-friendly fun. Decorate cookies, craft ornaments, or make a wish at the Wishing Tree — then grab a photo with Christkindl and St. Nicholas.

Location: 42900 Big Bear Blvd
Info: (909) 585-3000 | bigbearevents.com

Festival of Lights Competition

Presented by Visit Big Bear and the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce, this community-wide celebration invites residents and businesses to light up the valley with creativity and cheer.

Key Dates
Register by: November 23, 2025
Competition: December 1–31, 2025
Winners Announced: January 5, 2026

Pick up a map and ballot at the Visitor Center starting December 1, then tour the valley’s brightest displays and vote for your favorites in categories like Classic Alpine Christmas, Cinematic Spectacle, and ’Tis the Spirit of the Season.

More Info: bigbear.com

Big Bear Lake Village Tree Lighting Ceremony

Join the community in The Village as Big Bear officially kicks off the holiday season! Enjoy live performances, dancing, caroling, and the lighting of the Village Christmas Tree, followed by photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Schedule Highlights
4:30 PM: Jason Love, Big Bear Comedy Fest
4:45 PM: The Mountain Marvels “Carnegie Kids”
5:00 PM: Moonridge School of Dance
5:15 PM: The Mountain Marvelettes
5:50 PM: Tree Lighting with Santa & City Council
6:00 PM: Jingle 5 A Cappella Performance
7:00 PM: Ceremony Concludes

Victorian-costumed carolers will roam The Village from 6:30–8:30 PM, while Santa’s House at Christmas Tree Corner welcomes visitors until 9:30 PM. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus weekends thru January!

Big Bear Snow Play & Glow Tubing

For high-energy fun, head to Alpine Slide or Big Bear Snow Play — open daily from mid-November through end of winter, weather permitting.

Zoom down long, groomed snow hills and ride the Magic Carpet lift back to the top for more thrills. In the evenings, the fun lights up with Glow Tubing on Fridays, Saturdays, and select holidays, featuring vibrant red, blue, green, and black lights.

Children 36″–42″ tall may ride in an adult’s lap (18+).

Ski Resorts & Night Skiing Sessions

When snow covers the San Bernardino Mountains, Snow Summit and Snow Valley offer some of Southern California’s best skiing — including magical Night Sessions under the stars.

2025–2026 Night Session Dates
December: 13, 20–23, 25–31
January: 1–3, 9–10, 16–18, 23–24, 30–31
February: 6–7, 13–15, 20–21, 27–28
March: 7, 14
Access Options:
Purchase a Night Session ticket
Add to a day ticket for $10–$19
Pass holders enjoy free nighttime access
Free Parking: Snow Summit (after 2 PM) | Snow Valley (after 6 PM)
(Bear Mountain does not offer night sessions.)

Christmas Dinner in Big Bear

Spending Christmas in Big Bear, California is pure magic — crisp mountain air, sparkling snow, and the warmth of family and friends gathered together. Whether you’d like to savor a chef-prepared holiday feast or enjoy a cozy dinner from the comfort of your cabin, Big Bear offers delicious options to make your holiday meal unforgettable.

The Village Restaurants

Big Bear Mountain Brewery (40260 Big Bear Blvd) – Warm pub fare and craft beer in a festive setting.
Himalayan Restaurant (672 Pine Knot Ave) – Bold Indian and Nepalese flavors with vegetarian options.
Peppercorn Grille (533 Pine Knot Ave) – Beautifully plated dishes and decadent creations.
Sweet Basil Bistro (40629 Big Bear Blvd) – Authentic Italian dining experience.
The Oakside (40701 Village Dr) – Inviting atmosphere paired with delicious cuisine.

Local Favorites

Tropicali Big Bear (40771 Big Bear Blvd) – Island-Inspired Eats- America’s #1 Poke-
Captain’s Anchorage (42148 Moonridge Rd) – Legacy meals within a legacy location.
Cafe Crepe (41003 Big Bear Blvd) – Authentic French Cuisine in Big Bear.

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade

Ring in the New Year in true mountain style! Head to Snow Summit Resort (880 Summit Blvd) for the 58th Annual Torchlight Parade, where over 200 skiers and snowboarders glide down the slopes with torches in hand, lighting up the night.
Date: December 31
Time: 7:00 PM
Cost: Free
Featuring: Live DJ & Countdown “Snowball Drop”

Plan Your Holiday Getaway

Extend the magic of the holidays by staying in a cozy Big Bear Vacations rental. From intimate one-bedroom cabins to spacious lodges for the whole family, you’ll find the perfect home for your mountain escape — complete with full kitchens, warm fireplaces, and snowy views.