When December arrives in Temecula, the entire valley transforms into a month-long celebration that brings together families, neighbors, and visitors for 31 days of pure joy. The community doesn’t just celebrate the holidays—it creates an experience where every corner sparkles with lights, every event brings people together, and the spirit of giving flows through the streets.
Old Town Lights Up the Season
The magic kicks off at the Temecula Duck Pond on December 1st with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Families gather under the stars as festive music fills the air, Santa makes his grand entrance, and the tree bursts into brilliant color. This isn’t just another tree lighting—it’s the moment the entire valley officially says hello to the holiday season.
But the real showstopper comes on December 5th when Santa’s Electric Light Parade rolls through Old Town. Starting at 7:00 PM sharp, the parade travels from Jefferson Avenue and Del Rio Road straight into the heart of Old Town. Thousands line the streets with blankets and chairs, watching as floats, draped in lights, are followed by musicians and, of course, Santa himself, who brings the holiday spirit to life. It’s the kind of tradition that reminds you why small-town celebrations matter.
Winter Wonderlands
Throughout December, Wine Country transforms with European-style holiday markets, special wine tastings by cozy fires, and festive vineyard tours. The European Holiday Market at Europa Village (November 28-29) kicks things off with artisan vendors, seasonal treats, and that charming Old World atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve traveled across the ocean.
Entertainment That Warms Hearts
The cultural calendar stays packed all month. The Old Town Temecula Community Theater presents A Christmas Carol: The Musical from November 28 through December 7. For something more intimate, Candlelight Classics on December 14th offers an elegant evening of holiday music by candlelight at The Merc.
Giving Back Makes It Complete
The season of celebration also brings out the community’s generous heart. The Assistance League of the Temecula Valley runs Operation School Bell and Operation Bear Hug, supporting children and families throughout Southwest Riverside County. Charity for Charity focuses on fulfilling dreams for families facing life-threatening illnesses.
MilVet’s care package drive runs through November 12th, collecting items for deployed troops away from their families during the holidays. The Spark of Love Toy Drive accepts new, unwrapped toys at local fire stations and the Civic Center through December 23rd, brightening the holidays for underprivileged children.
Ring in 2026 Temecula Style
The celebration culminates on December 31st with the Grape Drop at the Civic Center Quad. Families can celebrate together with an East Coast countdown at 9:00 PM, complete with Temecula’s first-ever drone show, live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages. No need to stay up until midnight—this family-friendly celebration lets everyone welcome 2026 at a reasonable hour.
Make Your Holiday Plans Now
With 31 days of events packed into Temecula Chilled, there’s something special happening every single day. Whether you’re shopping in Old Town’s festively decorated boutiques, sipping wine in picturesque vineyards, or skating under the stars, Temecula creates those moments that turn into cherished family traditions.
Ready to experience the magic? Visit the official Temecula holiday events calendar and start planning your December adventure. The lights are waiting, the community is ready, and the memories you’ll make will last long after the decorations come down. Don’t just watch the season pass by—be part of what makes Temecula’s holidays truly special.
Sources: visittemeculavalley.com, temeculaca.gov, patch.com, myvalleynews.com, temeculavalleyspotlight.com
Header Image Source: temeculaca.gov
