When it comes to Christmas lights in Newport Beach, few places capture the season’s spirit quite like the 35th Annual Lighting of the Bay and the Fire & Lights Festival at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina. As the sun dips behind the Pacific, the Back Bay transforms into a glowing wonderland of floating holiday trees, flickering fire pits, and dazzling reflections on calm water. Families gather on the sand, kids slide down giant inflatables, and the scent of roasted marshmallows drifts through the crisp coastal air. This is more than a lights show—it’s a holiday tradition wrapped in community, warmth, and California charm. Here’s everything you need to know to experience it in full sparkle.
What Is the Fire & Lights Festival?
Each winter, Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina hosts one of the most enchanting holiday displays in Southern California—the nightly Lighting of the Bay. In addition, the Fire & Lights Festival takes place on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. Running from the day after Thanksgiving through the first weekend in January, it’s a free, family-friendly event that draws locals and visitors alike to the bayfront for an unforgettable celebration of light and joy.
The centerpiece of the festival is the Lighting of the Bay, where over 50 illuminated Christmas trees and glowing decorations float gently across the water nightly. As twilight settles, the lights flicker to life, reflecting in the still surface of the Back Bay to create a panoramic view of color and sparkle.
It’s a uniquely Newport Beach experience—where the ocean meets holiday magic. Unlike street displays or home tours, this event unfolds directly on the water, turning the bay into a living light show.
And the fun doesn’t stop there. Throughout the season, the Fire & Lights Festival adds entertainment and family attractions Thursday through Sunday:
- Fire dancer performances on Fridays and Saturdays bring a touch of spectacle and warmth.
- Santa visits add holiday charm and family photo ops.
- Giant inflatables—from slides to tunnels—keep kids entertained.
- The Igloo Bar serves festive drinks for adults, while hot chocolate and s’mores kits delight younger visitors. We also offer tasty treats like soup, paupusas, and tamales.
- Wanderlust Food Truck – brings a fleet of food trucks offering tasty food.
- Santa’s Garden – open daily this tree lot offers fresh holiday trees and wreaths from Oregon.
The Lighting of the Bayl isn’t just another display—it’s a full waterfront experience designed to delight all ages.
Opening Night Celebration
Join us for the Lighting of the Bay Opening Celebration on Friday, November 28. Gates open at 4 pm Kids can enjoy a holiday craft and a free train ride. Families can gather around a fire pit and roast s’mores. Live entertainment runs from 4 pm to 6 pm, featuring a Fire Dancer performance at 5:30 pm. Santa Claus will magically turn on the lights of the bay. Afterward, families can get their photo taken with Santa. It’s a very festive evening on the bay.
Why Fire & Lights Is Newport Beach’s Hidden Gem
Most people know about the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade—and it’s spectacular—but the Lighting of the Bay at Newport Dunes offers something quieter, cozier, and more intimate. Instead of crowds along the harbor, you get open space, beach seating, and a more personal view of the lights reflected across still water. The Fire & Lights Festival brings lots of festive cheer and activities to Newport Dunes Thursday – Sunday evenings.
For families with young kids, it’s a stress-free environment—no traffic jams, no boat chaos, just warm sand, twinkling lights, and easy access to amenities. For couples, it’s a romantic evening under glowing reflections. For groups, it’s the perfect spot to gather around a fire, toast marshmallows, and share stories by the bay.
It’s holiday magic, simplified.
Event Details & Logistics
Both the Lighting of the Bay and the Fire & Lights Festival is designed to be accessible and easy to enjoy, even for first-time visitors.
Dates and Hours
The Fire & Lights festival typically runs from November 28, 2025, through January 4, 2026, open Thursday through Sunday evenings from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The Lighting of the Bay is nightly, begins around dusk each evening, so plan to arrive early for the best viewing.
Admission and Parking
Admission to the event is free, making it one of the best-value holiday outings in Orange County. Parking is available at the Newport Dunes Resort for a small fee (ranging from $15–$30 depending on duration)..
Location
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina
1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
The resort sits along the calm, waveless waters of the Upper Newport Bay, just minutes from Fashion Island, Balboa Island, and Pacific Coast Highway. Whether you’re local or visiting from out of town, the drive is scenic and straightforward, with signage guiding you to event parking.
What to Bring
- Warm layers (coastal evenings get chilly)
- Blankets or beach chairs
- Cash or card for snacks and parking
- Camera or phone for capturing the lights
- Reusable mugs for cocoa or coffee
Insider Tip: The most magical photos happen about 15 minutes after dusk when the sky still holds a hint of blue and the floating trees shimmer in the twilight.
The Experience: What to See & Do
Every corner of the festival has something to discover. Here’s how to make the most of your evening.
Lighting of the Bay
The heart of the event—where 50+ floating Christmas trees sparkle across the water. Each one glows in vibrant colors, forming a breathtaking reflection that ripples gently with the tide. The lights come alive at sunset and stay on throughout the night.
Fire Dancer Performances
On Fridays and Saturdays, professional performers light up the night—literally—with choreographed fire shows at 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM. It’s mesmerizing, warm, and a perfect contrast to the cool coastal breeze.
Family Fun Zone
Younger visitors can spend hours in the inflatable play area featuring:
- The Snowzilla slide
- The Gingerbread obstacle course
- The Toboggan Tunnel maze
Tickets for inflatables are available on-site, and parents can relax nearby by the fire pits or the bayfront while the kids play safely in view.
Photos with Santa
On Saturdays leading up to Christmas, Santa arrives for photos between 5:00–8:00 PM. Familes can use their own cameras or cell phones to take the photo.The Igloo Bar & Tasty Treats
For adults, the Igloo Bar serves seasonal drinks—from mulled wine to festive cocktails—alongside light bites. Families can grab soup, papausas and tamales,, or warm beverages nearby. Nothing beats sipping cocoa by the water as the floating trees glow just a few feet away.
Fire Pits & S’mores
Rent or bring your own fire pit (per resort guidelines) and set up along the bay. S’mores kits are sold on-site, making for a cozy end to the evening.
Wanderlust Food Truck Festival
On Thursday evenings, come hungry. Wanderlust invites a diverse selection of approximately 15 food trucks to offer a variety of tasty dining options and drinks.
Santa’s Garden
Get a freshly-cut, fragrant Christmas tree shipped directly from Oregon from Santa’s Garden. From 2-foot table top trees to show-stopping 12 foot trees, pick your perfect tree and get it flocked. They carry Noble Fir, Nordman Fir, Grand Fir, and Douglas Fir trees, plus wreaths and garland.
Stay at Newport Dunes: Turn the Lights Into a Getaway
One of the best-kept secrets of the Lighting of the Bay and Fire & Lights Festival is that you don’t have to go home afterward—you can stay right where the magic happens.
Waterfront Accommodations
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina offers several stay options:
- Full-hookup RV sites with electricity, Wi-Fi, and picnic tables
- Cottages for families who prefer home-style comfort
- Premium bayfront sites that give you a direct view of the floating lights from your doorstep
Guests who stay overnight get the unique advantage of walking directly to the event, avoiding parking lines and crowds altogether.
Resort Amenities
- Heated pool and spa
- Private beach area
- Paddleboard,pedal boat, kayak and Electric Duffy boat rentals
- On-site dining and marketplace for essentials
- 24-hour security and family-friendly atmosphere
The Stay-and-See Advantage
By staying at the resort, you can enjoy the lights on multiple nights—perhaps one evening for the main show, and another for a quiet walk along the bay. The reflection of the floating lights from your RV or cottage porch is a memory that lasts long after the holidays fade.
Pro Tip: Book early—especially for bay-view sites during the festival season. These spots go fast once December rolls around.
When to Visit the Fire & Lights Festival
Even within its six-week run, timing your visit can shape your experience. Whether you love energy and crowds or quiet reflection, there’s a perfect night for you.
Opening Weekend (Late November): The grand kickoff features the first Lighting of the Bay the Friday after Thanksgiving, a festive crowd, and the full display reveal. Arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere and photo ops before sunset.
Mid-December through Christmas: This is when the Fire & Lights Festival shines brightest—literally. Santa visits, fire-dancer performances, and family activities including giant inflatables are in full swing. Expect a lively crowd and a true holiday buzz. Runs Thursday – Sunday evenings only.
New Year’s Week and Early January: After Christmas, the festival takes on a calmer tone. The lights still sparkle nightly, but with thinner crowds and a more relaxed pace—ideal for couples, photographers, or those seeking quiet reflection.
Fire & Lights Insider Tip: Plan to arrive before 4:30 PM, enjoy an early meal or a warm drink at the Igloo Bar, and head to the shoreline as dusk falls. The first few minutes after the lights switch on are pure magic.
Family Tips for a Smooth Visit
To make the most of your trip, a little planning goes a long way.
Before You Go:
- Check the event calendar for Santa appearances and fire-dancer nights.
- Wear socks for the inflatables.
- Dress in layers—coastal evenings can surprise you.
During the Event:
- Keep an eye on kids near the water (it’s calm, but still open bay).
- Rotate between the fire pits and food court for warmth and fun.
- Restrooms are nearby..
After the Lights:
- End the night with a stroll through the resort or a quiet moment by your campsite. The bay’s reflection of the lights after crowds disperse is breathtaking.
Newport Dunes: Where the Holidays Shine Brightest
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina isn’t just a location—it’s the heart of holiday celebration in Orange County. From the gentle glow of floating trees to the crackle of fire pits and the laughter of families on the beach, the Fire & Lights Festival captures everything that makes California’s coastal holidays special.
Whether you visit for one night or stay the weekend, you’ll discover that the magic of Christmas lights in Newport Beach shines brightest here—on the water, under the stars, and surrounded by people who know how to celebrate life’s simplest joys.
So bundle up, grab a cocoa, and let the reflections of the season guide you to the bay. Book your visit to Newport Dunes today—because the holidays are best enjoyed where the lights meet the water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I see the Fire & Lights Festival without being a resort guest?
Yes. The festival is open to the public with free entry. Parking fees apply, and visitors are welcome to enjoy the lights, inflatables, and performances without an overnight stay.
2. Are pets allowed during the festival?
Leashed pets are welcome in most outdoor areas at Newport Dunes, but not in the inflatable zones. Bring waste bags and keep them close—many guests bring dogs to enjoy the evening lights.
3. What’s the best time to catch the lighting ceremony?
Arrive before 5:00 PM. The lights typically switch on at dusk, and arriving early allows time to find parking, watch the sunset, grab food, and settle in before the magic begins.
4. Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Yes, small coolers and picnic items are allowed. However, glass containers and outside alcohol are not permitted. You can also purchase food and beverages on-site for convenience.
5. Does Newport Dunes host other holiday events?
Yes. Throughout the year, the resort organizes themed celebrations, including Fourth of July fireworks, summer concerts, and family movie nights. The Fire & Lights Festival is the crown jewel of its winter lineup.
