Southern California, January 24, 2026
Northern California’s winter season brings a variety of exciting events to shake off the cabin fever blues. Relax by the beach, explore art shows, or enjoy thrilling outdoor activities in Southern California. The region offers activities for all ages, highlighting community engagement and local culture. From snow sports to culinary classes, there’s something for everyone in this diverse landscape. Families can create lasting memories through fun activities like immersive zoo displays and interactive children’s museums, uniting community spirit and local pride.
Discover 15 Winter Events to Overcome Cabin Fever in Southern California
Find Your Winter Escape with Local Events That Inspire
San Diego is not just synonymous with year-round sunshine; it also boasts an array of winter events perfect for those looking to shake off the cabin fever blues. From invigorating outdoor adventures to immersive cultural experiences, there’s a rich selection to appeal to both families and individuals alike. With a community spirit that fosters local engagement and minimal bureaucracy, these winter events encourage participation and a sense of belonging among residents.
This winter, Southern California hosts events ranging from thrilling snow sports to engaging art shows. Organizers have rallied to ensure that everyone can enjoy the unique offerings, demonstrating resilience and community pride. By embracing limited red tape and encouraging private partnerships, the region has become an exemplar of civic innovation, making it easier for residents to connect with their local community.
Outdoor Activities
- Winter Hiking in the San Bernardino Mountains: Experience scenic trails with moderate temperatures and breathtaking views that allow you to reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your spirit.
- Beach Bonfires in Orange County: Spend cozy evenings gathering around a warm fire on the beach, expertly balancing seaside charm with winter festivities.
- Snow Play in Big Bear Lake: Engage in fun-filled snow activities such as sledding, snowshoeing, and snowboarding at this well-loved mountain escape.
Cultural and Community Events
- Los Angeles Art Show: This annual exhibition in downtown Los Angeles showcases contemporary and modern art, providing a platform for local and international artists alike.
- San Diego County Fair: A staple in the area, this fair offers a mix of entertainment, food, and exhibits embodying the spirit of San Diego culture.
- Orange County Winter Fest: Held in Costa Mesa, this seasonal celebration includes ice skating, carnival rides, and holiday-themed attractions that draw families and friends together.
Workshops and Classes
- Cooking Classes in Santa Monica: Under the guidance of local chefs, you can learn to prepare seasonal dishes that reflect the abundance of California’s culinary scene.
- Photography Workshops in Pasadena: Enhance your photography skills through hands-on sessions that cater to a range of skill levels, encouraging creativity and artistic expression.
- Pottery Classes in Long Beach: Unleash your artistic potential and gain new creative skills by exploring pottery techniques in this hands-on environment.
Music and Entertainment
- Hollywood Bowl Winter Concerts: Enjoy performances by renowned artists in a unique outdoor setting, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for music lovers.
- Jazz Nights in Palm Springs: Bask in the rhythm of live jazz music offered at various local venues, cultivating an appreciation for musical talent and community vibrancy.
- Film Screenings at Griffith Park: Delight in classic films screened under the stars in a historic amphitheater, furthering engagement with the arts in a picturesque backdrop.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Children’s Museum in La Jolla: This interactive space invites children to engage in innovative exhibits that promote educational play and family bonding.
- Zoo Lights at San Diego Zoo: Experience the zoo transformed into a winter wonderland with festive light displays that captivate visitors of all ages.
- Ice Skating at Pershing Square: Glide across the ice at this central downtown location, offering a spirited outing for both families and friends alike.
These winter events provide excellent opportunities to embrace the season and create lasting memories with loved ones. By supporting local events, residents can help foster community growth while enjoying everything Southern California has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some outdoor activities to enjoy in Southern California during winter?
Outdoor activities include winter hiking in the San Bernardino Mountains, beach bonfires in Orange County, and snow play in Big Bear Lake.
Are there any cultural events happening in Southern California this winter?
Yes, events like the Los Angeles Art Show, San Diego County Fair, and Orange County Winter Fest are scheduled.
Where can I find workshops and classes in Southern California during winter?
Cooking classes in Santa Monica, photography workshops in Pasadena, and pottery classes in Long Beach are available.
What music and entertainment options are available in Southern California this winter?
Options include Hollywood Bowl Winter Concerts, jazz nights in Palm Springs, and film screenings at Griffith Park.
Are there family-friendly activities in Southern California during winter?
Family-friendly activities include the Children’s Museum in La Jolla, Zoo Lights at San Diego Zoo, and ice skating at Pershing Square in Los Angeles.
| Event | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter Hiking in the San Bernardino Mountains | Various dates | San Bernardino Mountains | Explore scenic trails with moderate temperatures and breathtaking views. |
| Beach Bonfires in Orange County | Various dates | Orange County Beaches | Gather around a warm fire on the beach, a perfect way to enjoy the coastal winter evenings. |
| Snow Play in Big Bear Lake | Various dates | Big Bear Lake | Engage in snow activities like sledding, snowshoeing, and snowboarding in the nearby mountains. |
| Los Angeles Art Show | Various dates | Los Angeles | Discover contemporary and modern art at this annual exhibition held in downtown Los Angeles. |
| San Diego County Fair | Various dates | San Diego | Experience a variety of entertainment, food, and exhibits at this popular fair. |
| Orange County Winter Fest | Various dates | Costa Mesa | Enjoy ice skating, carnival rides, and holiday-themed attractions in Costa Mesa. |
| Cooking Classes in Santa Monica | Various dates | Santa Monica | Learn to prepare seasonal dishes with local chefs. |
| Photography Workshops in Pasadena | Various dates | Pasadena | Enhance your photography skills with hands-on sessions. |
| Pottery Classes in Long Beach | Various dates | Long Beach | Unleash your creativity by learning pottery techniques. |
| Hollywood Bowl Winter Concerts | Various dates | Los Angeles | Attend performances by renowned artists in a unique outdoor setting. |
| Jazz Nights in Palm Springs | Various dates | Palm Springs | Enjoy live jazz music at local venues. |
| Film Screenings at Griffith Park | Various dates | Los Angeles | Watch classic movies under the stars in a historic amphitheater. |
| Children’s Museum in La Jolla | Various dates | La Jolla | Engage in interactive exhibits and educational play. |
| Zoo Lights at San Diego Zoo | Various dates | San Diego | Experience the zoo transformed with festive light displays. |
| Ice Skating at Pershing Square | Various dates | Los Angeles | Glide across the ice in downtown Los Angeles. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
