What to Do in Orange County This November: Newport Beach, Irvine, Holiday Lights and More

November in Orange County is a little bit of everything: sunny coastal walks, live music, handmade holiday shopping, family activities, and the first big sparkle of the holiday season.

You can spend one weekend browsing local makers in Irvine, another enjoying holiday music by the coast, and Thanksgiving morning running beside the harbor in Dana Point.

If you’ve been searching for what’s going on in Orange County, this guide rounds up some fun ideas for November 2026, including events in Newport Beach, things to do in Irvine, holiday celebrations, and family-friendly activities throughout the county.

Whether you’re looking for free activities, seasonal shopping, outdoor adventures, or festive entertainment, there’s plenty to add to your calendar.

Pick one event or turn the month into a mini road trip. Just remember to check each organizer’s website before heading out, since event details can change.

What’s Happening in Newport Beach?

Newport Beach brings together family outings, holiday traditions, shopping, and live entertainment. There are plenty of answers to what’s going on in Newport Beach this month, whether you’re planning a relaxed afternoon or a full evening out.

See Frozen at Lido Theater — November 8

On Sunday, November 8, Lido Theater is screening Disney’s Frozen.

The event runs from 4 to 5:45 p.m., and doors open at 3 p.m. for a meet-and-greet with Anna and Elsa.

Get ready to sing along with the movie on the big screen. It’s a fun pick for families, especially for kids who know every word to “Let It Go.”

Tickets are required for the full experience.

If you’re planning a day out with children, explore our guide to family fun activities in Newport Beach for more ideas beyond this month’s scheduled events.

Browse the Holiday House Gallery at Crystal Cove — Starting November 16

Starting November 16, the Holiday House Gallery at Crystal Cove State Park gives visitors a chance to enjoy seasonal art and shopping in a beautiful coastal setting.

The gallery features Crystal Cove-themed artwork, handmade ornaments, and distinctive holiday gifts.

It’s scheduled to run through January 3, with daily hours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pair your visit with a walk around the historic district or a stop by the beach for a distinctly Newport Beach afternoon.

Want to make a full day of your visit? Browse our guide to the top things to do in Newport Beach for additional attractions and places to explore.

Sing Along at Carols & Cocoa — November 19

On Thursday, November 19, head to the shopping center at Crystal Cove for Carols & Cocoa, scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m.

Enjoy classic holiday songs and complimentary hot cocoa while taking in the festive atmosphere.

It’s a simple, cheerful way to ease into the season and a nice excuse to meet friends for an early evening outing.

For families looking for holiday activities without committing to an entire day, this is an appealing option.

Catch the VEA Newport Beach Tree Lighting — November 19

Also on November 19, VEA Newport Beach hosts its annual tree-lighting celebration from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The evening is scheduled to include live entertainment, hot cocoa, sweet treats, and Santa sightings.

Guests are invited to bring an unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots drive.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the beginning of the holiday season while supporting a charitable cause.

Enjoy Fashion Island’s Tree Lighting — November 20

Fashion Island’s Tree Lighting Ceremony is listed for Friday, November 20, from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

The shopping center also has Santa photos scheduled to begin November 20, giving families a chance to make a seasonal visit and take a keepsake photograph.

While you’re there, browse the shops, enjoy dinner, or explore the seasonal decorations.

For those looking for events in Newport Beach that combine holiday shopping with family entertainment, Fashion Island is worth considering.

Watch the Harbor Begin to Glow — Starting November 27

One of Newport Beach’s biggest holiday transitions happens at the end of November.

Newport Dunes’ 36th Annual Lighting of the Bay is scheduled to begin November 27 and continue into January.

More than 50 illuminated floating Christmas trees and other festive displays transform the waterfront into an evening light show.

The opening celebration is planned for November 27, with holiday activities and a lighting ceremony.

Check the event website for updated hours, parking details, and visitor information.

Looking ahead to December? Newport Beach is also known for its annual Christmas Boat Parade. Read our Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade guide to learn more about this longstanding holiday tradition.

The famous boat parade takes place in December, so it’s not a November event. However, the late-November waterfront lights provide a lovely preview of the holiday season.

What’s Going On in Irvine This November?

If you’re wondering what’s going on in Irvine, November offers opportunities to shop local, volunteer, honor veterans, enjoy art, and attend live music events.

The city’s event calendar is a helpful resource for checking updates, schedules, and practical details.

Shop Small at the Irvine Holiday Faire — November 7

The 44th Annual Irvine Holiday Faire is scheduled for Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex.

Browse an outdoor marketplace featuring local artists, makers, and artisans.

You’ll find handmade gifts, jewelry, artwork, home décor, and other one-of-a-kind items, along with holiday music.

It’s a fun way to get ahead on your holiday shopping while supporting local creativity.

Volunteer With Love Irvine — November 7

Also on November 7, Love Irvine is holding its citywide Serve Day.

If you’re looking for something meaningful to do with family, friends, or coworkers, this is an opportunity to spend part of the day volunteering in the community.

Check the Love Irvine website for available projects, registration details, and information about where volunteers are needed.

Giving back can be one of the most rewarding ways to spend a weekend in Orange County.

Attend Irvine’s Veterans Day Ceremony — November 11

The City of Irvine’s Veterans Day Ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, November 11, at the Formal Garden at Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park.

The ceremony offers an opportunity for the community to gather, remember, and honor those who have served.

Check the city’s official event listing for program information and timing updates before attending.

Explore Art at the Irvine Fine Arts Center — November 14

On November 14, the Irvine Fine Arts Center is scheduled to host the opening reception for Juan Manuel Gomez’s exhibition, En Lo Profundo / In the Deep, and All Together!

The exhibition continues through January 23, making it a good option for a weekend outing even if you cannot attend the opening reception.

For visitors who enjoy local culture, creative expression, and gallery experiences, this is another reason to explore Irvine.

Check the city’s listing for reception times and visitor information.

Turn Up the Volume at Great Park — November 7

Music fans can head to Great Park on Saturday, November 7, for the Dial Up Festival.

The City of Irvine lists a 2 p.m. start and a lineup featuring Nelly, Sugar Ray, Lit, Paul Wall, Unwritten Law, and more.

Check the event organizer’s website for ticket availability, the full schedule, parking, and entry information.

With the Holiday Faire and Dial Up Festival taking place on the same day at Great Park, November 7 offers an especially lively mix of things to do in Irvine.

Choose the event that best fits your interests, or check both schedules and plan your day accordingly.

If you have extra time in the city, consider visiting the Irvine Spectrum Center. Our guide to what’s going on at the Irvine Spectrum Center provides additional background on this popular shopping and entertainment destination.

More Things to Do Around Orange County in November

November is also a great month to explore beyond Newport Beach and Irvine.

From Costa Mesa to Dana Point, the calendar fills up with seasonal shopping, family activities, community celebrations, and waterfront traditions.

Visit the Sugar Plum Arts & Crafts Festival in Costa Mesa — November 6–8

The Sugar Plum Arts & Crafts Festival returns to the OC Fair & Event Center November 6–8.

More than 185 artisans are expected to offer holiday decorations, handmade gifts, jewelry, antiques, fashion, baked goods, and other treats.

Santa and Frosty are scheduled to be available for complimentary photographs.

The listed festival hours are:

• Friday, November 6: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday, November 7: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Sunday, November 8: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission is listed as free after the early Friday preview, with free admission Saturday and Sunday.

Parking is listed at $15.

Check the festival’s official website for the latest details before heading out.

This is a great option for visitors who enjoy browsing handmade goods and getting an early start on holiday shopping.

Celebrate Veterans Day at Heroes Hall — November 14

Heroes Hall at the OC Fair & Event Center is hosting a Veterans Day Celebration on Saturday, November 14, from noon to 3 p.m.

The program is planned to include an aircraft flyover, live music, family activities, an inflatable obstacle course, and a new exhibit titled Courageous Companions: Animals in American Wars.

Free hot dogs and potato chips are listed, with additional food available for purchase.

The celebration offers families an opportunity to learn, participate in community activities, and recognize military service.

See Dana Point Harbor Light Up — Starting November 12

Dana Point Harbor’s Happy Harbor Days light display begins Thursday, November 12.

More than 700,000 LED lights are planned throughout the harbor, with displays including a whale sculpture and the popular Merry Kiss Me installation.

The lights are scheduled to remain on through January 10, making this a great option for an evening waterfront stroll as the holiday season gets underway.

The harbor’s Holiday Night Market is also part of the seasonal lineup, with select Thursday evenings planned from 4 to 8 p.m.

Visitors can shop from local makers, enjoy food trucks, and take in the waterfront atmosphere after dark.

Check the Dana Point Harbor calendar for specific market dates before making your plans.

Start Thanksgiving With the Dana Point Turkey Trot — November 26

Thanksgiving morning offers another Orange County tradition: the Dana Point Turkey Trot.

On Thursday, November 26, runners and walkers can participate in several race options, including:

• 10K
• 5K
• Combined 10K and 5K
• One-mile Kids Gobble Wobble

Costumes are encouraged, so expect plenty of festive outfits along the route.

The event is a popular local tradition, making early registration and planning worthwhile.

Check the official Turkey Trot website for race times, registration, parking, and route information.

Whether you’re participating in a race or cheering from the sidelines, it’s an energetic way to begin Thanksgiving.

Make the Most of November in Orange County

With so many activities happening throughout the month, planning ahead can help you enjoy more without feeling rushed.

Start by choosing the events that interest you most.

Families might prioritize the Frozen screening, holiday tree lightings, or seasonal shopping.

Couples may enjoy a coastal walk, waterfront lights, or an evening exploring Newport Beach.

Friends can plan around concerts, holiday markets, and community celebrations.

If you’re visiting from outside Orange County, consider grouping activities by location to reduce travel time.

Newport Beach and Costa Mesa work well for a coastal shopping day, while Irvine offers several activities centered around Great Park.

Dana Point is a wonderful choice for a separate waterfront outing.

And remember that you don’t have to fill every hour with a scheduled event.

Sometimes the best part of exploring Orange County is discovering a new café, taking an unexpected beach walk, or enjoying a beautiful sunset.

Plan Your November in Orange County With OC Helper

So, what’s going on in Orange County this November?

A little bit of everything.

Newport Beach has family-friendly movies, music, shopping, and its first seasonal light displays.

Irvine offers a holiday market, volunteering, a Veterans Day ceremony, art exhibitions, and live music.

Costa Mesa and Dana Point add craft shopping, community celebrations, Thanksgiving activities, and waterfront holiday lights.

Whether you’re searching for events in Newport Beach, wondering what’s going on in Irvine, or looking for new places to explore throughout Orange County, November offers plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the community.

For even more inspiration, explore our Orange County guide to two weeks of fun in Newport Beach and beyond for additional destinations and activity ideas.

Make a short list of what sounds fun, check official event pages for the latest information, and leave a little room in your schedule for an unplanned coastal stop or a warm drink after sunset.

That’s part of the fun of exploring Orange County: the best day might include an event you picked in advance and a new favorite place you discovered along the way.

Stay Connected With OC Helper

Want more ideas for what to do in Orange County?

Subscribe to the OC Helper email newsletter for upcoming events, local attractions, seasonal activities, and community updates.

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From Newport Beach and Irvine to Costa Mesa, Dana Point, and beyond, OC Helper is here to help you discover more reasons to get out and enjoy Orange County.