Escondido, CA – November, 2026 – The California Center for the Arts, Escondido Foundation is thrilled to announce the return of the much-anticipated Annual Winter Wonderland, an enchanting event that brings the magic of the North Pole right to the heart of Escondido. This cherished holiday celebration promises two days of winter wonder, and it’s open and free to the entire community.
Each year, the California Center for the Arts, Escondido transforms into a whimsical winter wonderland, offering a host of activities and entertainment for families to enjoy. This magical event will be taking place on Saturday and Sunday December 5th and 6th, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to create lasting holiday memories.
- Event Highlights:
Real Snow: Throw a snowball, make a snowman or a snow angel! Children of all ages can enjoy our snowplay area and frolic in real snow. - Santa Claus: Straight from the North Pole, Santa Claus always joins us for both days of the event, and will be there to hear the holiday wishes of all little ones.
- Live performances of an original holiday show for kids: Kids will be able to watch original performances from members of the Loud Fridge Theater Collective, and may even be invited on stage to dance, and learn percussion instruments along with the performers!
- Live Caroling from Escondido Choral Arts and Full Measure Christmas Quartet: ON Sturday, the Children’s Choir of Escondido Choral Arts, will be performing Christmas favorites around campus, and on Sunday a quartet from Full Measure carolers will be roving campus spreading holiday cheer!
- Holiday Market: Come ready to do all of your holiday shopping at our Holiday Market.
- Local Artists, crafts people and creators will be selling hand crafted gifts from pottery to clothing to hand carved cutting boards.
- Delicious Fresh Food: Satisfy your taste buds with a variety of delicious food and warm beverages from local food trucks and pop ups like Chirpy Cat Creamery, La Habanera, Little Thai Cottage, Berries N’ Drizzle, Rock on Pizza and More.
- Seasonal Crafts: Get creative with winter-themed arts and crafts, making ornaments and holiday decorations to take home.
- Face Painting: Little ones can transform into their favorite holiday characters with festive face painting.
This year, Winter Wonderland will also serve as a donation station benefiting Interfaith Community Services. Guests are encouraged to bring canned goods, nonperishable foods like cereal and oatmeal, or everyday hygiene items such as soap, toothpaste, and diapers.
Every donation helps nourish local families and neighbors in need, bringing dignity and hope so no one in our community goes hungry.
Make sure to mark your calendars for this magical winter event and join us for a weekend of joy, laughter, and holiday spirit. For further information and updates, please visit our website at artcenter.org.
Event Details:
Event: Winter Wonderland
Date: December 5 & 6, 2026 – Time: 1pm-5pm
Location: California Center for the Arts, Escondido Campus
This event is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: the City of Escondido, City of San Diego, Prebys Foundation, & Linden Root Dickinson Foundation. About the California Center for the Arts, Escondido: The California Center for the Arts, Escondido Foundation, is dedicated to enriching the cultural and creative vitality of California by providing access to the arts for all members of our community. Through a diverse range of performances, exhibitions, and educational programs, the Foundation continues to be a driving force in the cultural life of California.
