Coming Soon
Holiday & Winter Events in SCV 2026
Yes, it is still summer. But the SCV holiday season plans ahead. Veterans Day, Light Up Main Street, Holiday in the Park, Fright Fest, and more are all on the calendar. Here is your preview of what is coming and how to plan for it.
Curated by Sam Silver · Updated August 10, 2026
Oct 3-4
Hart of the West Pow Wow
Oct 31
Spooktacular & Fright Fest
Nov 11
Veterans Day Ceremony
Nov 21
Light Up Main Street
October
Fall & Halloween Events
Fright Fest at Six Flags Magic Mountain
Select Dates · September 26 through November 2, 2026
Six Flags Magic Mountain transforms into a haunted theme park every fall, and the 2026 season is set to be bigger than ever. Fright Fest features multiple haunted houses, scare zones throughout the park, live shows, and roaming monsters. During the day, the park remains family-friendly. After sundown, the scares come out.
For families with younger kids, the Trick-or-Treat Trail runs during daytime hours with candy stations, costume parades, and non-scary activities. It is included with regular park admission and is a Halloween highlight for SCV families.
Hart of the West Pow Wow
October 3-4, 2026 · William S. Hart Park
A two-day gathering of multiple Indigenous peoples at William S. Hart Park. Traditional dance, drumming, food, arts and crafts, and community celebration. Free admission. A powerful and meaningful SCV tradition that draws visitors from across Southern California.
Spooktacular Kids Fest
Late October · Castaic Lake
A family-friendly Halloween celebration at Castaic Lake. Games, costume contests, trick-or-treating, and activities for kids of all ages. A safer, daytime alternative to the big haunted attractions.
Pococktoberfest
October · Pocock Brewing, Valencia
Annual fall celebration at SCV's favorite brewery. Seasonal beers, live music, German-style food, and community cheer. A fun fall event for adults that captures the spirit of Oktoberfest right here in SCV.
Veterans Day & Light Up Main Street
November is when SCV truly shines. Two of the valley's most meaningful annual events bookend the month, and both carry special significance for Sam as a veteran and a long-time community member.
Veterans Day Ceremony
November 11, 2026 · 11:00 AM
The City of Santa Clarita hosts its annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Veterans Historical Plaza in Old Town Newhall (24275 N. Walnut Street). The ceremony honors all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces with speeches, musical performances, a color guard presentation, and a moment of silence.
As a U.S. Army veteran himself, Sam considers this one of the most important events on the SCV calendar. The plaza, with its memorial wall and reflecting pool, is a fitting setting for a ceremony that brings the whole community together in gratitude and remembrance.
Light Up Main Street
November 21, 2026 · 4:00 - 8:00 PM
The official holiday kickoff in Old Town Newhall. Main Street transforms into a winter wonderland with the lighting of thousands of holiday lights, a giant community Christmas tree, live entertainment, and the moment everyone waits for: the flip of the switch that illuminates the entire street.
Presented by DrinkPak, this free family event features food trucks, photo opportunities with Santa, kids activities, carolers, and a festive atmosphere that rivals any small-town holiday celebration in California. Sam's tip: arrive early for parking and bring the whole family.
Thanksgiving 5K Run
Thanksgiving Morning · Santa Clarita Bike Path
Start Thanksgiving Day with a flat, fast 5K along the Santa Clarita bike path. A beloved local tradition for families and runners alike. Burn some calories before the big meal and enjoy the crisp late-November air. Registration typically opens in October through local running clubs and the City.
December & Beyond
December Holiday Events
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain
November 26, 2026 through January 3, 2027 · Select dates
Six Flags Magic Mountain's annual Holiday in the Park transforms the thrill-ride capital into a winter wonderland. Millions of twinkling lights, holiday shows, festive food and drinks, visits with Santa, and a 50-foot Christmas tree create a magical atmosphere that draws families from across Southern California.
Many roller coasters remain open during the event, so you can ride Twisted Colossus under the glow of holiday lights. The park also features ice skating, holiday crafts, carolers, and a holiday market with gift vendors.
Holiday in the Park is a can't-miss SCV tradition. Sam recommends going on a weeknight in early December when crowds are lighter and the park feels especially magical with fewer people.
Holiday Gift & Craft Fairs
Throughout December, local churches, community centers, and the Santa Clarita Sports Complex host holiday craft fairs and gift markets. A great place to find unique, locally-made gifts and support SCV artisans. Check the City events calendar for specific dates as they are announced.
Holiday Concerts & Performances
The SCV is home to several holiday concert traditions. The Santa Clarita Master Chorale performs annual winter concerts, local schools put on holiday productions, and the Canyon Theatre Guild in Old Town Newhall typically runs a holiday show. Check local listings as December approaches.
Angel Tree & Holiday Giving
The Salvation Army SCV runs the Angel Tree program, providing gifts to children and seniors in need across the valley. Single Mothers Outreach and the Assistance League also run holiday toy and gift drives. A meaningful way to spread holiday cheer.
Volunteer & Giving GuideSam's Insider Tips
Sam's Holiday Planning Tips
After 22 holiday seasons in the SCV, Sam has learned a few things. Here is how to make the most of the holiday season in Santa Clarita Valley.
Plan Ahead
Holiday events in SCV are popular. Light Up Main Street draws thousands. Fright Fest sells out on weekends. Mark your calendars now and register early for free events that require tickets.
Parking Strategy
For Light Up Main Street, park in the Civic Center parking structure or the garage on Market Street and walk in. For Holiday in the Park, arrive before 5 PM to beat the evening crowd and get the best parking spot.
Give Back
The holiday season is also the highest-need time for SCV's service organizations. Consider adding a volunteer shift at the Food Pantry or Angel Tree program to your holiday calendar. It is the most rewarding part of the season.
Make SCV Your Home for the Holidays
Whether you are a long-time resident or thinking about making the move, Sam would love to help you find your place in this community. Reach out anytime.
Sam@SamSilverHomes.com · 661-621-5340 · CalDRE #01412755 · Equity Union Real Estate