Big Bear, California has a way of appealing to travelers with interests of all types year-round. Once you get here, it’s easy to see why! When adventurers are looking for a place where they can immerse themselves in beautiful and endlessly dramatic mountain landscapes while enjoying easy access to in-town fun and outdoor adventure as well, it’s all waiting for them right in Big Bear. That said, this is most definitely a vacation destination that has even more to offer in the way of fun when the holidays roll around. Here, you can easily pair traditional holiday activities like admiring lights and displays with one-of-a-kind Christmas in Big Bear activities specific to the area on the ski slopes. Whether you’re here for a few days or enjoying an extended holiday stay, the festive options abound and you’re decidedly in for a trip you won’t soon forget.
Enjoy the Holiday Thrills at Big Bear Snow Play
If you’re traveling to Big Bear this holiday season with the kids in tow and you want to be sure to maximize the outdoor adventure, don’t leave an afternoon at Big Bear Snow Play off your festive lineup. This is the perfect place to gather your crew and your inner tubes and fly down sleek, sloped hills that are designed for family-friendly adventures. A unique way to enjoy the slopes is to arrive in the evening hours and take advantage of their holiday nighttime glow tubing experiences instead. It’s an illuminating activity that might just bring you back a night or two during your holiday Big Bear stay.
Include Skiing on Your Holiday Itinerary
The holidays are about spending quality time with those you love most and when your group makes its way to Big Bear during the heart of the holiday season, the festivities can also include quality time skiing! Big Bear is home to both Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, both of which are amazing ski destinations within the greater Big Bear Mountain Resort to check out. The holidays here are a popular time of year to infused skiing and snowboarding fun on the itinerary and the earlier you show up to hit the slopes, the better. Between the two destinations, holiday travelers to Big Bear focused on downhill adventures will enjoy access to over 50 runs suitable for all skill levels. There’s also an array of terrain parks to enjoy when you’re looking for that next exciting challenge.
Shop for the Season
Whether you’re someone who simply loves to indulge in a bit of retail therapy whenever you travel, or you still have some last minute gifts to check off your list, your holiday trip to Big Bear has you covered. Head over to The Village where you’ll find a long lineup of specialty boutiques to check out sprinkled between delicious local eateries so you can fuel up and head out once more with ease. Stores here sell everything from mountain-inspired home décor and art to apparel, jewelry, souvenirs, and beyond. If you’re looking to enjoy browsing a setup that’s even more holiday themed, you’ll want to make your way to the Big Bear Convention Center at 42900 Big Bear Boulevard. Between November 29 and December 1, the annual Mountain Christmas Boutique will be on daily between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. It’s a one-stop hub for handmade arts and crafts as well as custom gifts for the season. There are typically more than 40 vendors on-site and plenty of activities for little ones to enjoy as well as options to get pictures with Santa.
See a Holiday Show
If your travel plans bring you to Big Bear around December 14 or 15, you’ll be right on time to book tickets to see The Nutcracker Ballet. This seasonal performance will be hosted at the Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center at 39707 Big Bear Boulevard and will be presented by the Moonridge School of Dance. It’s a chance to enjoy a holiday favorite story while supporting local talent in Big Bear.
Experience Santa Claws at Big Bear Zoo
On December 14 and 21 this year, those who find themselves in Big Bear during the holidays can elevate the fun even further by enjoying the Santa Claws experience at the Big Bear Zoo. The Big Bear Zoo is located at 747 Clubview Drive, and the event will run from 10:30 am until 3:00 pm on the select dates. Visitors are invited to drop by and say hi to “Santa Claws” in addition to taking time to admire the many amazing creatures there are to encounter on-site! The event is included with the general cost of admission.
Book Your Stay Today
Take time to unwind in beautiful Big Bear this holiday season and when you do, the team at Big Bear Vacations will be here to ensure you have luxurious and ideally located accommodations to match the moment. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting Big Bear vacation rentals and to start planning your trip.
