SOCAL’S ULTIMATE HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES RETURN TO IRVINE COMPANY RETAIL PROPERTIES WITH THE DEBUT OF THE MERRY MARKET POP-UP

Photography Credit: Irvine Company Retail Properties

This season, it once again “snows sunshine” in Orange County. Beginning November 1, Irvine Company Retail Properties invites the community to its 2025 Let’s Holiday OC program. 

Discover the joyous West Coast Wonder of Fashion Island, Irvine Spectrum Center, and The Market Place as they are transformed into whimsical holiday epicenters that showcase the unique magic of the holiday season in Southern California. Guests can ice skate under warm sunshine, enjoy jolly wreath-making complemented by coastal breezes of the Pacific, and create meaningful memories with loved ones and cherished holiday traditions for years to come.

With a sleigh-full of festive performances, all-new immersive experiences, and acclaimed dining and shopping for everyone —celebrate across the centers with Let’s Holiday OC, where treasured moments will certainly be both merry and bright.

New and buzzworthy for 2025, Irvine Company Retail Properties debuts the Merry Market Pop-Up, a first-of-its-kind holiday experience featuring the ultimate collection of luxury shopping and seasonal must-haves. From November 4 - 28, the mobile marketplace will tour top destinations - including Fashion Island, Irvine Spectrum Center, and The Market Place - inviting both the curiosity of holiday shoppers and trendsetters alike to discover curated selections from retailers and an exclusive shoppable gift guide, available only at Irvine Company Retail Properties. Discover a collection of thoughtfully hand-chosen accessories, luxe stocking stuffers, and locally-inspired gifts selected by fashion-expert Sara Santos, Lead Stylist of Irvine Company Retail Properties. 

Better not pout! Shopping’s a breeze this season, discover exclusive holiday food and beverage offerings and treat yourself to something festive. In addition, the first 100 guests at each Merry Market stop will receive a complimentary gift. All guests may also enter to win the "Ultimate Merry Market Haul," including all featured items — valued at $6,200. 

Fashion Island | 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660

• Nights of Coastal Lights | [Begins November 21, Nightly through December 28]

  • The iconic Christmas tree sparkles to life with magical snowfall, festive music, and dazzling lights in the Neiman Marcus-Bloomingdale’s Courtyard, every 30 minutes beginning at 5:30 p.m through 8 p.m..

• CASA Toy Drive | [November 21 – December 12]

  • Support local children this season by donating a new, unwrapped toy to Fashion Island’s Concierge Suite.

• Santa Visits at Coastal Cottage | [November 21 – December 24]

  • Capture the magic of the season with a holiday photo and one-on-one moment with Santa in his charming Coastal Cottage.

• Starry Nights Performances with OCSA | [December 6 & 13 at 4P & 5P]

  • Enhance the festive spirit of the season with a musical serenade under the night sky in the Iris Courtyard, featuring a curated group of talented student performers from the Orange County School of the Arts.

• Menorah Lighting Celebration | [Sunday, December 14 | 3–5 p.m.]

  • Celebrate Hanukkah with music and traditions in partnership with Chabad Jewish Center, Newport Beach. 

 Irvine Spectrum Center | 670 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618

• Skate Under the Stars | [Now Open through January 4]

  • Skate under the SoCal sun and stars at Orange County’s most beloved outdoor rink. Santa makes surprise appearances on Saturday afternoons, and themed Thursday night skates add extra holiday fun.

• Palm Lights, Musical Delights | [Begins November 14, Nightly through January 4]

  • The choreographed palm tree light and music show in Palm Court dazzles guests with performances every 30 minutes starting at 5:15 p.m.

• Silent Night Disco | [Saturday, November 29 & Saturday, December 13 | 6–9 p.m.]

  • Dance under the stars with holiday beats at a free, family-friendly silent disco.

• Selfies with Santa | [Begins November 29]

  • Snap a festive photo with Santa in front of the holiday tree at Giant Wheel Court, every Saturday and Sunday from 12–4 p.m.

• Nightly Tree Lighting Shows | [Begins November 29 | Every 30 minutes from 5 p.m.]

Additional Festivities

• Live Reindeer at Holiday Markets at select neighborhood Centers. irvinecompanyretailproperties.com for listings.

• Winter Fest:  Holidays in the City, Friday, December 12 from 5 pm - 7 pm at Woodbridge Village Center.  Enjoy  Rockette-style dance group, live jazz, roasted nut carts, crafts and authentic NYC taxi photo op with Santa.

• In addition to seasonal entertainment, Black Friday at Irvine Company Retail Properties remains a highly anticipated tradition. Shoppers can expect exclusive deals, activations, and surprises across centers, with full details available at LetsHolidayOC.com.