November brings a different rhythm to Orange County. Halloween decorations come down, Thanksgiving plans take shape, and the first holiday celebrations begin before the month is over.

Whether you’re planning a weekend with the family, entertaining visiting relatives, or looking for a reason to explore another community, there is plenty to put on your calendar.

Here are four November 2026 events worth considering, along with a few ways to enjoy the season closer to home.

Noche de Altares in Santa Ana

Saturday, November 7, 2026
Noon–9 p.m.
Fourth Street between Ross and Broadway, downtown Santa Ana.

Noche de Altares brings the community together to observe Día de Muertos through remembrance, art, and cultural tradition.

Organized by El Centro Cultural de México, the gathering centers on altars created by families, artists, and community groups. These meaningful displays honor loved ones who have died and, in some cases, bring attention to social issues.

Give yourself time to appreciate the details and the stories behind the altars. This is an opportunity to experience a community tradition with care and curiosity, rather than simply moving from one display to the next.

View Noche de Altares event information.

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort

November 13, 2026–January 6, 2027
Anaheim

You don’t have to wait until December to enjoy Disneyland’s holiday atmosphere. The resort’s seasonal celebration begins November 13, bringing festive decorations, holiday entertainment, and seasonal experiences.

Highlights listed by Disney include A Christmas Fantasy Parade at Disneyland Park and Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park.

For households hosting visitors over Thanksgiving, this could be the centerpiece of a day together. Choose the experiences that matter most to your group before building an ambitious itinerary.

Valid theme park admission and a park reservation are required. Check park hours, entertainment schedules, and reservation availability before making plans.

Explore Holidays at the Disneyland Resort.

Dana Point Turkey Trot

Thursday, November 26, 2026 — Thanksgiving Day
Dana Point Harbor

If your ideal Thanksgiving begins outdoors, the Dana Point Turkey Trot offers a festive way to start the day.

The 49th annual event includes a 5K, 10K, Combo 15K, and Kids’ 1-Mile Gobble Wobble. The organizer also lists a costume contest and health and fitness expo, with participation supporting local charities.

Choose a distance that suits you, then build the rest of your Thanksgiving schedule around it. Before registering, review the race information for start times, packet pickup and arrival instructions so the morning feels manageable.

Find race details and registration for the Dana Point Turkey Trot.

Winter Fest OC in Costa Mesa

Select dates: November 27, 2026–January 3, 2027
OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa

Winter Fest OC opens the day after Thanksgiving, making it an option for extending the holiday weekend into an evening outing.

Winter Fest OC includes holiday light displays, snow play, a tubing hill, live entertainment, and a nightly tree-lighting celebration.

Before purchasing tickets, compare the admission options with the activities your group wants to enjoy. Some experiences require an additional purchase or a particular pass; ice skating, for example, is offered with select admission passes or as an add-on.

Winter Fest operates on select dates, so check the calendar for your intended visit.

Check Winter Fest OC dates, attractions and tickets.

Make time for a quieter November outing in Mission Viejo

Your November calendar doesn’t need to revolve entirely around ticketed events. Leave room for a morning walk, an unhurried lunch, or an afternoon showing visitors a favorite part of your community.

In Mission Viejo, the Oso Creek Trail offers 5.5 miles of total trails with several access points. The City lists the Character Garden trailhead at 25552 Marguerite Parkway as an easy option, while other access points serve routes with varying difficulty.

Choose a route that suits your group and the time you have available. A shorter walk followed by coffee can be just as enjoyable as a full day of activities.

Explore the City of Mission Viejo’s Oso Creek Trail information.

Plan around the kind of day you want

Before booking, consider what would make the outing enjoyable for everyone joining you.

Are you looking for a full day of entertainment or a relaxed afternoon? Would your group enjoy an active Thanksgiving morning, a cultural celebration, or an evening of holiday lights?

For ticketed events, check what admission includes, review parking information, and confirm the schedule directly with the organizer. Leaving a little breathing room between activities can make the experience more enjoyable—especially when you’re hosting guests.

Still planning your earlier fall weekends? Explore my October 2026 guide to things to do in Orange County.

Discover the lifestyle around your next home

Exploring Orange County is also a useful way to understand what you want from the place you live.

Pay attention to the experiences you would enjoy regularly: a nearby walking trail, a community gathering, a coastal outing, or a neighborhood where visiting friends and family would feel welcome.

Those everyday preferences deserve a place in your home search alongside square footage and bedroom count.

If you’re considering a move to Mission Viejo or another Orange County community, connect with Leslie Swan. I’d be happy to help you explore the homes and the lifestyle surrounding them.

*Event information was checked on October 4, 2026. Dates, schedules, ticket requirements, and activities can change; confirm details with the organizer before attending.