A Local’s Guide to the Sawdust Festival Winter Fantasy: Art, Fun, and Festive Cheer in Laguna Beach
As a Laguna Beach local, there’s one holiday tradition that my family and I look forward to all year long: the Sawdust Festival Winter Fantasy. With lights twinkling in the trees, the scent of cinnamon in the air, and rows of artisan booths brimming with unique holiday gifts, the festival has a magic all its own. Each year, we grab our tickets early, and when the day finally arrives, it feels like Laguna Beach transforms into a winter wonderland.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the festival or thinking of experiencing it for the first time, here’s what to expect from the 2024 Winter Fantasy, along with some local tips to make the most of your visit!
A True Laguna Holiday Wonderland
As you step into the Sawdust grounds, you’re greeted by the sparkling lights, festive decorations, and beautifully crafted holiday installations that instantly put you in the holiday spirit. The Winter Fantasy is designed to feel like an enchanted village, with winding paths lined with booths featuring handcrafted items from over 150 artisans. You’ll find everything from pottery and glass-blown ornaments to paintings and jewelry—a perfect mix of local artistry and holiday cheer.
Each year, my family takes our time strolling through the booths, finding one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones (and, okay, sometimes for ourselves!). Laguna Beach is known for its vibrant art scene, and the Sawdust Festival Winter Fantasy showcases this creativity in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. With every booth offering something original, there’s truly no better place to find gifts that are as unique as the people on your list.
Holiday Fun for All Ages (Including Teens!)
Even though my kids are getting older, there’s something about the Winter Fantasy that brings out everyone’s inner child. And yes, we still have a tradition of taking a photo with Santa, who somehow manages to be both warm and magical for kids of all ages. Santa’s set-up is beautifully decorated, creating the perfect backdrop for a family holiday photo. (Pro tip: get there early to beat the line if Santa photos are on your agenda.)
For the creative types in your family, don’t miss the hands-on craft workshops that are set up throughout the festival. The Winter Fantasy offers DIY classes where you can try your hand at making your own ornaments, jewelry, and more. One year, we made ornaments that now hang on our tree every Christmas, and it’s so fun to reminisce about that day every time we put them up.
Older kids (and adults!) can try their hand at the art demonstrations and can watch the artisans bring their creations to life. It’s mesmerizing, and the process brings an appreciation for the skill and passion these artists bring to their craft.
Meet the Makers: Discover Unique Art and Gifts
One of the things that makes the Winter Fantasy so special is that each booth is run by the artists themselves. You can chat with the makers, hear the stories behind their work, and get an up-close look at the creative process. Just like the summertime Sawdust Festival, this direct connection adds so much to the experience. There’s something magical about knowing the story behind a handmade piece, especially when it becomes a cherished gift.
I love supporting local artists, and the festival offers endless opportunities to do just that. Over the years, we’ve found beautiful pieces of pottery, handmade jewelry, and original paintings that have become some of our favorite treasures at home. And of course, we always pick up a blown-glass ornament for our Christmas tree—each one a reminder of the year’s festival.
For art lovers, the Winter Fantasy is an absolute dream. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or something small, you’re sure to find something that resonates.
Food, Drinks, and Festive Fun with Friends
The food court at the Sawdust Festival Winter Fantasy is one of my favorite spots to relax, grab a bite, and catch up with friends. It’s the perfect gathering place to recharge between rounds of holiday shopping and art browsing. Laguna locals tend to run into each other here, so it’s a great spot to bump into friends and neighbors, share a laugh, and celebrate the season together.
From classic comfort food to festive holiday treats, the food court has something for everyone. For families, there are plenty of kid-friendly options. Hot chocolate is always a hit, and you’ll often find live music nearby, on one of the three stages, adding to the merry atmosphere. The sounds of local musicians playing holiday tunes add a delightful soundtrack to the experience, and it’s one of those small touches that makes the Winter Fantasy feel like a true celebration.
Tips for Enjoying the Festival Like a Local
Here are a few insider tips to help you make the most of your Winter Fantasy experience:
Come Early: Arriving early not only beats the crowds but also lets you experience the festival at a relaxed pace. Plus, it gives you a better chance to snag popular items before they sell out!
Dress in Layers: Winter evenings in Laguna Beach can get chilly, especially once the sun sets. Dressing in layers keeps you comfortable, whether you’re wandering the booths or relaxing with a hot drink.
Get Your Santa Photo Early: If you want a photo with Santa (and who doesn’t?), head to Santa’s booth as soon as you arrive. Lines can get long!
Bring Cash: While most booths accept cards, having cash on hand can make transactions easier and faster, especially for smaller items.
Leave Room for a Little Splurge: Trust me, you’ll find so many beautiful and unique items that it’s hard to resist picking up a few extras! From handmade jewelry to original artwork, there are treasures around every corner.
Why the Sawdust Festival Winter Fantasy Is a Must-See
For me and my family, the Sawdust Winter Fantasy is more than just an event. It's a tradition, a gathering place, and a reminder of what makes Laguna Beach so special. It’s a chance to connect with our community, support local artists, and create memories that last well beyond the holiday season. There’s something genuinely magical about wandering through the festival at night, with twinkling lights all around, a cup of wine in hand, and the sounds of holiday music filling the air.
Whether you’re a fellow Laguna local or visiting for the holidays, I can’t recommend the Winter Fantasy enough. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with loved ones, experience the incredible creativity that thrives here, and find gifts that are as unique and meaningful as the people in your life.
So, if you’re planning to attend, maybe I’ll see you there! My family and I will be wandering the booths, snapping photos with Santa, catching up with friends at the food court, and making the most of one of Laguna’s most beloved holiday traditions. See you at the festival—and happy holidays from our family to yours!
November 22 – December 22 | Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10am – 7pm
Get your tickets now, by going to the website: https://sawdustartfestival.org/winter/
Sawdust Art Festival
935 Laguna Canyon Road Laguna Beach, CA, 92651 United States
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