Camarillo brings the holiday season to life with celebrations that honor both old traditions and new community spirit. From historic home tours to annual parades that have been held for over 60 years, this California city offers families a chance to create lasting memories while experiencing the warmth of small-town holiday magic.
Where History Meets Holiday Cheer
The Christmas at the Ranch event transforms Adolfo Camarillo’s 1892 Queen Anne Victorian Mansion into a winter wonderland each December. Visitors can tour the historic home decorated for the holidays and learn about the Camarillo family’s own Christmas traditions from more than a century ago.
The 1905 Red Barn becomes Santa’s Workshop, complete with Victorian carolers filling the evening air with classic songs. This free admission event gives families a chance to step back in time while creating their own holiday memories with professional photos, local craft vendors, and festive treats.
A Parade That Keeps Growing
Since 1962, the Camarillo Christmas Parade has brought the community together for an unforgettable day of celebration. What started with 22 entries and 10,000 spectators has grown into a major annual tradition featuring floats, bands, and Santa himself as he makes his way through Old Town.
This weekend, on December 13, the 63rd Annual parade kicks off at 10am at Temple Avenue and Las Posas Road, winding down to Community Center Park, where Santa’s Village awaits with holiday shopping, food trucks, crafts, and photo opportunities. Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District has kept this tradition alive for decades, ensuring families can enjoy free admission to all the festivities.
New Traditions Taking Root
Camarillo families have embraced fresh ways to celebrate the season. The Old Town Glow Holiday Village transforms Studio Channel Islands Art Center this Saturday from 4pm to 9pm with real snow, a holiday train ride, photos with Santa, live music, and a festive costume contest.
Local neighborhoods like Gemini Street have become holiday hotspots where residents go all out with light displays that draw visitors year after year. Discover neighborhoods where celebrations bring people together and find your place in a community that knows how to celebrate.
Making Memories Together
Whether you’re watching the Christmas Parade from your blanket on the curb this Saturday, touring the historic Ranch House with hot cocoa in hand, or writing letters to Santa at the Community Center, Camarillo’s holiday traditions bring neighbors together.
The season runs from late October through December, giving families plenty of chances to participate in events that have shaped the community for generations while creating space for new customs to flourish. Ready to experience these celebrations yourself? Start planning your visit to see why Camarillo’s holiday spirit is something special, and explore homes in this welcoming community where traditions matter.
Sources: camarilloranchfoundation.com, pvrpd.org, visitcamarillo.com, camarilloinsider.com
Header Image Source: Valery Arev on Unsplash
