(949) 729-3863

CONTACT: GROFF-HINMAN (562) 491-1000

(Snow-Filled Winter Wonderland, Live Performances, Illuminated Moe B, Dunes & Santa on a Paddleboard Among Highlights)

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort will kickoff the holiday season with its 25th annual Lighting of the Bay, a 3-day schedule of festivities beginning Friday, November 27.  The free events will feature a snow-filled winter wonderland for the kids, opening of the Christmas tree farm, boutique craft fair, live musical performances, special holiday brunch at the Back Bay Bistro and a lineup of other festivities.

Taking center stage at the actual Lighting of the Bay will be Santa Claus, who will arrive not by sleigh but on a lighted paddleboard.  He will flip the switch that will turn on 50+ electric Christmas trees that will illuminate the bay. Friday’s ceremony will be held at the gazebo this year to accommodate the growing number of attendees, expected to exceed 500.  Seafood chowder and hot chocolate from the Back Bay Bistro will be sold.  Also, the Dunes will open its Christmas tree farm that day where the public may choose from Nobles, Nordmans and Grand Firs ranging from 3′ to 10′.

SUNDAY, NOV 29

9 a.m. – Critically acclaimed Back Bay Bistro debuts its Holiday Brunch (prices, foods, anything different here)

10 a.m. – Boutique Craft Fair enjoys final day.

“We are delighted to, once again, partner with Visit Newport Beach in bringing back this cherished annual tradition now in its 25th year,” said Andrew Theodorou, the Dunes’ vice president and general manager.  “We have 50 tons of snow being delivered, more floating Christmas trees than ever and a lineup of other festivities that will make this year’s events grander than ever.”

For more information about Lighting of the Bay, call (800) 729-DUNE or visit newportdunes.com.

Newport Dunes Resort is a 100-acre waterfront resort featuring a 386-site state-of-the-art RV park, 450-slip marina and a private waveless beach and playground that has been enjoyed by families since 1958.  The Dunes also is home to 24 mobile cottages that the public may rent.  Newport Dunes Resort is located at 1131 Back Bay Drive, in Newport Beach.