what to expect

We know that sometimes your first visit can feel a little overwhelming or intimidating. We think you'll quickly discover why we say "this is for everyone." We are a diverse congregation of all ages, and a place to take a next step wherever you are in your spiritual journey. We welcome the skeptic, the doubter and the believer. Eastside is a place where it's okay to not be okay.

Here are some frequently asked questions you may have before you join us:

What is the music/experience like?

The Christmas program is about 75-80 minutes. Our music is upbeat and contemporary, and of course, we’ll include some Christmas classics. Sometimes, we’re loud, so we guarantee you won’t fall asleep!

How early should I come?

For our Christmas services, we recommend arriving about 30 minutes early. You’ll enjoy having some extra time before the service starts to enjoy all the Christmas decor and make memories at our great photo ops, plus free hot cocoa and a treat. Our “World Famous Grill” is closed until January 2025, so make plans to come back then, but you can still stop by the Cafe for drinks and goodies.

Any helpful tips after I park?

We have amazing volunteers we call Change Makers!! You’ll find these friendly people who can’t wait to welcome you and show you around!

What should I wear?

Wear whatever you want and are comfortable in! A lot of people like to dress up for the holiday photo ops!

What is available for my kids?

As we are immersed in the nostalgia of Christmas, this memorable experience has something for everyone of all ages. During each Christmas service, we offer children’s programming for kids birth – PreK. We can’t wait for your Preschoolers to experience A Birthday Party for Jesus. A magical experience with games, crafts, manger dress up, decorating yummy cupcakes, a pinata, and, of course, singing and hearing the amazing story of Jesus’ birth.

Join us December 28/29 for At The Movies: Family Edition! Bundle up the whole crew for this special holiday weekend – we’ll have free coffee for the grown-ups, and our amazing children’s ministry will be open for birth through PreK for Pajama Weekend. Experience movie magic and an inspiring message together as a family. For service times and locations, visit eastside.com/movies.

Then start off the year with Kidside at Eastside in 2025. Each weekend we have children’s programming available during every service for birth – 5th grade. We have awesome, fully screened volunteers who serve at the same service each week to ensure your kids are making friends and learning important Biblical truths in the most fun way possible. Click HERE for more information about our weekend children’s programs.

What is available for my child with special needs?

Special Forces is our special needs ministry at Eastside Christian Church. Providing a safe and loving environment for persons with social, physical, mental, or developmental differences where we encourage them in their relationship with Jesus! During the Christmas services, we will also be offering special forces programming. We can’t wait for your child to experience Christmas in Kidside. A magical experience with games, crafts, decorating cupcakes, a pinata, and, of course, singing and hearing the amazing story of Jesus’ birth. Your child won’t want to miss our Birthday Party for Jesus experience in Kidside. For more information about our special needs ministry after Christmas, please visit eastside.com/specialforces.

SPECIAL NEEDS OPEN DURING CHRISTMAS SERVICES

Anaheim | Ages 3-13 in Launch Pad A | During every Christmas service

Las Vegas | Ages 3-13 | 12/22 Sunday 10am | 12/24 Tuesday 5pm

Bellflower | Ages 3-13 | 12/22 Sunday 9:30am

What about students and young adults?

Your teens and young adults will love this immersive Christmas experience. Then start off 2025 by checking out our Student Ministries! They will discover a community encouraging them to pursue friendships that matter, follow Jesus, and make a difference in their schools, community, and around the world.

Jr. High Ministry | 6th – 8th Grade
Please click HERE for more information about times and locations.

High School Ministry | 9th – 12th grade
Please click HERE for more information about times and locations.

Young Adult Ministry | 18 – 26 years old
Mark your calendar starting Jan. 8 they meet on Wednesday nights on our SoCal Campuses. Click HERE for more information.

What if I need prayer or want to meet with a pastor?

We have a team that meets regularly and we’d love to pray for you. Share your prayer request at: eastside.com/pray. To meet with a pastor, please come by the info counter during the weekend.

I'd like to explore or have questions about my faith what should I do?

Are you looking for a way to find connection and purpose? FIRST STEP is a simple, fun gathering that will kick-start your spiritual journey. We’ll share two of the most important life-changing and life-shaping truths you’ll ever learn about yourself and God’s plan for your life. We’ll have you in and out in about an hour, provide a meal, and take care of your kids too! Go to eastside.com/first for times and locations.

How can I learn more about Eastside?

Our vision is to transform our homes, community, and world by pursuing God, building community, and unleashing compassion one neighborhood at a time. To find out more about Eastside go to: eastside.com/about.