With Christmas and Hanukkah around the corner, LA has been converted into a Winter Wonderland of holiday pop-ups and activations. From pictures with Santa and gazing at beautiful Christmas lights, to finding where to watch Christmas movies, ice skating, and more, we’ve got the best Christmas and holiday activities In Los Angeles.
Christmas Lights/Attractions/Installations/Theme Parks
L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow
This holiday season, the L.A. Zoo continues its tradition of the L.A. Zoo Lights with Animals Aglow. The immersive experience is filled with stunning lantern sculptures of animals among vibrant flowers, trees, and more! $29 (adults) and $18 (children); Various days, and hours (through 1/7); 5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027; 323.644.4200
Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens
Be enchanted at Descanso Gardens’ beautiful winter light show. Walk through Enchanted Forest of Light, a one-mile path of multi-colored lights displayed around the garden. Tickets must be purchased in advance. $45 (adults) and $30 (children); Mondays – Sundays, various hours (through 1/7/23); 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
LIGHTSCAPE Immersive Holiday Light Experience at the LA Arboretum
Celebrate the sparkle of the holiday season at LlGHTSCAPE, the Immersive Holiday Light Experience at the LA Arboretum. This after-dark, illuminated trail spans one mile and features spectacular sights with eye-catching artistic installations that come alive at night with color, imagination, and sound. LIGHTSCAPE is a family-friendly walking event that celebrates the sparkle of the holiday season and helps commemorate the Arboretum’s 75th anniversary. And did I mention every night features a food truck, full bar, and a s’mores station! $23+ (adult members), $29+ (adult non-member) and $10+ (children members), $14+ (children non-members); Various nights and hours; 301 North Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007; 626.821.3222
Candy Cane Lane
Head to Woodland Hills where the houses go all out for the holiday season, with over-the-top lights, displays, music, and some of the houses even have fake snow! Traffic may be bad so I would suggest parking and walking around. Free; Lubao Ave & Oxnard St., Woodland Hills, 91367; Mondays – Sundays, 6 – 10:00 pm;
King Gillette Ranch Welcomes You to Holiday Road
Grab your friends and family and head to King Gillette Ranch where the grounds have been transformed into Holiday Road, a 2/3 mile-long winter wonderland. Enjoy eye-popping holiday installations featuring thousands of lights, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and much more. Take your time and enjoy the experience, as you are encouraged to take the self-guided tour at your own pace. Food trucks, vendors, and alcoholic drinks will all be available for purchase. $29.99+; Various days, 5 – 10:00 pm; (through 12/27); King Gillette Ranch – 26800 Mulholland Hwy., Calabasas, CA 91302
Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
Marina del Rey invites you to the 61st annual fireworks and boat parade! The magical evening features boats covered in twinkling lights and decorations, festive drinks, tasty food options, and entertainment for the whole family. Please note the parade will run rain or shine. However, in the interest of safety, upon the issuance of a small watercraft advisory notice from the Coast Guard, the parade would be canceled for that evening. Free; 12/9, 5:55 pm (fireworks) 6 – 8:00 pm (parade); 13737 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292; 310.670.7130
Ice at Santa Monica
Ice at Santa Monica is back for another season of family fun. The corner of 5th St. and Arizona Ave. has been transformed into a holiday pop-up ice rink with music, concessions, and party cabana rentals. And make sure to check out Netflix Family Nights where you can skate for free! No need to RSVP. It‘s first come, first served! $22 and $5 (locker rental); Mondays – Sundays (through 1/15), 11:30 am – 11:00 pm; 1324 5th St. in Downtown Santa Monica CA 90401
Ice Skating Returns to DTLA at Pershing Square
One of our favorite holiday activities is back for another year of holiday fun! Ice skating returns to DTLA at Pershing Square, and from first-time skaters to experts, all are welcome. $20 (admission and skate rental) and $5 (locker rental); Mondays – Sundays (through 1/7), various hours (Skating sessions are 60 minutes); 532 South Olive St., Los Angeles CA 90013
Holidays at Disneyland
Get into the holiday spirit at Disneyland and California Adventure with themed attractions, entertainment, costumed characters, and more! $96+; Select days and hours (through 1/7); 1313 Disneyland Dr., Anaheim, CA 92802; 714.781.4636
Six Flags Magic Mountain Holiday in the Park
The holidays are here at Six Flags Magic Mountain! As a holiday fan and thrill ride lover, Holiday in the Park is so much fun! Combine a plethora of holiday shows, seasonal décor, and riding thrill rides that have been given a holiday makeover, and you’re in for a merry good time! $65; Select days and hours (through 12/31); 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355; 661.255.4100
Grinchmas at Universal Studios
Get into the holiday spirit and join the Grinch™ in a whimsical Who-tacular celebration filled with music and joy at Grinchmas™. Encounter the mischievous Grinch, his loyal dog Max, and beloved Who-ville residents. Experience the magical lighting of our unique Dr. Seuss-inspired tree, igniting a celebration of music, song, and light. Infuse your holiday festivities with a touch of snark alongside the Grinch™! $109+; Mondays – Sundays, Various hours (through 1/1);100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608; 800.864.8377
Pictures with Santa Near Me/Toy Drives
Santa’s House at the Americana
Encounter the jolly man himself, share your holiday wishes, and immortalize the joy with pictures with Santa to cherish, all made possible by the enchanting sponsorship of Disney+. $55+; Various hours (through 12/24); Seasonal Americana at Brand – 889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210; 818.637.8982
Merry Memories with Santa at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw
Embrace the enchantment of meeting Santa Claus in person, express your festive wishes, and capture the magic through professional photos amid a joyful atmosphere of holiday cheer at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw. $25+; Various hours (through 12/24); Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza -3650 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90008; 323.290.6636
Meet Santa at the Glendale Galleria
Celebrate the festive season with Santa’s return to Macy’s Court in the Glendale Galleria. Secure your spot online, and anticipate a personalized phone call from Santa for an extra touch of holiday magic! $19.99+; Mondays – Sundays, Various hours (through 12/24); Glendale Galleria – 100 W. Broadway, Glendale, CA 91210; 818.459.4184
Take Pictures with Santa at the Grove
The Grove is one of my favorite shopping, dining, and retail destinations, and for the holidays, the LA staple welcomes you to take pictures with Santa! $55+; Mondays – Sundays (through 12/24), Various hours; 189 The Grove Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90036; 323.900.8080
Meet Black Santa at Hollywood Park’s Winter Fest
Hollywood Park invites the community to take pictures with Santa from two-time NBA All-Star and entrepreneur Baron Davis’ Black Santa company. Free admission and complimentary parking with validation; 12/2, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm; The Promenade at Hollywood Park – 1213 S. District Drive, Inglewood, CA 90301
Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Santa Monica Place
Embark on a magical holiday journey with a visit to Santa’s enchanting winter wonderland at Santa Monica Place. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with visits to Santa, and capture the magic with photo packages for purchase. $19.99+; Santa Monica Place – 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.260-8333
Pawlidays at Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills: Treat Your Pup to Pictures with Santa
Wagmor Pets Dog Rescue and the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills invite you to the cutest PAWliday event. Bring your four-legged furry friend to meet the big guy! Treat your pup to the cutest pictures with Santa and gourmet holiday doggie treats. All fees go to support Wagmor Pets. $20; 12/8, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm; Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills – 8555 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048; 310.278.5444
Santa’s North Pole Experience at Westfield Century City
Bring the whole family to the North Pole for pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Westfield Century City’s North Pole Experience. Your ticket includes: a 10-minute private experience, interactive touchpoints at The Navigation Station and Santa’s Carriage, Meet & Greet with Mrs. Claus at her Bakery, and a Postcard to fill out and mail to Santa at the Post Office inside the Holiday Market. $55+; Various hours (through 12/24); Westfield Century City – 10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90067; 310.277.3898
Take Pictures with Santa at Santa’s Cottage at the Promenade at Westlake
Disney+ and the Promenade at Westlake welcome you to take pictures with Santa at Santa’s Cottage. Celebrate the joy of the season with keepsake photos and enchanting memories. $50+; Various hours (through 12/24); The Promenade at Westlake – 140 Promenade Way, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362; 818.637.8923
CHiPs for Kids Toy Drive
For over 30 years, the California Highway Patrol has been spreading holiday cheer to children with the CHiPs for Kids Toy Drive. Simply bring a new unwrapped gift, such as a custom puzzle for a child or teen to any CHP office or one of the drop-off locations listed below. You can also text the word ‘toys’ to 76278 to donate! Various days (through 12/16), 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Citadel Outlets, 100 Citadel Drive, Los Angeles
- Lakewood Center Mall, 500 Lakewood Center Mall, Lakewood
- Westfield Mall, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles
- Walmart, 40130 10th St W, Palmdale
- Sam’s Club, 39940 10th St W, Palmdale
- Plaza West Covina, 1800 Plaza Drive, West Covina
PATH Toy Drive at Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
Sofitel Los Angeles is hosting a toy drive to benefit the PATH family program. Guests and visitors can drop off unwrapped non-violent toys, books, and/or games at the front desk of the hotel, which will be provided to children whose families are experiencing homelessness so they can experience a glimmer of holiday spirit. Toys must be unwrapped and new or like new. Mondays – Sundays (through 12/18); 8555 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048; 310.278.5444
Performances/Shows/Holiday Movie Screenings
The Nutcracker at the Dolby Theatre
The LA Ballet and the Dolby Theatre present the classic holiday spectacle, The Nutcracker. Watch as the magic of Tchaikovsky’s timeless score comes to life with professional ballet dancers and a live orchestra. $50+; 12/21 – 12/26, Various hours; 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028; 323.308.6300
Holiday Shows at the Bourbon Room Hollywood
Celebrate the holidays at the Bourbon Room Hollywood with a concert from Debbie Gibson, The Fruitcake Follies Christmas Show, a Broadway-themed musical, and more! Various prices and hours; 6356 Hollywood Blvd, 2nd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90028; 213.667.4233
Holiday Movie Nights at I|O Rooftop
The I|O Rooftop is where to watch Christmas movies this holiday season. The Godfrey’s 12,000 square foot I|O rooftop–features a 60-foot projection mapping video wall, two bars, a swimming pool, fire pits, and unbeatable 360-degree views of the city. Enjoy complimentary popcorn, cotton candy, and blankets as you watch classics like, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Elf, Office Christmas Party, and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Free entry with RSVP; Various dates and hours (through 12/21); The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood – 1400 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028; 323.762.1000
Holiday Movies at Melrose Rooftop Theatre
Looking for where to watch Christmas movies? Head to West Hollywood for E.P. & L.P.’s exclusive outdoor screening series, Melrose Rooftop Theatre. Enjoy holiday classics like How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Gremlins, The Last Holiday, Die Hard, The Santa Clause, and more! $25+; 603 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069; 310.855.9955
Holiday Movies at Rooftop Cinema Club
Love the holidays and movies? The Rooftop Cinema Club is the perfect spot where to watch Christmas movies! Get cozy and grab a comfy blanket, because holiday movie classics like Elf, Home Alone, It’s a Wonderful Life, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and The Nightmare Before Christmas, will be screened under the stars. And make sure to check out the Ugly Sweater party and Silent Disco on 12/14 at the El Segundo location. $19.50+; Various hours at the Arts District, DTLA, and El Segundo Locations
Holiday Food/Cocktails
Swiss Chalet Après-Ski Dining Experience at the Fairmont Century Plaza
This holiday season, transport yourself to the Alps at Los Angeles’ second annual Après-Ski Dining Experience at the Fairmont Century Plaza. Featuring cozy décor and all of the delicious tidings of an authentic mountain experience, the Fairmont Century Plaza’s five luxuriously custom-built Swiss Chalets offer a one-of-a-kind epicurean moment in the heart of Los Angeles. Enjoy a curated selection of winter cocktails, a delectable three-course menu of mains, starters, and your choice of cheese or chocolate fondue. $105 per person; (each chalet fits 8 guests); Mondays – Sundays (through 12/31), 5 – 11:00 pm; 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, California, United States, 90067; 310.424.3030
Winter Wonderland at I|O Rooftop
Escape LA and head to the Godfrey Hotel, where their I|O Rooftop bar has transformed into a Winter Wonderland, complete with a gingerbread house bar as well as igloos that can be booked for more private experiences, bottle service, etc. The rooftop makes the perfect setting for a festive evening out, featuring holiday-inspired cocktails such as Cinnamon Old Fashioned (rye whiskey, St. Germain, cinnamon syrup, chocolate bitters), Hot Toddy (scotch, honey syrup, lemon juice, chamomile, peach bitters), and Sugar Plum (roku, gin, pink grapefruit, plum sake). Various prices and hours (through 12/30); The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood – 1400 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028; 323.762.1000
Light Up The Night! Fireworks Show & Dinner at The Strand House
In honor of the holidays, The Strand House invited you to enjoy a 6-course chef dinner with the best views of the Manhattan Beach fireworks. The menu, curated by Executive Chef Chris Park, will feature Bluefin Tuna Cone, Crab Tostada, Salmon Rillette, Sea of Cortez Halibut, Garlic Roasted Pork Belly, Duck Breast, Wagyu Striploin, Gingerbread Tiramisu and Mont Blanc. For those not interested in a seated dinner, the StrandBar at The Strand House will be open from 6:00 pm – close with a live DJ and dancing. $225 (adults), +$75 (wine pairing), and $95 (children 12 and under); 12/10, Seatings – 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm; 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266; 310.545.7470
Holly Jolly Pop-Up Bar at E.P. & L.P.
E.P. & L.P., the chic rooftop bar in West Hollywood, is undergoing a festive transformation on its second-story restaurant into a holiday wonderland. Revel in the seasonal ambiance with floor-to-ceiling tinsel, delightful cocktails, and holiday-themed bites. Your ticket includes a 90-minute reservation and a welcoming drink. $23; Various hours (through 12/30); 603 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069; 310.855.9955
Holiday Cocktails at Hotel Dena’s Holi Dena
Hotel Dena is welcoming the holidays with Holi Dena. During this time, Agents Only, the hotel’s signature lobby bar is serving two new festive cocktails, the Santa on Holiday ($18) and Winter Peach ($17). Cheers! Mondays – Sundays, 12:00 – 11:00 pm; 303 Cordova St., Pasadena, CA 91101; 626.469.8100
Spooky Holiday Pop-Up Krampus’ Cove Returns to Hollywood’s Lost Property Bar
Popping up at Hollywood’s Lost Property Bar, the immersive cocktail experience Krampus’ Cove returns to celebrate the naughty side of Christmas. The pop-up celebrates the pulpy and macabre legend of Krampus, complete with black Christmas trees decorated with doll heads, skulls, and skeletons, among other haunting décor. Krampus’ Cove will offer ticketed experiences throughout the pop-up that will include evil elves, Krampus himself, and interactive experiences for guests. Each experience will start with a welcome cocktail, followed by the evening’s events which are approximately 1.5 hours long. A full cocktail list of themed cocktails will be available once guests are seated. Following, Lost Property will be open for un-ticketed walk-in service. $25; Tuesdays – Fridays, 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm and Fridays – Sundays, 3:00, 5:00, and 7:00 pm Tuesdays – Sundays, (through 12/31 – except 12/24 and 12/25); 1704 Vine Street Hollywood, CA 90028; 323.987.4445
Holiday Cocktails and Dining at the Los Angeles Athletic Club
Featuring incredible fitness facilities, 20 fitness classes per week, a full-service spa and more, this iconic club and hotel is offering members and guests a place to stay and indulge over the holiday season, while also providing resources for them to focus on their health and wellness. This holiday season, Invention, one of the oldest bars in LA, will feature delicious holiday themed cocktails and menu items for members and guests staying at the property. The Holly Berry Cocktail ($17), is made with Celaya Reposado Tequila, Cranberry Curacao, Maraschino and Lime. The new holiday menu at Invention will include items such as: Butternut Squash Soup with five spice crème fraîche, pumpkin seeds and wild rice, Tenenbaum Kale Salad with persimmon, pistachio, pear, manchego, and cranberry balsamic dressing, and Seafood Pasta with calamari, mussels, shrimp, basil and pomodoro sauce. 431 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014; 213.625.2211
La Venta Inn Presents A Very La Venta Holiday
La Venta Inn is hosting its 2nd annual A Very La Venta Holiday event on 12/3. The iconic landmark will welcome guests into a SoCal winter wonderland full of holiday cheer and festive activities for the whole family. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy a spread of dishes from Meg Walker’s newest venture – Walker’s – that provides a more affordable, take-away culinary option with the same elevated, high-quality service as Made by Meg Catering; signature cocktails created in partnership with Grey Whale Gin; holiday crafts including fresh wreath, cookie and ornament decorating, letters to Santa; and complimentary, professional family photos. Guests are encouraged to bring a new pair of pajamas to donate to local children in need. $55 (adults 21+) $35 (13-20), and $25 (3-13) 12/3, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm; La Venta Inn – 796 Vía Del Monte Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274; 310.373.0123
Parties/Pub Crawls
The Famous SANTA Monica Pub Crawl Returns to Help Those in Need
Ho Ho Ho, the 15th annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl returns to raise money for the Westside Food Bank. As the largest pub crawl on the West Coast, the SANTA Monica Pub Crawl features 20 of the city’s best bars and restaurants, three routes, and thousands of crawlers. Attendees dress in their finest holiday garb and receive discounted food and drink specials at popular bars such as The Victorian, Jameson’s Irish Pub, Ashland Hill, Nameless Santa Monica, June Shine, Library Alehouse, Tavern on Main, 1212 Santa Monica, Cabo Cantina, Barney’s Beanery, Britannia Pub, Harvelle’s, Lanea, Ye Olde King’s Head, Viceroy Santa Monica, Sol Agave Mexican, The Backyard at Chez Jay, Mon Ami, Joe’s Pizza, & Santa Monica Whaler! $15 – $500; 12/16, 5:00 pm – 12:00 am; You MUST collect your wristband at your route’s official starting location between 5 – 9:00pm; Check-in locations will be given upon purchase of ticket
HoliDena Festive Poolside Dayclub at Hotel Dena
Kicking off 12/1 and running through the holidays, Hotel Dena is offering the ultimate festive pool party, HoliDena! Guests can trade in their ugly Christmas sweaters for Santa-red swimsuits and enjoy festive cocktails, pool floats and holiday cheer. Additionally, Agents Only restaurant at Hotel Dena will introduce ‘Feel Good Friday’ from 7:30-10:30 pm, where guests can belt out their best version of “Santa Baby” during live karaoke. Free entry; Saturdays, 3- 7:00 pm; 303 Cordova St., Pasadena, CA 91101; 626.469.8100
Poolside offerings include:
- Reindeer and gingerbread pool floats
- Holiday cocktails including the Santa on Holiday ($18) and Winter Peach ($17)
- Top 40s music with holiday remixes played by DJ Don Jon
Holiday Shopping
Sip, Stay & Sleigh: Explore the New Holiday Market at DTLA’s Hotel Figueroa
DTLA’s Hotel Figueroa welcomes lenos and visitors alike to experience a myriad of festive cheer this holiday season ranging from holiday libations, whimsical seasonal décor adorning all facets of the historic property, and a Holiday Market. Taking place within the hotel lobby every week, the Holiday Market showcases the incredible talents of women and BIPOC-owned businesses right here in Los Angeles, including jeweler SIMONE The Label, sustainable luxury candle LA’F.E.M.TM, and floral studio Mona Rosa L.A. Free entry; Thursdays – Fridays, 5 – 10:00 pm and Saturdays – Sundays, 12 – 10:00 pm; Hotel Figueroa – 939 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Hollywood Park Hosts Second Annual Winter Fest in Newly Opened Retail Space
Hollywood Park invites the community to its newly opened retail space for the second annual holiday celebration, Winter Fest. Take pictures with Santa from two-time NBA All-Star and entrepreneur Baron Davis’ Black Santa company. The day includes a celebrity basketball game, holiday arts and crafts, activations from future Hollywood Park retail tenants and other local businesses, food trucks, DJs, and more. Free admission and complimentary parking with validation; 12/2, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm; The Promenade at Hollywood Park – 1213 S. District Drive, Inglewood, CA 90301
So Let’s Shop Holiday Shopping Event at the SLS Beverly Hills
The holidays are here and Modern Day Wife and the SLS Beverly Hills Hotel welcome you to So Let’s Shop, a three-part luxury holiday shopping event. The event is a celebration of all things fashion, beauty, wellness, & lifestyle, and includes panels, a holiday beauty lounge, photo opps, brand activations, and a special fireside celebrity chat with actress, Jennie Garth. $34.99+; 12/1, 3:30 – 5:00 pm (VIP Pre-Party) and 5 – 9:00 pm (main event); SLS Beverly Hills Hotel – 465 La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048
2023 Holiday Gift Guide: Unwrap Joy with the Hottest Gifts of 2023!
The holidays are amongst us, and that means it’s time to dust off those ugly sweaters and get ready for White Elephant gift exchanges. But how do you find the perfect gift for him and her? Take a breath, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and relax because we’ve got you covered. We drew inspiration from Oprah’s Favorite Things and Amazon’s best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals to compile a list of the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. From beauty to home and kitchen, health/fitness/sports, fashion, travel, and more, ’tis the season for our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide.
