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. Happy Holidays!
Christmas Lights Near Me/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 1/5); 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. $15+ (adults) and $10+ (children); Mondays – Sundays, 5:30 – 10:00 pm (through 1/5); 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
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; Mondays – Sundays, 6 – 10:00 pm; Lubao Ave & Oxnard St., Woodland Hills, 91367
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 Christmas lights near me, 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. $24.99+; Various days, 5 – 10:00 pm; (through 12/28); King Gillette Ranch – 26800 Mulholland Hwy., Calabasas, CA 91302
Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
Marina del Rey invites you to the 62nd annual lightshow and boat parade! This year’s theme is A Margaritaville Holiday and celebrates the joyful legacy of the legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett. 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; 12/14, 5:45 pm (lightshow) 6 – 8:00 pm (parade); 13737 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292; 310.670.7130
Hotel Dena’s Festive Pasadena Escape Guide
Adding to the holiday experience, Hotel Dena invites guests to explore with Hotel Dena’s Festive Pasadena Escape Guide. The guide highlights things to do in the Pasadena area during the holiday season, like visiting Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens which features illuminated, mile-long pathway winds through art installations and interactive displays, offering a festive setting ideal for families and friends to capture holiday memories. For even more festive outings in the area, the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens, Upper Hastings Ranch and the Arboretum at Santa Anita also feature seasonal events, lighting up the nights with immersive experiences. For a classic holiday experience, guests can visit the Pasadena Civic Auditorium for a lineup of holiday shows that promise to enchant. Lastly, just a quick walk away, guests can visit the Pasadena Ice Skating Center, to enjoy skating sessions and holiday events. Free; Mondays – Sundays, various hours and locations
Ice at Santa Monica
Ice at Santa Monica pop-up skating rink is back for another season of family fun, brought to you by Disney+. The corner of 5th St. and Arizona Ave. has been transformed into a holiday pop-up ice rink. No need to RSVP. It‘s first come, first served! $24 and $6.71 (locker rental); Mondays – Sundays (through 1/20), 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. $21 (admission and skate rental) and $6 (locker rental); Mondays – Sundays (through 1/12), various hours (Skating sessions are 60 minutes); 532 South Olive St., Los Angeles CA 90013
LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE
Get ready to glide into the holiday spirit at the LA Kings Holiday Ice presented by Coca-Cola, the ultimate winter wonderland now open at L.A. LIVE! Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, a fun outing with friends, or looking to add some festive skating magic before or after a game or concert, this Downtown Los Angeles ice rink offers the perfect seasonal escape for Angelenos and visitors alike. $25 (adults) and $15 (children); Mondays – Sundays (through 1/10), various hours; L.A.Live – 800 W. Olympic Blvd. / Los Angeles, California 90015213.742.7352
Holidays at Disneyland
Get into the holiday spirit at Disneyland and California Adventure with themed attractions, entertainment, costumed characters, and more! $103+; Select days and hours (through 1/76); 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 1/5); 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 1/6);100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608; 800.864.8377
Pictures with Santa/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 collaboration of Disney+ and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. $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. $35+; 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 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 (Level 2 by the JCPenney side entrance. Park in Garage A level 2 above the food court); 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! $60+; 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 the 3rd annual WinterFest. Enjoy a Farm Habit’s Farmers’ Market, shop at the vendor village, enjoy the Lovejoy Foundation Pet Rescue, watch the Black Santa Celebrity Pickleball Tournament, and take pictures with Black Santa and Mrs. Claus. Free admission and complimentary parking with validation (Enter the PS2 structure, enter on Prairie Ave. & 97th Street); 12/7, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm; The Promenade at Hollywood Park – 1213 S. District Drive, Inglewood, CA 90301
Dinner with Santa at The Music Center
On Monday, 12/2, The Music Center will put on a magical evening at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion to celebrate the season with a festive Dinner with Santa. This special event will take place alongside The Music Center’s L.A. County Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony—a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. $75+ (adults) and $50 (children); 12/2, 4 and 6:00 pm; Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at The Music Center – 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
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+; Mondays – Sundays, various hours (through 12/24); 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; 12/6, 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. $82+; 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 Children’s Hospital Los Angeles welcome you to the Promenade at Westlake 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 12/20), 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Citadel Outlets, 100 Citadel Drive, Los Angeles
- Lakewood Center, 500 Lakewood Center Mall, Lakewood
- Plaza West Covina, 1800 Plaza Drive, West Covina
- Glendale Galleria, 100 W Broadway, Glendale
- Culver City Westfield Mall, 6000 Sepulveda Blvd, Culver City
- Del Amo Fashion Center, 3525 W Carson St, Torrance
- Walmart, 40130 10th St W, Palmdale
- Sam’s Club, 39940 10th St W, Palmdale
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. $45+; 12/19 – 12/28, 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, Comedy Pole Show, The Fruitcake Follies – a Broadway-themed musical, and more! Various prices and hours; 6356 Hollywood Blvd, 2nd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90028; 213.667.4233
A John Legend Christmas at the YouTube Theater
Deck the halls with musical magic as John Legend brings his soulful holiday charm to the YouTube Theater, promising an unforgettable evening of festive classics and heartwarming performances that will make your Los Angeles Christmas season truly extraordinary. The Grammy Award-winning artist’s annual Christmas spectacular promises to transform the Inglewood venue into a magical winter wonderland, delivering an intimate and enchanting concert experience that celebrates the joy and spirit of the holiday season. $49+; 12/3, 8:00 pm; 1011 Stadium Dr, Inglewood, CA 90305
Kristin Chenoweth Holiday Concert
Experience the magic of the holidays with Broadway legend Kristin Chenoweth as she takes the stage at the Dorothy Candler Pavilion, bringing her iconic charm and crystalline voice to a dazzling concert of festive favorites. Accompanied by the magnificent LA Opera Orchestra under the baton of Mary-Mitchell Campbell, this must-see performance promises an enchanting evening of musical brilliance that will transport Los Angeles audiences into the heart of the holiday spirit. $64+; 12/14, 7:30 pm; Dorothy Chandler Pavilion – 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Holiday Drag Bingo
On 12/9, Roxy Wood, known as “The Bingo Babe,” will host 10 thrilling games of bingo at the Godfrey Hotel Hollywood. Guests can enjoy complimentary bingo cards, daubers, and markers, while Roxy guides them through each game with her infectious energy and charm. Prizes for each round include fabulous items like a gift certificate for a two-night stay at the hotel! Free entry with RSVP; 1/9, 6:30 – 10:00 pm; Godfrey Hotel Hollywood – 1400 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028; 323.762.1000
Santa’s Secret Immersive Holiday Experience
Get ready to unwrap the most enchanting holiday experience in Los Angeles with Santa’s Secret Immersive Holiday Experience, a magical winter wonderland that transforms the traditional Christmas celebration into an unforgettable journey through festive installations, live performances, and a hidden speakeasy. From dazzling aerial acts and living snow globes to Christmas-themed cocktails and a vibrant live band, this holiday event promises to transport guests into a whimsical holiday realm that blends performance art, delectable bites, and seasonal cheer like never before. $55+; Select nights and hours through 12/31; Beverly Center – 8500 Beverly Blvd. ,8th floor, Los Angeles, CA 90048
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, The Santa Clause, Gremlins, The Holiday, Elf, and more! $25+; Various nights and hours; 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. $30+; Various nights and hours; Level Hotel – 888 S. Olive St., Los Angeles, CA 90014
Holiday Food/Cocktails
Frosty’s Christmas Pop-Up Bar
Frosty’s is a spectacular 21+ Christmas pop-up bar that transports you into a cozy and enchanting winter wonderland in the heart of Hollywood! Enjoy a night full of deliciously themed drinks, extraordinary photo ops, Christmas Carolers, photos with Santa, and more! Expect a unique, over-the-top, and immersive experience with various rooms (both indoor and outdoor) filled with twinkling lights, snowflakes, and all things festive. $10.80+; Mondays – Sundays, 6 – 11:00 pm (through 12/30); 6555 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
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
Spooky Holiday Krampus’ Cove Pop-Up Bar
Popping up at DTLA’s Cole’s French Dip, 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. $23; Tuesdays – Fridays, 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm and Saturdays – Sundays, 3:00, 5:00, and 7:00 pm (through 12/22); Cole’s French Dip – 118 East 6th Street Los Angeles, CA 90014
Camphor Steak Frites Pop-Up at Lumière: A Special Holiday Treat
For a limited time this holiday season, the acclaimed Camphor Steak Frites Pop-Up, known for its cult following, will make its debut at Lumière. Taking place over two weekends, for both lunch and dinner, guests will have the opportunity to experience Camphor’s signature steak frites, now available on the Westside of Los Angeles at Fairmont Century Plaza’s Lumière. This prix-fixe menu includes savory steak frites, paired with a crisp salad, and freshly baked bread and butter. To complete the meal, Camphor’s signature dessert can be added, as well as craft cocktails, for an additional cost. This beloved monthly event, brought to Lumière for the holiday season, is expected to be a must-visit for steak frites lovers. $65; 12/5 – 12/7 and 12/12 – 12/14; 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, California, United States, 90067; 310.424.3030
Swiss Chalet Après-Ski Dining Experience at the Fairmont Century Plaza
This holiday season, transport yourself to the Alps at Los Angeles’ 3rd 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. $115 per person; (each chalet fits 8 guests); Mondays – Sundays (through 1/1), 5 – 11:00 pm; 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, California, United States, 90067; 310.424.3030
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 Grilled Spanish Octopus, Wood Roasted Picanha, Scallop Mousse Torchon, and Pistachio Raspberry Craquelin. 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); 12/8, Seatings – 4:30 pm and 5:00 pm; 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266; 310.545.7470
Holiday Espresso Martinis at ALK (About Last Knife)
The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood’s signature restaurant ALK will offer three new flavors of Espresso Martinis in time for the winter season. Martini lovers can dine at ALK to enjoy a choice of S’mores Espresso Martini, Peppermint Espresso Martini, Amaretto Espresso Martini, and the classic Espresso Martini ($19) or available in a flight of three ($28). Mondays – Sundays, 7:00 am – 10:00 pm; Godfrey Hotel Hollywood – 1400 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028; 323.762.1000
Parties/Pub Crawls
A Merry Godfrey Christmas (Tree Lighting, Santa, Cynthia Bailey, & More!)
The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood is kicking off the advent of Christmas festivities by hosting a Tree Lighting Ceremony on 12/1, 3:00 – 6:00pm, featuring photos with Santa, Christmas carolers, holiday cookie decorating, an adorable dog adoption by Paw Works and much more, directly following The Hollywood Christmas Parade. Guests and locals alike can gather and spread holiday cheer at The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood through various joyful activities, prior to the triumphant Tree Lighting at 5:45 pm featuring model, TV personality, podcaster and actress Cynthia Bailey as the official hotel ambassador to light the tree. Wondrous photo opportunities with Santa will be available, as well as with the Los Angeles Fire Department from 3- 4:00pm, where they’ll have their onsite Spark of Love Toy Drive for those to donate unwrapped childrens toys. There will also be carolers, holiday cookie decorating classes and a Paw Works’ adoption pop-up that will be held throughout the event. Complimentary refreshments will also be available, along with a hot cocoa and hot toddy beverage cart in the lobby. Free entry; 12/1, 3 – 6:00 pm; 1400 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028; 323.762.1000
The Famous SANTA Monica Pub Crawl Returns to Help Those in Need
Ho Ho Ho, the 16th 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. Grab your finest holiday garb and friends, and get ready to receive discounted food and drink specials at! $18+; 12/14, 4:00 pm – 2:00 am; You MUST collect your wristband at your route’s official starting location between 4 – 9:00pm; Check-in locations will be given upon purchase of ticket
Holiday Shopping
2024 Holiday Gift Guide: Unwrap Joy with the Hottest Gifts of 2024!
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 2024 Holiday Gift Guide.
Happy Holidays!
