Christmas in Los Angeles: 22 Magical Things to Do
Looking for festive holiday activities in Los Angeles? Wondering where to catch the Christmas spirit in the City of Angels? Well, Christmas in Los Angeles may not be your typical winter wonderland, but we have our unique way of celebrating.
Forget snow-covered streets; in LA, we head to the Grove, attend special holiday events, or cozy up with a peppermint drink at our favorite café to soak in the holiday magic.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room—some might argue and say that LA is festive. As a local for over 17 years, originally from the holiday hubbub of NYC, I’ll spill the tea: LA doesn’t flaunt its festivities on every street corner. You’ve got to seek them out.
Depending on your neighborhood, you might feel the holiday buzz, especially in places like Pasadena gearing up for the Rose Parade. Elsewhere, it might be a bit lackluster in the holiday spirit department.
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Whether you’re visiting or a local hunting for Christmas cheer, fear not! The magic of Christmas in LA exists; you must venture out, much like chasing fall leaves in autumn.
Want to meet Santa or treat the kids to his workshop? Head to the Grove—it’s the go-to spot for a taste of holiday charm, especially if you’ve only got a day in LA during the festive season.
Ice skating more your style? LA Live or Santa Monica Winterlit has you covered.
Embark on a magical journey at the LA Zoo or immerse yourself in Christmas events at our botanical gardens.
Sip warm butterbeer in Hogwarts at Universal Hollywood, or spend the holidays with Mickey and Minnie at Disneyland.
And don’t miss the 100-year tradition of cruising through Candy Cane Lane in Altadena.
Here is a list of Christmas things to do in Los Angeles, from fun holiday lights and activities to start planning your time during the holidays in Los Angeles.
Christmas in Los Angeles: Events and Holiday Lights Not to Miss
1. The Grove
Santa lives at the Grove in Los Angeles during Christmas. We swear.
Located adjacent to the Original Farmer’s Markets, the Grove turns into a magical Christmas wonderland.
It’s decorated with lights and ornaments. Reindeers and Santa can be found flying over the famous dancing fountain. And kids can visit Santa’s Workshop and meet the big guy in red.
A tree lighting ceremony occurs yearly at the Grove for their 100-foot tree, along with performers, carolers, and other entertainment.
Every night, it snows at the Grove. For one hour. Can it get any more magical?
The downside is that it does get crowded once the sun sets. We suggest going during the week, but you may miss out on weekend entertainment.
The Grove | 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles | Google Map It
2. Hollywood
If there is any time of year that Hollywood is sparkling with magic -outside of Academy Award night- it’s Christmas time. Hollywood Blvd is filled with Christmas lights and decorations.
On a cold evening in the middle of Hollywood Blvd, you will feel the spirit of Christmas in Los Angeles.
Hollywood Christmas Parade
On the weekend of Thanksgiving, you can attend the Hollywood Christmas Parade. It’s the official start of the holiday season in Hollywood. It’s part of our big LA festivities. Expect floats, celebrities, and more to ride across Hollywood.
- Event Date: November 26, 2023, at 6 PM
- Read more about the Hollywood Christmas Parade.
Hollywood Blvd | Google Map It
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3. LA Live at Crypto.com Arena
Ice Skating at LA Live opens up during the holidays in Los Angeles. You can skate around a huge Christmas tree and sparkling lights. Get in the festive spirit of Christmas.
This is a great spot for family night. Grab dinner or lunch at one of their many restaurants. Then, head out to the ice skating rink for some fun.
Many events do occur at LA Live and Crypto.com Arena this year. You’ll want to plan accordingly.
LA Live | 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles | Google Map It
4. LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow
This holiday display takes place after hours at an area of the Zoo. This walkable experience is dazzling with immersive scenes and decorations.
Families can take a stroll and safely enjoy this nighttime holiday experience. Lighted animal displays, exhibits, photo opportunities, and fun snacks.
Only a portion of the zoo is used for this Christmas event. Animals are away and sleeping during this time.
- Dates: November 17 to January 7, 2023
- Free Parking
- Purchase your tickets in advance online.
LA Zoo | 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles | Google Map It
5. Descano Gardens: Enchanted
The Enchanted event at Descanso Gardens will put you in the Christmas spirit. This is a fantastic night out with family and friends. The transformation of the gardens with different lights and themes is wonderfully executed.
This is one of our favorite events of the season. You’ve entered a magical forest filled with lights and creative displays. Sometimes, music accompanies the luminous art, adding joy to the experience.
Vendors are inside selling snacks and drinks. I recommend picking up a hot chocolate before starting your stroll if it’s a cold night.
- Event dates: November 19, 2023 to January 7, 2024
- Tickets are on sale now.
- Parking is free.
Descanso Gardens | 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge | Google Map It
Read more on Energizing and Fun Things to Do at Descano Gardens.
6. LA Arboretum: Lightscape
Lightscape, this internationally popular holiday display, returns to the LA Arboretum this year.
This wonderful, illuminated journey takes you through bright, sparkling tunnels, colorful fountains, and creative light displays. It’s a fun, immersive experience that will delight every one of all ages.
This holiday event is perfect for a family night out or date night. We will be there this year. What about you?
Snacks and drinks are provided throughout the park. You’ll find tacos, nachos (which were delish), smores stations, hot chocolate, and specialty drinks. Along with souvenirs so you can commemorate your night at Lightscape.
We recommend booking tickets for one of the early arrivals. Don’t forget to dress warmly.
- Event dates: November 17, 2023 to January 2, 2024
- Tickets are on sale now.
- Off-site parking is free. Preferred parking is $20.
LA County Arboretum | 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia | Google Map It
7. The Holiday Light Festival Train at Griffith Park
Take a short 10-minute train ride into a holiday adventure around the 1-mile track in Griffith Park. Journey along this loop, where you’ll be dazzled by festive lights and decor throughout the ride.
This is a great family holiday activity and worth the cost. Super cute and fun for kids. The staff starts the ride off with energy, holiday spirit, and excitement. The child in us enjoyed it.
Snacks, fun light-up toys, and knick-knacks are sold outside.
Make sure to book your tickets online in advance. We recommend the first entry if you can get it. The lines do get long after the first entry time.
Walk-ins are not guaranteed a spot.
- Event dates: November 24, 2023 to January 5, 2023.
- Tickets on sale Nov 1.
- Parking is free.
Griffith Park | 4400 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles | Google Map It
8. Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
The Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade celebrates Christmas in Los Angeles on one night during the season. Start the night with a fireworks show. Then enjoy boats and yachts parade through the Marina’s main channel decked out in garlands, colorful lights, and Christmas displays.
This is a lot of fun for everyone involved.
- It’s FREE. Check out viewing spots here.
- Event date: December 9, 2023
- Fireworks: 5:55 pm to 6:00 pm
- Boat Parade: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Paid Parking: See more info here.
9. Ice Skating in Santa Monica
Downtown Santa Monica converts the Third Street Promenade into a Winterlit wonderland with thousands of lights and decorations between 2nd and 3rd Street. Starting November 16th, you can enjoy this holiday experience with festive outdoor shopping and fun.
Santa Monica’s outdoor ice skating rink returns: Now to January 15th.
Holidays at Santa Monica | 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica | Google Map It
10. The Americana at Brand in Glendale
Like The Grove, The Americana in Glendale goes all out with Christmas lights and decorations, making shopping there a magical experience for everyone. You don’t need to go shopping to visit. This is a safe and clean place to head with the family to enjoy the magic of Christmas.
Make plans to attend the tree lighting celebration that usually features snow and Santa’s arrival.
PS. We think The Grove does a better job, but the Americana is a great alternative.
The Americana | 889 Americana Way, Glendale | Google Map It
11. Westfield Century City Mall Christmas Market
For the holiday season, the Westfield Century City Malls features a Christmas Market and village with curated shops, a journey to see Santa at the North Pole and even live performances on selected dates. Shop for those special Christmas gifts as you enjoy the holiday decor and festivities.
You can then explore Eataly’s Holiday Market (weekends only) afterward for special treats or reserve a table for lunch/dinner at one of their restaurants.
- 2023 Dates TBA.
Westfield Century City Mall | 10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles | Google Map It
12. Christmas Tree Lane – Altadena
One of our favorite things to do around the holidays is drive up and down Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena. Beautiful deodars stand majestically tall and full, lined up on each side of Santa Rosa Avenue, decorated with colorful lights.
This is an annual tradition that started in 1920. And it was one of the best Christmas traditions in Los Angeles.
The lighting ceremony for Christmas Tree Lane and the winter festival for 2023 is on Saturday, December 9, 2023.
Don’t miss out on this magical street in Los Angeles during Christmas.
- Free to drive through.
- Please be respectful, as this is a residential street.
Christmas Tree Lane | Santa Rosa Ave, Altadena | Google Map It
13. Upper Hastings Ranch Holiday Light Up – Pasadena
The neighborhood of Upper Hastings Ranch in Pasadena goes all out for the holiday season. It’s another favorite in the San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles. Dozens of residential streets are decorated for Christmas with lights, fun displays, and themes, and you may even find a few homes with dancing lights.
This is a tradition that started in Pasadena in 1951. The neighborhood comes together and participates in this magical tradition.
One of our favorite homes has Jack Skellington sitting on the house’s roof, waving at visitors. Simple but fun.
Sometimes, you’ll find carolers singing and vendors selling hot chocolate on the weekends. It can be a very festive atmosphere.
Also, there are plenty of things to do in Pasadena. You can spend your day there and then head to Hastings Ranch at nightfall. Drive the family up and down the streets of Hastings Ranch. Take photos. Pick your favorites.
- Free.
- The lights are on between 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
- Please be respectful, as this is a residential neighborhood. Stay off lawns and decorations unless there are instructions to partake in some lawn sledding.
Upper Hastings Ranch Holiday Light Up | Hastings Ranch Drive and Sierra Madre Blvd, Pasadena | Google Map It
14. Christmas in Color at Raging Waters Los Angeles
This family-friendly drive-thru holiday experience is festive for the entire family to enjoy from inside your car outside Raging Waters in San Dimas. Hundreds of lights, holiday decor, and music make it for a fun night out.
The animated light show will bring joy and smiles to your faces.
One of the best parts of this event is that the fee is per vehicle and not per person. Some of these per-person events are expensive and add up quickly.
- Cost: $35 per vehicle
- Book your tickets online.
Christmas in Color | 101 Raging Waters Dr., San Dimas | Google Map It
15. Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood
Celebrate Grinchmas at Universal Studios Hollywood! The holidays are a great time to visit Universal Studios. The theme park is decorated for Christmas, including a huge Grinchmas tree where they have a nightly lighting ceremony.
Hogsmeade is transformed, and warm butterbeer is acceptable even on a sunny California day. When you enter Hogwarts, you will feel the magic of the holidays, especially when it snows at night.
Don’t forget to stay for the magical light show at Hogwarts Castle.
What I always love about Universal Studios is that you don’t need more than a day to enjoy it. It’s a great time to plan a fun day at the park.
Universal Studios Hollywood | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City | Google Map It
Read more: 9 Fun Amusement Parks and Theme Parks in Los Angeles, CA
16. Holiday Road – Calabasas
This magical and immersive walk-through at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas returns in 2023. It features almost a 1-mile immersive walking trail with lights and holiday scenes like Gingerbread Lane, Elf’s Village, and even the North Pole.
Expect popular food trucks and seasonal cocktails from their Holiday Bar to add to the wonderful festive event.
- November 24 to December 27, 2023
Holiday Road | King Gillette Ranch, 26800 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas | Google Map It
Holiday Things to Do Near Los Angeles
17. Disneyland
Angelino’s flock to Disneyland during the Holidays. It is the mecca of Christmas in Los Angeles and Southern California. It’s a magical time of year, and Disney knows how to do it right. Seeing Sleeping Beauty’s Castle dressed up in garland and lights is pretty special.
The holiday decor is in full swing starting November 12th. We suggest booking tickets and making reservations for the holiday season as soon as possible.
Even hubby, who complains about the crowds, enjoys Disneyland at Christmas.
Suppose Disneyland isn’t in your budget. A trip to Downtown Disney is worth it, too. Don’t miss entering the Grand Californian Hotel and seeing the large Gingerbread House on display.
Disneyland | 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim | Google Map It
18. Mission Inn Hotel & Spa: Festival of Lights
The Misson Inn Hotel and Spa has brought joy to many with its Festival of Lights for 30 years. This spectacular extravaganza is worth the trip to Riverside, and it’s a fantastic night out for the family.
The hotel sparkles all around with thousands of lights and delightful displays. It’s a not-miss holiday event in Southern California.
The switch-on ceremony will take place on November 18, 2023.
- Nov 18, 2023 to Jan 7, 2023
Mission Inn Festival of Lights | 3700-3662 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside | Google Map It
19. Solvang’s Julefest
Solvang, CA celebrates Julefest. This is their annual holiday celebration that starts right after Thanksgiving. It’s a month-long of Christmas celebration. Downtown Solvang is transformed into a Holiday wonderland of lights, Christmas displays, and holiday treats.
- Dates: November 24, 2023 to January 7, 2024
- Tree lighting ceremony: December 1, 2023
- Julefest Parade: December 4, 2023
- There will be Holiday food markets and candlelight tours on Saturdays until Christmas day, and you can visit Santa at Santa’s Village.
Did you know that Solvang is one of the bests Christmas towns in the US?
Solvang Julefest | Google Map It
Don’t Miss: Best and Fun Things to Do in Solvang
20. Santa’s Village in Lake Arrowhead
If you want to feel like you’re visiting Santa at the Northpole (without all the snow), plan a day trip to Santa’s Village in Lake Arrowhead. This adventure theme park is 1 hour & 30 mins from Los Angeles or more, depending on where you are in the county.
Surrounded by evergreens, you’ll find Santa’s Workshop, and you can drop off your Christmas list at Santa’s post office. Go ice skating, hop on a train ride, wander through their magical Fantasy Forest, or enjoy their Village of lights at night. There are other outdoor activities to be enjoyed that are also open all year round.
- Reservations in advance are required. Purchase Santa’s Village Day Tickets here.
- Note: Tickets are also available for Breakfast with Santa and Tea with Mrs. Claus.
Tip: Plan an overnight stay so you can enjoy the park till closing and not have to drive back to LA late at night.
SkyPark at Santa’s Village | 328950 CA-18, Skyforest | Google Map It
21. Christmas Nights at 123 Farm
You should take one road trip from Los Angeles to Cherry Valley in San Bernardino County to experience magical Christmas Nights at 123 Farm. This is an enchanting experience and one of our favorite things to do during the holidays.
Thousands of lights are displayed throughout the farm. When you drive into the glowing farm, you’re enchanted and feel like a little kid at Christmas. The lights cover and sparkle over their lavender fields, olive groves, a willow, and more.
Explore the little cottage shops, known as the 12 Days of Christmas, and find that perfect gift for someone you love. Find your way through the holiday maze. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride (when available). Take a photo with Santa.
Rent a private s’more pit, which includes everything you need to enjoy s’more under the stars with your family.
Have the best lavender hot chocolate that’s served with whipped cream. Other Christmas drinks are also available. Food is available at the Eatery in the main lobby, and local vendors are set up during the weekend at the farm.
- Open Nov 9, 2023, to Jan 7, 2024, from 5 pm to 10 pm, closed some Tuesdays.
- Entry reservation tickets and activities are on sale now.
- The parking fee is additional and must be reserved online after purchasing your tickets.
123 Farm | 10600 Highland Springs Ave, Beaumont | Google Map It
Need more convincing? Here are 7 Dazzling Reasons to Visit Christmas Nights at 123 Farm
22. Riley’s Farm in Oak Glen
Oak Glen is not only a beautiful destination to visit during the fall. During the holiday season, Riley’s Farm celebrates the Christmas holidays with a number of events. Sometimes, it even snows in Oak Glen (which I’m told to stay away from as it’s dangerous). It’s a magical time of year to visit the area.
- You can participate in the Christmas Village activities, including a hayride through their apple orchards and a photo with Santa.
- Purchase tickets to see the Christmas Carol.
- Or experience Christmas in the Colonies with dinner, carol singing, and more.
- Tickets are on sale and sell out fast.
Riley’s Farm | 12261 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa | Google Map it
Frequently Asked Questions
How do people in Los Angeles celebrate Christmas?
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Los Angeles looks different for everyone here.
We spend it at home with our families eating tamales or preparing our favorite traditional holiday meal, then drive around at night to see the Christmas lights in our neighborhood.
Some of us go on morning hikes, eat Chinese food for dinner, and then hit the cinemas for the latest blockbuster premiering on Christmas Eve (this is our favorite way to spend it).
Or we head to Disneyland, where holiday magic can be found on every corner.
The beaches are open and quiet. The roads are not as crowded. And Big Bear is only a couple of hours away if you want to see snow.
Choosing which Los Angeles holiday activities to attend during the Christmas season in Los Angeles is part of the fun. Our favorite part is always the holiday treats. What about you?
Looking for more things to do in Los Angeles?
Check out these related articles to plan your time in LA:
- 11 Must-See Spots in a Day in LA
- Top Los Angeles Attractions To Experience As A Tourist
- Best Things to Do in Pasadena, California – From a Local
Kathy Ava
Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.