Holiday scene

Los Angeles Christmas Guide 2024

Los Angeles's Best Christmas Events for 2024!

Last updated February 18, 2025.

From the twinkling Marina del Rey boat parade to the dazzling LA Zoo Lights, Angelenos celebrate the holidays with a distinctly SoCal flair. The Pershing Square ice rink and Universal Studios' snowfall offer a winter wonderland experience without leaving the palm trees behind.

Whether you're catching Mariah Carey at the Hollywood Bowl or exploring the Enchanted Forest of Light in La CaΓ±ada Flintridge, LA's holiday events blend star power with local tradition. The city's diverse celebrations include everything from Simbang Gabi to La Virgen de Guadalupe.

Discover SoCal's coolest holiday happenings below!

When is Christmas? Thursday, December 25th, 2025

Los Angeles Holiday Light Displays

Christmas at The Grove

Christmas at The Grove in Los Angeles features a towering Christmas tree adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and decorations. The event includes daily snowfall, a Christmas market with over 50 vendors selling holiday gifts and treats, and live music performances. Visitors can also take photos with Santa at Santa's Cottage, which is decorated with festive holiday decor. The Grove hosts various live performances, including carolers and live bands, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Details:

Enchanted Forest of Light

Enchanted Forest of Light is an interactive, nighttime event featuring a one-mile walk through unique lighting experiences in Descanso Gardens. The event includes 10 distinct lighting displays, such as Flower Power with 4,000 pixel-mapped tulip-shaped LED lights, Rainbow Sycamores with colorful moving lights, and Ancient Forest with sparkling laser 'fireflies.' The installations are designed to highlight the beauty of the gardens, transforming familiar spaces into whimsical and dramatic botanical artscapes. Interactive elements allow visitors to change colors and control lights, making it a delightful experience for all ages.

Details:

Six Flags Magic Mountain Holiday in the Park

Six Flags Magic Mountain Holiday in the Park transforms the park into a dazzling winter wonderland with over two million twinkling lights, world-class coasters, festive treats, and visits with Santa. The event features themed winter wonderlands, live entertainment, and a variety of holiday-inspired foods and sweets.

Details:

LA Zoo Lights

LA Zoo Lights is an annual holiday event at the Los Angeles Zoo, featuring millions of LED lights that create stunning displays on trees and structures. The event transforms the zoo into a dazzling spectacle with vibrant lights, mesmerizing installations, and joyful festivities. It offers immersive exhibits like the 'Twinkle Tunnel' and 'Laser Snowflake Forest,' as well as larger-than-life illuminated animal sculptures. The event also includes holiday-themed storytelling, costumed characters, and seasonal treats. It aims to entertain while educating visitors about wildlife conservation through educational displays.

Details:

Magic of Lights - Los Angeles

Magic of Lights in Los Angeles, located at Fairplex in Pomona, is a drive-through holiday light display featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters. The event boasts dozens of displays, illuminated canopies, and digital animation constructed with thousands of individual LED lights. It includes Prehistoric Christmas, Big Foot Monster Trucks, and the Snow Flurry Tunnel, as well as Magic of Lights favorites like the 12 Days of Christmas and Toyland. The event is designed to create a nostalgic and festive experience for guests of all ages.

Details:

Sparkle Grand Debut - The Bloc

Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc features one of LA's largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays with 18 million hues of lights synchronized to festive tunes. The event includes retailer activations such as hot cocoa and coffee, face painting, glitter tattoos, stilt walkers, and a festive photo booth. A performance by the Colburn Concert Choir and a special holiday performance by Laura Marano are also part of the festivities.

Details:

Los Angeles Holiday Shows and Entertainment

Mariah Carey's Christmas Time

Mariah Carey's Christmas Time is a spectacular holiday concert featuring Mariah Carey's iconic hits, including 'All I Want for Christmas Is You.' The event promises an unforgettable evening of festive music and entertainment, with Mariah Carey's powerful vocals and energetic performances. The concert is set in the iconic Hollywood Bowl, providing a unique and memorable experience for attendees.

Details:

Jennifer Hudson: The Gift of Love

Jennifer Hudson's 'The Gift of Love' is a holiday album featuring classic covers and original songs. The album showcases Hudson's genre-defining vocals and includes tracks like 'Hallelujah,' 'Winter Wonderland,' and 'O Holy Night.' This collection is sure to be a timeless addition to any holiday playlist.

Details:

Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood

Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood feature festive decorations, holiday-themed food, and special entertainment. The event includes Grinchmas, Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the vibrant Universal CityWalk. Visitors can enjoy live performances, street entertainment, and holiday-inspired treats. The Wizarding World is decorated with glimmering lights, wreaths, trees, and garland, while Super Nintendo World shines bright with themed dΓ©cor and exclusive holiday merchandise.

Details:

The Nutcracker with Los Angeles Ballet

The Nutcracker with Los Angeles Ballet is a unique adaptation of the classic ballet, choreographed by co-founders Colleen Neary and Thordal Christensen. The production features a Los Angeles Craftsman style house in Act I and the 'Palace of the Dolls' by the sea in Act II. The ballet is set to Tchaikovsky's evocative score, performed by the Los Angeles Ballet Orchestra. The dancers bring the story to life with captivating performances and fresh new takes on the traditional storyline.

Details:

Sarah Brightman’s Christmas Symphony

Sarah Brightman's 'A Christmas Symphony' is a holiday concert featuring the world's best-selling soprano performing a blend of timeless holiday classics and chart-topping hits. The event is accompanied by a magnificent orchestra and choir, making it a spectacular holiday show. This annual tradition has captivated audiences internationally with its enchanting performances and standing ovations.

Details:

  • πŸ“… Dates: December 13, 2023
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)
  • πŸ›οΈ Venue: Walt Disney Theater
  • πŸ“ Address: View on map

Leslie Odom, Jr.: The Christmas Tour

Leslie Odom, Jr. brings his holiday hits to Walt Disney Concert Hall, including selections from his release *The Christmas Album*. Known for his Tony Award and Grammy Award-winning performances in *Hamilton* and his Oscar-nominated role in *One Night in Miami*, Leslie Odom, Jr. infuses love, joy, and merriment into the holiday season with his soulful voice and charismatic stage presence.

Details:

Debbie Allen’s Hot Chocolate Nutcracker

Debbie Allen's Hot Chocolate Nutcracker is a reimagined holiday classic featuring lively characters, new music by industry legends, diverse choreography, spectacular aerial arts, and state-of-the-art projection. This production draws huge crowds with its Afrocentric Queen of Egypt and diverse dance styles like ballet, Bollywood, and hip-hop. The show is a treat for the whole family, offering an immersive and vibrant theater experience.

Details:

La Virgen de Guadalupe, Dios Inantzin

La Virgen de Guadalupe, Dios Inantzin is a holiday pageant celebrating the apparition of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego. The production features over 100 actors, singers, and indigenous Aztec dancers, as well as children and seniors from the community. It is the City of Los Angeles' largest theatrical holiday production, adapted from the mid-16th century text The Nican Mopohua. The pageant unites families during the holiday season with its universal message of faith, love, and perseverance.

Details:

Long Beach Nutcracker

The Long Beach Nutcracker is a grand production featuring lavish sets, live animals, and pyrotechnics. It boasts dazzling special effects, grand-scale scenery, and radiant dancing. The show is presented with a professional live symphonic orchestra and children's choir. VIP packages include choice orchestra seating, a complimentary full-color program, and a backstage pass for after the performance.

Details:

L.A. County Holiday Celebration

The L.A. County Holiday Celebration is an annual event that honors the dynamic, rich cultures of Los Angeles County. It features a diverse lineup of 28 L.A.-based artists, including past favorites and exciting new talent. The event includes performances by choral groups, dance troupes, music ensembles, and new artistic genres such as a circus act and a marionette performance. Hosted by stand-up comedian, visual artist, SNL alum, and L.A. native Melissa VillaseΓ±or, this celebration brings holiday cheer to all who attend and into the homes and hearts of those who tune in.

Details:

Holiday Sing-Along

The Holiday Sing-Along at Walt Disney Concert Hall is a festive event featuring a choir, a jazz combo, and the massive pipe organ. It includes a cheerful selection of seasonal favorites, making it a joyous annual tradition for the whole family. Complimentary hot cocoa and holiday crafts are available in the Winter Wonderland area before the show.

Details:

Bob Baker’s Holiday On Strings

Bob Baker's Holiday on Strings is a festive spectacular featuring Demitrius Nova Twinklestar III and the Wizard as they embark on a tour of the holiday galaxies. The show includes stops at Santa's Workshop, a celebration of the eight days of Hanukkah, and a dip into the world of Charles Dickens. This hour-long event is a celebration of the holidays with merry marionettes, inviting families to join in the festivities.

Details:

Fiesta Navidad

Fiesta Navidad is a celebration of Mexican holiday traditions featuring the Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Los Camperos in a concert filled with festive music and dance. This event is a joyous annual tradition at Segerstrom Center, perfect for the whole family. The celebration includes a digital program with cast bios, performance information, and exclusive stories.

Details:

Yuletide Cinemaland

Yuletide Cinemaland is an immersive holiday event at the historic Heritage Square Museum in Los Angeles. It features classic and contemporary holiday films, an artisan marketplace, Victorian home tours, food trucks offering a variety of culinary delights, and festive activities like live piano sing-alongs and holiday sweater contests. The event also includes a bustling market filled with vendors, a Tinsel Tavern serving signature holiday cocktails, and delightful photo opportunities. It's a celebration of the holiday season with something for everyone.

Details:

  • πŸ“… Dates: November 30 - December 23, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: Doors open at 5:30 PM, first screening at 6:30 PM, second screening at 8:15 PM
  • πŸ›οΈ Venue: Heritage Square Museum
  • πŸ“ Address: 3510 Pasadena Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90031

Winter Lights - Discovery Cube Orange County

Winter Lights at Discovery Cube Orange County is a holiday musical show that weaves together a heartwarming story of family through the eyes of a tenacious young girl. The show features unique characters, including a science fairy and a lovable robot crafted from a toaster, set against the backdrop of the Aurora Borealis. The musical blends hope, resilience, and the magic of discovery with captivating music and digital sets. It is designed to be kid-friendly with plenty of crowd participation and singing by Sophia Ruiz, who played Lumia during the show.

Details:

Aloha Everywhere Concert Series: Hawaiian Christmas Show

The Aloha Everywhere Concert Series presents a Hawaiian Christmas show featuring three-time Grammy Award-winning artist Kalani Pe'a. This event brings the best in Hawaiian music to Los Angeles, showcasing Kalani Pe'a's wide-ranging talents as a songwriter and music composer. Special guests include Kumu Hula Chase Keoki Wang and Hālau Nā Mamo O Pana'ewa, adding to the cultural and musical richness of the performance.

Details:

Los Angeles Other Holiday Activities

Hollywood Christmas Parade

The Hollywood Christmas Parade is an annual event held in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. It features a 3.2-mile procession along Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard, showcasing an array of celebrities, marching bands, large character balloons, equestrian groups, floats, and musical performances. The parade includes a grand marshal, typically a well-known celebrity, and is hosted by various media personalities. The event supports Marine Toys for Tots and has been a holiday tradition since 1928, with the exception of World War II and the 2020 pandemic.

Details:

Winter Wonderland at The Grove

Winter Wonderland at The Grove in Los Angeles features a towering Christmas tree adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and whimsical decorations. The event includes daily snowfall in the central park area, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy live music performances by various bands and carolers, adding to the festive ambiance. The Grove also hosts a Christmas market with over 50 vendors selling holiday gifts, decorations, and treats. Santa's Cottage offers photo opportunities with Santa Claus, and the trolley ride provides a scenic tour of the festive decorations.

Details:

Pershing Square Holiday Ice Rink

The Pershing Square Holiday Ice Rink is a popular outdoor ice skating destination in downtown Los Angeles. Located in the heart of the city, it offers professional-quality ice for skating and entertainment. The rink is surrounded by art and lively activity, making it a unique and enjoyable experience for all ages. It features themed events such as 'Wicked Wednesdays' and 'Classical Sundays,' adding to its festive atmosphere.

Details:

Marina Del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

The Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade is a cherished holiday tradition featuring an impressive fleet of beautifully decorated boats cruising through the marina. The event showcases a dazzling array of holiday lights and festive decorations, attracting thousands of spectators each year. The parade includes a fireworks display, live music, and various activities such as food trucks, carolers, face painting, and a photo booth.

Details:

Holidays on the Hill

Holidays on the Hill is an outdoor market-style holiday event in the heart of Universal City, featuring games, activities, movies, entertainment, themed food & drinks, shopping, and more. The event includes an outdoor holiday ice skating rink, Santa's Workshop for photo opportunities, and an all-you-can-eat seafood & prime rib buffet at Cafe Sierra. It offers a variety of delights for families, couples, and friends, making it a one-stop destination for seasonal celebrations.

Details:

Astra Lumina LA

Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanic Garden in Rancho Palos Verdes offers an immersive nighttime light experience. The exhibit features nine different stations, including a 'Celestial Trial' and 'Cosmic Choir,' along with a station for photos. The event is designed by Moment Factory, integrating nature as the canvas with lush features like cacti and palm trees. The light and sound systems create a celestial pathway for guests, making it a unique and different experience.

Details:

Holiday Road

Holiday Road in Calabasas offers an immersive holiday experience featuring larger-than-life holiday installations, thousands of Christmas lights, Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves, and countless candy canes. The event includes an immersive mile-long walking trail filled with interactive scenes, festive souvenir shops, premium holiday bars, top food trucks, and live carolers. Guests can also take photos with live Santa and enjoy themed face painting. The event is designed to transport visitors into a winter wonderland with various photo opportunities and interactive experiences.

Details:

Simbang Gabi

Simbang Gabi is a devotional, nine-day series of Masses attended by Filipino Catholics in anticipation of Christmas. It is a cherished Christmas custom that originated in the Philippines during the Spanish colonization era. The Masses are celebrated daily from December 16 to 24, with early morning Masses typically starting at 2:30 AM and evening Masses from 8:00 PM to midnight. The celebration includes traditional music, the Parade of Parols, and the blessing of parols, which are Philippine Christmas symbols. The event also features local delicacies such as bibingka and puto bumbong, and is a time for community and spiritual reflection.

Details:

Holiday Tree Lighting - Downtown Santa Monica

The Holiday Tree Lighting in Downtown Santa Monica is a festive event where the community gathers to celebrate the holiday season. The event features live music, festive treats, and the lighting of the official City of Santa Monica holiday tree. Attendees can enjoy the company of friends and family while experiencing a dazzling holiday display. The event also includes activities such as taking free photos with Santa, creating holiday crafts, and indulging in complimentary hot chocolate. A DJ provides festive music, complemented by performances from local choirs and bands.

Details:

Arcadia Tree Lighting

The Arcadia Tree Lighting Celebration is an annual event that marks the beginning of the holiday season. It takes place at the Arcadia Transit Plaza and features the lighting of the official Christmas tree by the Mayor and Santa Claus. The event includes free hot cocoa, yummy treats, face painting, balloon creations, and kids' crafts. Strolling carolers add to the festive atmosphere, making it a special evening for families and residents.

Details:

Holiday Ice Skating at The Rink in Downtown Burbank

Holiday Ice Skating at The Rink in Downtown Burbank offers an outdoor ice skating experience surrounded by over 400 shops and restaurants. The rink is located in the recently renovated Burbank Town Center, providing a convenient and festive atmosphere for all ages.

Details:

Plaza NavideΓ±a

Plaza NavideΓ±a is a community event held in the heart of Downtown Santa Ana, featuring a tree-lighting ceremony, live holiday entertainment, photo opportunities with Santa, and kids' crafts. The event supports local businesses and celebrates the start of the holiday season.

Details: