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:
- π Dates: (See website for dates)
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: The Grove
- π Address: Third Street and Fairfax Avenue
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:
- π Dates: November 17, 2024 - January 5, 2025
- β° Time: 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM daily
- ποΈ Venue: Descanso Gardens
- π Address: 1418 Descanso Drive, La CaΓ±ada Flintridge, CA
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:
- π Dates: November 23 - December 31, 2023
- β° Time: 5:00 PM - (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Six Flags Magic Mountain
- π Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Santa Clarita, CA 91355
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:
- π Dates: November 15 - January 5
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Los Angeles Zoo
- π Address: 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
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:
- π Dates: November 17 - January 7, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Fairplex
- π Address: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona, CA 91768
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:
- π Dates: November 16, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: The Bloc
- π Address: 700 West 7th St., downtown L.A.
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:
- π Dates: (See website for dates)
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Hollywood Bowl
- π Address: 881 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024
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:
- π Dates: December 18, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Walt Disney Concert Hall
- π Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
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:
- π Dates: November 29 - January 6, 2025
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Universal Studios Hollywood
- π Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
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:
- π Dates: December 22 - December 24, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Dolby Theatre
- π Address: 1001 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Sarah Brightmanβs 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:
- π Dates: December 13, 2023
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Walt Disney Theater
- π 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:
- π Dates: December 1, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Walt Disney Concert Hall
- π Address: 111 S Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA
Debbie Allenβs 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:
- π Dates: December 5 - December 8, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center
- π Address: 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
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:
- π Dates: December 6 and 7
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
- π Address: 555 W. Temple St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
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:
- π Dates: December 14 - December 22, 2024
- β° Time: 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Terrace Theater
- π Address: 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA
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:
- π Dates: December 24, 2024
- β° Time: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
- ποΈ Venue: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion
- π Address: 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
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:
- π Dates: December 14, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Walt Disney Concert Hall
- π Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Bob Bakerβs 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:
- π Dates: (See website for dates)
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Bob Baker Marionette Theater
- π Address: 4949 York Blvd Los Angeles CA 90042
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:
- π Dates: December 14, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Segerstrom Center for the Arts
- π Address: 600 N. Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, CA 92626
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:
- π Dates: November 30 - December 23, 2024
- β° Time: Doors open at 5:30 PM, first screening at 6:30 PM, second screening at 8:15 PM
- ποΈ Venue: Heritage Square Museum
- π 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:
- π Dates: December 22 - January 7, 2024
- β° Time: 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3 PM
- ποΈ Venue: Discovery Cube Orange County
- π Address: 2500 N Main Street, Santa Ana, CA 92705
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 HΔlau NΔ Mamo O Pana'ewa, adding to the cultural and musical richness of the performance.
Details:
- π Dates: December 14, 2024
- β° Time: 7:00 PM
- ποΈ Venue: Downey Theatre
- π Address: 8435 Firestone Blvd, Downey, CA 90241
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:
- π Dates: Sunday after Thanksgiving
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Hollywood Boulevard
- π Address: Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard
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:
- π Dates: November 26 - December 31, 2024
- β° Time: 6 PM & 8 PM daily
- ποΈ Venue: The Grove
- π Address: 6100 Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
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:
- π Dates: November 21, 2024 - January 12, 2025
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Pershing Square
- π Address: 532 South Olive Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013
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:
- π Dates: December 14, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Burton Chace Park
- π Address: 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
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:
- π Dates: November 30, 2024 - January 5, 2025
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City
- π Address: 555 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City, CA 91608
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:
- π Dates: November through December
- β° Time: Timed entry between 5:15 and 8:45 PM nightly (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: South Coast Botanic Garden
- π Address: 26300 Crenshaw Blvd, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
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:
- π Dates: November 29 - December 28
- β° Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM daily
- ποΈ Venue: King Gillette Ranch
- π Address: 26800 West Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302
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:
- π Dates: December 15 - December 24, 2024
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
- π Address: 555 S. Flower St, Los Angeles, CA 90071
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:
- π Dates: November 21, 2024
- β° Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- ποΈ Venue: Third Street Promenade
- π Address: 1300 block of Third Street Promenade
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:
- π Dates: December 7
- β° Time: 6pm
- ποΈ Venue: Arcadia Transit Plaza
- π Address: 200 N First Ave Arcadia CA 91105
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:
- π Dates: (See website for dates)
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: The Rink in Downtown Burbank
- π Address: 275 E Olive Avenue, Burbank, CA 91502
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:
- π Dates: November 22, 2025
- β° Time: (See website for times)
- ποΈ Venue: Plaza Calle Cuatro
- π Address: 325 E 4th St, Santa Ana, CA 92701