Los Angeles may be famous for its palm trees and sunshine, but come holiday season, the city transforms into a twinkling wonderland that rivals any winter destination.
From dazzling light displays and immersive holiday mazes to ice skating by the ocean and festive parades down Hollywood Boulevard, LA has something for everyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit.
Whether you’re hunting for unique gifts at artisan markets, sipping cocoa under a canopy of lights, or enjoying a concert or puppet show with the family, the City of Angels proves that its holiday cheer is just as magical as its sunshine.
This season, the city’s offerings go beyond the usual tree lighting ceremonies. Stroll through illuminated forests, catch a star-studded performance at The Grove, or hop on a boat to see the harbor sparkle with holiday lights.
© Jay L ClendeninSkate, snow, and stroll:
- Ice at Santa Monica (Nov 7–Jan 19, 2026): Skate by the ocean on an 8,000-square-foot outdoor rink with rentals included. Cozy up by fire pits, enjoy seasonal treats, and catch themed events like Taylor Swift’s birthday shindig on Dec 13.
- Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square (Through Jan 11, 2026): Downtown LA’s outdoor rink lets you glide among skyscrapers. Skate aids and lockers are available for an extra fee.
- Enchant LA (Through Dec 28, 2025): Arcadia’s massive Christmas lights maze features a 100-foot centerpiece tree, ice skating, a Ferris wheel, mini golf, a shopping village, and visits with Santa.
- Christmas at Santa’s Village (Through Jan 4, 2026): Lake Arrowhead’s retro amusement park turns into a snow-kissed wonderland with train rides, magical forest walks, and seasonal snacks.
© MediaNews Group/Los Angeles DailLight shows and magical walks:
- L.A. Zoo Lights (Through Jan 11, 2026): Explore oversized animal-shaped lanterns, illuminated swings, and interactive displays celebrating wildlife.
- Enchanted Forest of Light (Through Jan 4, 2026): Descanso Gardens’ luminescent walk includes interactive art installations and a model railroad lit up for the season.
- Holiday Road (Nov 28–Dec 27): Nearly a mile-long illuminated trail at King Gillette Ranch with food trucks, holiday bars, and visits from Santa.
- Astra Lumina (Through Dec 31): South Coast Botanic Garden offers a celestial light walk with nine stellar installations, perfect for nighttime wonder.
- Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn (Through Jan 6, 2026): Riverside’s iconic display boasts 10+ million lights and 400+ animated figures.
© Mario TamaPop-ups and unique experiences:
- Holiday House 2025 (Dec 5): Step into a world of holiday elegance at CLD PR’s annual Holiday House 2025 at the luxurious Andaz West Hollywood, featuring over 25 coveted brands across fashion, beauty, skincare, wellness, and lifestyle. Enjoy festive photo ops, seasonal bites, signature sips, and twinkling lights as the Sunset Strip is transformed into a magical winter wonderland.
- Mariah Carey’s Holiday Bar (Through Dec 28): West Hollywood’s immersive poolside pop-up offers themed cocktails, photo ops, and a “Letters to Mariah” station.
- Fireside Films by Rooftop Cinema Club (Through Jan 4, 2026): Cozy outdoor screenings with heaters, hot beverages, and festive favorites like Home Alone and Elf.
- Yuletide Cinemaland (Nov 29–Dec 23): Outdoor holiday movie experience at Heritage Square with Victorian flair, sing-alongs, and seasonal treats.
© CHRIS DELMASFestive markets and holiday shopping:
- Christmas at the Grove (Nov 17): Drone shows, snowfall, live music, and fireworks accompany the iconic tree lighting.
- Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration (Nov 13): Twinkling palm-tree-lined streets, live music, Santa, and fireworks set the tone for Beverly Hills’ holiday season.
- Unique Los Angeles Holiday Market (Dec 13–14): Over 75 local makers showcase gifts, food, and art in the Fashion District.
- Holiday Market at Vintage Land (Dec 13–14): Los Feliz Flea’s festive version features 100+ artisan vendors, live music, and free admission.
- Merry Melrose (Dec 7–28): Melrose Trading Post offers 260+ local artists, live music, workshops, and a dog adoption day on Dec 28.
- A Current Affair: Pop-Up Vintage Marketplace (Dec 6–7): Vintage collectors’ dream with over 50 top local and national dealers showcasing rare finds.
- Holidays in the Village (Dec 6): Westlake Village recreates a European-style Christmas market with carolers, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities.
© anouchkaMusic, theater, and performances:
- Bob Baker Marionette Theater: Nutcracker (Nov 29–Jan 4) & Winter Wonderland (Through Jan 18): Puppets, carols, and immersive storytelling delight children and adults alike.
- ‘The Nutcracker Suite’ by American Contemporary Ballet (Nov 29–Dec 24): A 75-minute DTLA production with live musicians and immersive stage design.
- KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas (Dec 13): Rock and indie hits at Kia Forum featuring Evanescence, Rise Against, Third Eye Blind, and more.
- Festival of Carols (Dec 20): Walt Disney Concert Hall hosts the Los Angeles Master Chorale performing global holiday classics.
- Trans-Siberian Orchestra (Nov 29): Prog-rock carols, lasers, and pyrotechnics at the Honda Center in Anaheim.
© China News ServiceParades and cruises:
- Hollywood Christmas Parade (Nov 30): Floats, balloons, equestrians, and celebrity appearances wind through Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards.
- Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade (Dec 13) and Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade (Dec 17–21): Watch dozens of decorated boats glide along the harbor with fireworks and drone shows.
