Los Angeles orders its snow by the ton: Winter in the Grove brings in 50 tons of it to build nine snow slides in Garden Grove. The Hollywood Christmas Parade sends floats, giant balloons, and celebrities down Hollywood Boulevard, and LA Zoo Lights glows with Ice Age giants. For a stranger night out, there's vintage drag racing at the MOONEYES Christmas Party. If something is missing or wrong, drop us a line; we update this page as the 2026 season goes along.
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Los Angeles Holiday Light Displays
LA Zoo Lights
LA Zoo Lights fills the paths at the Los Angeles Zoo with larger-than-life light sculptures of birds, butterflies, marine creatures, and Ice Age giants. Ride the carousel, pose by the giant snow globe, and make your own s'mores. Tickets start at $19, parking is free, and the ice rink is a separate ticket.
Enchant Christmas at Santa Anita Park (Arcadia)
Enchant Christmas sets up the World's Largest Christmas Light Maze at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, plus caroling, a light-up dance floor, Santa, and a holiday shopping village. General admission starts from $25, and ice skating and the snow slide are add-ons. Getting a little lost is sort of the point.
Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens (La Cañada Flintridge)
Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge lights a route of about a mile for Enchanted: Forest of Light. Look for Flower Power, the Ancient Forest, Tom Fruin's glowing house sculptures in the Oak Grove, and a laser show with a 'snowfall' finale. The path works for strollers and wheelchairs, and parking is free.
Knott's Merry Farm (Buena Park)
Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park becomes Knott's Merry Farm, with thousands of twinkling lights and jumbo snowflakes. Catch the Peanuts ice show starring Snoopy, the Home for the Holidays revue, and Santa's Christmas Cabin, then browse Calico's Christmas Crafts Village. The shows and lights come with park admission.
Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanic Garden (Palos Verdes Estates)
Astra Lumina, from Moment Factory, is a one-mile night walk through South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes Estates. Nine installations of light, projection, and music line the path, plus a photo booth. The premise: stars come down to earth for a visit. It runs rain or shine and is recommended for kids over 4.
Imaginarium at Fairplex (Pomona)
Imaginarium sets up a walk-through light festival at Fairplex in Pomona, with a Land of Oz theme, over 5 million lights, and 35 themed attractions. Look for forest mazes, mirror rooms, more than 25 larger-than-life characters, and light displays synchronized to music. Kids under 3 are free, anyone under 18 needs an adult (21+), and selfie sticks stay home.
Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood (Universal City)
Universal Studios Hollywood dresses up several corners of the park for the holidays. Meet The Grinch and Max at Grinchmas, see a snowcapped Hogsmeade and Hogwarts Castle lit for the season, and find Mario and Luigi holiday snowmen in Super Nintendo World. Plus there's a holiday parade featuring Macy's, with floats and giant balloons.
The Grove Holiday Lights
The Grove puts up a 100-foot Christmas tree from Mt. Shasta, dressed in over 100,000 LED lights. Snow falls over the crowd at nightly shows (artificial, but nobody complains), and Santa's Workshop and a flying sleigh make good photo stops. It's free to wander.
Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony & Winterfest (Altadena)
In Altadena, everyone counts down together to light nearly a mile of towering deodar trees on Christmas Tree Lane with over 20,000 lights. Winterfest runs alongside, with artisan vendors, food trucks, kids' activities, and photos with Santa. It's free, and an all-volunteer association runs the Lane with no city funding.
Candy Cane Lane Holiday Lights (Woodland Hills)
Each December, the homes on eight blocks of Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills (around Lubao Avenue and Oxnard Street) go all out with lights, animated figures, and inflatables. Look for artificial snow on select evenings, and Santa often drops by. Drive slowly or park and stroll. It's free.
Holiday Road at King Gillette Ranch (Calabasas)
Holiday Road winds through King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas with over 30 themed environments, larger-than-life installations, and fields of candy canes. Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves are around, and food trucks and holiday bars keep everyone fed. Allow an hour to an hour and a half, and buy parking in advance.
Holiday Lights Train Ride at Griffith Park & Southern Railroad
The Griffith Park & Southern Railroad runs a Holiday Lights Train Ride past light displays synchronized to holiday music and nostalgic holiday scenes along the track. Tickets are sold at the booths, and there's ample free parking. Little ones 18 months and younger ride free with a paying adult.
SPARKLE DTLA
SPARKLE DTLA lights up the plaza at The Bloc downtown with 18 million hues of lights synchronized to festive tunes, with a show at the top of each hour. Between shows, look for photo installations, face painting, glitter tattoos, live music, and Santa. Time your visit by the clock.
The Americana at Brand Holiday Display (Glendale)
The Americana at Brand in Glendale strings holiday lights through its outdoor shopping district and puts on nightly snowfall shows. Visit Santa in his cottage, catch live performances on The Green, or have brunch with Santa at Trattoria Amici. Strolling the display is free.
Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration (Beverly Hills)
Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills marks its 50th anniversary with holiday light installations and a stage full of music and dance. Established entertainers and special guests share the lineup with the winners of the inaugural Rodeo Drive Has Talent search. Nearby public garages give you the first two hours free.
Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting and Annual Holiday Open House (Manhattan Beach)
The Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier stays open late for its Holiday Open House, with music, holiday lights, and marine life, while the pier itself gets lit. Free hot cocoa flows until it runs out, and downtown shops stay open late.
Festival In Lights (La Cañada Flintridge)
Memorial Park in La Cañada Flintridge glows for Festival In Lights, with light art inspired by stained glass, shimmering installations, and interactive pieces spread through the park. Wander among the displays at your own pace. It's meant for all ages, so bring the kiddos.
Buena Park Christmas Tree Lighting (Buena Park)
Buena Park lights its Christmas tree at City Hall, with community performances to set the mood. Before the lighting, kids can ride the trackless Santa train, write letters to Santa, and pose with Mr. and Ms. Claus. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Community Services toy drive.
Lights on Temple City (Temple City)
Lights on Temple City fills Temple City Park with sled rides, snow play areas, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and festive food. The big moment is Santa's parade down Las Tunas Drive, followed by a visit with him. Sledding in Temple City? Yes, really. Admission is free.
Angel Tree Lighting (Lawndale)
Lawndale kicks off the season of giving by lighting the Angel Tree at the Lawndale Civic Center. Expect live festive music, community performances, and tasty treats. It's a gathering for all of Lawndale, and all ages are welcome.
Azusa Festival of Lights (Azusa)
The Azusa Festival of Lights isn't in one spot. The City of Azusa spreads festive light displays across town, so keep an eye out as you drive through. It's free and open to all ages. Pets generally aren't allowed at city events, though service animals are.
Los Angeles Markets and Shopping
Renegade Craft Fair Los Angeles Winter (Santa Monica)
Renegade Craft Fair sets up outdoors at the Santa Monica Airport with more than 275 independent artists, designers, and small businesses. Expect ceramics, jewelry, apparel, home furnishings, and art prints, plus food and a bar. Entry is a suggested $5, parking is free in the main lot, and leashed pets are welcome.
Venice Winter Fest
Venice Winter Fest takes over four blocks of Venice Boulevard with more than 400 local artists, brands, and designers. Catch live entertainment on three stages, watch artist demos, and join a hands-on art workshop. Dogs are welcome. Street parking on nearby side streets is free, but rideshare is the easier bet.
Jackalope Pasadena Holiday Craft Fair (Pasadena)
Jackalope fills Central Park in Pasadena with over 200 hand-selected artisans selling fashion, jewelry, home decor, paper goods, and art. Kids can make a free wood-slice ornament, customize slime, and hand-feed butterflies. Admission is free, and Del Mar Station on the Metro Gold Line is a two-minute walk away.
Hermosa for the Holidays (Hermosa Beach)
Hermosa for the Holidays puts a Ferris wheel on Pier Plaza, with views above the surf, plus artisan pop-ups, live music, a Giving Village, and an evening tree lighting. Pets are welcome in photos with Santa in his sleigh. Ferris wheel tickets are $8, cards only.
Christmas Market OC (Huntington Beach)
Christmas Market OC brings a German-style holiday market to Old World Village in Huntington Beach. Shop artisan stalls in the indoor European Christmas Shopping Village, then fill up on hearty German food and warm drinks. On select dates, look for Santa and the Wiener Dog Races. May the best dachshund win.
Westfield Century City Holiday Village
Westfield Century City turns its Atrium into a Holiday Village, with live performances under falling snow. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, shop The Market for gifts and treats from local vendors, and stop by Blitzen's Bar for a seasonal cocktail. It's free to visit.
Old Pasadena Holidays (Pasadena)
Old Pasadena dresses its historic district for the holidays, with snowflake lighting projected onto old buildings and twinkling from the streetlights. Over 300 shops and restaurants, nearly 200 of them independent, make gift shopping easy on foot. Look for holiday parking offers, like the first two hours free in Park & Walk garages.
South Lake Avenue Holidayfest (Pasadena)
South Lake Avenue Holidayfest spreads across Pasadena's South Lake Avenue District, with Santa photos at Macy's, cookie decorating at the artisan market, and ornament making at the Winter Workshop. KCRW's DJ Raul Campos plays the music stage. The activities are free, and it happens rain or shine.
Holiday Extravaganza (San Dimas)
Downtown San Dimas splits its Holiday Extravaganza into four lands: the North Pole, Elf Village, Winter Wonderland, and Grinch-Ville. Ride the free dueling snow slides, snap a selfie with Santa, and catch the Let It Snow Parade. Admission is free. The beer garden is in Grinch-Ville, naturally.
Candy Caneland & Craft Fair (Buena Park)
Buena Park's Candy Caneland & Craft Fair fills the Ehlers Event Center with more than 100 artisans selling handmade goods. Add a snow slide, games, free raffles, live entertainment, and Santa, with food booths run by nonprofits. Admission is free. Parking is limited, so take the shuttle from Peak Park Pool.
Maum Market at Row DTLA
Maum Market brings about 80 Asian-owned small businesses and independent makers to Dock Street at Row DTLA. Shop ceramics, stationery, jewelry, clothing, and beauty products, and meet the makers behind them. It's free, outdoors, and pet-friendly, with complimentary parking.
Fashion Island Holiday Market (Newport Beach)
Fashion Island in Newport Beach builds its season around a 90-foot tree with synchronized light shows, music, and snowfall effects. Browse the Merry Market Pop-Up for hand-picked gifts, then work your way through the luxury retailers. Coastal shopping, with snow on cue.
Makers Holiday Handmade Market Chatsworth (Chatsworth)
Local makers set up behind the shops at West End Arts Collective in Chatsworth for the Makers Holiday Handmade Market. Browse handmade crafts, ornaments, home decor, and jewelry, and chat with the people who made them. Admission is free, and nothing here came off an assembly line.
Los Angeles Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker by Los Angeles Ballet
Los Angeles Ballet sets its Nutcracker in Southern California, moving from a Spanish-style Hancock Park mansion to the snowy slopes of Big Bear, the Venice Beach arches, and the moonlit Pacific. The Los Angeles Ballet Orchestra plays Tchaikovsky live at the Dolby Theatre, and there's a sensory-friendly matinee.
CANDY CANES, CAROLS AND CHEER: THE MASTER CHORALE SALUTES THE HOLIDAYS
The Los Angeles Master Chorale sings holiday carols and classics from around the world at Walt Disney Concert Hall, 62 singers strong with piano and organ, under conductor Grant Gershon. Santa may drop by. Balcony seats are $68, and children under six aren't admitted.
The Long Beach Nutcracker (Long Beach)
Long Beach Ballet's Nutcracker at the Terrace Theater has a cast of over 200, a live orchestra playing Tchaikovsky, a flying sleigh, a real live horse, and onstage pyrotechnics. Tickets run $38 to $95, and food trucks park outside before the show. The artistic director says you can hate ballet and still like it.
Debbie Allen's Hot Chocolate Nutcracker (Redondo Beach)
The Debbie Allen Dance Academy stages Debbie Allen's Hot Chocolate Nutcracker, a modern musical take on Tchaikovsky's classic, at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. Expect diverse choreography, new music, aerial arts, and projection design. Public performances run about 90 minutes, and tickets are sold through Eventbrite.
Bob Baker's Nutcracker (Pasadena)
Bob Baker's Nutcracker tells the classic story with more than 100 handcrafted puppets at the Pasadena Playhouse. Look for the Sugarplum Fairy and her Promenading Cakes, the Waltzing Flowers, and a Nutcracker band called The Go-Go's. Tickets are $20, and kids under 5 aren't admitted. No strings attached? Quite the opposite.
Carols For Kids
Carols For Kids is a one-hour sing-along concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall, hosted by two of Santa's helpers and conducted by Grant Gershon, with a special performance by Youth Chorus LA. Come early for free family activities around the hall and photos with Santa. One hour suits the wee ones nicely.
A Christmas Carol (Pasadena)
A Noise Within in Pasadena stages Geoff Elliott's adaptation of A Christmas Carol, with reimagined scenic design, music, and a fair amount of fog as three spirits visit Scrooge. It's for ages 5 and up. The theater is steps from the Metro A Line's Sierra Madre Villa station, and it's cashless.
Nochebuena: A Christmas Spectacular (Northridge)
Nochebuena celebrates Christmas Eve traditions from across Mexico's regions at The Soraya in Northridge, with ranchera singer Aida Cuevas, Mariachi Pueblo Viejo, and Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles. The lobby gets trees and photo spots, and the concessions run to tamales, conchas, and Abuelita hot chocolate. Tickets are $42 to $95.
Holiday Candlelight Concert (Pasadena)
The Pasadena Symphony & Pops plays favorite carols by candlelight in the historic sanctuary of All Saints Church. Broadway's Nicole Parker joins the Los Angeles Children's Chorus, the Donald Brinegar Singers, and the LA Bronze Handbell Ensemble. It runs about 75 minutes with no intermission and isn't recommended for kids under 6.
A Journey of Joy: The Music of Las Posadas
Las Posadas, a 400-year-old Latin American custom of community and hospitality, gets the choral treatment from the Los Angeles Master Chorale inside the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. Grant Gershon conducts 40 singers, with piano and Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles. Tickets are $52 to $86, fees included, and all sales are final.
Scrooge! The Musical (2026) (Anaheim)
Scrooge! The Musical is Leslie Bricusse's take on A Christmas Carol, with an Oscar-nominated score, on the Cripe Stage at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center in Anaheim. Marley and the three spirits do their work in about two hours and 15 minutes. It's for ages 4 and up, and parking is free.
Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas (2026) (Anaheim)
Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas is a family musical, based on the Fancy Nancy books, at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center in Anaheim. Nancy's holiday plans, sparkly new tree topper included, don't quite go as expected. It runs about an hour and ten minutes, and the cast stays for photos and autographs.
Lucha Goth Haus: Noche de Krampus 3
Lucha Goth Haus: Noche de Krampus 3 is a gothic holiday variety show at Don Quixote, with live lucha libre hosted by Lard Humungus, dark art and vendor booths, and a Krampus photo booth. Afterward, DJs spin goth, darkwave, post-punk, and industrial. It's 21 and over, with a holiday toy and pet drive.
FrostyFest: Hollywood's Holiday Theatre & Short Film Festival
FrostyFest fills The Hobgoblin Playhouse with holiday-themed plays and short films, and not just Christmas ones. One night screens ten holiday shorts and lets the audience vote live, and Roast Your Chestnuts is a 45-minute solo Mrs. Claus show. It's for ages 13 and up.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet (La Mirada)
The La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts stages Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet, the story of Clara and her Nutcracker prince set to Tchaikovsky's score, with festive costumes to match. Watch for the Doves of Peace, an acro-ballet adagio in the Land of Peace and Harmony scene.
The Nutcracker (San Pedro Ballet) (Torrance)
San Pedro City Ballet brings its Nutcracker to the Armstrong in Torrance, set to Tchaikovsky's score. Watch for the Christmas tree scene, dancing snowflakes, mischievous mice, and the Land of Sweets. If the Nutcracker is a tradition at your house, this is the local version to know.
The Nutcracker Ballet (Downey)
Dance! To Your Heart's Delight stages The Nutcracker at the Downey Theatre, following Clara's Christmas Eve dream through the battle with the mice to the Kingdom of Sweets. Professional dancers take the principal roles, and the Sugar Plum Fairy leads a celebration of international dances. It suits all ages.
Christmas Duets Concerts at The Nethercutt Collection (Sylmar)
The Nethercutt Collection in Sylmar hosts Christmas duets concerts with live organ and piano, in a museum of over 250 restored automobiles and rare mechanical musical instruments. Tickets are $20 (credit card only), guests must be 10 or older, and parking is free. Come for the carols, stay for the cars.
Annual Family Christmas Party (San Pedro)
The San Pedro Masons host an Annual Family Christmas Party with a puppet show by the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, starring penguins, snowmen, and Rudolph. Afterward, kids meet Santa, get a stocking, and pose in his sleigh, and refreshments are served. Plan on about two and a half hours.
Aloha Everywhere Concert Series: Kalani Pe'a's Hawaiian Christmas (Downey)
Three-time Grammy-winning vocalist Kalani Pe'a brings his Hawaiian Christmas show to the Downey Theatre, mixing Western and Hawaiian holiday songs and traditions. It's part of HIC Lifestyle's Aloha Everywhere Concert Series. Bringing a child 2 or under? Call the box office first.
A Merry Rockin' Christmas (Rolling Hills Estates)
A Merry Rockin' Christmas mixes classic Christmas cheer with rock and roll energy at the Norris Theatre in Rolling Hills Estates, starring Michael Cavanagh. It's an upbeat holiday revue for all ages. Buying tickets ahead beats hoping for seats at the door. Silent night, it isn't.
Los Angeles Fun and Events
Simbang Gabi at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels celebrates Simbang Gabi, the Filipino Christmas tradition marking the nine days before Christmas, with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop José H. Gomez. Over 120 parishes and Filipino-American organizations join the Parade of Parols. Parols are traditional Filipino Christmas lanterns, symbols of light and hope.
Hollywood Christmas Parade
The Hollywood Christmas Parade rolls down Hollywood Boulevard with floats, giant balloons, marching bands, celebrities, and the U.S. Marines, all supporting Toys for Tots. Curbside viewing is free along most of the route, or buy a grandstand seat. The Metro Red Line drops you right on the route at Hollywood/Vine or Hollywood/Highland.
Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (Anaheim)
The Disneyland Resort in Anaheim gives several rides a holiday makeover, including Haunted Mansion Holiday, "it's a small world" Holiday, and Mater's Jingle Jamboree. Add the Believe...In Holiday Magic fireworks (with a sprinkling of snow), Disney ¡Viva Navidad!, and the Festive Foods Marketplace. Park reservations are required.
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain (Valencia)
On select days, Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia becomes Holiday in the Park, with light displays, a tree lighting ceremony, live shows (including the new Magic of the Holidays), and some rides running. Kids get Story Time with Mrs. Claus and a Tree Lot Maze. It's included with park admission; s'mores fire pits and cookie decorating cost extra.
Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game (Pasadena)
The Rose Parade is Pasadena's New Year's Day tradition, with floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units, followed by the Rose Bowl Game at the Rose Bowl Stadium. Volunteers, 935 of them in white suits, put in over 80,000 hours a year to make it happen.
Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade (Marina del Rey)
The Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade sends lit-up boats along the channel, with costumed crews singing and playing live music. A 15-minute drone show opens the evening. Watch from Burton Chace Park, which has carolers, food trucks, and live commentary. The 2026 theme is Hollywood Under The Stars.
A Christmas Fantasy Parade (Anaheim)
A Christmas Fantasy Parade marches through Disneyland Park with prancing reindeer, toy soldiers, dancing gingerbread cookies, Anna and Elsa, Buzz Lightyear, and Mickey and Minnie sorting letters to Santa. Santa himself closes the 40-minute parade. You'll need a park ticket and reservation, and Main Street, U.S.A. spots go early.
Las Posadas on Olvera Street
Each night of Las Posadas, Olvera Street reenacts Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem with a procession, traditional songs, colorful costumes, and music. It's a long-standing tradition at El Pueblo Historical Monument, and everyone is welcome to join in, whatever their religious background. It's free.
L.A. County Holiday Celebration
The Music Center's L.A. County Holiday Celebration fills the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion stage with Los Angeles artists and community groups performing instrumental music, choral singing, and dance. Each show runs about 90 minutes and is for ages 6 and up. Can't make it? The morning show airs on PBS SoCal.
Light Up Main Street (Santa Clarita)
Santa Clarita's Light Up Main Street fills five blocks of Old Town Newhall with a tree lighting, live music, and a Snow Zone made from 20 tons of fresh snow. Watch an ice sculptor at work, meet therapy dogs in holiday attire, and shop Maker's Marketplace. A quiet Chill Zone is there for anyone who needs a break.
Ice at Santa Monica (Santa Monica)
Ice at Santa Monica sets up an outdoor rink downtown, close enough to the Pacific to catch ocean breezes. Admission is $22 with skate rental, and young beginners can rent penguin and polar bear Skate Helpers. Look for theme nights and private fire pits, and take the Metro E Line or Big Blue Bus.
Pershing Square Ice Rink (LA)
Pershing Square Ice Rink puts outdoor skating in the middle of downtown Los Angeles, with the skyline and holiday lights all around. Skate rentals are complimentary, and skate helpers are there for young or beginner skaters. Lockers are available too.
Gilmore Girls Holidays (Burbank)
Stars Hollow dresses up for the holidays at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, from Luke's Diner to the Gilmore Estate. Sit in on a Town Hall meeting at Miss Patty's, get your palm read, and stay for the evening tree lighting. Tickets are $79 ($68 for ages 5 to 10); the Studio Tour comes only with the combined ticket.
Holiday Fireworks in Downtown Manhattan Beach (Manhattan Beach)
Downtown Manhattan Beach caps a holiday evening with about half an hour of fireworks over the pier. Before that, carolers stroll, bands play holiday hits on the Pier stage, and Snow Park opens to the public for an unwrapped toy or canned food donation. Spread a blanket on Manhattan Beach Boulevard and settle in.
A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K
A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K runs a flat, out-and-back course in Griffith Park near the Autry Museum, plus an untimed Snoopy Kids Dash for ages 12 and under. Finishers get a Peanuts medal and a performance t-shirt, Santa makes an appearance, and strollers are welcome. Good grief, that's a lot of swag.
The 7th Annual Santa Stroll (Hermosa Beach)
Hundreds of Santas take over the Strand for the Santa Stroll, a 5K run, walk, or stroll from the Hermosa Beach Pier to Manhattan Beach and back. Adults get a Santa suit with registration, kids get a t-shirt, and dogs get a bandana. It benefits Mychal's Learning Place. Spotting the real Santa gets tricky.
Belmont Shore Christmas Parade (Long Beach)
The Belmont Shore Christmas Parade sends more than 100 entries down East Second Street in Long Beach, including over a dozen local marching bands, floats from local businesses, costumed elves, and Santa. Bring chairs or blankets for a front-row spot. It's free, and so is parking at the beach lots on Ocean Boulevard.
Huntington Harbour Boat Parade (Huntington Beach)
Decorated boats wind through Huntington Harbour, past waterfront homes dressed for the season, in this all-volunteer parade from the Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Committee. Public beach viewing areas fill up fast and parking is very limited. Can't get close? Follow the route live online.
King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade (Redondo Beach)
Decorated boats light up King Harbor in Redondo Beach for the King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade, this time with a USA Salute theme. Paddlers go first in the Paddle Craft Parade, and there's an Ugly Sweater Paddle Parade too. Watch from Moonstone Park or Mole D along the Splash Wall.
Monterey Park Holiday Snow Village (Monterey Park)
Barnes Park becomes the Monterey Park Holiday Snow Village, with snow sled runs, a snow play area, pictures with Santa, a trackless train, and holiday crafts, all free. Register ahead for a snow time slot, since spaces are limited. Closed-toed shoes are required on the snow, so flip-flops sit this one out.
Winter in the Grove (Garden Grove)
Winter in the Grove brings 50 tons of snow to Village Green Park in Garden Grove and turns it into nine snow slides. Add song and dance from local schools, holiday crafts, inflatables, a handmade gift boutique, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Nine slides, zero shoveling.
Holiday in the Park (Burbank)
Holiday in the Park stretches across twelve zones of Magnolia Boulevard in Burbank. Browse vendor booths and the juried Art Block, catch bands and carolers on two stages, and check out the classic car show. Kids can head for the go-kart and bumper car track. Admission is free.
Pasadena Holiday Look In Home Tour (Pasadena)
The Pasadena Holiday Look In opens four elegant homes and their gardens, each decorated by local floral designers, with docents pointing out details and musicians playing holiday music. Tickets are $50 in advance and $55 at the door, for ages 10 and up. Wear flat, sturdy shoes; heels and garden steps don't mix.
Valencia Festival of Trees (Santa Clarita)
The Valencia Festival of Trees fills Valencia Town Center with uniquely themed trees, each one sold by auction. Shop holiday décor, take photos in Santa's Village, and visit the Kids Corner and Gingerbread Village. Community Days admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids, and proceeds support the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley.
San Pedro Spirit of the Holidays Parade (San Pedro)
More than 12,000 people line downtown San Pedro for the Spirit of the Holidays Parade, a 46-year community tradition. Scouts, youth groups, high school marching bands, and equestrian units fill the procession, and announcers at three spots along the route introduce each entry. It's free to the community.
70th Annual Compton Christmas Parade (Compton)
The 70th Annual Compton Christmas Parade travels about two miles of Compton Boulevard, from Bullis Road to Alameda Street, under the theme Home for the Holidays in Hub City. Retired NFL champion Greg Townsend, a Dominguez High School alum, is Grand Marshal. Line the boulevard anywhere along the route.
Echo Park Community Parade (Echo Park)
The Echo Park Community Parade runs along Sunset Boulevard from Vin Scully Avenue to Park Avenue, with local schools, organizations, elected officials, and Santa in the procession. It's free to watch and free to march in, rain or shine. Sunset closes to traffic for much of the day, so park off the route.
Palos Verdes Peninsula Holiday Parade of Lights (Rolling Hills Estates)
The Palos Verdes Peninsula Holiday Parade of Lights brings floats, marching bands, and community groups along Silver Spur Road and Deep Valley Drive in Rolling Hills Estates, finishing through the Promenade on the Peninsula. Santa is the guest of honor. Parking is free at the Peninsula Shopping Center and Promenade P|V.
Glendora Christmas Parade (Glendora)
The Glendora Christmas Parade travels a 1.25-mile route from Glendora Village down to Foothill Boulevard, then along Grand and Bennett avenues to Sandburg Middle School. Watch from anywhere along the way; it's free. Groups that want to march can fill out a parade application.
Downtown Pomona Holiday Parade (Pomona)
The Downtown Pomona Holiday Parade heads down Second Street and Park Avenue toward Mission Boulevard, then the fun moves to Shaun Diamond Plaza for Holiday at the Plaza, with food and entertainment. It's free and open to everyone. Downtown public lots give you the first two hours free.
Monrovia Annual Holiday Parade (Monrovia)
The Monrovia Annual Holiday Parade is an evening parade through Old Town, heading north on Myrtle Avenue from Walnut Avenue to Palm Avenue. Myrtle closes to traffic for the night, so park on one of the nearby side streets that stay open for parking.
Seal Beach Christmas Parade (Seal Beach)
The Seal Beach Lions Club sends its Christmas Parade up Main Street from the pier to Pacific Coast Highway. Look for bands, festive floats, lots of kids, and Santa, all under the theme A Red, White, and Blue Christmas. Volunteers can help with set-up and parade marshaling.
Winter Wonderland & Holiday Tree Lighting (Artesia)
Artesia lights its holiday tree in front of the Albert O. Little Community Center, then the party moves to the baseball field. Expect live group performances, craft vendors, food trucks, and a Santa photo spot. Snow play is free of charge.
Glendale Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony (Glendale)
Glendale gathers at Perkins Plaza to light the City Hall tree, with special live performances and a visit from Santa. The City of Glendale and its Community Services & Parks Department host the evening. Bring the kiddos to say hello to Santa.
Photos with Santa at Westfield Topanga (Canoga Park)
Santa sets up at Westfield Topanga in Canoga Park for professional holiday photos, and walk-ups are welcome every day. Book a 15-minute slot online for perks like a video message from Santa. Look for Pet Nights and a calmer Sensory Santa session. There's no limit on how many people fit in a picture.
HOLIDAY TOURS (Pasadena)
The Rose Bowl Stadium offers guided Holiday Tours behind the scenes as it gets ready for its big New Year's Day game. See the original locker room, the press box, and the Court of Champions, and hear stories from the Four Horsemen of Notre Dame to Brandi Chastain's World Cup penalty kick. Allow up to two hours.
Santa's Secret Immersive Holiday Experience
Santa's Secret leads you along a winding path through eight holiday installations at the Beverly Center to a hidden, vintage-style speakeasy. Inside, a live band backs a cabaret show of burlesque and variety acts, with Christmas cocktails for sale. Tickets start at $59, and it's 18 and over. Call it the naughty list's night out.
Burbank Winter Wine Walk (Burbank)
The Burbank Winter Wine Walk lines San Fernando Boulevard with wine tasting stops and a free holiday street fair of hundreds of local vendors. Tasting is 21 and over, but no ticket is needed to shop the fair. Metrolink's Burbank-Downtown station is about a 13-minute walk away, which also settles who's driving.
MOONEYES Christmas Party Show & Drag (La Verne)
The MOONEYES Christmas Party Show & Drag races vintage drag cars on the eighth-mile In-N-Out Burger Drag Strip at the Pomona Fairplex, alongside a vintage car show, live bands, a pinup contest, and pinstriping demos. Admission is $35 for adults, and kids 12 and under get in free. Wear comfortable shoes; the grounds are big.
Los Angeles SantaCon Bar Crawl
The Los Angeles SantaCon Bar Crawl sends a crowd of Santas to four to six participating bars, with a wristband, holiday party gear, and a welcome shot at check-in. The best Santa outfit wins a prize. It's 21 and over, and the route comes in your confirmation email. Leave the car (and the sleigh) at home.
New Year's Eve Celebration at The Granada LA (Alhambra)
The Granada LA in Alhambra rings in the new year across three floors: live salsa from Son Miron Salsa Orquesta on the main floor, bachata on the third floor, and reggaeton, Top 40, and hip-hop on the patio. Party favors and a midnight countdown are included. It's 21 and over, and parking is free.
New Year's Eve Los Angeles NYE Bar Crawl - All Access Party Pass
This New Year's Eve bar crawl covers 10+ bars, lounges, and nightlife venues across Downtown Los Angeles on one all-access wristband. Check in for drink coupons and a digital map, then mingle at the pre-crawl social before heading out. Select stops pour welcome shots. It's 21 and over, so bring ID.
Cerritos Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Cerritos)
The City of Cerritos counts down to its Christmas tree lighting at the Cerritos Civic Center, an evening of festive music, live entertainment, and crafts. After the tree lights up, Santa Claus is available for visits and photos. It's free, and pets aren't allowed.
Christmas Tree Lighting at the Nixon Library (Yorba Linda)
The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Yorba Linda holds an annual Christmas Tree Lighting to start the season. It's a traditional tree lighting ceremony, with tickets sold online. Pets aren't generally permitted, though service animals are welcome.
Santa Paws: A Holiday Crafting Workshop (Pasadena)
At Santa Paws, Pasadena Humane invites crafters of all ages to make cozy beds, toys, and festive gifts for shelter animals. Decorate a stocking for a shelter pet and make a holiday ornament to take home. The cats and dogs can't say thanks, but they'll mean it.