Los Angeles Christmas Activities 2025

Valencia Festival of Trees

Location: Newhall

Cost: FREE

The Valencia Festival of Trees at the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley features community-decorated Christmas trees, showcasing local creativity while raising funds for youth programs. Attendees can participate in various fundraising activities, making it a meaningful gathering for the community during the festive season.

Downtown Pomona Holiday Parade

Location: Pomona

Dates: Second Saturday of December

Cost: FREE

Celebrate the holiday season with the Downtown Pomona Holiday Parade, a vibrant procession featuring dazzling floats, spirited marching bands, and joyful community groups winding through the heart of Pomona. Following the parade, Shaun Diamond Plaza transforms into a festive hub with live entertainment, delicious seasonal treats, and interactive activities, creating a warm and inclusive holiday experience for all ages.

Hollywood Christmas Parade

Location: Los Angeles

Dates: Sunday, November 30, 2025

Cost: $$

Celebrate the 93rd year of the Hollywood Christmas Parade, a beloved Los Angeles tradition that lights up the heart of Hollywood with dazzling floats, celebrity appearances, and spirited performances. This iconic event brings together the magic of the season and the glamour of the entertainment industry, while supporting charitable causes like Toys for Tots to spread joy to families in need. Experience the festive energy as the parade winds through the historic streets, uniting communities and creating unforgettable holiday memories.

Cerritos Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Location: Cerritos

Dates: Annual event, typically held in early December.

Cost: FREE

Celebrate the holiday season at the Cerritos Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, a joyful community event held at the Cerritos Civic Center. Experience the magical moment when the city’s official Christmas tree is illuminated, accompanied by live musical performances, festive entertainment, and interactive activities for all ages. This cherished tradition also features a special visit from Santa Claus, making it a memorable evening for families and holiday lovers alike.

Photos with Santa at Westfield Topanga

Location: Canoga Park

Dates: Check eventbrite for specific dates and times.

Cost: $

Celebrate the holiday season at Westfield Topanga with a specially designed sensory-friendly Santa photo experience that welcomes guests of all ages and abilities. This event offers a calm, inclusive environment with advance registration to minimize wait times and ensure a relaxed visit. Capture joyful moments with Santa in a setting tailored for comfort and accessibility, making holiday memories truly special for every family member.

Holiday Fireworks in Downtown Manhattan Beach

Location: Manhattan Beach

Dates: December 14, 2025

Cost: FREE

Join thousands of South Bay residents and visitors for the 37th Annual Skechers Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Festival, a beloved Southern California tradition featuring a spectacular pyrotechnic display illuminating the night sky above the Pacific Ocean. This festive celebration combines live musical performances, a snow park for children, holiday caroling, and community gatherings along the pier and downtown area, creating an unforgettable evening of winter magic by the sea.

A Christmas Fantasy Parade

Location: Anaheim

Dates: November 14, 2025, through January 7, 2026

A Christmas Fantasy Parade is a beloved seasonal spectacle at Disneyland Park featuring elaborate floats, prancing reindeer, marching toy soldiers, and enchanting Disney characters celebrating the holiday spirit. This 40-minute parade brings classic Christmas magic to life with dancing gingerbread cookies, beloved Disney franchises like Frozen and Toy Story, and a grand finale appearance by Santa Claus himself. Running twice daily through early January, this festive procession transforms the park into a winter wonderland with stirring music, dazzling lights, and even magical snowfall effects.

Damanhour University President's Visit to Churches for Christmas Greetings

Location: Damanhour

Cost: FREE

In December 2025, the President of Damanhour University will visit several churches across Los Angeles to personally extend heartfelt Christmas greetings. This unique outreach fosters goodwill and strengthens bonds between the university and diverse faith communities, showcasing a commitment to cultural respect and festive unity beyond campus borders.

Santa Paws: A Holiday Crafting Workshop

Location: Pasadena

Dates: Sales Ended

Cost: $

Celebrate the season with Santa Paws: A Holiday Crafting Workshop at Pasadena Humane, where creativity meets compassion. Participants of all ages can craft cozy beds, playful toys, and festive gifts for shelter animals, spreading warmth and joy to pets in need. This hands-on event offers a unique opportunity to give back while making holiday keepsakes to cherish.

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Location: Orlando

Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026

Cost: $$

At Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, guests can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit with festive performances and enchanting decorations in Diagon Alley™ and Hogsmeade™. The highlight is 'The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts™ Castle', a stunning projection show that transforms the iconic castle into a canvas of holiday magic. Guests can also enjoy warm Butterbeer™ and take a ride on the Hogwarts™ Express between the two themed areas.

Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game

Location: Pasadena

Dates: January 1st annually

Cost: $$$

The Rose Parade, held on New Year's Day at the Rose Bowl Stadium, showcases stunning floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units in a vibrant celebration. Following the parade, the Rose Bowl Game takes place, featuring top college football teams in a prestigious matchup. This event is made possible by the dedicated efforts of volunteers who contribute over 80,000 hours annually to ensure its success.

Monterey Park Holiday Snow Village

Location: Monterey Park

Dates: December 4, 2025

Cost: FREE

Barnes Park transforms into the Monterey Park Holiday Snow Village, offering real snow activities and festive crafts for families. Visitors can slide down snow sled runs, engage in holiday-themed crafts, and enjoy visits with Santa Claus in a dedicated area. The event also features a whimsical trackless train ride, adding to the holiday fun.

Ice at Santa Monica

Location: Santa Monica

Dates: November 8, 2024 - January 20, 2025 (Note: The rink is currently closed for the season and will reopen mid-November 2025)

Cost: $$

Ice at Santa Monica features an expansive 8,000-square-foot ice skating rink, including a special 400-square-foot rink for younger skaters. Guests can enjoy public skating sessions, rent private fire pits for a cozy experience, and participate in themed events throughout the season. The rink is conveniently located near local attractions such as the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade.

Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

Location: Marina del Rey

Dates: Second Saturday in December

Cost: FREE

The Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade features beautifully decorated boats illuminated for the holiday season, competing for various awards. Attendees can enjoy family-friendly entertainment, including gourmet food trucks and festive activities, at Burton Chace Park. The event culminates in a dazzling drone light show over the marina, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Christmas Tree Lighting at the Nixon Library

Location: Yorba Linda

Dates: Open 10am - 5pm 7 days a week

Celebrate the holiday season at the Nixon Library with a cherished annual tradition: the Christmas tree lighting ceremony. This festive evening brings together families and friends for a magical experience filled with patriotic pride and holiday cheer. Guests will enjoy live performances, seasonal music, and the breathtaking moment when the grand tree illuminates the historic grounds in dazzling red, white, and blue. Unique touches like visits with Santa, reindeer encounters, and candlelit garden strolls make this event a memorable holiday highlight.

Las Posadas on Olvera Street

Location: Los Angeles

Dates: December 16th through the 24th

Cost: FREE

Celebrate the rich heritage of Las Posadas on Olvera Street, a nightly tradition from December 16 to 24 that vividly reenacts Mary and Joseph's search for shelter in Bethlehem. This immersive event features candlelit processions, live music, folkloric performances, and festive piñatas, blending history and community spirit in the heart of Los Angeles' oldest neighborhood.

Glendora Christmas Parade

Location: Glendora

Dates: December 13th

Cost: FREE

Celebrate the holiday season with the Glendora Christmas Parade, a beloved annual tradition winding through the heart of Glendora Village. This festive procession features dazzling floats, spirited marching bands, and vibrant community groups, creating a joyful atmosphere that brings together families and neighbors. Experience the magic of the season along the 1.25-mile route filled with holiday cheer and local pride.

A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K

Location: Los Angeles

Dates: Saturday, December 13th

Cost: $$

The A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K at Griffith Park celebrates 60 years of the iconic holiday special with a festive run. Participants can choose between a 5K or a 10K, with special medals and shirts available. The event also features a Snoopy Kids Dash for younger participants, promoting a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

L.A. County Holiday Celebration

Location: Los Angeles

Dates: December 24, 2025, 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Cost: FREE

The L.A. County Holiday Celebration at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is a free, three-hour live production celebrating the diverse cultures of Los Angeles County. This annual event features performances from various local artists and community groups, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the area.

Pershing Square Ice Rink

Location: LA

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $

Celebrate the holiday season at Pershing Square Ice Rink, a vibrant outdoor skating experience nestled in downtown Los Angeles. Surrounded by the city’s iconic skyline and festive lights, this rink offers a unique blend of urban charm and winter magic. Whether you're a seasoned skater or trying it for the first time, enjoy gliding on ice beneath the stars in a lively, art-filled plaza that transforms into a winter wonderland each year.

Ice at Santa Monica Holiday Skating

Location: Santa Monica

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $

Experience the magic of the holidays with Ice at Santa Monica, a unique seasonal ice rink nestled just blocks from the Pacific Ocean. Open from November 7, 2025, through January 19, 2026, this 8,000-square-foot rink offers a festive blend of coastal charm and winter wonder, featuring themed skate nights, live entertainment, and cozy fire pits. Skate under the stars while enjoying special events presented by Disney+ and Hulu, making it a one-of-a-kind holiday tradition in Southern California.

Griffith Observatory Holiday Visits

Location: LA

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

Celebrate the magic of Christmas 2025 at Griffith Observatory with breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles illuminated by holiday lights. Experience a unique blend of festive cheer and cosmic wonder through special seasonal programs, planetarium shows, and telescope viewings that bring the universe closer during the holiday season. This event offers a memorable way to connect with the stars while enjoying the spirit of the holidays in an iconic setting.

Getty Center Holiday Tours

Location: LA

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

Celebrate the festive season at the Getty Center Holiday Tours in Los Angeles, where art, architecture, and nature blend into a unique winter experience. Explore specially curated holiday-themed art collections and enjoy panoramic views of the city framed by the Center’s iconic gardens adorned with seasonal decorations. This immersive tour offers a serene yet festive escape, highlighting the Getty’s blend of cultural richness and holiday spirit.

Natural History Museum Holiday Exhibits

Location: LA

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $$

Celebrate the holiday season at the Natural History Museum in Los Angeles with immersive exhibits that blend festive cheer and natural wonders. Explore dazzling dinosaur displays alongside seasonal nature installations, creating a unique holiday experience that sparks curiosity and joy for all ages. Special holiday-themed activities and interactive exhibits bring science and celebration together in a captivating way.

California Science Center Holiday Programming

Location: LA

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

Celebrate the holidays at the California Science Center with a festive twist on science and discovery. This year’s programming features interactive holiday-themed exhibits, special demonstrations, and a rare opportunity to explore the iconic space shuttle Endeavour adorned with seasonal decorations. Families can enjoy hands-on STEM activities, dazzling light displays, and live performances that blend the wonder of science with the joy of the season, making it a unique destination for holiday fun in Los Angeles.