Top 21 Los Angeles Christmas Events For Your Holidays

There's something magical about celebrating the holidays in the City of Angels, where palm trees twinkle with Christmas lights and winter wonderlands emerge in the most unexpected places. Los Angeles Christmas events offer a unique blend of traditional holiday charm and distinctly SoCal flair, creating unforgettable experiences for both locals and visitors.

From enchanted garden walks to beachside celebrations, the city transforms into a festive playground where you can ice skate under the stars, marvel at spectacular light shows, and even experience a white Christmas – all while wearing your favorite t-shirt. Let's explore TravelThru’s list of holiday celebrations that make the 2024 season truly special in LA.

Our Top Pick Christmas Events in Los Angeles​

1. Hollywood Christmas Parade

• Date: December 1, 2024
• Location: The parade begins at Hollywood Boulevard and Orange Drive, continuing along Sunset Boulevard before concluding back at Orange Drive.

The Hollywood Christmas Parade stands as one of Los Angeles' most cherished holiday traditions since 1928. Taking place on the Sunday after Thanksgiving along Hollywood Boulevard, this spectacular event transforms the iconic entertainment district into a festive wonderland. The parade features an impressive lineup of marching bands, film and TV celebrities, decorated floats, and larger-than-life character balloons floating above the historic Hollywood Walk of Fame.

While you can enjoy the parade for free from the sidewalk, grandstand seating offers prime viewing and can be purchased in advance through the official website.

For more information about the event, you can visit the official website: Hollywood Christmas Parade.

 
2. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Grove

• Date: November 25, 2024 (At 7 PM)
• Location: 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Get ready for an enchanting evening with Lance Bass as your host! Legendary music director Rickey Minor will lead a night filled with incredible performances. Experience the magic of the Christmas tree lighting, a whimsical snowfall, a captivating drone show, a breathtaking fireworks display, and a visit from Santa himself – all this and more await you!

3. Master Chorale ‘Messiah’ Sing-Along

• Date: Monday, December 16, 2024
• Time: 7:30 - 9:30 pm 
• Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, 90012

Forget those typical Disney sing-alongs! This year, experience Handel's "Messiah" like never before at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Join the Los Angeles Master Chorale and a 2,200-person chorus for a powerful performance led by artistic director Grant Gershon. You'll be singing alongside a professional orchestra and soloists, creating an unforgettable holiday musical experience.

Visit Los Angeles Master Chorale for more information!

4. Pershing Square Holiday Ice Rink

• Dates: November 21 through January 12, 2025.
• Location: Pershing Square, 532 S Olive St, Los Angeles, 90013

Who needs a snowy landscape when you can ice skate in the heart of downtown Los Angeles? Pershing Square transforms into a winter oasis with its outdoor holiday ice rink, offering a unique skating experience surrounded by towering skyscrapers. Admission includes skate rentals, so you can glide around and soak in the festive atmosphere. Just keep in mind that lockers and skating aids are available for a small extra fee.

5. Lightscape at L.A. Arboretum

• Location: Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007

This immersive after-dark trail stretches for a mile, featuring spectacular light installations, color-changing archways, and illuminated artworks that dance with the garden's natural landscape. The famous Moonlight Forest returns with new displays, while the Winter Cathedral – a cathedral-sized tunnel of 100,000 twinkling lights – creates the perfect photo opportunity.

Be sure to grab a cup of hot chocolate or roast marshmallows at one of the fire pits along the way. While tickets aren't cheap, this magical experience has quickly become one of LA's most popular holiday attractions, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

6. Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain

• Dates: November 28, 2024 - January 5, 2025 
• Location: Six Flags Magic Mountain, 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355

This iconic theme park, famous for its record-breaking roller coasters, gets a festive makeover during Holiday in the Park.

You can soar through the air on "Santa's Sleighs" – over 20 coasters decked out for the holidays, including adrenaline-pumping rides like CraZanity, West Coast Racers, and X2. With millions of twinkling lights illuminating the park, you'll discover enchanting themed areas like the whimsical Holiday Village, the retro-inspired HollyRock, and a magical North Pole experience. Wander through festive wonderlands like Arctic Alley and Peppermint Path, and don't miss the dazzling displays at Snowy Nights and Gleampunk District.

For more details about specific dates, ticket prices, and event schedules, you can visit the official Six Flags Magic Mountain website: Six Flags Magic Mountain - Holiday in the Park.

7. Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

• Date: December 14, 2024
• Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Marina del Rey Harbor, 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

The parade has been a cherished tradition since its inception in 1963, starting with just a handful of boats. Over the years, it has grown significantly, attracting thousands of spectators and participants. Today, it features around 75 boats decorated with festive lights and themed displays.

Each year, the parade adopts a unique theme. For 2024, the theme is "Margaritaville Holiday," celebrating the joyful legacy of Jimmy Buffett. The best spots to watch the parade include:

Burton Chace Park: Offers community booths, food vendors, and live performances starting from 10 AM on the day of the event.
Fisherman’s Village: Another prime viewing area where spectators can enjoy the festivities.

You can visit the official website of the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade for more information or updates about the event.

8. Holiday Road at King Gillette Ranch

• Date: November 29th to December 28th, 2024
• Location: King Gillette Ranch, 26800 West Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302

Looking for a unique holiday experience in Los Angeles? Holiday Road is a must-visit! This event features stunning holiday displays, thousands of twinkling lights, and beloved characters like Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their elves. It's a festive wonderland filled with candy canes and holiday magic.

Tickets start at $24.99 and vary by date and time. Each person needs a ticket (except for children under 2, who enter free). If you plan to drive, be sure to purchase a parking pass in advance. Skip the parking hassle by getting dropped off!

9. Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens

• Dates: November 17, 2024 – January 5, 2025 (closed on Nov. 28, Dec. 24–25
• Hours: Open nightly from 5:30 PM to 10 PM, with timed entry starting every 30 minutes until 8:30 PM.
• Location: Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

This beloved holiday tradition features multiple distinct lighting experiences, from the ancient forest bathed in geometric patterns to the mesmerizing field of glowing "stained glass" tulips. The modernized display includes new features like the Rainbow Sycamore installation and the popular Town Square, which sparkles with thousands of crystalline lights. Trust us! This is one of LA's most Instagram-worthy holiday experiences.

Los Angeles Christmas Events for Families

10. The Nutcracker Ballet Performances

• Dates: December 6 to December 28, 2024
• Locations:
  Pasadena Civic Auditorium: December 6-8, 2024
  Royce Hall, UCLA: December 13-15, 2024
  Dolby Theatre, Hollywood: December 19-28, 2024

Just like the glittering tree at The Grove and the Hollywood Christmas Parade, Los Angeles Ballet's "The Nutcracker" is an essential part of the city's holiday season. This beloved production enchants audiences with its captivating choreography, stunning costumes, and Tchaikovsky's unforgettable music. Whether you're a ballet aficionado or introducing your children to this timeless classic, "The Nutcracker" is a great way to celebrate the season with your loved ones.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Los Angeles Ballet website.

11. Bob Baker’s Holiday on Strings

• Date: November 16, 2024 - January 12, 2025
• Location: 4949 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042

This hour-long spectacle features a delightful cast of marionette characters, from dancing snowmen and playful penguins to Santa Claus and his reindeer. With its vibrant colors, charming puppets, and festive music, Bob Baker's Holiday on Strings is a delightful experience for audiences of all ages.

Tickets can be purchased online through the Bob Baker Marionette Theater's website. Prices typically range from $20 to $30, depending on seating and availability. Be sure to book your tickets early, as this popular show tends to sell out quickly!

Visit the Bob Baker Marionette Theater website for more information and to purchase tickets.

12. LA Zoo Lights

• Location: Los Angeles Zoo, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027
• Dates: November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Hours: Nightly from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM (closed on most Mondays and Tuesdays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day).

L.A. Zoo Lights offers a unique opportunity to experience the zoo in a whole new light (literally!). See your favorite animals in their habitats, enjoy festive music and entertainment, and capture memorable photos with illuminated backdrops. It's a perfect outing for families, couples, and anyone who loves animals and holiday magic.

For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, visit the Los Angeles Zoo website.

13. Universal Studios Hollywood Holidays

• Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 6, 2025
• Location: Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

This holiday season, Universal Studios Hollywood is bringing the magic of Harry Potter to life with festive decorations throughout the Wizarding World. Hogsmeade Village will be adorned with lights and wreaths, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a special light show called "The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts" projected onto the castle, featuring festive imagery and music.

Don't miss the festive cheer throughout the park, including the Seussian Christmas tree with its Grinch-led lighting ceremony. And new this year, Super Nintendo World joins the celebration with its own unique holiday decorations and seasonal treats.

Regular park admission includes all holiday festivities, but consider purchasing an Express Pass during peak holiday periods to maximize your enjoyment. Remember that nighttime hours offer the most magical experience with all holiday lighting in full effect, so plan your visit accordingly.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Universal Studios Hollywood.

14. Santa Monica Holiday Events

Santa Monica is getting a winter wonderland with "Ice", a large outdoor ice skating rink located in the heart of downtown. Open daily from November to mid-January, it's just a short walk from the beach and the E Line. For $22, you get an hour of skating fun, including skate rentals. They also offer private party options and cabanas for a more upscale experience.

15. Los Angeles Christmas Market

• Dates: November 29 to December 24, 2024
• Location: ROW DTLA, 777 South Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Looking for a unique and festive family outing this Christmas? Head to the Los Angeles Christmas Market at Skylight ROW DTLA! This vibrant market captures the magic of a traditional European Christmas market with twinkling lights, festive music, and charming wooden stalls.

Kids will be enchanted by the festive atmosphere, the aroma of gingerbread and hot chocolate, and the unique gifts and toys. Parents can enjoy browsing for handcrafted treasures, savoring delicious seasonal treats, and soaking up the merry atmosphere. With festive entertainment and activities for all ages, the Los Angeles Christmas Market offers a delightful experience for the whole family.

Check the market's website for special events and extended hours on select dates.

16. Las Posadas at Olvera Street

• Dates: December 16 to December 24, annually
• Location: El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument

Experience the magic of Christmas on Olvera Street with Las Posadas, a cherished tradition since 1930. This vibrant event recreates Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem through nightly processions filled with song, colorful costumes, and lively music. Everyone is welcome to join this celebration, which culminates on Christmas Eve with a special tribute to the birth of Jesus.

Each evening, a procession led by an angel winds its way through Olvera Street, stopping at shops to reenact the search for shelter. The journey concludes at the Avila Adobe, Los Angeles' oldest house, where participants are treated to warm champurrado (a traditional Mexican chocolate drink) and pan dulce (sweet bread). This nine-night festival offers a unique and heartwarming way to experience the spirit of Christmas.

For more information about this event, you can visit Olvera Events' website.

17. Santa's Village at Skypark

• Date: November 14, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Location: 28950 CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385
   

Santa's Village is particularly festive during the winter months. The park features an outdoor ice skating rink known as the Silver Bells Arena, where guests can skate surrounded by beautiful holiday decorations. You can enjoy performances from characters such as Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with activities like live storytelling and puppet shows. Wacko, the magician, also entertains guests with his magic acts.

Free Christmas Events in Los Angeles

18. L.A. County Holiday Celebration

• Date: December 24, 2024
• Time: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
• Location: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, The Music Center, Los Angeles, CA

The L.A. County Holiday Celebration is a beloved annual event that showcases the rich cultural diversity of Los Angeles through music, dance, and community performances. Since its inception in 1959, the event has been funded by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and aims to bring together Angelenos of all ages to celebrate the holiday spirit. Each year, a variety of performing arts groups participate, showcasing their talent and artistry. The event typically includes around 21 different ensembles performing a mix of traditional and contemporary holiday music.

For more information about this year's event, visit The Music Center's website.

19. Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena

• Date: December 7, 2024
• Location: Altadena Public Library 600 E.Mariposa St, Altadena, CA

Altadena's Christmas Tree Lane offers a refreshingly simple and elegant holiday experience. This beautiful display features a nearly mile-long stretch of towering Deodar cedar trees illuminated with twinkling lights. Unlike over-the-top holiday decorations, Christmas Tree Lane focuses on the natural beauty of these majestic trees, creating a truly magical and awe-inspiring spectacle.

20. Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration

• Date: November 14, 2024
• Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• Location: Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA

This free event kicks off the season with a spectacular lighting ceremony featuring celebrity appearances, live entertainment, and the grand illumination of the street's iconic palm trees wrapped in thousands of twinkling lights.

While the opening night ceremony draws large crowds, the magical holiday atmosphere continues throughout the season with street performances and special events. Visit after sunset for the most enchanting experience, when the Mediterranean-style buildings and palm trees sparkle with lights. Parking is available in nearby structures, though expect premium rates typical of Beverly Hills. Consider dining at one of the area's renowned restaurants to make your holiday visit even more memorable.

You can visit the Beverly Hills official website for more information about this year's event.

21. The Market at Westfield Century City

• Location: Atrium, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90067
• Dates: November 25 to December 24, 2024

The Market offers a unique selection of local and artisanal products, including gourmet foods, specialty items, and seasonal goods. It is designed to enhance the shopping experience at Westfield Century City, which boasts over 200 shops and restaurants.

You can enjoy a variety of dining experiences within the market, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale options. The market often features seasonal food events and pop-ups that showcase local culinary talent.

With its focus on local products and family-friendly activities, it’s an excellent destination for both residents and visitors looking to enjoy the best of Los Angeles.

You can visit the Westfield Century City website for more information about events and specific offerings.

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Los Angeles Christmas events prove that you don't need snow to create holiday magic. Whether you're watching boats parade through Marina del Rey's harbor, meeting the Grinch at Universal Studios, or skating beneath the downtown skyline, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer to experience in the city.

As you plan your holiday adventures, remember that many of these events require advance booking, especially during peak dates. So gather your loved ones, bring your holiday spirit, and experience the warmth and wonder of Christmas in the City of Angels.