The arrival of the holiday season brings a mystifying change to Los Angeles, the city of fantasies, palm trees, and star-studded sidewalks. Christmas in Los Angeles is just magical. From the palm trees lit up on Sunset Boulevard to the holiday displays in Griffith Park. Discover a unique blend of Christmas customs and a wide range of pleasant events to savour in this broad metropolis, where cultures and creative souls come face-to-face.
As the West Coast begins to feel the chill of winter, we welcome you to explore our collection of “20 Christmas Things to Do in Los Angeles This Year.” The City of Angels knows how to celebrate the holiday season in style, with everything from quaint neighbourhood light shows to spectacular events at its famous theme parks.
Let’s unzip the best of the Los Angeles Christmas season and make the season bright and joyous for yourselves and those you cherish. Ready to discover the enchantment? Let’s get started!
List Of Grand Events and Activities For Christmas In LA
I’ve taken the time to make a comprehensive listing of all the Grand Festivals, Events, and Activities for Christmas in LA so that you don’t miss a single bit of the holiday magic.
For those who are planning for places to go on Christmas day in LA, you will surely get the most suitable one that you & your family love the most. Let’s make this Christmas one that everyone will remember!
Visit Griffith Park- (Holiday Lights & Train Rides)
At Griffith Park, you can step into a winter wonderland where the Christmas spirit comes to life under the stars. From November 24, 2023, to January 5, 2024, you can take a holiday train ride through a glittering show of lights at Griffith Park Train Rides’ Holiday Light Festival. Kids under 18 months old ride for free, and tickets are only $7 each. Tuesday through Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m., and on Sunday and December 24 and 25 it will be closed. Still, a trip to Griffith Park wouldn’t be complete without a viewing of the famous Griffith Observatory. To enjoy the Christmas spirit in Griffith Park, wrap up warm, bring some hot cocoa, and relax.
Ice Skating in Pershing Square
Few things scream “holiday season” like gliding gracefully on an ice rink amidst the city’s twinkling lights. Pershing Square, in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, hosts a charming ice skating rink during the holiday in Los Angeles. The atmosphere here is nothing short of festive, with music filling the air, and the rink beautifully illuminated.
So, get ready to hit the ice at Pershing Square Ice Rink in Los Angeles! Open daily from November 16, 2023, through January 7, 2024, it’s the perfect place for some winter fun this Christmas. Remember here general admission is just $20, and that includes skate rental. Just go and experience ice skating in Pershing Square is bound to warm your heart and make you feel like a part of LA’s winter magic.
The Grove Christmas Tree
The Grove is one of those places that never fails to wow over the winter holidays. One of the main attractions is a massive Christmas tree decked out in an eye-popping display of lights and decorations. The entire venue is decked out in holiday cheer with spectacular decorations and special performances. If you’re looking for a place to get into the spirit of the season, The Grove is the place to go. There, you can go Christmas tree shopping, eat delicious holiday food, or just take in the sights and sounds of a wonderfully adorned tree.
Holiday Boat Parades
Los Angeles may not be known for its traditional winter weather, but it certainly knows how to celebrate the season in style, especially when it comes to holiday boat parades. Places like Marina del Rey and Newport Beach come alive with the stunning spectacle of boats adorned with twinkling lights, holiday decorations, and festive spirit.
- Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade – While the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade took a brief hiatus in 2022, it’s returning with full festive force in 2023! Mark your calendars for the 61st Annual Parade on December 9, 2023, as the illuminated boats glide across the tranquil waters, creating a magical holiday spectacle for all to enjoy.
- Newport Beach holiday boat parade – You can go for a five-night extravaganza of nautical holiday splendour at the Newport Beach Boat Parade, taking place from Wednesday, December 13, 2023, to Sunday, December 17, 2023. With a dazzling array of illuminated boats, this annual tradition promises to light up the waters and your holiday spirit like never before.
Attend a Christmas Concert or Show
There is an exceptional assortment of Christmas concerts and theatre shows in Los Angeles, which really shines during the holiday season. There’s a little bit for everyone here, from fresh takes on old favourites to fresh takes on old favourites. Some of the city’s most well-known theatres and concert halls provide festive performances that are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. Attending a Christmas concert or play in Los Angeles is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit, whether your preference is for a cappella singing, an orchestral performance, or a theatrical production. So, Find the most amazing Christmas shows in Los Angeles for 2023/24 at LA local theatre. Enjoy classic and new holiday performances that will fill your heart with joy and wonder.
Disneyland Holiday Magic
No Doubt! Christmas brings more holiday cheer to the happiest place on Earth than anywhere else. With its beautiful scenery and exciting rides, Disneyland turns into a winter wonderland that will make your heart skip a beat. With its bright lights and holiday decorations, the park gives off a joyful vibe that you can’t help but catch. You can see your favourite Disney figures dressed up for the holidays, enjoy holiday treats, and be amazed by the amazing Christmas parades and fireworks. Visiting Disneyland Resort during the holidays is a beautiful experience that the whole family will love and remember for a long time.
So must experience the enchantment of the holidays with spectacular fireworks at Disneyland Resort. It’s part of the holiday celebration from November 10, 2023, to January 7, 2024. Don’t miss the magical show!”
Rodeo Drive Shopping
When it comes to high-end holiday shopping, Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is second to none. The high-end shops that line Rodeo Drive’s palm tree-lined streets are famous all over the world for their fine goods. During the Christmas season, they take shopping to a whole new level. The famous street is decorated for the holidays with beautiful lights and decorations, making it a magical place to look at brand stores. Looking for unique gifts for family and friends? This is the best place in Los Angeles to enjoy the holiday mood.
Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills
The holiday joy shines brightly in Woodland Hills, an affectionate neighbourhood. This neighbourhood is proud to have created an amazing holiday custom called Candy Cane Lane. As a stunning show of holiday cheer, the residents go all out and decorate their homes with intricate Christmas light displays. The colourful lights and sense of community togetherness make it a great place to take a walk. Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills is a real gem that shows how to be generous during the holidays.
Christmas at Universal Studios
Universal Studios Hollywood, the famous film studio and theme park, becomes a holiday wonderland during the Christmas season. The entire park is transformed into a festive paradise, with twinkling lights, themed decorations, and a myriad of holiday-themed events. Be captivated by the dazzling lights and decorations that adorn the iconic Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Plus, enjoy seasonal entertainment, special shows, and meet-and-greets with beloved characters. Universal Studios is one of the top Christmas attractions to lose yourself in the magic of the movies and take your holidays to a whole new level of enchantment.
Los Angeles Zoo Lights
The Los Angeles Zoo is home to some of the world’s most fascinating creatures, and during the holiday season, it hosts an extraordinary spectacle of its own—LA Zoo Lights. This annual event transforms the zoo into an illuminated wonderland, where you’ll be surrounded by enchanting displays of colourful lights and creative installations. Stroll through the zoo’s pathways, enjoying the mesmerizing sights and the sounds of the season. With seasonal treats, holiday-themed Christmas activities in Los Angeles, and the chance to see some animals that are most active at night, LAZoo Lights offers a unique and memorable way to celebrate the holidays.
Holiday Festivals and Markets
Los Angeles embraces the holiday season with a plethora of vibrant festivals and markets that celebrate the diverse cultures that call this city home. From the traditional and festive Olvera Street celebrations to the eclectic and artistic events in areas like Silver Lake and Echo Park, there’s no shortage of holiday festivities to explore. These events feature live entertainment, delicious food, unique artisan gifts, and a vibrant atmosphere that showcases the rich tapestry of LA’s cultural heritage. It’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s holiday traditions and pick up one-of-a-kind gifts while getting into the spirit of the season.
Venice Canals Christmas Lights
Experience the magic of the season by taking a stroll along the enchanting Venice Canals, adorned with breathtaking light displays during Christmas. These picturesque canals, inspired by the famous Venice, Italy, come alive with glittering holiday lights that reflect in the water, creating a stunning sight. People in the area decorate their homes in creative and fun ways for the holidays, which makes it a lovely place to take a stroll in the evening and enjoy the holiday spirit. The holiday season makes Venice Canals a secret gem that shines with beauty.
Olvera Street Posadas
Venture into the heart of historic downtown Los Angeles to witness a cherished tradition: Las Posadas on Olvera Street. This annual event reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay, a beloved Mexican Christmas tradition. The vibrant celebrations include a candlelit procession, singing, reenactments, and, of course, delicious Mexican cuisine. Olvera Street’s vibrant cultural atmosphere during Las Posadas provides a wonderful opportunity to learn and experience the rich heritage of the city’s Mexican community during the holiday season.
Holiday-Themed Dining
For a unique and memorable dining experience during the holiday season, Los Angeles offers a plethora of restaurants and cafes with special holiday menus. From cosy and rustic eateries serving hearty comfort food to fine dining establishments offering elegant holiday feasts, there’s something for every palate. So “Indulge in holiday-themed dining at these top LA restaurants, including Redbird, A.O.C., Gwen, The Belvedere, Baltaire Restaurant, and Genghis Cohen. So, enjoy festive menus and special dishes to make your holiday season extra delicious.
Volunteer or Charity Events
The spirit of giving is a core value during the holiday season, and Los Angeles provides numerous opportunities to get involved and make a positive impact on the community. I highly encourage you to participate in volunteer or charity events, whether it’s preparing meals for the less fortunate, donating toys to underprivileged children, or supporting local shelters. The joy of giving is a gift in itself, and Los Angeles offers a wealth of chances to give back and make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Caroling and Christmas Music
If you want to have the perfect Christmas experience, there are many places in Los Angeles where you can hear carols and live Christmas music. You can enjoy the sounds that make the season come alive, from carolers on the beach to symphony bands playing loved ones. There are many kinds of music events in Los Angeles that will make your Christmas season happy and bright, from events outside under the stars to concerts inside historic buildings.
Decorate Your Home Like a Local
There are many unique and stylish holiday decorations all over Los Angeles that you can bring into your own home to make it feel like you’re in Los Angeles. Find shops, markets, and art galleries in your area that sell holiday decorations and gifts that are in line with the city’s lively culture and style. There are many hidden gems to find that will bring a bit of LA’s holiday spirit into your home. Likewise, you can get many handmade ornaments, beach-themed decor, or old items.
Gingerbread House Workshops
Gingerbread house classes are a great way to bring out your inner architect and your sweet tooth. This holiday season, these unique and fun activities are a great way to spend time with family and friends. There are a lot of places in Los Angeles that sell gingerbread house kits and decorating lessons. These places have everything you need to make a fun gingerbread masterpiece. You can use anything from frosting and candy canes to gumdrops and sugar snow.
Outdoor Adventures
Los Angeles, known for its pleasant December weather, offers a wide range of outdoor adventures for those seeking to embrace the great outdoors during the holiday season. Take advantage of the mild climate by hiking in the scenic Santa Monica Mountains, biking along the coastal trails, or enjoying picnics in the city’s beautiful parks. You can also explore the stunning landscapes in the nearby Angeles National Forest or head to the beach for sun and sea. Whether it’s enjoying a sunset over the Pacific or taking a scenic drive along Mulholland Drive, there’s an abundance of outdoor activities to celebrate the holiday season with a dose of sunshine.
The Queen Mary Christmas
Furthermore, The Queen Mary Christmas, a real seafaring amazement, brings our tour of the magical Christmas events in Los Angeles to a close! During the holidays, the historic ocean liner Queen Mary is turned into a winter wonderland, giving tourists a magical holiday experience. This famous ship has millions of lights that twinkle, making a stunning show. You can walk along Christmas Tree Lane, ice skate on the ship’s deck, and watch holiday entertainment like a beautiful light and music show. The Queen Mary Christmas is a one-of-a-kind way to end your holiday activities in Los Angeles. It has a vintage look and feel, and the holiday spirit makes you feel happy.
WrapUp: Christmas Things To Do In LA
Let’s say goodbye to this trip through the City of Angels during the holiday season with one clear thought! “Truly Los Angeles knows how to make Christmas memorable”. If you are looking for places to go on Christmas day in LA then this post has covered you from every aspect. Choose the festivities, places, and activities from the listed things to do in LA and go for it to end this year getting every bite of memories & fun. So, enjoy the holiday mood in Los Angeles by doing these fun things, and let the warmth and wonder of the season fill your heart.
May your holiday season be filled with happiness, family, and memories that you will always cherish. Take advantage of this Christmas season in Los Angeles to make it the best one yet with your family, friends, and coworkers. Wishing you a happy holiday season full of love, fun, and the magic that can only be found in Los Angeles!
