You can visit Los Angeles any time of the year but December is the best time for holiday celebrations in LA. There are many things to do in Los Angeles in December including celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, and the onset of New Year's Eve. Los Angeles is America's entertainment capital, so there will be numerous winter attractions and activities to choose from. This guide will help you plan once-in-a-lifetime holiday experiences with your significant other, family, kids, and friends with a large selection of the best winter things to do in LA today.
The Enchanted Forest of Light offers a magical nighttime experience in LA for both locals and tourists. It features a one-mile walk through vibrant lighting in the mesmerizingly beautiful Descanso Gardens. Get ready to walk through the illuminating paths and enjoy Christmas-themed tunes that perfectly complement the forest décor.
The Square Ice Skating Rink is located in DTLA (Downtown Los Angeles). It is open to visitors daily to enjoy ice skating in the beautiful local culture. You can relish a wide range of free activities, including live music concerts, youth programs, and other festive events.
The Gillette Ranch becomes a glittering wonderland between December 3 and December 31, allowing visitors to stroll through the twinkling paths and relish the super colorful atmosphere, visiting life-size gingerbread homes, festive light delights, and gigantic ornaments.
Holiday Events in Los Angeles
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The Grove is the most popular outdoor shopping mall in Los Angeles. In December, the Grove becomes a winter wonderland of festiveness. You can do some remarkable Christmas shopping in LA while you enjoy live music performances and experience the fully lit 110-foot Christmas tree.
Alex Theatre is a great place for people of all ages to experience Christmas theater in a memorable way. In addition to the famous World Ballet Series, Nutcracker, Alex Theatre creates warm and enjoyable theatrical performances through its extravagant sets, sparkling costumes, and amazing atmosphere during the holidays.
LA Zoo Lights is an annual holiday event in LA hosted by the LA Zoo. It decorates the entire landscape of the zoo with beautiful animal sculptures illuminated with lights, lanterns, blooming flowers, animated displays, and a kaleidoscope of lights. Make sure to visit the wisteria tunnel, glowing ring swings, and photo ops. It's a spot to take the family or a romantic but fun date.
Santa Monica celebrates Winterlit, a variety of events including a chance to see Santa. The Hanukkah Menorah Lighting is also a beautiful display of illuminated and colorful lights at sundown. There is even a pet night for those seeking to take their pups and create an Instagram with Santa Claus.
Street Food Cinema curates a Holiday series of cinema at the Heritage Square Museum between December 3 and 23. Experience movie screenings, maybe even with a cameo by Santa. Grab some drinks and experience nightly events such as sing-a-longs, and Victorian house tours before you watch the Christmas classics (Elf, Love Actually, Home Alone).
The music center of Los Angeles has its long-awaited musical event for the holidays. This three-hour show features music, choirs, and dance performances. All performances showcase the unique culture of LA. The event will take place on December 24, 2022, between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM. The best thing about this event is that it is free and open to the public. Make sure you RSVP and we also recommend coming at least one hour before to have the best chance of finding seats.
Rancho Palos Verdes invites locals and tourists alike to enjoy skating on a beautiful outdoor rink near the beach. In addition to skating, people enjoy a wide range of festive activities throughout December including Ugly Sweater Day on December 26th.
Feeling merry enough to ride some rollercoasters? Take the sleigh ride of your life on Full Throttle then end your day with the traveling toy soldier troupe, choreographed light entertainment, and live holiday music and DJs. Plus, don't miss special visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
One of the most dazzling displays of neighborhood Christmas lights in Los Angeles is over in Woodland Hills at the famous "Candy Cane Lane." A long-held tradition, since 1952, where residents try to outdo each other with their light displays each year. On busy days there can be a long line of cars slowly driving through the streets in wonderment.
What's your favorite holiday event in Los Angeles? Comment below and let us know. If you are looking for more spectacular things to do in LA today then be sure to subscribe below to the LA Today VIP list to stay up-to-date with the newest attractions, hidden secrets, and best events in Los Angeles. 🌴LA TODAY