I will honor Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all year long.
Charles Dickens
Are you a fan of Christmas and travel? Get ready to discover the top holiday activities to enjoy in Los Angeles, California! If you’re vacationing during the Christmas season, you’ll be glad to know the city lights up with an unbeatable festive spirit. From strolling through the dazzling lights and glamour of Rodeo Drive in iconic Beverly Hills to skating at the exciting Pershing Square ice rink, this article is packed with plans that are sure to meet your holiday travel expectations. So if you’re wondering what to do in Los Angeles on December 25 or throughout the last month of the year, stop your search and keep reading!
Hop on a sleigh ride through the legendary Griffith Park, be amazed by the dazzling light show at the Los Angeles Zoo, or step into the winter magic of Disneyland. Discover why LA is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the United States!
Ho, ho, ho, Santa Claus is on his way!
What to see and do in LA during Christmas
Find out what to see and do in Los Angeles at Christmas and take in the delightful holiday decorations along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, browse the luxury shops downtown, or catch the festive parades that make their way through the city with live music, toy-themed shows, and costume contests. Below, we’ll tell you all about the top attractions, Christmas markets, cultural festivals, and more highlights that make Los Angeles a one-of-a-kind destination to celebrate the holiday season. Ho, ho, ho, Santa Claus is on his way! Keep reading and start planning your next holiday getaway with these Christmas activities in Los Angeles.
Universal Hollywood Studios – Universal CityWalk Hollywood
Spend Christmas at Universal Hollywood Studios in California! Watching a movie at CityWalk during the holidays in Los Angeles is one of the most popular family plans for both locals and tourists. Enjoy new releases or classic Christmas films like «The Grinch», «The Nutcracker», «Scrooge,» or «It’s a Wonderful Life». While you wait to enter the theater, soak in the festive atmosphere that fills the Hollywood-style setting. Complete with holiday lights, themed decorations, and carols playing in the background. After the movie, explore the many entertainment and dining options the area offers, from restaurants and bars to shops.
Pershing Square Ice Rink
Glide across the ice and show off your skating skills at Pershing Square, the most iconic ice rink in Los Angeles. Here, besides skating, you can enjoy special events held only during the holiday season, like light shows, live concerts, and other artistic performances. Best of all, without even stepping off the ice, you’ll have access to seasonal treats like hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies, popcorn, and aromatic teas. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, the Pershing Square rink is the perfect place to dive into December’s winter fun!
Attend the Christmas parades
Attending the Christmas parades in Los Angeles is a magical experience and a must-do during your winter vacation in California. The holiday caravans in this city stand out for their elaborately decorated floats, festive music, talented dancers, and celebrities who ride through the streets greeting the crowd. We invite you to check out iconic parades like the «Hollywood Christmas Parade, »where famous artists and well-known characters make their way down the avenues of Hollywood Boulevard. Up next, we’ll share our definitive list of recommended Christmas parades in Los Angeles.
- Floating parade at the Port of Los Angeles
- The «Spirit of San Pedro» Christmas caravan,
- The Rose Parade.
- Christmas celebration march: «Boats in Marina del Rey».
- Boat Parade at King Harbor – Redondo Beach.
Grinchmas in Hollywood: an unmissable part of Los Angeles’s Christmas activities
Get your ticket to experience Grinchmas in Hollywood! This attraction, inspired by the classic character of the Grinch, is located at Universal Studios Hollywood and features an interactive replica of the whimsical and comedic world of everyone’s favorite holiday grouch. There, you can meet the Grinch in person, take photos with him, and enjoy live shows like the «Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular musical».
Christmas sign at Venice Beach
The lighting of the Christmas sign in Venice Beach marks the start of the holiday season in Los Angeles! The iconic sign, located on Windward Avenue, transforms each year into a colorful display of red and green lights, kicking off the festive spirit in Venice Beach and its surrounding neighborhoods. Don’t miss this attraction on your list of must-do Christmas activities in Los Angeles, CA!
The NYELA event at Grand Park + The Music Center
NYELA is an annual celebration held at Grand Park and The Music Center in Los Angeles to ring in the New Year. The event brings people together for a vibrant party full of music, entertainment, and fireworks. Throughout the evening, there are live performances by well-known artists, multiple stages featuring music from different genres, and a wide variety of food options. When midnight strikes, the sky lights up with a dazzling fireworks and sparkler show. Ready for the celebration? Be sure to add it to your list of things to do in Los Angeles this December!
Snow Day in Elysian Park
Snow Day is a December celebration held in Elysian Park, Los Angeles. During this winter event, the park transforms into a magical setting where artificial snow allows both travelers and California locals to enjoy a true winter experience.
During Snow Day, kids and adults can go sledding, build snowmen, and take part in other winter-themed activities. You’ll also find caroling concerts, food stands, and interactive games, everything you need for a more complete and festive Christmas adventure in LA.
Holiday In The Park Show
Holiday In The Park is celebrated at Six Flags Magic Mountain during the Christmas season. During this event, the theme park transforms into a winter wonderland filled with lights, festive decorations, choirs, theatrical performances, and holiday entertainment featuring characters like Santa Claus and his elves. There are also designated areas for ice skating and building snowmen with family and friends.
Holiday Lights Tour
Take a holiday lights tour in Los Angeles to explore different parts of the city known for their spectacular Christmas displays. Admire homes decked out with twinkling lights, inflatable figures, festive projections, and winter-themed decorations. Popular neighborhoods to visit during your light tour include Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills, Sleepy Hollow in Torrance, and Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena. In addition to these spots, we also recommend checking out the following light shows.
- Music Center Plaza, where Los Angeles’s official Christmas tree is lit.
- «Moonlight Forest Festival» eat the Los Angeles Botanical Garden.
- «Enchanted: Forest of Light» at Descanso Gardens.
- «Tree Lighting & Hot Chocolate Concert» at Union Station.
- Light Show at the Los Angeles Zoo.
- «Winter Glow» at Grand Park.
- «Lantern-Lit Christmas Celebration» at Heritage Square.
Looking for Christmas activities in Los Angeles? Check out the Original Farmers Market
Known as one of California’s most traditional markets, the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles is a top spot to visit during Christmas. With festive lights and decorated trees, shops and boutiques offering handmade holiday gifts, and restaurants serving seasonal treats like tamales, punch, and gingerbread, the market creates a warm and inviting holiday atmosphere. It also features outdoor ice skating rinks, children’s choirs, and photo ops with Santa Claus, making it one of LA’s most popular Christmas attractions. Be sure to visit this iconic market during your trip along the West Coast of the USA!
Caroling Concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall
As you enter the Walt Disney Concert Hall, you’ll be greeted by a lobby adorned with garlands, towering Christmas trees, and sculptures of iconic Disney characters dressed in festive holiday outfits. The concert stage is set against a wintry backdrop featuring snow-covered trees and charming little houses. A choir and exceptional musicians, led by a conductor, take the stage dressed in red, green, and gold attire. Throughout the concert, you’ll enjoy a bright and joyful overture, classic carols, and holiday songs. The performances are emotionally captivating, with original arrangements and exquisite vocal harmonies!
Visit the shopping districts: Rodeo Drive, The Grove, or Hollywood Hills
Get ready for a luxurious and festive experience! Up next, we’ll tell you about the most tempting shopping areas to visit in Los Angeles during Christmas.
- Rodeo Drive: Step into an elegantly decorated street where world-renowned stores are wrapped in lights and garlands, and window displays showcase festive holiday themes. High-end brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co. often feature dazzling decorations, mannequins dressed in holiday attire, and glamorous Christmas trees adorned with jewels and luxury items.
- The Grove: This popular open-air shopping center turns into a Christmas wonderland during the month of December. As you enter, a towering Christmas tree greets you with sparkling lights. Beyond the shops, you can enjoy an ice-skating rink, nightly holiday ceremonies, and festive decorations featuring reindeer and snowflakes.
- Hollywood Hills: Experience Christmas in a glamorous setting with unmatched views of Los Angeles. As you make your way through the hills, you’ll spot the elegant homes of celebrities, beautifully and tastefully decorated for the season.
Visiting Disneyland: One of the best Christmas activities to do in Los Angeles
Step into the holiday magic of Disneyland California! Wander down avenues dusted with artificial snow, browse shops adorned in Victorian-style decor, and enjoy Christmas melodies floating through the air. Seasonal attractions like the LEGO Santa and Sleeping Beauty’s Castle are transformed into winter wonders, Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle shines with lights, fireworks, and frost projections to create the perfect December atmosphere. Throughout the day, the park comes alive with themed parades and live shows in various areas. Don’t miss the «A Christmas Fantasy Parade», where Disney characters appear in festive costumes aboard decorated floats. You can also catch musical performances like «Believe… in Holiday Magic» and «World of Color – Season of Light», which immerse you in the spirit of Christmas through music, lights, and special effects.
Lighting at the Los Angeles Zoo
L.A. Zoo Lights is the light show that illuminates the Los Angeles Zoo during the holiday season. Trees, shrubs, and structures are lit up with creative and dazzling designs, bringing different themes and scenes to life. Some displays feature animated lights that mimic the movement of animals or elements related to Christmas. In addition to enjoying the lights, you can take part in interactive activities like meeting Santa Claus and his elves, making crafts, playing games, and getting up close with some of the zoo’s animals.
Ice skating on the Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is a ship located near Long Beach, California. During the Christmas season, it transforms into an outdoor ice rink made of real ice, offering an authentic skating experience where you can rent skates or bring your own. One of the highlights of skating at the Queen Mary is the stunning panoramic views of the ocean and the Long Beach skyline. As you glide across the rink, you’ll be able to take in the scenery and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
Holiday Cheer on the Santa Monica Pier
During Holiday Cheer, the Santa Monica Pier is decorated with lights, garlands, and a Christmas tree that becomes the central spot for photos and celebrations. Around Christmas, it’s common to see performances by local artists, including live music, dance groups, carolers, and other entertainment that spreads festive cheer. If you’re looking for holiday gifts, you’ll likely find pop-up shops offering everything from local crafts to themed souvenirs.
Santa’s Cottage
Santa’s Cottage in Los Angeles recreates Santa Claus’s home at the North Pole. The main attraction of this themed space is the chance to meet and greet Santa in person, share your Christmas wishes, and take a photo with him. Give him your address, and who knows, he might just come down your chimney in the early hours of December 25!
Have you written your Christmas letter to Santa yet?
NBA Christmas Game
Combine the excitement of professional basketball with the festive atmosphere of the Christmas season. The NBA Christmas games take place every year on December 25 at Crypto Arena. For this special event, the NBA selects top-tier teams and some of the league’s biggest stars, often featuring historic rivalries or superstar matchups. Iconic teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, and Golden State Warriors are frequently part of the lineup. So if you’re spending Christmas in the city, don’t miss the chance to attend one of the most highly anticipated sporting events in American culture.
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is home to two exciting ski resorts: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, both offering a full range of slopes for skiers of all levels, ranging from beginners to experts. The area also features ski schools for those looking to learn or sharpen their skills. In addition, Big Bear Lake has sledding parks like Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, perfect for thrilling downhill rides on sleds, whether on slides or specially designed snow tracks. Glide down the slopes at full speed and feel the rush! Be sure to add this spot to your list of Christmas activities to enjoy near Los Angeles.
Visit nearby towns
Visiting towns near Los Angeles during Christmas is one of the most amazing plans for your winter vacation. Up next, we’ll name the most captivating tourist destinations in the area.
- Solvang: Located about two hours northwest of Los Angeles, Solvang is a charming Danish village that comes to life at Christmas. Its cobblestone streets are decorated with festive lights and holiday décor. Here, you can enjoy Christmas markets, sample delicious Danish pastries, and shop for unique gifts in the local stores.
- Santa Barbara: With its pleasant year-round climate, Santa Barbara dresses up in dazzling lights and themed decorations for the holidays. At Christmas, you can stroll down State Street, which is lined with shops and restaurants near festive light displays and holiday parades.
- Ventura: Located north of Los Angeles, Ventura is known for its laid-back vibe and beachside charm. During Christmas, the city transforms into a festive spot filled with lights and decorations. We recommend visiting the market in the historic downtown plaza, enjoying live music, and exploring local shops to find unique holiday gifts.
- Ojai: This peaceful town, nestled in a mountain valley, offers a serene and cozy atmosphere during Christmas. Its streets are decorated with lights and garlands, perfect for a stroll where you’ll find craft shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
Where to stay in Los Angeles during Christmas?
Los Angeles offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Below are our top recommendations for places to stay during the Christmas season:
- West Hollywood: This area is known for its vibrant nightlife and convenient location near popular attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre. You’ll mostly find luxury hotels here.
- Santa Monica: In addition to its beautiful beaches, Santa Monica features a lively pier and plenty of shops and restaurants. You can stay in beachfront hotels or opt for more budget-friendly hostels a bit farther from the coast.
- Downtown Los Angeles: This area offers a wide range of accommodations, including luxury hotels, 3-star options, and hostels. Stay here to be close to major attractions like the Staples Center and the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
- Beverly Hills: If you’re looking for a luxury experience, consider staying in Beverly Hills. Here you’ll find high-end hotels, designer shops, and exclusive restaurants. You’ll also be close to iconic spots like Rodeo Drive.
- Hollywood: If you want to be near Los Angeles’s main tourist attractions, stay in Hollywood. This area offers everything from budget-friendly accommodations to 5-star hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do on December 25 in Los Angeles?
Some of the best activities to enjoy on Christmas Day in Los Angeles include:
- See Christmas lights in various locations around the city.
- Visit light displays at Descanso Gardens or the Los Angeles Botanical Garden.
- Go ice skating at Pershing Square or on the Queen Mary.
- Enjoy a festive meal at a holiday-themed restaurant.
- Attend the NBA Christmas Day game.
Where to see Christmas lights in Los Angeles
Here are the top recommended spots to enjoy festive light displays in LA:
- The Grove.
- Rodeo Drive.
- Candy Cane Lane.
- Santa Monica Pier.
- Altadena Christmas Tree Lane.
When is the Christmas parade in Los Angeles?
The Hollywood Christmas Parade usually takes place in late November or early December.
From Viajemos.com, we hope these recommendations make your holiday season an unforgettable experience in the City of Angels. If you’re looking for more tips, fascinating destinations, or unique activities to enjoy during this time of year, explore our blog and keep fueling your next adventures.
Happy Holidays and see you in the next article! 🎄❄️
