While it probably won’t snow in Los Angeles, there are plenty of Christmas events and other holiday activities to enjoy. From Christmas light displays to parades, theme parks to movies, Los Angeles isn’t lacking in holiday spirit. The following is a list of the best events you can participate in this season.
The LA Zoo Lights
The Los Angeles Zoo in Griffith Park is inviting visitors to take part in an immersive landscape of lights and lantern sculptures this Christmas season. The zoo has a long tradition of lights on the holidays, but the “Animals Aglow” event is entirely new. The seasonal celebration features larger-than-life lantern animal sculptures along a colorful trail of lights. The event lasts until January 5, 2025, but be sure to visit the zoo’s website for details and to buy tickets.
“A Christmas Carol”
Has showings until December 23 at A Noise Within’s classic theater in Pasadena, so you don’t want to miss out on this classic. “A Christmas Carol” is Charles Dickens’ tale of becoming a better person through holiday spirit, directed in this case by Geoff Elliott and Julia Rodriguez-Elliott. The play stars Elliott and other resident artists of the theater company, all of whom are among Los Angeles’ best classical actors. Visit the theater’s website for more information and tickets.
Christmas at Santa’s Village
Lasting until January 5, 2025, Lake Arrowhead’s Santa’s Village is one place where you might find snow. The village features light displays, a train ride, and a nighttime walk through the forest. There’s ice skating, snacks, and plenty of things to do. You can even enjoy breakfast with Santa or tea with Mrs. Claus with a separate ticket. Visit the village’s website for details and ticket information.
The Marina Del Rey Boat Parade
Whether you gather at Fisherman’s Village or Burton Chace Park, the view of the Marina Del Rey Boat Parade is undoubtedly a unique experience. Boats compete to win in categories including Best Theme, Best Animation, Best Lights, and more. Seventy boats will pass you in the marina, boasting holiday lights and other decorations. The event takes place on December 14, beginning at 5:55 pm with a fireworks show, and the boat parade starts at 6 pm.
Yuletide Cinemaland
Until December 23, Street Food Cinema is hosting a series of outdoor activities. With a cup of hot chocolate, you can enjoy a stroll through a light tunnel, take part in a piano sing-along, or even go on a Victorian home tour before stopping to watch an outdoor holiday screening. With classic films like Elf, Home Alone, The Muppet Christmas Carol, and more, Yuletide Cinemaland is full of holiday cheer. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit Street Food Cinema’s website.
“The Nutcracker”
The Los Angeles Ballet is performing “The Nutcracker” with a distinct SoCal twist in Westwood, Pasadena, and Hollywood theaters until December 28 this holiday season. The ballet is a classic show filled with excitement and dance for the whole family. The show will have ten performances in Hollywood, with an orchestra accompanying it. Visit the Los Angeles Ballet website for more information.
The Los Angeles Christmas Market
Situated in the Downtown Arts District at ROW DTLA, the Los Angeles Christmas Market aims to bring you the experience of a European Christmas market. The event features festive food and drink, ranging from schnitzel to eggnog, and plenty of opportunities for Christmas shopping, photos, and holiday activities. Visit the Eventbrite page for more information on tickets.
Christmas in LA
All in all, Los Angeles looks like a festive place during Christmas. From classic shows to modern takes on the holidays, there is plenty to do in the city.
