Best of LA’s 2024 Guide to the Holidays in Los Angeles
Los Angeles may not have snow-dusted streets or freezing temperatures, but it offers a truly magical holiday season filled with glittering lights, festive celebrations, and unique West Coast charm. From ice skating beneath palm trees to spectacular light displays that rival the glow of the stars above, the City of Angels knows how to celebrate the season in style. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover holiday cheer or a visitor eager to embrace the city’s diverse festivities, Los Angeles has something to make your holidays unforgettable.
From the bustling streets of Downtown to the serene shores of Marina del Rey, LA’s neighborhoods transform into hubs of holiday joy. Think dazzling boat parades, immersive gardens aglow, and nostalgic train rides perfect for families or date nights. Grab your favorite scarf (yes, it gets chilly here at night!) and a cup of hot cocoa – this holiday guide will take you through the best events and attractions the city has to offer.
LA ZOO LIGHTS
November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025
The LA Zoo transforms into a dazzling wonderland during the holiday season with its beloved Zoo Lights event. Wander through illuminated animal-shaped lanterns, shimmering tunnels, and themed displays that bring the zoo’s pathways to life after dark. This year’s highlights include a glow-in-the-dark carousel and a festive light show synchronized to holiday music. Perfect for kids and adults alike, it’s a holiday outing that’s both whimsical and educational. While the animals take a well-deserved rest, you’ll still find plenty to explore, including seasonal treats and hot cocoa stands scattered throughout. It's a wild holiday adventure you won't want to miss.
BOB BAKER MARIONETTE THEATER — HOLIDAY ON STRINGS
November 16, 2024 - January 12, 2025
Step into a whimsical world of nostalgia and puppetry at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s Holiday on Strings, a beloved Los Angeles tradition that has delighted audiences for generations. Performed at the historic Bob Baker Marionette Theater, this festive show brings to life over 100 hand-crafted puppets in a heartwarming celebration of the holiday season. With glittering snow queens, dancing candy canes, and jazzy reindeer, the performance blends music, artistry, and storytelling to enchant both children and adults. The intimate, vintage theater setting adds to the magic, making you feel like a guest in a timeless holiday party. After the show, audience members are treated to a serving of Bob Baker’s signature ice cream cups, a charming nod to its retro roots. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, this whimsical event is sure to add a dash of joy and wonder to your holiday season.
ENCHANTED FOREST OF LIGHT AT DESCANSO GARDENS
November 17, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Escape to a world of whimsy at the Enchanted Forest of Light, an immersive experience set within the sprawling beauty of Descanso Gardens. This nighttime spectacle features a mile-long path illuminated by interactive displays and vibrant art installations. Walk through tunnels of sparkling lights, step into glowing forests, and marvel at the kaleidoscopic “Celestial Shadows” exhibit. It’s an ideal outing for families, couples, or anyone seeking a serene yet magical holiday escape. Be sure to book tickets in advance – this event is wildly popular. Pair your visit with a stop at the garden’s café for a warm drink under the stars.
HOLIDAY ICE RINK AT PERSHING SQUARE
November 21, 2024 – January 12, 2025
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, the Holiday Ice Rink at Pershing Square brings a touch of winter magic to the city. Surrounded by skyscrapers, this iconic open-air rink offers a quintessential holiday experience, complete with twinkling lights and a festive atmosphere. Perfect for skaters of all levels, it’s a great spot for a romantic outing or a family-friendly adventure. Don’t miss themed skate nights and special performances, which add even more excitement to the experience. Afterward, grab a bite at one of the nearby restaurants or coffee shops to warm up. It’s a classic holiday activity that captures the spirit of LA in the wintertime.
THE GROVE
November 25, 2024 – January 1, 2025
The Grove embraces the holiday season with spectacular flair, making it one of Los Angeles’ most cherished destinations for festive fun. The highlight is a towering 100-foot white fir tree brought in from Mt. Shasta, adorned with 15,000 dazzling lights and 10,000 glittering ornaments. Infused with the warm, inviting aroma of NEST New York’s Holiday scent, the tree not only sparkles but fills the air with the essence of Christmas. With its size and beauty, it’s a contender for holiday grandeur, rivaling even New York’s famed Rockefeller Center tree. The celebrations kick off on November 25 with the 23rd Annual Tree Lighting, featuring live performances, fireworks, and Santa Claus himself. From November 26 onward, visitors can stop by Santa’s Workshop for photo ops or enjoy the nightly snowfalls that transform The Grove into a winter wonderland, offering a magical holiday experience right in the heart of Los Angeles.
HOLIDAY TRAIN RIDE AT GRIFFITH PARK
November 29, 2024 – January 3, 2025
The Griffith Park & Southern Railroad transforms into a holiday wonderland with its annual Holiday Train Ride. Board the festive locomotive for a cozy journey through sparkling light displays and themed vignettes that delight visitors of all ages. The ride is short but enchanting, making it an ideal outing for families with young children or those looking for a quick holiday activity. Nearby, the historic carousel and picnic areas offer additional opportunities to soak up the seasonal cheer. Be sure to bundle up, as the evening chill adds to the festive atmosphere. Tickets sell fast, so plan ahead to secure your spot on this magical ride.
VENICE CANALS HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Throughout December 2024
Take a peaceful stroll through the Venice Canals, where the charming homes and bridges are adorned with twinkling holiday lights. This hidden gem of LA offers a quieter, more intimate holiday experience compared to the city's larger events. Walk along the picturesque waterways while soaking in the festive decorations, which range from understated elegance to over-the-top displays. It’s an Instagram-worthy outing, especially at dusk when the lights shimmer on the water. Bring a thermos of hot cocoa or cider to complete the experience. Whether you’re exploring solo, with friends, or on a date, this festive walk is pure magic.
The holidays in Los Angeles are anything but ordinary, blending traditional celebrations with the city’s signature flair. Whether you’re skating downtown, cruising through festive canals, or marveling at glowing gardens, every corner of the city offers its own take on the season’s magic. LA’s holiday events bring together locals and visitors in a celebration of community, creativity, and cheer.
As the season wraps up, these cherished experiences will leave you with warm memories to carry into the new year. Los Angeles may not be blanketed in snow, but its unique holiday spirit more than makes up for it. Celebrate the holidays, LA style – and don’t forget to soak in every moment of light, joy, and connection.
