The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better place to experience the magic of Christmas than in Los Angeles County. From twinkling light displays to festive parades and enchanting winter wonderlands, the county offers a plethora of events that capture the spirit of the season. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these Christmas events promise to create unforgettable memories for the whole family. Join us as we explore the best Christmas happenings in Los Angeles County that are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday celebrations.

Important Note: Please visit the websites of attractions before visiting for the latest information and particular guidelines that apply per listed attraction.  Information may change after posting on our website.

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Christmas Events Arcadia

Arcadia – Tree Lighting

The City of Arcadia hosts its annual Tree Lighting Celebration on the first Thursday of December. The event features the official lighting of the tree by Arcadia’s Mayor and a special visit from Santa Claus. The celebration includes free hot cocoa, treats, strolling carolers, face painting, balloon twisting, kids’ crafts, and a photo with Santa! The tree lighting marks the beginning of fun holiday festivities in Arcadia.

Dates: December 4, 2025 at 6 PM
Location: Arcadia Transit Plaza
Website: Arcadia Tree Lighting

Christmas Events Calabasas

Calabasas – Holiday Road

If you’re looking for Calabasas Christmas events, you can experience the immersive Holiday Road event. It features thousands of Christmas lights, candy canes galore, elves, and Santa and Mrs. Claus.  Trek to the North Pole, see Elf Village and wander down Gingerbread Lane. Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in a festive winter wonderland.

Dates: November 28 – December 27, 2025
Location: 26800 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302
https://holidayroadusa.com/

Stay Nearby – Good Nite Inn Calabasas
Rated 8.2 on Expedia

Christmas Events Claremont

Claremont – Luminaria Nights at California Botanic Garden

Come Glow at California Botanic Garden this December. Walk through 35 acres of luminaria at the California Botanic Garden. Festive music is provided by local musicians at the new indoor/outdoor Lewis Family Forest Pavillion and the Sage Gallery. Enjoy hot chocolate near the garden’s bonfire.

Dates: December 5-20, 2025 (select nights)Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
Location: 1500 N College Ave, Claremont, CA 91711
Website: https://www.calbg.org/events-programs/luminaria-nights

Stay Nearby – DoubleTree by Hilton Claremont
Rated 8.6 on Expedia

Christmas Events Hollywood

Hollywood – Hollywood Christmas Parade

2025 marks the 93rd anniversary of this annual event. With a route that traverses Hollywood Boulevard through Sunset Boulevard, the parade features equestrians, marching bands, floats, celebrities, and of course, Santa Claus.

Dates: November 30, 2025
Location: Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards 
https://thehollywoodchristmasparade.org/

Hollywood – The Nutcracker with Los Angeles Ballet

The Los Angeles Ballet’s rendition of The Nutcracker offers a unique Southern California twist to the classic holiday tale. It is a cherished tradition alongside other local festivities like the tree lighting at The Grove. Audiences follow young Clara and the Nutcracker as they venture through a memorable battle with the Mouse King and explore enchanting locales such as the Land of Snow and the Palace of the Dolls.

Dates: December 12-28, 2025
Website: https://www.losangelesballet.org/2025-2026-season/the-nutcracker

Stay Nearby – Loews Hollywood a
Rated 9 out of 10 on Expedia

Christmas Events La Cañada Flintridge

La Cañada Flintridge – Enchanted at Descanso Gardens

Enchanted at Descanso Gardens is a captivating nighttime experience where the garden transforms into a realm of magic and mystery. Visitors can explore whimsical installations that light up the night with color and music, such as the enchanting “stained glass” houses by Tom Fruin and the geometric wonders from HYBYCOZO.

The event, which runs regardless of weather, promises a magical stroll through beautifully lit landscapes, including the Ancient Forest and Flower Power on the Promenade. Remember to bundle up against the chilly evening air and enjoy hot drinks and treats along the way. Tickets require advance purchase with timed entry.

Dates: Now through January 4, 2026
Location: 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Advance purchase of tickets is required. Tickets are NOT sold on-site
Website: https://www.descansogardens.org/events-and-activities/enchanted/

Christmas Events Long Beach

Long Beach – Long Beach Nutcracker

The Long Beach Ballet is set to delight audiences once again with its annual holiday presentation of The Nutcracker. Known for its exceptional production quality, this year’s show features a full symphony orchestra, a flying sleigh, on-stage pyrotechnics, and even a live horse. With enchanting scenery by former Disney designers and special effects by renowned magician Franz Harary, the performance promises magic and excitement for the whole family. 

Dates: December 13-14, 20-21, 2025
Location: Long Beach Terrace Theater – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA
Website:
https://longbeachnutcracker.com/

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Christmas Events Los Angeles

Los Angeles – Bob Baker’s Winter Wonderland

Bob Baker’s Holiday Special, Winter Wonderland, is a festivity spectacular that transforms BBMT into your home for the holidays! Join our host Demitrius Nova Twinklestar III (Demi Star for short) as he takes us on a magical tour of the holiday traditions of BBMT, complete with sledding slopes, caroling penguins, Santa’s workshop, and oh so much more! 

Our classic holiday show, formerly known as Holiday on Strings, has been reimagined by Co-Directors and Puppeteers Kahbia Sada and Caden Healander into a holiday special filled with celebratory fun for all, as familiar BBMT faces don their party clothes, break out the carols, and dance through twinkling stars into a new year.

Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Location: 4949 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Website: https://www.bobbakermarionettetheater.com/winter-wonderland/

Los Angeles – Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels

Attend Advent and Christmas services at the landmark Roman Catholic Cathedral in Los Angeles, serving over 5 million Catholics in the Los Angeles archdiocese.

December 15: Simbang Gabi – Join an unforgettable celebration at the Los Angeles Cathedral with Simbang Gabi, one of the oldest Filipino Christmas traditions. On December 15 at 6:30 PM, Archbishop José H. Gomez will preside over a special Mass presented by the Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere with the “Journeying together in Christ as pilgrims of Hope” led by a traditional music band, featuring over 120 parishes from the tri-county Archdiocese (LA, Santa Barbara, and Ventura). Don’t miss this magical event that brings together the Filipino community in a celebration of faith and culture.

Date: December 15, 2025
Location: 555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012-2707
https://olacathedral.org/

Los Angeles – Handel’s Messiah at The Cathedral

Experience the magic of Handel’s “Messiah” this Christmas at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. The DREAM Orchestra presents an extraordinary performance that promises to fill the cathedral’s stunning architecture with enchanting melodies and powerful, soaring vocals. This is more than just a concert; it’s an opportunity to indulge in a timeless masterpiece that resonates deeply with the spirit of the season. General admission is just $30, making it an accessible treat for both music lovers and those seeking a memorable holiday experience. Don’t miss out on this spectacular event.

Date: December 19, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: 555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012-2707
https://olacathedral.org/events/handels-messiah

Los Angeles – La Virgen de Guadalupe, Dios Inantzin

Experience a holiday tradition like no other with “La Virgen de Guadalupe, Dios Inantzin,” the largest theatrical holiday production in Los Angeles. Held at the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, this vibrant pageant brings together over 100 actors, singers, and indigenous Aztec dancers, celebrating the remarkable story of Juan Diego and his encounters with the Virgin Mary in 1531. Adapted for the stage by Evelina Fernández, this performance is a gift of love, hope, and faith to the city, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. Performed in Spanish with English supertitles, it’s a spectacle that unites and inspires audiences from all walks of life.

Dates: December 5-6, 2025
Location: 555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012-2707
https://www.latinotheaterco.org/lavirgen

Los Angeles – Los Angeles Philharmonic

Celebrate the holiday season with music at The Music Center.  Events in 2025 include:

(All not yet updated for 2025)
December 5-7, 2025: Home Alone in Concert
December 2, 2024 – L.A. County Holiday Tree Lighting (Jerry Moss Plaza) (Not yet updated for 2025)
December 13, 2025: Holiday Sing-Along (Walt Disney Concert Hall)
December 15, 2025: A Chanticleer Christmas – Deck the Halls Holiday Concert (Walt Disney Concert Hall)
December 16, 2025: Holiday Brass
December 18-21, 2025: Ellington’s Nutcracker & Tchaikovsky’s “Winter Daydreams”
December 23, 2025: Arturo Sandoval Swinging Holiday (Walt Disney Concert Hall)
December 24, 2025: L.A. County Holiday Celebration (Dorothy Chandler Pavilion) – 3 pm to 6 pm
December 31, 2025: New Year’s Eve with The Roots

Admission: Varies by event
Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall

Stay Nearby – JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE
Rated 4.6 on Expedia

Los Angeles – LA Zoo – Animals Aglow

LA Zoo Lights is an awe-inspiring holiday adventure that invites you to explore a stunning landscape adorned with captivating lantern sculptures of animals and blooming flowers. Immerse yourself in the beauty of towering trees and discover new seasonal wonders, such as the enchanting Winter Wildlands boasting majestic pine trees, glowing ice crystals, and snow-loving animals. Marvel at the mesmerizing “northern lights” views and capture unforgettable holiday snaps at the spectacular photo spots. For an extraordinary experience, VIP options and a sensory-inclusive evening are available. Don’t miss this special celebration of nature right in the heart of Los Angeles.

Dates: November 13, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Location: 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
https://www.lazoo.org/plan-your-visit/special-experiences/zoolights/

Los Angeles – Pershing Square Holiday Ice Rink

Downtown Los Angeles is transformed with an ice-skating rink for the holiday season.  Surrounded by city skyscrapers, you can set your skates on the ice and enjoy a unique winter experience.  Admission includes the cost of skate rentals. Lockers are available for an extra fee.

Dates: November 20, 2025 through January 11, 2026
Location: 532 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Website: https://holidayicerinkdowntownla.com/

Los Angeles – Yuletide Cinemaland

Enjoy holiday screenings in a Charles Dickens-style atmosphere. Street Food Cinema presents this holiday event in Heritage Square.  See holiday movies, including Elf, Home Alone, The Muppet Christmas Carol, and more.  This event includes Victorian home tours, lighted decorations, and piano sing-alongs. Holiday drinks are available, including hot chocolate and mulled wine.

Dates:
December 13, 2025: The Nightmare Before Christmas, How The Grinch Stole Christmas
December 20, 2025: The Santa Clause, The Santa Clause 2
December 21, 2025: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Muppet Christmas Carol
December 22, 2025: Home Alone, Home Alone 2
December 23, 2025: Elf, Home Alone
Location: Heritage Square Museum – 3800 Homer St, Los Angeles, CA 
www.streetfoodcinema.com/schedule

Christmas Events Marina del Rey

Marina del Rey – Holiday Boat Parade

Watch the annual parade of lights in Marina del Rey. This event has been happening since 1963.  This year, you can see more than 100 boats as they sail with lighted displays to the sound of Christmas music The theme for 2025 was chosen to be “A Nightmare Before Christmas”.

Dates: December 13, 2025
Time: 5:45 pm – 6 pm (Lightshow); 6 pm-8 pm (Holiday Boat Parade)
Viewing locations: Burton Chace Park – 13650 Mindanao Way; Fisherman’s Village – 13755 Fiji Way
https://mdrboatparade.org/

Stay Nearby – Inn at Playa del Rey
Rated 4.7 on Expedia

Christmas Events Newhall

Newhall – A Christmas Story

Canyon Theatre Guild presents “A Christmas Story”. All of the classic scenes, including the exploding furnace, Scut Farkas, wet tongue on a cold lamppost, the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin, and the leg lamp, are all here! Bring the whole family, heck… bring the whole neighborhood and the cast promises they will not “shoot your eye out kid!”

Date: November – December 2025 (select dates)
Location: 24242 Main Street, Newhall, CA 91321 
Website: https://www.canyontheatre.org/2025-26-season

Christmas Events Northridge

Northridge – Christmas Liturgy – Traditional Latin Mass

Catholic worshipers may want to experience mass in the traditional Latin setting. St. Vitus parish in Northridge offers the mass of the ages in the ancient style, which has earned the reputation as “the most beautiful thing this side of heaven.”

Advent and Christmas are as good a time as any to become acquainted with the traditional liturgy of the Catholic church.

Times: Check the parish website for the mass schedule
Location: 9710 White Oak Ave, Northridge, CA 91325
http://www.fssp.la/

Christmas Events Pasadena

Pasadena – The Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet

Share the joy of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet with family and friends. Give the gift of a spectacular holiday experience featuring an international cast, whimsical puppetry and opulent costumes and sets, hand-crafted by the finest artisans of Europe.

Go back to a simpler time and make memories the family will cherish forever. Celebrate the season with America’s most beloved Nutcracker tradition! Tchaikovsky’s timeless score sets the stage for a Christmas the family will never forget. Get tickets today!

Dates: November 22, 2025
Location: Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 Green Street, Pasadena, CA
Website: https://www.visitpasadena.com/events/nutcracker-magical-christmas-ballet/

Christmas Events Pomona

Pomona – Downtown Pomona Christmas Parade

Bring a chair and watch the annual holiday parade. See bands, drill teams, dance groups, equestrians, and more.  Starting near Centennial Park at Gibbs and Second St., the parade will cruise down Second Street, head down Park Avenue, and wrap up by Pomona City Hall.​

But the fun doesn’t stop there! After the parade, come hang out at Holiday at the Plaza at Shaun Diamond Plaza until 9 p.m.  There’ll be food, entertainment, and plenty of holiday cheer for everyone!

Date: December 13, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: Downtown Pomona, California
Website: https://www.downtownpomona.org/holidayparade

Pomona – Imaginarium: Holiday-Themed Light Spectacular

Imaginarium at Fairplex is back, offering an enchanting experience perfect for visitors of all ages. This year features new attractions like immersive activity rooms that engage attendees in the action alongside classic carnival rides and games. Wander through grounds illuminated by millions of lights, including the renowned rose garden adorned with countless LEDs. Enjoy whimsical encounters with holiday and storybook characters in enchanted forests, and explore mirrored worlds that captivate the senses. Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa and capture the magic, available on select nights through December 24th. Secure your tickets now for a holiday experience filled with wonder and joy!

Date: November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Location: Pomona Fairplex – 1101 W. McKinley Ave. in Pomona, CA – Gate Number 17
Information: https://imaginarium360.com/pomona-ca/

Christmas Events Rancho Palos Verdes

Rancho Palos Verdes – Astra Lumina

South Coast Botanic Gardens presents Astra Lumina LA. The immersive night walk experience uses light, scenography, original soundscape, and projection to draw you into an imaginative world. The celestial pathway includes illuminated archways, lanterns, and trails. Stargazers experience a multi-sensory experience with a celestial pathway to discovering the sky’s wonders. The experience lasts about 60 minutes and is suitable for visitors of all ages.

Dates: Now through January 31, 2026
Location: 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
Website: https://astralumina.com/los-angeles/

Christmas Events Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita – Holidays at the Farm

Join the Holidays at the Farm event at Gilchrist Farm, where you can enjoy a festive day of free family fun every weekend! Experience the magic with Santa visits, a daily parade featuring pony carts and classic tractors, and live music. Participate in exciting activities such as goat milking demonstrations, pig races, and various crafts at Santa’s Workshop. 

Date: December 6-21, 2025 (weekends only)
Admission: Free
Time: 9 am – 5 pm. Santa onsite from 10 am-3 pm (Santa will also be present during the private ticketed Breakfast with Santa Event from 8-10 am) 
Location: Gilchrest Farm – 30116 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita
Website: https://www.gilchristfarm.com/holiday-hoedown

Christmas Events Santa Monica

Santa Monica – Ice at Santa Monica

Experience the enchantment of the beloved Ice at Santa Monica. Located at the corner of Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue, this magical ice rink brings festive cheer and holiday joy to our vibrant beachside community. Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland filled with laughter and merriment. Indulge in delicious bites from two renowned Downtown Santa Monica restaurants, Cafe Ugo and Stefano’s Pizzeria. Treat yourself to mouthwatering handmade pizza, delectable gelato, and specialty hot chocolates. Create memories just blocks from the Pacific Ocean at Santa Monica’s downtown ice-skating rink.

Dates: November 7, 2025 – January 19, 2026
Location: 1324 5th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401
General Admission (including skate rental): $24.05
https://iceatsantamonica.com/

Christmas Events Universal City

Universal City – Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood goes big time during winter with Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood. It’s the biggest, loudest, and most awesome celebration in Hollywood.  See Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where Hogwarts castle lights up for the holidays. Enjoy hot Butterbeer and shop for holiday gifts.  You can also celebrate Grinchmas, meet the maven of mischief and his dog, Max, and witness a Whoville-inspired Christmas tree celebration. 

Dates: Select dates Winter 2025
Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Admission: Check the Universal Studios website for ticket price information and options. 
Website: Holidays at Universal Studios

Stay Nearby – The Garland 
Rated 9.4 on Expedia

Christmas Events Valencia

Valencia – Six Flags Magic Mountain Holiday in the Park

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season in the Winter Wonder Lands at Six Flags Magic Mountain.  The outdoor event features millions of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and seasonal food offerings. Enjoy the spirit of the season with your loved ones when Six Flags Magic Mountain transforms into a winter wonderland.

Dates: Select evenings November 27, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Location: 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355
Website: https://www.sixflags.com/magicmountain/events

Stay Nearby – Holiday Inn Express Valencia-Santa Clarita 
Rated 9.4 on Expedia

Bookmark our Los Angeles County Christmas Events Guide

L.A. County offers many things to do between November and January to keep you in the holiday spirit.  We hope you’ve found this Los Angeles Christmas Events directory helpful and wish you a wonderful winter season.  Thanks for visiting our website.

We hope to see you at the places where we go.

Julie & Art

Check out more seasonal event guides

Halloween events in Southern California – Bookmark it for next year!
Julefest Christmas in Solvang, California
Celebrate Victorian Christmas in Nevada City, California

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