Christmas 2026: Discover the Top Holiday Events and Experiences in Your City - Explore Now

Best Christmas Attractions and Experiences in Los Angeles 2026: Holiday Activities Guide

Experience the best Christmas events in Los Angeles in 2026, from Santa visits and ice skating to holiday train rides, workshops, and tastings.

Best Christmas Attractions and Experiences in Los Angeles 2026: Holiday Activities Guide

Celebrate the season with the best Christmas experiences in Los Angeles for 2026! From Santa visits and holiday train rides to ice skating, seasonal workshops, holiday races, and special attractions, there's something for visitors of every age to enjoy. These are the best Christmas events in Los Angeles this season!

The Best Christmas Attractions and Experiences in Los Angeles This Season

Whether you're planning a family outing, date night, or holiday adventure with friends, these are the best Christmas events in Los Angeles to enjoy throughout the 2026 season.

    1. Aquarium Holidays — Long Beach

    Photo Credit: Josh Barber | Aquarium of the Pacific

    The Aquarium of the Pacific transforms its oceanfront halls into a holiday destination each December, blending marine wonder with seasonal décor throughout its indoor galleries. Families can explore the aquarium's living exhibits while the building buzzes with holiday shopping and themed activities. It's a rare winter outing where Southern California's coastal energy replaces snow with saltwater, and kids stay genuinely absorbed from open to close.

    • Dates: December 5th-20th, 2026 (select weekends)
    • Admission: Included with general admission
    • Street Address: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
    • Kid Friendly: Yes
    • Pet Friendly: No
    • Parking: Paid parking available at the waterfront structure adjacent to the aquarium
    • Website: https://www.aquariumofpacific.org/ 

    Insider Tip: Check the aquarium's website for the specific weekend dates before planning your visit, as hours run 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on select days only.

    2. Queen Mary's Peppermint Lounge — Long Beach

    Step aboard the permanently moored Queen Mary and into one of Long Beach's most atmospheric seasonal pop-ups: a holiday bar and lounge set within the ship's storied interior. The Peppermint Lounge runs through December with specially curated cocktails and live music, drawing guests who come for the drinks and stay for the distinctive feeling of celebrating the season on a legendary ocean liner. The lounge runs evenings only, making it a natural anchor for a harbor-side night out.

    • Dates: December 1st-24th, 2026
    • Admission: Ticketed (Tickets on sale November 2026)
    • Street Address: 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach, CA 90802
    • Kid Friendly: No
    • Pet Friendly: No
    • Parking: Paid on-site parking available at the Queen Mary terminal
    • Website: www.queenmary.com/whatsondeck 

    Insider Tip: Look closely at the woodwork near the stage. This space originally served as the ship's First Class Main Lounge, and the surrounding rare tropical wood veneers were sourced from global logging expeditions in the 1930s.

    3. Queen Mary Holiday Bar Crawl — Long Beach

    Every Thursday in December, the Queen Mary opens its decks to a 21+ holiday bar crawl that turns the ship's historic corridors into a five-stop cocktail route. Participants pick up a passport at the Peppermint Lounge and work their way down through the ship's levels, sampling exclusive libations available only during the crawl,  until they reach No3, a secret speakeasy tucked deep below deck. The ship's iron-and-timber architecture makes each bar feel genuinely distinct from the last, and the passport format keeps the evening moving.

    • Dates: December 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th, 2026
    • Admission: Ticketed (Tickets on sale November 2026)
    • Street Address: 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach, CA 90802
    • Kid Friendly: No (Adults only, 21+)
    • Pet Friendly: No
    • Parking: Paid on-site parking available at the Queen Mary terminal
    • Website: www.queenmary.com/whatsondeck

    Insider Tip: Get your passport fully stamped at all five bars to claim the limited edition Queen Mary pin at the No3 speakeasy, quantities are limited.

    4. Enchant LA — Arcadia 

    After a highly successful debut season, Enchant Christmas returns to Southern California's historic Santa Anita Park with a fully elevated holiday production. The venue becomes a radiant winter playground anchored by the spectacular World's Largest Christmas Light Maze. Visitors can glide along the Ice Skating Trail beneath the towering light sculptures, race down the thrilling Snow Slide Adventure, or explore the vendor stalls at the Enchant Village marketplace. The second year layout has been completely redesigned with improved guest flow and arrival layouts to guarantee an even smoother evening experience from start to finish.

    • Dates: Select dates from Friday, November 20th through Sunday, December 27th, 2026
    • Admission: Ticketed
    • Street Address: Santa Anita Park, 285 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91007
    • Kid Friendly: Yes 
    • Pet Friendly: No (Racetrack venue guidelines)
    • Parking: On-site parking available at the main Santa Anita Park gates
    • Website: https://www.enchantchristmas.com/los-angeles/

    Insider Tip: Make sure to check out the expanded food and beverage gathering spaces scattered around the venue. The culinary team has added an array of new seasonal holiday flavors and warm specialty drinks this year, which you can sip right alongside the towering, glowing structures.

    5. 66th Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration — Los Angeles

    A cherished civic tradition returns to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion to display the rich cultural diversity of Los Angeles through music and dance. Dozens of local performing arts groups take the stage to share vibrant holiday traditions from around the globe. For 2026, the live showcase takes place on a Sunday rather than Christmas Eve, featuring two identical ninety minute shows. It offers a wonderful, admission free opportunity for families to come together and celebrate seasonal harmonies.

    Insider Tip: Seating inside the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is completely unreserved and fills quickly. Queue up at the main plaza doors at least one hour before showtime to get ideal seats in the center orchestra section.

    6. Christmas at the Farm — Moorpark

    Underwood Family Farms opens its Moorpark grounds for a festive agricultural holiday experience suitable for all ages. Visitors can enjoy tractor drawn wagon rides, animal encounters, giant slide rides, and holiday photo setups throughout the property. On weekends, the schedule expands to include draft horse sleigh rides, animal show performances, and direct visits with Santa Claus. It's a crisp, open air country outing where families can make lasting seasonal memories.

    • Dates: November 27th, 2026 through December 24th, 2026
    • Admission: Paid; Free for kids under 2
    • Street Address: 3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021
    • Kid-Friendly: Yes
    • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
    • Parking: Free on-site parking
    • Website: https://underwoodfamilyfarms.com/christmas-on-the-farm/

    Insider Tip: Weekend visits require purchasing your tickets online in advance starting November 1st. If you want to meet Santa without waiting in long lines, head straight to his booth right when weekend visits open at 11:00 AM.

    7. Castle Green Annual Holiday Tour — Pasadena

    Step back into Pasadena’s Gilded Age during the open house tour of the historic Castle Green landmark. Guests can explore the grand lobby, historic sunroom, vintage holding rooms, and private resident apartments dressed in classic period holiday decor. The self guided experience features live piano performances, lawn games, photo opportunities, and light refreshments. It presents a rare opportunity to step inside one of Southern California’s most architectural treasures.

    • Dates: Sunday, December 13th, 2026
    • Admission: Ticketed
    • Street Address: 99 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105
    • Kid-Friendly: Yes
    • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
    • Parking: School House Parking Structure at 33 E Green St and Del Mar Station Parking Structure
    • Website: https://www.visitpasadena.com/events/castle-green-holiday-tour/

    Insider Tip: Avoid trying to find street parking along Raymond Avenue. Park at the School House Parking Structure on Green Street, which is just a short one block walk from the main entrance gates.

    8. Rose Parade Float Decorating — Pasadena

    Get an exclusive behind the scenes look at the craftsmanship required to bring world famous floral floats to life. Visitors to the Rosemont Pavilion can observe dedicated volunteers and expert builders carefully affixing millions of fresh flowers, seeds, and bark to massive parade structures. Walking through the decorating facility offers a fascinating glimpse into the incredible artistry and engineering behind this iconic New Year's tradition. It's an inspiring experience for curious minds and aspiring floral designers alike.

    • Dates: December 28th, 2026 through December 30th, 2026
    • Admission: Ticket purchase required (Free for children 5 and under)
    • Street Address: 700 Seco St, Pasadena, CA 91103
    • Kid-Friendly: Yes
    • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
    • Parking: Free parking in designated lots near Rosemont Pavilion and Jackie Robinson Baseball Field
    • Website: https://tournamentofroses.com/event/decorating-places/

    Insider Tip: If you plan to use ride share services like Uber or Lyft, set your drop off location specifically to Parking Lot H off Seco Street to avoid getting detoured by Arroyo Seco park traffic barricades.

    9. 2026 Jingle Bell Run — Los Angeles

    Lace up your running shoes and put on your favorite holiday costume for a fun 5K run and walk at Griffith Park. Organized by the Arthritis Foundation, this long running charity event raises funds and awareness to support arthritis research and programs. Participants of all ages and fitness levels can run, jog, or stroll along the scenic course while enjoying holiday music and community cheer. It's an energetic morning outing that combines healthy activity with supporting a great cause.

    Insider Tip: Holiday attire is heavily encouraged! Don a Santa hat, reindeer antlers, or jingle bells on your shoes to take part in the costume contests and social photo ops before the race begins.

    10. 2026 Jingle Bell Run — Anaheim

    Gather your family, friends, and coworkers for a spirited morning 5K and 10K race near Angel Stadium in Anaheim. This community event brings runners and walkers together to dress in holiday gear while raising critical funds for the Arthritis Foundation. Participants can enjoy dynamic entertainment, energetic crowd support, and post race celebrations at the finish line. It offers a wonderful way to give back to the community while kicking off December with healthy active fun.

    Insider Tip: Arrive at Angel Stadium at least one hour before your designated start wave to comfortably park, pick up your race bib, and warm up with the crowd before hitting the course.

    11. 15th Annual Chino Valley YMCA Reindeer Romp 5K — Chino

    Lace up your running shoes for a holiday morning at Ayala Park supporting the Chino Valley YMCA. This annual family event features a 5K course that welcomes both competitive runners and relaxed walkers. Festive holiday spirit is fully encouraged, complete with a popular costume contest awarding the best dressed child and family. Every participant crosses the finish line to receive a commemorative race t-shirt and custom finisher medal. This Christmas event near Los Angeles brings an energetic, health focused way to kick off December while directly benefiting local youth programs.

    Insider Tip: Avoid the morning race lines by picking up your bib and packet on Friday, December 4th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Chino Valley YMCA facility.

    12. Merry Miles 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon — Long Beach

    CaliFlow Runs brings a vibrant holiday event to the coastal shores of Long Beach. Participants can choose between 5K, 10K, or half marathon distances along this oceanfront course with chip timing. The event doubles as a charity drive for the Long Beach Animal Shelter, inviting runners to bring pet supplies to spread cheer to rescue animals. At the finish line, runners enjoy holiday music from DJ Claus, photo ops at dedicated Elfie Stations, and hot cocoa.

    Insider Tip: Skip the paid meter fees at the main beach parking lot by arriving early to grab one of the free street parking spots along Ocean Boulevard.

    13. Jingle Bell 5K, 10K, 15K & Half Marathon — Valencia

    Gather at West Creek Park for a friendly, relaxed holiday fun run organized by A Better World Running. With four distinct distances ranging from a quick 5K to a half marathon, this event accommodates athletes of all fitness levels. The looped course design ensures clear navigation and frequent access to fully stocked aid stations. Participants receive a custom finisher medal, a drawstring goodie bag, and access to free digital race photography. It offers an affordable, low pressure environment to hit your end of year fitness goals.

    • Dates: Sunday, December 6th, 2026
    • Admission: Paid
    • Street Address: 24247 Village Circle Dr, Valencia, CA 91354
    • Kid-Friendly: Yes
    • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
    • Parking: Free parking available at West Creek Park lot and surrounding street parking
    • Website: http://www.abetterworldrunning.com/

    Insider Tip: Half marathon participants who need extra time to finish before the strict 10:45 AM course cut off can email organizers in advance to request an early start time.

    14. 5th Annual Santa Runs Griffith Park — Los Angeles

    Trek through the historic heart of Los Angeles as hundreds of costumed Santas take over Griffith Park. Featuring a 5K course and a more challenging 10K option, this event delivers panoramic views of city landmarks. The atmosphere attracts serious runners and fun seeking families alike to celebrate the season outdoors. Participants are greeted at the finish line with holiday treats and memorable photo ops. It's a fantastic tradition to experience one of LA's iconic parklands in full holiday spirit.

    Insider Tip: Traffic inside Griffith Park builds up quickly on race morning, so plan to arrive at least 45 minutes early to secure a parking space near the Crystal Springs drive area.

    15. Jingle Bell Jog — Long Beach

    High Tide Runs presents a coastal holiday race along the sandy shoreline of Alamitos Beach. Featuring 5K, 10K, 10-miler, and half marathon distances, this event offers a distance for every runner looking to clock merry miles. Participants are encouraged to wear Christmas apparel, from Santa hats to jingle bells on their running shoes. Every finisher receives a custom medal, free downloadable race photos, and post race snacks at the finish line. It offers a relaxed, ocean breeze backdrop for your holiday fitness routine.

    Insider Tip: Take advantage of early bib pick up on Saturday afternoon at Sports Basement Long Beach to pick up a special store discount and skip the check in lines on Sunday morning.

    16. A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K — Los Angeles

    Celebrate five years of Peanuts holiday magic with an officially licensed run through historic Griffith Park. This popular event features the Snoopy Kids Dash followed by a flat, fast out and back 5K and 10K course. Every registered participant receives a performance blend t-shirt, a custom bib, and an exclusive Peanuts finisher medal. The post race finish area features seasonal music, character photo backdrops, and refreshing snacks. Because this nationwide event series sells out fast, early registration is highly recommended.

    Insider Tip: This event has completely sold out three years in a row, so secure your registration entry early before the 2,000 participant cap is reached.

    17. Holiday Fun 5K, 10K, 15K & Half Marathon — Van Nuys

    Head to Lake Balboa at Woodley Park for a cheerful outdoor race hosted by A Better World Running. The flat, easy to follow looped course winds along picturesque park paths with aid stations positioned at every loop. Participants receive custom finisher medals, drawstring goodie bags, live chip-timed results, and access to free highlight videos. The informal, friendly community setting makes it a great choice for first time racers and experienced runners alike. A wide selection of snacks awaits all finishers at the completion tent.

    Insider Tip: Running with a group of five or more friends qualifies you for a $5 registration discount by emailing organizers directly before signing up.

    18. Santa Claus For A Cause 5K/10K — Huntington Beach

    Transform your morning run into a full coastal Christmas festival at Bolsa Chica State Beach. Participants run along the beach paths surrounded by falling artificial snow, live carolers, and holiday music displays. Registration includes your choice of a full Santa suit, cozy beanie, or shirt, plus a finisher medal that doubles as a Christmas tree ornament. The event supports global charity work, providing education and food supplies to villages in Africa and Nepal. Post race fun includes food trucks serving warm tamales, specialty coffee, and photo ops with Santa.

    Insider Tip: Save on state park parking fees by parking for free in the adjacent Sunset Beach neighborhood and enjoying a quick walk over to Lot 25.

    19. Reindeer Run Riverside 5K, 10K, 15K & Half Marathon — Riverside

    Ryan Bonaminio Park hosts a fun holiday run featuring open out and back loops for four distinct distances. Organized by A Better World Running, this event emphasizes an inclusive, community driven atmosphere suited for all ages. Runners receive chip timed live results, custom finisher medals, and drawstring bags packed with treats. The surrounding park greenery provides a pleasant backdrop for achieving your end of year fitness goals. It offers an easygoing way to stay active while celebrating the holiday season with family.

    Insider Tip: Arrive between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM to collect your race bib stress free before the joint 7:30 AM start time.

    20. Winter Runderland 5K, 10K, Half Marathon & Kids Dash — Long Beach

    Bring your holiday cheer to the shores of Long Beach for CaliFlow Runs' annual Winter Runderland showcase. Runners strap jingle bells to their shoes and run along a USATF certified coastal course. The finish line festival features a DJ spinning holiday remixes, photo opportunities with Santa Claus, and plenty of post race treats. Every participant earns a custom holiday medal to hang on their tree or display proudly. It offers an energetic blend of California ocean breezes and classic seasonal festivities.

    Insider Tip: Check out CaliFlow Runs' social media channels prior to the race for their #FreeEntryFriday giveaways to try and score a complimentary race entry.

    21. Santa's Toy Trot — Santa Monica

    Dash along the scenic coastal cliffs of Santa Monica during this holiday run hosted by High Tide Runs. Starting near Tongva Park and moving along Palisades Park, runners enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean throughout their course. Choose between 5K, 10K, and half marathon distances designed for both casual joggers and competitive athletes. All finishers walk away with a commemorative medal, free digital race photos, and finish line refreshments. It presents an invigorating, oceanfront outdoor experience to celebrate the winter season.

    Insider Tip: Ocean Avenue street parking is extremely limited, so park at the nearby Civic Center Parking Lot or take the Metro E Line directly to the Downtown Santa Monica station.

    22. Jingle Bell Jog 5K/10K — Newbury Park

    Set in the picturesque hills of Ventura County, this community event at Dos Vientos Community Park offers a great workout for all levels. The 5K features a family friendly route, while the 10K challenges runners with moderate hill climbs. Every registered participant receives a race t-shirt along with a customized 24 ounce Specialized water bottle. Top finishers across both distances will be recognized during the post race awards ceremony.

    Insider Tip: If you're signing up for the 10K course, prepare for moderate uphill sections along the back half of the route by pacing yourself early on.

    23. Reindeer Run GP 5K, 10K, 15K & Half Marathon — Los Angeles

    Celebrate the final weekend before Christmas with a morning run in historic Griffith Park. Starting near the iconic Merry-Go-Round lot, this A Better World Running event offers multiple distances along flat park loops. Participants earn custom finisher medals, goodie bags, and live online results tracking. The relaxed, community focused setting welcomes strollers, casual walkers, and speed runners looking for a personal best. Finish line refreshments and free downloadable photo reels round out this fun seasonal tradition.

    Insider Tip: Look for the start banner on the grass picnic area located between the Merry-Go-Round parking lot and the intersection of Crystal Springs Drive and Fire Road.

    24. Winter Whirl 5K, 10K & Half Marathon — Fountain Valley

    Spin into the holiday weekend at Mile Square Park with a coastal inspired winter run hosted by High Tide Runs. Runners complete a smooth, paved looped course winding through the park's scenic green spaces and lake views. This event features professional timing, fully stocked water stations, and finish line treats for all participants. Every runner receives a custom finisher medal, with special placement awards given to top overall male and female runners. It's a fantastic, sunny Southern California alternative to cold weather winter runs.

    Insider Tip: Use Parking Lot D inside Mile Square Park (located directly across from 11014 Lavender Ave) for the shortest walk to the registration tent.

    25. The Jingle Bell Dash & Santa Paws Doggie Run — Long Beach

    Dash into the weekend before Christmas with an oceanfront run along Granada Beach in Long Beach. CaliFlow Runs hosts this cheerful holiday event featuring course distances for every age and ability, including a Kids Dash, 1-Miler, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and a dog friendly Santa Paws run. Participants receive jingle bells to fasten to their shoes, a custom holiday finisher medal, free downloadable photos, and live chip timed results. The finish line festival keeps the energy high with a live DJ, holiday costume contest, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus.

    Insider Tip: Half marathon runners have an earlier 7:00 AM start time, while 5K and 10K runners start at 8:30 AM. Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes prior to your start time as organizers enforce a strict no late starts policy.

    26. Feliz Navidad Run 5K, 10K, Half Marathon & Kids Dash — Long Beach

    Celebrate the holiday season with a vibrant Mexican inspired fiesta right along the Long Beach coastline. CaliFlow Runs brings the energy and beach views together for a morning complete with colorful decorations, live DJ music, and optional jingle bells for your shoes. Participants navigate an USATF certified course before crossing the finish line to claim a custom finisher medal and holiday treats. The event welcomes runners, walkers, and families of all skill levels to join in the seaside fun. A costume contest highlights the post race festivities with awards for the most festive outfits.

    Insider Tip: Arrive well before your distance start time because organizers enforce a strict no late start policy to keep all race waves running smoothly.

    27. Holly Jolly Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K — Camarillo

    Hit the smooth, paved paths of Ventura County for an end of year endurance challenge. Hosted at Pleasant Valley Fields Park within the Village at the Park Sports Complex, this USATF certified event features a flat course along the scenic Camarillo bike path. Because the entire route is completely closed to vehicle traffic, runners can focus entirely on pacing and enjoying the crisp winter air. Crossing the finish line earns you a celebratory post race meal featuring fresh street tacos. It offers a relaxed yet officially timed venue to hit your personal best.

    • Dates: Sunday, December 20th, 2026
    • Admission: Paid
    • Street Address: 150 Westpark Ct, Camarillo, CA 93012
    • Kid-Friendly: Yes
    • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
    • Parking: Free parking available on-site at the Pleasant Valley Fields Park lot
    • Website: http://www.runreg.com/holly-jolly-marathon-2026

    Insider Tip: The traffic free bike path course makes this race an ideal choice for runners aiming to qualify for major marathons on a flat, certified route.

    28. Reindeer Run LB 5K, 10K, 15K & Half Marathon — Long Beach

    Gather near 54th Place and Ocean Boulevard for a low pressure, friendly community run hosted by A Better World Running. Featuring four distinct distances along paved coastal paths, this event caters to casual walkers, stroller pushers, and speed runners alike. Every participant receives a custom finisher medal, a drawstring goodie bag, live chip timed results, and free downloadable digital photos. Aid stations and public restrooms line the looped route to support runners throughout their distance. The laid back environment makes it an easy choice for family fitness during the holidays.

    Insider Tip: If you're running with a group of five or more friends, email the organizers in advance to secure a discounted group registration rate.

    29. 3rd Annual Santa's Reindeer Run — Huntington Beach

    Spend the morning at Bolsa Chica State Beach running alongside the Pacific Coast ocean breeze. This coastal holiday event features a full slate of activities, including a 1-Miler, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, a 200-yard Kids Dash, and a Santa Paws Doggie Parade. Santa Claus stays stationed at the start and finish lines throughout the morning for high fives and family photos. All finishers walk away with custom holiday medals, free race photos, and finish line refreshments. A costume contest caps off the morning by rewarding the most creative holiday attire.

    Insider Tip: Skip the state park vehicle fee by utilizing the free public parking lot in Sunset Beach behind Jack in the Box and walking over to Lot 25.

    30. Chasing Santa 5K, 10K, 10-Miler & Half Marathon — Long Beach

    Dash along the scenic shoreline of Alamitos Beach during this high vibe, seaside race hosted by High Tide Runs. The paved out and back course keeps runners right alongside the ocean with clearly marked turns, dedicated water stations, and staff gear check. Participants receive a finisher medal, free high resolution digital race photos, and live online timing. Top overall male and female finishers in each distance earn special placement awards at the finish line tent. The casual setting and ocean scenery offer a refreshing outdoor holiday tradition for all athletic abilities.

    Insider Tip: Save time on race morning by picking up your bib early on Saturday afternoon at Sports Basement Long Beach, where you will also receive an exclusive store discount.

    31. Jingle All the Way Christmas Day Run — Long Beach, California

    Start your Christmas morning with a fun coastal run along the beach in Long Beach. This rain or shine holiday tradition offers a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and Kids Dash on a flat, USATF certified course. Participants can place optional jingle bells onto their shoes and dash past scenic ocean vistas under professional chip timing. Every runner earns a holiday themed finisher medal, access to free race photos, and delicious finish line treats. A jolly costume contest and overall placement awards add extra holiday cheer to the morning celebration.

    Insider Tip: The beach lot parking is completely free for this Christmas morning event, so arrive early to grab a spot right near the check in canopy.

    32. Happy Holidays 5K, 10K, 15K & Half Marathon — Long Beach, California

    Keep the spirit going the day after Christmas with an easygoing coastal run hosted by A Better World Running. Set near 54th Place and Ocean Boulevard, this event provides four distance options along smooth paved beach paths. Runners benefit from professional chip timing, live online results, drawstring goodie bags, and an assortment of finish line snack samples. Pacers and strollers are fully welcomed on the route, which features convenient access to water fountains and restrooms. It serves as a great way to burn off holiday dinners in a relaxed, personal setting.

    Insider Tip: Half marathon runners who want extra buffer time before the 10:45 AM cutoff can email organizers ahead of time to request an early start option.

    Tips for Enjoying Los Angeles Christmas Events

    • Book Santa photos early: Popular Santa visits at malls, train rides, and holiday villages sell out weeks in advance. Book as soon as dates are announced.
    • Plan around nap and meal times: Los Angeles holiday activities draw crowds at peak times. Going right at opening or in the late afternoon often works better for younger kids.
    • Layer up for outdoor events: Many of the top things to do in Los Angeles at Christmas are partially or fully outdoors. Bring extra layers, hats, and gloves for unpredictable weather.
    • Bring snacks: Food at Christmas events in Los Angeles often has long lines and inflated prices. Packing your own snacks saves money and meltdowns.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Christmas events in Los Angeles this season. 

    What are the best Christmas attractions and experiences for kids in Los Angeles?

    Los Angeles offers everything from Santa visits and ice skating to holiday train rides, holiday races, and interactive Christmas villages. The right pick depends on your kids' ages and interests. Check the listings above for age recommendations.

    Where can I take a photo with Santa in Los Angeles?

    Major shopping centers, holiday villages, train experiences, and select neighborhood events offer photos with Santa. Reservations are strongly recommended for the most popular Santa visits, which book up weeks in advance.

    Are Los Angeles Christmas activities free for kids?

    Most Los Angeles Christmas experiences are ticketed events, but many venues offer reduced prices and even free admission to certain age ranges. Check individual listings for details. 

    When should I book Christmas attractions and experiences in Los Angeles?

    Book ticketed activities as soon as dates are announced, typically in October. The closer to Christmas, the harder tickets are to get.

    Can I add my event to this guide?

    We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!

    Christmas Attractions and Experiences Worth the Drive from Los Angeles

    Los Angeles isn't the only place worth visiting for family Christmas activities this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own kid-friendly holiday events worth the trip.

    Solvang, California — 2 Hours 20 Minutes from Los Angeles

    Plan a holiday getaway to Solvang, where Solvang Julefest offers Christmas experiences for every age. Visit Santa's Village for photos with Saint Nicholas, join the Nisser Adventure scavenger hunt through downtown, bring your four legged friend to Photos with Santa Paws, and enjoy family friendly holiday activities that make this charming Danish village well worth the drive.

    Santa Barbara, California — 1 Hour 45 Minutes from Los Angeles

    Enjoy a memorable holiday outing in Santa Barbara aboard the Santa Barbara Trolley of Lights, a 90-minute tour through the city's most spectacular Christmas neighborhoods with thousands of dazzling holiday displays along the route. This longtime holiday tradition is one of the area's most popular seasonal experiences.

    Plan Your Complete Los Angeles Christmas Experience

    Los Angeles's family Christmas activities are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to Los Angeles Christmas lights, holiday shows and performances, Christmas festivals and parades, and Christmas markets and holiday shopping. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our Los Angeles Christmas guide has you covered.

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