Best Christmas Lights in Los Angeles 2026: Top Displays to See

Explore the top Los Angeles Christmas lights and displays in 2026, from dazzling light shows and neighborhoods to official tree lightings.

Christmas lights in Los Angeles are a treasured holiday tradition, with neighborhoods, botanical gardens, attractions, and public spaces illuminated throughout the season. Explore the best places to enjoy dazzling holiday light displays, tree lightings, and seasonal events in 2026.

The Best LA Christmas Light Displays to See This Season

From spectacular drive through displays and walk through experiences to neighborhood favorites and iconic tree lightings, these are the best places to see Christmas lights in Los Angeles during the 2026 holiday season.

1. Holiday Tree Lighting with a Taste of San Gabriel — San Gabriel, CA

San Gabriel City Hall invites community members to kick off the Christmas season with a joint lighting ceremony and culinary gathering. Guests can sample tasty dishes from local neighborhood restaurants while enjoying live musical entertainment. The centerpiece of the evening is the official illumination of the town holiday tree. It offers a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere for families looking to celebrate together.

Dates: Thursday, December 3rd, 2026
Admission: Free (Food tasting prices vary)
Street Address: 425 S Mission Dr, San Gabriel, CA 91776
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
Parking: Free public parking in lots around San Gabriel City Hall and Mission District street parking
Website: https://www.sangabrielcity.com/1408/Holiday-Tree-Lighting

Insider Tip: Arrive 20 minutes before the 6:00 PM start time to claim a spot near the main stage in front of City Hall for the tree lighting countdown.

2. The Mission Inn Festival of Lights — Riverside

The historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa lights up the heart of downtown Riverside with millions of brilliant holiday bulbs. Fantastic photo backdrops, seasonal treat stalls, and sensational decor transform the surrounding arts district into a winter fairytale environment. The annual celebration kicks off with a massive light switch-on ceremony accompanied by fireworks. Folks come from all over Southern California to walk through the enchanted hotel grounds and surrounding promenades, making this one of the best Christmas events in Los Angeles for the whole family.

Dates: November 22nd, 2026 through December 31st, 2026
Admission: Free
Street Address: 3649 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside, CA 92501
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
Parking: City parking garages along 6th Street and Orange Street
Website: https://riversideca.gov/fol/

Insider Tip: If attending the November 21st Switch-On Ceremony, aim to reach downtown Riverside before 4:00 PM. Parking garages along 6th Street fill rapidly, and street closures around Orange Street begin early in the afternoon.

Tips for Viewing Christmas Lights in Los Angeles

Go on a weeknight: Tuesday through Thursday evenings are far less crowded than weekend nights, especially for drive through and ticketed light experiences.
Time your visit at dusk: Most light displays are best viewed in the first hour after sunset, when the lights pop against a deepening sky.
Dress in layers: Even with mild weather, standing or walking outdoors at night gets cold quickly. Layer up for outdoor displays and walking trails.
Book ticketed experiences in advance: Popular walk through and drive through experiences sell out on December weekends. Check the schedule and reserve early.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

When do Christmas lights turn on in Los Angeles?

Most major Christmas light displays in Los Angeles turn on between late November and the first week of December. Tree lighting ceremonies typically take place the weekend after Thanksgiving, and most neighborhood and trail displays run through New Year's Day.

Where can I see free Christmas lights in Los Angeles?

Many of Los Angeles's most iconic light displays are free to view, including tree lightings, neighborhood displays, and public park installations. Some ticketed experiences offer drive through or walk through light trails for a more immersive experience.

Are Los Angeles Christmas lights kid friendly?

Yes! Most Christmas light displays in Los Angeles are family friendly, with activities, food, and entertainment suitable for all ages. Check individual listings for stroller accessibility and kid-specific activities.

When is the best time to see Christmas lights in Los Angeles?

Weeknights are typically less crowded than weekends, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Most displays look best from dusk through 9 PM. Avoid the weekend right before Christmas if you want a calmer experience.

Can I add my event to this guide?

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Christmas Lights Worth the Drive from Los Angeles

Los Angeles isn't the only place worth visiting for Christmas lights this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own magical holiday displays worth the trip.

Solvang, California — 2 Hours 20 Minutes from Los Angeles

Make the drive to Solvang to experience its charming holiday light displays during Solvang Julefest. The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony kicks off the season, while illuminated streets, storefronts, and public spaces create a picture perfect holiday setting.

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

See Santa Barbara sparkle for the holidays with a visit to the Santa Barbara Parade of Lights, where beautifully decorated boats illuminate the harbor before a fireworks finale over the water. While you're there, stroll Stearns Wharf to admire its towering holiday tree and waterfront Christmas lights, creating one of California's most scenic holiday displays.