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.
3. Enchant Christmas 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.
4. L.A. Zoo Lights — Los Angeles, CA
Photo Credit: Los Angeles Zoo
L.A. Zoo Lights returns in 2026 with a completely refreshed collection of illuminated displays inspired by the natural world. This popular Los Angeles Christmas lights event features glowing paths, larger than life sculptures, an artificial ice skating rink, seasonal treats, Santa photo opportunities, and interactive experiences for families. The 2026 edition runs from November into January, making it a strong option for anyone searching for Christmas light displays in Los Angeles throughout the holiday season.
- Dates: Select dates from Friday, November 20th, 2026 through Sunday, January 10th, 2027
- Admission: Tickets start at $19
- Street Address: 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No
- Parking: Free parking available at the Los Angeles Zoo
- Website: https://lazoo.org/plan-your-visit/special-experiences/zoolights/
Insider Tip: Allow 60 to 90 minutes for the main light experience, and consider adding the artificial ice skating rink if you're looking for more than a traditional walk through light display.
5. Enchanted Forest of Light — La Cañada Flintridge, CA
Descanso Gardens transforms its botanical landscape into an illuminated nighttime experience during the 10th anniversary season of Enchanted Forest of Light. Guests follow winding garden paths through colorful installations, including Flower Power and the Ancient Forest, along with a new laser light show featuring a snowfall finale. For families looking for Christmas lights near Los Angeles, this is one of the area's most distinctive outdoor holiday light experiences.
- Dates: November 22nd, 2026 through January 9th, 2027
- Admission: $12–$52
- Street Address: 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No
- Parking: On-site parking available; advance parking information is provided with event details
- Website: https://www.descansogardens.org/event/enchanted-forest-of-light-2026/
Insider Tip: Tickets are timed, and popular nights can sell out, so choose your date and entry time before heading to Descanso Gardens.
6. Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony — Altadena, CA
One of Southern California's oldest holiday traditions returns to Altadena for another season of illuminated deodar trees. The Christmas Tree Lane lighting ceremony marks the beginning of the season with live performances, community entertainment, and the lighting of more than 20,000 lights along nearly a mile of Santa Rosa Avenue. It's a particularly good choice for families seeking a free Christmas lights display near Los Angeles.
- Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: Corner of Santa Rosa Ave and Mariposa St, Altadena, CA
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Not specified
- Parking: Street parking and nearby neighborhood parking; parking restrictions may apply during the event
- Website: https://christmastreelane.net/events/
Insider Tip: Arrive for Winterfest before the 6:00 PM lighting ceremony. The afternoon portion includes arts, crafts, vendors, and live entertainment before the lights come on.
7. Autry Tree Lighting Holiday Celebration — Los Angeles, CA
The Autry Museum of the American West welcomes families to its annual holiday tree lighting in Griffith Park. The evening includes live entertainment and a community celebration surrounding the museum's Christmas tree, making it an easy addition to a list of Los Angeles tree lighting events for families. Free parking is also available for Autry visitors.
- Dates: Saturday, November 21st, 2026
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, CA 90027
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Not specified
- Parking: Free parking for Autry visitors
- Website: https://theautry.org/events/celebrate-holidays-autry
Insider Tip: Pair the tree lighting with a visit to Griffith Park or the Los Angeles Zoo, which is directly across the street, for a full holiday outing.
8. Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony — Glendale, CA
The City of Glendale kicks off the season with its annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall's Perkins Plaza. The free community event features the lighting of the city tree, special performances, and a visit from Santa, making it a straightforward option for families looking for a Christmas tree lighting near Los Angeles.
- Dates: Thursday, December 3rd, 2026
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: 141 N Glendale Ave, Glendale, CA 91206
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Not specified
- Parking: Public parking is available around City Hall and downtown Glendale
- Website: https://www.glendaleca.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/56435/18?curm=12&cury=2026
Insider Tip: Get there early enough to enjoy the surrounding downtown Glendale holiday decorations before settling in for the tree lighting and Santa's appearance.
9. Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting — Long Beach, CA
Photo Credit: Visit Long Beach
Downtown Long Beach celebrates the holiday season with its annual Christmas tree lighting at Terrace Theater Plaza. The centerpiece is a towering 67 foot tree illuminated by more than 500,000 lights, with live entertainment, Santa, train rides, falling snow, and a fireworks finale. It is one of the more elaborate Southern California Christmas tree lighting events within driving distance of Los Angeles.
- Dates: 2026 date to be announced
- Admission: Ticketed; tickets required for entry
- Street Address: 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Not specified
- Parking: Public parking garages and lots are available in Downtown Long Beach
- Website: https://www.visitlongbeach.com/events/annual-events/tree-lighting/
Insider Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the holiday activities before the tree lighting begins, and plan to stay through the fireworks finale. With the event taking place in Downtown Long Beach, you can also make an evening of it by grabbing dinner nearby before or after the celebration.
10. Nutcracker Holiday Village & Tree Lighting — Anaheim, CA
Downtown Anaheim combines a holiday market with one of the area's larger community Christmas tree lighting celebrations. The free event features holiday shopping, crafts, Santa, a dog costume contest, food, entertainment, an Anaheim Ballet performance, and the lighting of the Christmas tree in front of City Hall.
- Dates: Sunday, December 6th, 2026
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: Center Street Promenade between Clementine St and Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
- Parking: Public parking garages and lots are available in Downtown Anaheim
- Website: https://www.anaheim.net/2767/Nutcracker-Holiday-Village-Tree-Lighting
Insider Tip: Plan to arrive during the Holiday Village portion of the event rather than just for the 6:00 PM tree lighting. That gives families time to shop, grab food, visit Santa, and enjoy the entertainment.
11. Tree Lighting at Balboa Bay Resort — Newport Beach, CA
Balboa Bay Resort hosts a family friendly Christmas tree lighting featuring live vocalists, dancers, and appearances from Frosty, Rudolph, Santa, and Mrs. Claus. The evening culminates with the illumination of a 20 foot Christmas tree, followed by snow and complimentary seasonal treats and beverages.
- Dates: Sunday, November 29th, 2026
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: 1221 Coast Highway, Newport Beach, CA 92663
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Not specified
- Parking: On-site resort parking available; parking fees may apply
- Website: https://visitnewportbeach.com/events/tree-lighting-at-balboa-bay-resort/
Insider Tip: No reservations are required, but open seating begins after 5:00 PM, so arriving early is a good idea if you want to be close to the stage for the performances.
12. Bella Terra Tree Lighting — Huntington Beach, CA
Bella Terra in Huntington Beach kicks off the holiday season with a family focused tree lighting celebration featuring live entertainment, holiday characters, Santa, photo opportunities, crafts, and kids' activities. The tree lighting takes place at 5:00 PM, making this a convenient Orange County Christmas tree lighting for families looking for an evening event.
- Dates: Friday, November 20th, 2026
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: 7777 Edinger Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
- Parking: Free parking available at Bella Terra
- Website: https://www.bellaterra-hb.com/event/44143-bella-terra-tree-lighting
Insider Tip: Come before the 5:00 PM ceremony so kids have time to participate in the crafts, visit the holiday characters, and take photos with Santa.
13. Christmas Tree Lighting — Temecula, CA
Temecula's annual Christmas tree lighting returns to the Duck Pond & Veterans Memorial as part of the city's Temecula Chilled holiday celebration. The event officially kicks off the local Christmas season and is followed later in the month by Santa's Electric Light Parade through Old Town Temecula.
- Dates: Monday, November 30th, 2026
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: Temecula Duck Pond & Veterans Memorial, 28401 Old Town Front St, Temecula, CA 92590
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Not specified
- Parking: Public parking available in and around Old Town Temecula
- Website: https://temeculaca.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=0&month=11&view=list&year=2026
Insider Tip: If you're making the drive from Los Angeles, consider staying for the evening in Old Town after the tree lighting and planning a second visit for Santa's Electric Light Parade on December 4th.
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.
Plan Your Complete Los Angeles Christmas Experience
Los Angeles's Christmas lights are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to holiday shows and performances, Christmas festivals and parades, Christmas markets and holiday shopping, and Christmas events in Los Angeles. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our Los Angeles Christmas guide has you covered.
