Los Angeles Christmas Event Guide 2025

Los Angeles may be known for sunshine and palm trees, but when the holidays roll around, the city lights up with its own kind of magic. From historic parades in Hollywood to immersive light walks in botanical gardens, LA offers festive fun that fits every style.

And we’ve done the legwork to find the best of the season. If your ideal night out includes classic traditions, family-friendly outings, or something a little quirky, this guide pulls together the top events so you can skip the endless scrolling and start planning.

These events are not ranked in any particular order. Each one is included because it’s popular or worth knowing about.

1. Hollywood Christmas Parade

A beloved LA tradition, this parade features giant balloons, celebrity-studded floats, marching bands, and community groups parading through the heart of Hollywood. It’s a lively, free way to kick off the season with plenty of star power.

• Dates: November 30, 2025 (Sunday, 6:00 PM)
• Address: Hollywood Boulevard from Orange Drive to Vine Street, Los Angeles, California 90028
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
• Free: Yes
• Website: thehollywoodchristmasparade.org

Insider Tip: Parking fills by 3:00 PM, so park north of the route and walk in for easier access.

2. Los Angeles Christmas Market at ROW DTLA

This open-air market blends European holiday traditions with a cool LA twist. Shop from 50+ local makers, enjoy schnitzel and mulled wine, and catch live music or Santa photo ops. 

• Dates: November 28, 2025 – December 24, 2025
• Address: ROW DTLA, 777 South Alameda Street, Los Angeles, California 90021
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Free: Yes
• Website: rowdtla.com/events

Insider Tip: Visit weekday afternoons before 3 PM for a calmer shopping experience and better photo ops.

3. L.A. Zoo Lights: Animal Aglow

The LA Zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland with larger-than-life animal lanterns, tunnels of light, and themed treats. It’s a hit with kids, but adults also love it for a cozy date night. Make this a tradition that everyone will enjoy. 

• Dates: November 13, 2025 – January 11, 2026 (select nights)
• Address: Los Angeles Zoo, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, California 90027
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Service animals only
• Free: No (ticketed)
• Website: https://lazoo.org/plan-your-visit/events 

Insider Tip: Arrive between 7:30 PM and 8:00 PM for lighter crowds and great photos.

4. Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens

This after-dark walk through Descanso Gardens features glowing art installations, a stained-glass village, and interactive lanterns. Celebrate the local art scene while enjoying holiday festivities. Food stalls and warm drinks add to the cozy vibe.

• Dates: November 16, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (closed select nights)
• Address: 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, California 91011
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Service animals only
• Free: No (ticketed, timed entry)
• Website: descansogardens.org/events-and-activities/enchanted

Insider Tip: Late entry slots (after 8 PM) mean fewer people; dress warmly with comfortable shoes suited for an hour-plus stroll.

5. Grand Park Holiday Tree Lighting & Celebration

This lively downtown celebration features LA’s official tree, multicultural music, and food trucks. It’s a one-evening event that delivers big city cheer. If you can’t make it on opening night, enjoy the magnificent glow of the LA tree all season long. 

• Dates: December 7, 2025
• Address: Grand Park, 200 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90012
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Free: Yes
• Website: grandparkla.org

Insider Tip: Show up at dusk for the best tree photos framed by palm trees.

6. Hollywood Forever Cemetery Winter Movie Nights

Watch holiday classics projected outdoors among the historic gravestones of Hollywood Forever Cemetery. With themed snacks, drinks, and blankets, it’s a memorable twist on LA’s love for cinema.

• Dates: Select nights in December 2025
• Address: 6000 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90038
• Kid-friendly: Yes (family titles only)
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Free: No (ticketed)
• Website: cinespia.org

Insider Tip: Bring layers and a cushion for comfort; arrive early for a prime picnic spot.

7. Bob Baker’s Holiday on Strings Marionette Show

This long-running puppet theater celebrates the holidays with imaginative marionette performances. It’s perfect for young kids and a nostalgic treat for adults. Add a quirky spin to your holiday plans by attending a show you’ve never seen before. 

• Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 11, 2026 (select dates)
• Address: 4949 York Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90042
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Not specified but is indoors
• Free: No (ticketed)
• Website: bobbakermarionettetheater.com

• Insider Tip: Stick around after the show for free puppetry demos and meet-and-greets.

8. Holiday Market at Vintage Land (Los Feliz Flea)

Set in a laid-back corner of Los Feliz, this market blends vintage treasures, handmade gifts, food trucks, and live music. It’s low-key, pet-friendly, and a great spot to shop local.

• Dates: December 19, 2025 – December 21, 2025
• Address: 1030 Alpine St, Los Angeles, California 90012
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Free: Yes
• Website: losfelizflea.com

Insider Tip: Sunday is typically calmer and ideal for browsing or snagging last-minute gifts.

9. Enchant Christmas LA at Santa Anita Park (Arcadia)

A newer favorite, Enchant offers the world’s largest light maze, an ice-skating trail, artisan markets, and plenty of food and drink options. It’s a full evening of entertainment for families or groups.

• Dates: November 21, 2025 – December 28, 2025
• Address: 285 West Huntington Drive, Arcadia, California 91007
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Pet-friendly: No
• Free: No (ticketed)
• Website: enchantchristmas.com/los-angeles

Insider Tip: Explore the maze after dark for the best photos and consider Express Entry on busy weekends.

Make the Most of LA’s Holiday Season

From timeless parades to modern light shows, Los Angeles serves up a holiday season as diverse as the city itself. Fill the calendar with kid-friendly outings, after-dark adventures, or a little retail therapy with seasonal flair, and enjoy December while making unforgettable memories.

Let us save you even more time! Join our email list and we’ll send you the best Christmas events, tips, and traditions straight to your inbox. Follow us on Instagram @thechristmascom for extra inspiration. 

Have an event to add or spot an update we should make? Email us at info@thechristmas.com.