Things to do for the Holidays: LA edition
LA Zoo Lights
By Kayla Bowens
The holiday season in Los Angeles offers something for everyone, whether you're staying in town or heading home to celebrate. For those staying local, LA's holiday magic shines through its dazzling light displays, festive markets, and multicultural celebrations. And if you're preparing to travel, there are plenty of activities to enjoy before you leave, making the most of the city’s vibrant holiday atmosphere. Here are a few festive activities to enjoy for the Holidays around LA!
Ice at Santa Monica
Presented by Disney+, Ice at Santa Monica began on Friday, November 8th and will continue through Monday, January 20, 2025. Tickets can be purchased online, where general admission tickets are between $20-$25 depending on the date. During this unforgettable holiday experience you have the chance to skate under the California sun during the day or under the magical twinkling lights at night. Located at the corner of Arizona Avenue and 5th Street in Downtown Santa Monica, hours of operation are Sundays through Thursdays 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m
2. LA Zoo Lights
LA Zoo Lights Animals Aglow, presented by The Angela Collier Foundation in support of the shelter and promotion of health of animals. This event began November 15, 2024 and will continue through January 5, 2025. This is a nature focused immersive experience including dazzling lantern sculptures of larger than life animals and holiday wonders. The tickets are between $29-$35 on select nights and weekends, 6pm-10pm. More detailed information can be found here. This event is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as Christmas Eve (December 24) and Christmas Day (December 25). No refunds available. Located at 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
3. Venice Canals Christmas Lights
Just steps away from Venice Beach and beautiful anytime of the year, inspired by Venice, Italy are manmade canals that transform into a magic holiday scene. Visitors come from all around to see the twinkling lights and decorations. Homeowners nearby go all out to decorate their homes creating a cozy, picturesque neighborhood for all to enjoy. If you plan to drive, park a couple blocks away as the neighborhood tends to become quite busy during the holiday season. Located at Venice, CA 90292. There is a parking lot located at the end of Venice Blvd (just before Pacific Ave). If you walk southwest you can enter on the walking paths on the sides of the canals off of Canal Street. There is also a holiday boat parade on December 8th, 2024 that kicks off at 4:00pm.
4. Marina Del Ray Boat Parade
This event is completely free, taking place on December 14th, 2024. Festivities will begin at 5:55pm starting with fireworks followed by the boat parade at 6pm. Bring a blanket and friends or family to gather around Fisherman’s Village or Burton Chase Park in Marina Del Ray to see 70 boats glide across the marina showcasing holiday lights and decorations in a competition to see who has the best theme, animations, music, and more.
5. Grand Central Market Holiday Bazaar
Located at 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013, Grand Central Market presents an event taking place at the lower level every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11am. Admission is free. Here you get to explore new makers and merchants that change every week. These makers sell beautiful handmade goods that can be the perfect Christmas gift for friends or family. People are also welcome to sign up and become a merchant themselves!
6. Catch a Holiday Show or Movie
Many local theaters host special screenings of some of the most beloved holiday films. A few of these showings are happening on Wednesday, December 25, 2024 showing Elf starring Will Farrell at AMC The Americana at Brand 18 playing at 10:15am, Universal Cinema AMC CityWalk Hollywood playing at 2:00pm, AMC Marketplace 6 playing at 1:30pm. There are many more, but this can be a great way to enjoy the holiday season and continue the joy!
No matter how you spend your holidays—whether you’re soaking up LA’s festive cheer or heading home to reconnect with loved ones—there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season. Wherever this Christmas takes you, may it be filled with joy, warmth, and memories that last a lifetime.
