Christmas in Los Angeles: 2024 Family Events & Activities

Christmas in Greater Los Angeles is a special time of year, with plenty of festive activities & events around LA & OC to get into the holiday spirit!

Whether you're looking to start new family Christmas traditions or partake in old ones, browse our interactive map & calendar to find Christmas events, holiday light displays and kid-friendly Christmas shows near you. See where you can go ice skating or cut your own Christmas tree, too, for even more seasonal family fun.

What are your family's favorite things to do for Christmas in LA, Orange County and nearby? Like & review your picks below, and add any that are still missing!


 
    Knott's Merry Farm
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     (2458.6 mi)

    Erynn:  This holiday festival features nightly tree lighting ceremonies, appearances (on ice and elsewhere!) from the Peanuts characters, Santa's Christmas Cabin, a crafts village, and recurring Snow and Glow shows with falling snow. Regular attractions are also open!

    Descanso Gardens - Enchanted Forest of Light
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     (2468.9 mi)

    Price

    $25-$35/person

    Hannah Scott:  See the beautiful Descanso Gardens in a whole new "light" with their annual Enchanted Forest of Light event. You'll enjoy a one-mile nighttime walk through a variety of lighting experiences and discover why it's described as "unlike anything else in Los Angeles."

    L.A. Zoo Lights
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     (2474.3 mi)

    Erynn:  Explore light displays that include animal lantern sculptures, blooming flowers, towering trees, interactive elements and more. There will be family photo ops, as well as sweet treats and glowing gifts available for purchase.

    Universal Studios - Grinchmas
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     (2479.3 mi)

    Erynn:  Decorate ornaments, enjoy Wholiday singers, watch a holiday show, and get your photo taken with the Grinch and his dog Max! The event also includes lighting of a 60-foot tall "Seussian" tree!

    Universal Studios Hollywood - Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
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     (2479.3 mi)

    Price

    Included with admission

    Nicole Standley:  Experience Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter this holiday season as Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle are transformed into a winter wonderland. From tasty hot butterbeer and deliciously prepared festive holiday dishes at Three Broomsticks to the Frog Choir and snow falling on Hogsmeade Village, you won’t want to miss the transformation of Universal’s most popular attraction.

Primary photo:   Lena Rose on Unsplash

Upparent collects community-submitted recommendations and reviews, and any ideas that are shared reflect the opinions of individual contributors.

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