Los Angeles does Christmas differently from anywhere else in America. You can ice skate under palm trees, see a light show at the zoo, ride a train through a winter wonderland, and still be back in time for a beach walk in 70-degree weather. The city does not do a white Christmas, but it does do a spectacular one.
This guide covers the best Christmas events in Los Angeles for 2026, from classic light displays and holiday markets to family attractions, concerts, and free events. Dates and prices below are for the 2026 season, and many events sell out or require timed tickets, so book ahead.
Quick picks: best Christmas events in Los Angeles at a glance
| Event | Best for | Dates | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| L.A. Zoo Lights | Families, classic lights | Nov 14, 2026 – Jan 4, 2027 | From $18 |
| Griffith Park Holiday Light Festival | Free, drive-through | Dec 5, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027 | Free |
| The Grove Christmas Tree | Shopping, classic LA | Nov 15, 2026 – Dec 25, 2026 | Free to visit |
| Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens | Romantic, gardens | Nov 15, 2026 – Jan 4, 2027 | From $38 |
| Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain | Thrills, families | Nov 20, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027 | From $59 |
| The Nutcracker at The Music Center | Classic ballet | Dec 10–21, 2026 | From $39 |
| Christmas at The Americana at Brand | Shopping, Glendale | Nov 14, 2026 – Dec 25, 2026 | Free to visit |
| Winter Wonderland at The Queen Mary | Ice skating, Long Beach | Nov 27, 2026 – Jan 4, 2027 | From $25 |
Best Christmas light displays in Los Angeles
1. L.A. Zoo Lights — Griffith Park
L.A. Zoo Lights turns the zoo into a glowing winter wonderland after dark, with animal-themed light displays, a laser show, and seasonal treats. It is one of the most popular family Christmas events in Los Angeles, and timed tickets are required.
- Dates: November 14, 2026 – January 4, 2027
- Price: From $18 per person
- Best for: Families, first-time visitors, and classic holiday lights
2. Enchanted Forest of Light — Descanso Gardens, La Cañada Flintridge
Descanso Gardens’ Enchanted Forest of Light is the most beautiful light display in Los Angeles, with illuminated gardens, interactive installations, and a magical atmosphere that feels miles away from the city. Book early, as weekends sell out.
- Dates: November 15, 2026 – January 4, 2027
- Price: From $38 per person
- Best for: Couples, photographers, and garden lovers
3. Griffith Park Holiday Light Festival — Griffith Park
This free, drive-through light festival is a Los Angeles tradition, with a mile of holiday lights along Crystal Springs Drive. It is the best free Christmas event in the city, and it is perfect for families who want to see lights without the crowds or the cost.
- Dates: December 5, 2026 – January 1, 2027
- Price: Free
- Best for: Families, budget-friendly, and drive-through convenience
4. Candy Cane Lane — Woodland Hills
Candy Cane Lane is a neighborhood in Woodland Hills where residents go all out with holiday lights and decorations. It is free to visit, and it is a beloved local tradition that feels like stepping into a Christmas movie.
- Dates: Early December 2026 – early January 2027
- Price: Free
- Best for: Families, local tradition, and free holiday fun
5. Lightscape at LA Arboretum — Arcadia
Lightscape at the LA Arboretum is a newer light display that has quickly become a favorite, with illuminated trails, artistic installations, and a festive atmosphere in a beautiful botanical setting.
- Dates: November 13, 2026 – January 4, 2027
- Price: From $32 per person
- Best for: Families, garden lovers, and light display enthusiasts
Best Christmas markets and shopping events
6. The Grove Christmas Tree — The Grove, Fairfax
The Grove’s Christmas tree lighting is a Los Angeles institution, with a towering tree, snowfall, and live entertainment. The Grove is free to visit, and the tree is on display through Christmas Day.
- Dates: November 15, 2026 – December 25, 2026
- Price: Free to visit
- Best for: Shopping, classic LA Christmas, and families
7. Christmas at The Americana at Brand — Glendale
The Americana at Brand offers a similar holiday experience in Glendale, with a grand tree, snowfall, and festive decorations. It is a good alternative to The Grove if you are on the east side of the city.
- Dates: November 14, 2026 – December 25, 2026
- Price: Free to visit
- Best for: Shopping, Glendale, and families
8. Unique LA Holiday Market — Downtown
Unique LA is the city’s largest independent design market, with hundreds of local makers, artists, and small businesses selling holiday gifts. It is the best place in Los Angeles to find unique, handmade Christmas presents.
- Dates: December 5–6, 2026
- Price: From $15 per person
- Best for: Gift shopping, local makers, and unique finds
9. Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Market — Los Angeles
Renegade Craft Fair brings together independent makers and artisans for a holiday market that is perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts. Expect jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and more from local and national artists.
- Dates: December 12–13, 2026
- Price: From $10 per person
- Best for: Handmade gifts, artisans, and holiday shopping
Best family Christmas events in Los Angeles
10. Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain — Valencia
Six Flags Magic Mountain transforms into a winter wonderland for the holidays, with holiday lights, seasonal shows, and festive food. It is the best Christmas event for thrill-seekers and families who want rides and holiday fun in one place.
- Dates: November 20, 2026 – January 3, 2027
- Price: From $59 per person
- Best for: Thrill-seekers, families, and holiday rides
11. Winter Wonderland at The Queen Mary — Long Beach
The Queen Mary in Long Beach hosts a Winter Wonderland with ice skating, a holiday village, and festive entertainment. It is a great option for families in the Long Beach area, and the historic ship adds a unique backdrop.
- Dates: November 27, 2026 – January 4, 2027
- Price: From $25 per person
- Best for: Ice skating, Long Beach, and families
12. Christmas at Knott’s Merry Farm — Buena Park
Knott’s Berry Farm becomes Knott’s Merry Farm for the holidays, with a Christmas tree lighting, holiday shows, and seasonal food. It is a strong family option, especially for younger children.
- Dates: November 20, 2026 – January 3, 2027
- Price: From $65 per person
- Best for: Families, younger children, and theme park holidays
13. Santa’s Village at Lake Arrowhead — Lake Arrowhead
Just a short drive from Los Angeles, Santa’s Village at Lake Arrowhead offers a mountain Christmas experience with snow, Santa, and holiday activities. It is worth the drive if you want a more traditional, snowy Christmas.
- Dates: November 2026 – January 2027
- Price: From $35 per person
- Best for: Day trips, snow, and traditional Christmas
Best Christmas concerts and shows in Los Angeles
14. The Nutcracker at The Music Center — Downtown
The Los Angeles Ballet’s Nutcracker at The Music Center is the classic Christmas ballet in the city, with beautiful costumes, Tchaikovsky’s score, and a festive atmosphere. Book early, as performances sell out.
- Dates: December 10–21, 2026
- Price: From $39 per person
- Best for: Ballet, classic Christmas, and special occasions
15. Holiday Sing-Along at Walt Disney Concert Hall — Downtown
The LA Phil’s Holiday Sing-Along at Walt Disney Concert Hall is a joyful, family-friendly concert with carols, an orchestra, and audience participation. It is one of the best Christmas concerts in Los Angeles.
- Dates: December 19, 2026
- Price: From $35 per person
- Best for: Music lovers, families, and holiday concerts
16. A Christmas Carol at A Noise Within — Pasadena
A Noise Within’s production of A Christmas Carol in Pasadena is a beloved holiday tradition, with a faithful adaptation of Dickens’ classic and a talented cast. It is a great choice for theatre lovers.
- Dates: December 5–24, 2026
- Price: From $45 per person
- Best for: Theatre, Dickens, and Pasadena
17. Christmas with the LA Phil — Downtown
The LA Phil’s Christmas concerts at Walt Disney Concert Hall feature holiday classics, guest artists, and the orchestra’s signature sound. Check the schedule for specific dates and programs.
- Dates: December 2026
- Price: From $40 per person
- Best for: Orchestral music, holiday concerts
Best free Christmas events in Los Angeles
18. Griffith Park Holiday Light Festival — Griffith Park
As noted above, this free drive-through light festival is the best free Christmas event in Los Angeles. It is perfect for families and anyone who wants holiday lights without spending money.
- Price: Free
19. Candy Cane Lane — Woodland Hills
Candy Cane Lane is free to visit and offers a charming, neighborhood Christmas experience. Walk or drive through the decorated streets and enjoy the holiday spirit.
- Price: Free
20. The Grove Christmas Tree — The Grove
Visiting The Grove’s Christmas tree is free, and the shopping center offers holiday entertainment, snowfall, and festive decorations throughout the season.
- Price: Free to visit
How to plan your Los Angeles Christmas
Book timed tickets early. Many popular Christmas events, especially L.A. Zoo Lights and Enchanted Forest of Light, require timed tickets and sell out on weekends. Book as soon as tickets go on sale.
Check dates and hours. Christmas events in Los Angeles run from mid-November through early January, but specific dates and hours vary. Always confirm before you go, especially for outdoor events that may be affected by weather.
Consider traffic and parking. Holiday events in Los Angeles attract large crowds, and parking can be challenging. Arrive early, use rideshare, or take public transit where possible.
Mix free and paid events. Los Angeles offers excellent free Christmas events alongside paid attractions. Mix both to enjoy the season without overspending.
Dress for the weather. Los Angeles Christmases are mild, with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s, but evenings can be cool. Bring a jacket for outdoor evening events.
FAQ: Christmas events in Los Angeles
What are the best Christmas events in Los Angeles for families?
L.A. Zoo Lights, Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain, and Winter Wonderland at The Queen Mary are the best family Christmas events in Los Angeles, offering lights, rides, and holiday activities for children of all ages.
What Christmas events in Los Angeles are free?
Griffith Park Holiday Light Festival, Candy Cane Lane, and visiting The Grove Christmas Tree are all free Christmas events in Los Angeles. Many shopping centers also offer free holiday displays and entertainment.
When do Christmas events start in Los Angeles?
Most Christmas events in Los Angeles start in mid-November, with light displays and markets opening around November 14–20, 2026. The season runs through early January 2027.
Do I need tickets for Christmas events in Los Angeles?
Many popular Christmas events require timed tickets, especially L.A. Zoo Lights, Enchanted Forest of Light, and theme park holiday events. Free events like Griffith Park Holiday Light Festival and Candy Cane Lane do not require tickets.
What is the best Christmas light display in Los Angeles?
Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens is widely considered the most beautiful Christmas light display in Los Angeles, while L.A. Zoo Lights is the most popular family option and Griffith Park Holiday Light Festival is the best free option.
Sources
- L.A. Zoo Lights — dates and pricing
- Descanso Gardens — Enchanted Forest of Light dates and pricing
- Griffith Park — Holiday Light Festival information
- The Grove — Christmas tree and holiday information
- Six Flags Magic Mountain — Holiday in the Park dates and pricing
- The Music Center — Nutcracker dates and pricing
- The Americana at Brand — Christmas information
- The Queen Mary — Winter Wonderland dates and pricing
Photo credit: Christmas tree with lights by Nishino Minase via Pexels.
Related reading
- Best Christmas Events in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide
- Best Christmas Markets in Los Angeles
- The Best Holiday Events in Los Angeles
