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How is 2025 almost over already? Well, regardless of how we arrived, December is here and if you need to wrap the calendar on a high note, then this is your list
The month to come in Los Angeles includes a multitude of holiday tree lightings and celebrations, Deck the Hall programming at Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade, the Echo Park Community Parade, the 3rd Annual Krampus Art Show, the Downtown Burbank Winter Arts Festival, New Year’s Night Dive at the Aquarium of the Pacific, and more.
Things To Do This December
M = Less than .5 miles from an L.A. Metro Station, FA = Free Admission, TP = Top Pick
L.A. County Tree Lighting Ceremony at The Music Center (December 1) – FA M TP > L.A. County’s official holiday tree lightning event at The Music Center’s Jerry Moss Plaza is scheduled for the first day of December. The annual free celebration to of open to the public, offering live music, art-making, snow flurries and complimentary hot chocolate. Runs 5 to 8 p.m.
LA Opera Presents La Bohème (continuing through December 14) – TP > LA Opera celebrates its 40th Anniversary Season with the return of Herbert Ross’s beloved production of Puccini’s La Bohème, a timeless tale of love, art, and heartbreak in 19th-century Paris. Conducted by Resident Conductor Lina González-Granados, the revival runs for six performances at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, including December 4, 6, 10, and 14. Available tickets start at $59. More info here.
WEHO Winter Ice Rink (December 1-21) -> This December, the WeHo Winter Ice Rink returns to the Great Lawn at West Hollywood Park for the winter season. In addition to 90-minute skating sessions (skate rental included in the ticket price), guests can visit the adjacent Winter Village, which features skate viewing areas, photo opportunities, a charming general store, and special pop-up theme nights. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for ages 3-14. Sessions are offered daily, with times varying. Check the event website for the full schedule of skating sessions, which begin at 4 p.m. on weekdays. More info here
Grand Illuminations Opening Night (December 3) – FA M> DTLA Alliance’s Grand Illuminations is bringing a holiday light spectacle to Downtown Los Angeles hosted at The Yard at Cal Plaza. Here you’ll find special installations by LA-based artist group Liquid PXL including large-scale kinetic sculptures, ten radiant Electric Dandelions and a custom designed 25-food LED light tree. It’s all open to the public through January 4. The light sculptures debut during a Grand Holiday Celebration on December 3 when things kick off with a lightning ceremony, live music, a holiday marketplace curated by The Goddess Mercado and refreshments from 4 to 7 p.m. More info here.
Chain Holiday House (December 3-13)-> Chain, the celebrity-driven pop-cuisine enterprise, is hosting its an intimate Holiday House at the Chain House location in Silver Lake from December 3-13. Designed as an all-inclusive, two-hour tasting tour, the event features a chaotic and kitschy holiday party atmosphere and unique, chef-driven collabs with popular partners, including Arby’s, Panda Express, and Dunkin’. Guests will enjoy a multi-course meal, specialized holiday cocktails/mocktails designed by Thunderbolt LA, and access to a vintage gift shop. Tickets start at $74.99. More info here.
Downtown Culver City 2024 Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Sled-tacular (December 4) – M FA TP> Downtown Culver City welcomes the holiday season with 50 tons of fresh snow, fun sledding activities, live music, and a tree Lighting ceremony with special guests Zooey Deschanel and Charlie Cox. Event starts at 5 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
Hot Chocolate Nutcracker (December 4-15) -> Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) presents its award-winning production of “Hot Chocolate Nutcracker” at Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. The highly-anticipated performance follows a young girl, Kara as she steps into a land of wonder journeying to fantastical places such as Candy Cane Land, Egypt, the Indian Rainforest/Bollywood, Jazzland, Russia and the Land of the Kimono Dolls. Tickets start at $54.59. More info here.
MeUndies Holiday Undie Run (December 4) – FA > MeUndies is hosting its first-ever Holiday Undie Run at The Penmar in Venice. Attendees are invited to kick off the festive season by lacing up and stripping down for a fun, community-focused 3-mile run, welcoming all paces and people. Runners will receive a free pair of MeUndies Holiday undies upon arrival to wear during the event. Post-run festivities include tacos, Juneshine, and a special visit from a naughty North Pole celebrity. Check-in begins at 6:30 p.m., and the run starts at 7 p.m. Registration is free! More info here.
Deck the Hall Holiday Concerts at The Walt Disney Concert Hall (December 5-31) – M > The LA Phil’s annual lineup of Holiday-themed concerts is sprinkled throughout December, including Home Alone in concert, the beloved Holiday Sing-Along, a Swinging Holiday concert with Arturo Sandoval and New Year’s Eve with The Roots. More info here.
Black Friday Holiday Party At CAAM (December 5) – M FA > The California African American Museum (CAAM) invites the community to celebrate the season with a Black Friday Holiday Party on December 5. This free, all-ages event offers a festive evening in community, featuring music, delicious treats, and activity stations for all ages. Guests will also have exclusive after-hours access to all of CAAM’s current exhibitions, including solo shows by American Artist and Sadie Barnette. Event runs 6 to 9 p.m. More info here.
Tree Lighting at Pasadena City Hall (December 5) – M FA > Pasadena City Hall gets the holiday treatment with a special tree lighting ceremony hosted by the mayor of Pasadena. The celebration features local singers and dancers, crafts for kids provided by Armory Center for the Arts, light refreshments, and an appearance by Santa Claus. Runs to 5 to 7 p.m., with the lighting taking place at 6 p.m. More info here.
First Friday in Chinatown (December 5) – M FA > L.A.’s Chinatown stays open late for an evening of exploring the unique small businesses, restaurants and contemporary art and culture spaces that make up the historic neighborhood. This month First Friday is bigger than ever teaming up with dozens of businesses, music, extended hours at art galleries, and the Damnoen Saduak Thai Market on Mei Ling Way. More info here.
102nd Annual Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival (December 6) – FA > Every year, Altadena’s one-mile stretch of Deodar Cedars gets decked out in holiday lights, and to mark the beginning of the 2025 transformation, there will be a family-friendly festival featuring food, drink, and arts and crafts vendors. More info here.
Frogtown Holiday Hop (December 6) – FA > The Third Annual Frogtown Holiday Hop transforms the neighborhood into a car-free, low-impact holiday celebration along the L.A. River. Over a dozen venues, including The Left Bank, Frogtown Brewery, and Spoke Bicycle Cafe, will feature art exhibits, live music, food pop-ups, animal rescues with adoptable pets, free family crafting stations, and special discounts. Attendees are encouraged to walk or bike the route and participate in the “Find the Frog” Treasure Hunt. Programming runs from noon to 5 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
Hollywood Park’s Second Annual Winter Fest (December 6) – FA > Winter Fest, Hollywood Park’s holiday celebration takes over Inglewood Farmers’ Market for a free event for all ages that includes photos with Black Santa, roller skating sessions with Sunshine Skate at the Court, artisanal treats from local vendors, farm fresh produce, holiday arts and crafts for kids, and live entertainment. Free to attend. Running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More info here.
Cultural Treasures Market at NHM (December 6) – M FA > LA Commons and the Natural History Museum of L.A. County are teaming up to host the Cultural Treasures Market, a free marketplace celebrating South L.A. and Altadena, featuring over 50 local vendors and artisans. Guests can shop for unique holiday gifts, enjoy food, and support the rich cultural traditions, creativity, and resilience of small businesses from these communities. The market takes place in the free and open NHM Commons area from noon to 5 p.m.. More info here.
Holiday Movie Night at Ivy Station (December 6) – M FA > Culver City’s Ivy Station will host a Holiday Movie Night screening of Elf. Bring a blanket and snag a spot on the lawn, dine at near by restaurants, snap a festive complimentary photo with Santa, paint an ornament, meet adoptable dogs from spcaLA and bring a dog toy for their toy drive. Free to attend. More info here.
Pawliday PetMarket (December 6) -> Wallis Annenberg PetSpace is hosting their annual Pawliday PetMarket, offering a selection of “purr-fect” presents for pets and people from numerous local vendors. This free event allows guests to shop for pet accessories, treats, and unique gifts while enjoying complimentary hot cocoa, cookies, and coffee. A major highlight is the opportunity to have your pet’s photo taken with Santa and get creative at the holiday card craft station. The market runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. More info here.
Venice Sign Lighting and Holiday Block Party (December 6) – FA M > The Venice Sign is getting the holiday treatment, and to celebrate the occasion a portion of Windward Avenue will be closed down for a street festival, staged entertainment, and family friendly activities. More info here.
Nutcracker Holiday Brunch (December 7) -> Culina is bringing a little holiday magic to life with a Nutcracker Brunch Buffet created in partnership with the Pasadena Civic Ballet. Expect a festive, family-friendly feast paired with live ballet performances and a buffet stacked with brunch favorites plus a Nutcracker Wonderland dessert spread starring macarons, sugar plum pom poms, peppermint nutcrackers, and more. Guests can also decorate a pointe shoe at the Sugarplum craft station, browse a Christmas boutique filled with ballet keepsakes, and snap photos at themed installations. Reservations run $185 for adults, $145 for kids 5–12, and children 4 and under dine free. More info here.
A Winter Wonderland in Inglewood (December 7) – FA > Crenshaw Imperial Plaza hosts an afternoon of snow sledding and snow play with a real snowman, kids crafts, raffle prizes and photos with Santa. Free to attend! More info here.
Snow Day at Common Space Brewery (December 7) – FA > Common Space Brewery in Hawthorne transforms into a snowy wonderland with 20 tons of fresh snow for one special morning. Families can enjoy arts and crafts, story time, games, and a kids’ holiday market. It’s all free to attend. Runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More info here.
Holiday Art Fair at the Santa Monica Airport Arts Center (December 7) – FA > The Santa Monica Airport Arts Center – Studios 3026 is hosting a Holiday Art Fair featuring 30+ professional artists who will open their studio doors, offering unique art and gifts for a one-of-a-kind holiday shopping experience, perfect for finding something special. Guests can enjoy festive refreshments, music, and free parking as they stroll through the center with fellow art lovers. The Holiday Art Fair runs from noon to 4 p.m.More info here.
Miracle on Main Street (December 7) – FA > Miracle on Main Street returns to Santa Monica with an evening of kids activities, carolers, an appearance by Santa, and a tree lighting on the California Heritage Museum lawn. It’s all free to attend. Runs from 3:30 to 7:00 p.m. More info here.
Yuletide Cinemaland (November 29- December 23) – M > Street Food Cinema’s annual lineup of festive favorites is back at Heritage Square Museum with holiday inspired cocktails, a Yuletide Market, live piano sing-along, guided Victorian home tours and more, all paired with outdoor movie screenings Tickets cost $40.60 for adults and $23.64 for kids 6-11 years-old with parking passes starting at $28.93. More info here.
Ebell Holiday Luncheon and Artisan Boutique (December 10) -> The Ebell of Los Angeles hosts its annual Holiday Luncheon and Artisan Boutique on December 10. This event features over 30 Southern California artisans showcasing museum-quality jewelry, artistic home décor, and unique gifts, providing a festive opportunity to complete your holiday shopping. While boutique admission is free, guests can purchase tickets for a signature luncheon with wine or a premium boxed lunch with champagne, with 20% of proceeds benefiting The Ebell’s mission. Event runs 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. .More info here.
Ivy Station Holiday Market (December 12) – M FA >Take a walk and shop for gifts from 30+ local vendors at the Ivy Station Holiday Night Market in Culver City. Plus, you’ll find gourmet food trucks, pop-ups, craft beer from Los Angeles Ale Works, photos with Santa, DIY ornament-making, adoptable dogs from spcaLA, and more. Runs 5 to 10 p.m. More info here.
Marina Del Rey Holiday Boat Parade (December 13) – FA TP > The Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade returns for the 63rd edition with the theme “A Nightmare Before Christmas”, offering musical entertainment, food trucks, and a pre-parade lights display. The public can enjoy from viewing spots at Burton Chace Park and Fisherman’s Village. The parade begins at 6 p.m., immediately preceded by the fireworks display. More info here.
Downtown Burbank Winter Arts Festival (December 13-14) – FA -> Indie artisan market Jackalope has curated a special winter lineup of vendors for the Downtown Burbank Winter Arts Festival this December. The two-day event covers a stretch of San Fernando Blvd from Magnolia to Angeleno with over 170 vendors offering hand-crafted artisan goods, visual art, photography, jewelry, paper goods, housewares, and more. Runs 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both dates. Free to attend. More info here.
The 70th Compton Christmas Parade (December 13)- FA > Compton native The Game will serve as Grand Marshal for the 70th Compton Christmas Parade which runs along Compton Blvd and Bullis St from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. More info here.
2nd Annual Krampus Art Show (December 13)- FA > Krampus is coming to Santa Monica as CoprOGallery hosts “The 2nd Annual Krampus Show.” Curated by Monte Beauchamp of BlabWorld, the exhibition features dark and festive works from dozens of participating artists inspired by the mythical creature. The gallery is located on the campus of Bergamot Station, and the opening reception is from 6 to 10 p.m. Exhibition runs through January 3. More info here.
Valley Cultural Foundation’s 4th Annual Holiday Arts & Music Festival (December 13) – FA > Enjoy some holiday fun including free photos with Santa, snow play, small business shopping, food trucks and crafts for kids, all presented at the Valley Cultural Foundation’s annual holiday fest at Warner Park. Free to attend. More info here.
The Echo Park Community Parade (December 13) – FA> The Echo Park Community Parade returns with holiday themed route along Sunset Blvd in Echo Park, all kicking off at 11 a.m. Free to attend as always. More info here.
Steep LA x Smorgasburg: Festival of Tea (December 14) -> Smorgasburg L.A. teams up with Steep LA to present the Festival of Tea, a celebration of tea featuring guest vendors, traditional tea ceremonies, and interactive activities. Attendees can also enjoy holiday shopping, music from resident DJs, and specials from Smorgasburg’s regular food and retail vendors. Entry is free, and the first two hours of parking at ROW DTLA are complimentary. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More info here.
Hanukkah Festival at the Skirball Cultural Center (December 14) -> The Skirball’s annual Hanukkah Festival is multigenerational celebration featuring live music, kid friendly activities, tasty traditional treats, and access to exhibition galleries. The Skirball Storytellers will also bring the Hanukkah story to life with a theatrical performance featuring music and puppetry. Then, as sundown approaches, there will be a community candle lighting ceremony. GA tickets start at $20. More info here.
Jane Lynch’s A Swingin’ Little Christmas (December 17) -> This December at BroadStage Santa Monica, catch Jane Lynch’s A Swingin’ Little Christmas, a hilarious and heartwarming holiday extravaganza features Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jane Lynch, along with Kate Flannery, Tim Davis, and the Tony Guerrero Quintet. The group performs classic holiday tunes, blending comedy and music for a “swingin'” good time. Guests can also enjoy pre-show music on The Plaza 45 minutes before the main presentation. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $86. More info here.
Animation Block Party Presents Picture This! The Live Animated Comedy Show (December 20) -> Animation, comedy, and holiday cheer collide at the Lyric Hyperion Theater with a Winter Extravaganza starring Picture This Comedy, presented by the Animation Block Party. This free show features stand-up comedians performing live while talented animators, cartoonists, and artists draw them in real-time. You can also catch winter and holiday-themed Animation Block Party shorts. The show runs from 7 to 9 p.m. RSVP is required. More info here.
LA County Holiday Celebration (December 24) – M FA > The 66th annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration returns live to The Music Center with a diverse lineup of L.A.-based artists performing holiday favorites. If you can’t make it out for the show, remember the performance will also be broadcast on PBS SoCal and streamed live on pbssocal.org. Runs 3 to 6 p.m. More info here.
Grand Park New Years Eve Celebration (December 31) – M FA> Take part in Los Angeles’ flagship NYE celebration with live music, family-friendly activities, and a spectacular countdown show featuring 3D light projections at City Hall. Free to attend as always! More info here.
Night Dive New Year’s Eve (December 31) – M > The Aquarium of the Pacific rings in the New Year with a special edition of their adults-only, Night Dive program. The evening includes live music, magic, and a confetti countdown to 2026. Tickets run $89.95 person. More info here.
Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst The Stars (starting November 6) -> The South Coast Botanic Garden again morphs into a multi-sensory celestial pathway where guests will walk amongst the stars thanks to brilliant lights, cosmic visions, and astral song. Expect nine immersive zones decked out with radiant light installations, 360º soundscapes, and cosmic narratives. Adult tickets start at $32.90 and there’s an additional fee for parking. More info here.
L.A. Zoo Lights ( November 13 – January 11, 2026) -> The Los Angeles Zoo’s brightest annual tradition will transform the zoo grounds into a world of light and holiday magic. The after-hours event offers brightly lit displays and festive family-friendly experience every night throughout the entire holiday season. Adult tickets start at $19, depending on the desired date to attend. More info here.
Enchanted Forest of Light (Starting November 16) -> Descanso Gardens’ dazzling winter tradition, Enchanted Forest of Light, returns to illuminate the season from November 16th through January 4th! Wander through a one-mile pathway of large-scale, interactive installations, including the glowing stained-glass cottages by Tom Fruin and the geometric works of HYBYCOZO. New this year are two special ‘Music & Mixology’ nights on December 10th and 11th, featuring live “yacht rock” hits from Yachty by Nature while you sip craft cocktails. Timed entry starts at 5:30 p.m. on open dates. Adult, non-member tickets run $27-$45. More info here.
Pershing Square Holiday Ice (November 20 – January 11, 2026) – M > The 7,200 square foot skating rink in the heart of DTLA returns for the holiday season. GA tickets, including skate rental, cost $22 for adults. More info here.
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