Cool Spots

This is What the Venice Canals Holiday Lights Look Like (Spoiler: They’re Gorgeous!)

December 15, 2015 by Brian Champlin

After writing a quick round-up of where to see Christmas lights in Los Angeles, I got inspired and took a drive out to Venice yesterday to scope some of the gorgeous lights on display in the Venice Canals neighborhood.

Although the annual boat parade (usually the first Saturday of December) has come and gone, the bridges and many of the homes in the surrounding canal walkways have a bevy of gorgeous lights that make for a wonderful, albeit chilly, evening stroll. These folks really get into the spirit of the season!

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In any case, just thought I’d share some of the photos I took during my walk.

(NOTE: My night photography leaves a lot to be desired, but I’m working on it!)

Christmas Lights at Venice Canals

Credit: Brian Champlin / We Like L.A.

Kiss Bridge at Venice Canals

Credit: Brian Champlin / We Like L.A.

Venice Canals Christmas Lights on Display

Credit: Brian Champlin / We Like L.A.

Venice Canals Crossing at Night

Credit: Brian Champlin / We Like L.A.

Venice Holiday Lights

Credit: Brian Champlin / We Like L.A.

Venice Canals Holiday Bridge Lights

Credit: Brian Champlin / We Like L.A.

Venice Canals Lights for Holidays

Credit: Brian Champlin / We Like L.A.

Venice Canals House

Credit: Brian Champlin / We Like L.A.

If you plan to go check it out for yourself, expect a good amount of traffic during the early evening (Ocean Ave. is pretty much a constant stream of commuters), and a dearth of street parking options.

I got kind of lucky that I could get there before 4:00pm, snag a street spot, and wait it out till sunset

Also, it got pretty chilly in the evening during the winter months (at least by L.A. standards) so dress warm.

Finally, if you’d like more background and information on the neighborhood while getting a guided tour of the area, I’d recommend the Vintage Venice Holiday Lights tours, which are starting up this week and run until January 3 (it’s around $40 for a 3.5 hour tour of the neighborhood).

For more information on the canals, visit venicecanalsassociation.org.

Whatever you choose, enjoy!

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