Los Angeles may not have snow-capped trees or frosty mornings, but it more than makes up for it with creativity, sparkle, and a unique holiday vibe. The city transforms into a playground of festive experiences, from cozy Victorian markets to vibrant pub crawls, outdoor screenings, and dazzling light displays. Ready to fill your calendar with Christmas cheer? Here’s a curated list of ten incredible events happening across L.A. this holiday season.

Yuletide Cinemaland

Until Dec 23, 2024

This outdoor holiday movie series at Heritage Square offers an old-world charm perfect for Christmas lovers. Picture Victorian-style houses, twinkling lights, and screenings of holiday favorites like Home Alone and Elf. Add mulled wine, hot cocoa, and a light tunnel for an unforgettable holiday evening.

Source: Bucket Listers

Holiday Road

Until Dec 28, 2024

King Gillette Ranch becomes a glowing holiday wonderland with a nearly mile-long walking trail. Explore giant holiday displays, festive decor, and a cozy Christmas village. Santa and Mrs. Claus make appearances, and the holiday bar ensures you stay merry and bright.

Source: Holiday Road USA

Old-Fashioned Holiday

Until Dec 15, 2024

Step into a Victorian Christmas at the Arboretum. The Queen Anne Cottage serves as the centerpiece for this event, featuring carolers, artisan markets, and Victorian-era dance lessons. Sip on a warm toddy and shop for handmade treasures in this nostalgic setting.

Source: TimeOut

Holidays on the Hill

Until Jan 5, 2025

Head to the Hilton near Universal Studios for ice skating with stunning views of the Hollywood Hills. Kids will love Santa’s Workshop, while adults can enjoy themed cocktails at the Jingle Bell Tavern with the “date & skate” package.

Source: Secret Los Angeles

Jennifer Hudson: The Gift of Love

Dec 18, 2024

Jennifer Hudson’s soulful voice is all you need to make this Christmas magical. Performing at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the youngest-ever EGOT winner will deliver holiday classics and originals from her new album, The Gift of Love.

Source: Fontainebleau Las Vegas

Luminaria Nights

Dec 13 – Dec 21, 2024

Find tranquility at the California Botanic Garden, where glowing luminarias light the way to live music stages. From jazz to Native American flutes, enjoy a variety of performances under the twinkling stars, accompanied by hot drinks and sweet treats.

Source: Inland Valley Daily Bulletin

Santa Monica Pub Crawl

Dec 14, 2024

Drink for a cause at this spirited pub crawl benefiting the Westside Food Bank. Don your best holiday sweater and follow one of three routes through Santa Monica’s best bars, scoring drink deals and festive vibes along the way.

Source: Facebook

Winter Fest OC

Until Jan 5, 2025

Celebrate ten years of Winter Fest OC in Costa Mesa, where more than 2 million lights, ice tubing, and snow play set the scene for holiday fun. Enjoy carnival rides, photo ops, and cozy up in fireside igloos with hot cocoa in hand.

Source: LA Times

Krampus’ Cove

Until Dec 22, 2024

If holiday cheer isn’t quite your thing, Krampus’ Cove offers a darker twist. This eerie pop-up bar inside Cole’s French Dip features haunting decor, twisted holiday cocktails, and a visit from the Alpine legend himself—Krampus.

Source: TimeOut

Los Angeles Christmas Market

Until Dec 24, 2024

Experience European-style festivities at the ROW DTLA Christmas Market. Browse holiday goods, enjoy festive bites like schnitzel and apple cider, and catch an alfresco movie screening.

Source: Christmas Market LA

Los Angeles proves that the holidays don’t need snow to feel magical. From elegant Victorian festivities to spirited pub crawls and enchanting light displays, these events capture the city’s diverse holiday spirit. So grab a friend, a warm drink, and your merriest outfit—because this season, L.A. is bursting with Christmas joy.