The Best Holiday Activities in Los Angeles 2025
Where to Sip, Celebrate & Feel the Magic Across the City
Los Angeles might not get snowflakes or frosty winter nights, but it more than makes up for it with twinkling lights, over-the-top pop-ups, and plenty of festive fun. Whether you’re looking for immersive holiday bars, magical light displays, or a nostalgic movie night with hot chocolate in hand, LA turns into a glittering playground all season long.
Here are the most joyful, dazzling, and deliciously festive things to do in Los Angeles this holiday season:
Enchant Christmas
Location: Santa Anita Park, 285 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA
Dates: November 21 – December 28, 2025
The world’s largest Christmas light maze arrives in Los Angeles this year, transforming Santa Anita Park into a glowing, storybook wonderland. Wander through 10 acres of dazzling lights, glide across the ice, and explore a festive village filled with treats, music, and local vendors.
Light Trails & Outdoor Magic
LA Zoo Lights
Location: Griffith Park
Dates: November 13 - January 11
A dazzling after-dark wonderland with glowing animals, twinkling tunnels, and seasonal snacks — a favorite for families and date nights alike.
Image by Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Enchanted: Forest of Light
Location: Descanso Gardens, La Cañada Flintridge
Dates: November 16 – January 4
Walk through breathtaking installations among towering trees — one of LA’s most beautiful winter skiing traditions.
Image by Enchanted Forest of Light
Astra Lumina
Location: South Coast Botanic Garden, Palos Verdes
Dates: Starts November 6
A celestial journey through light and sound that transforms the gardens into a nighttime star-filled dreamscape.
Holiday Pop-Up Bars & Festive Dining
Holly Jolly Bar at EP & LP
Location: West Hollywood
Dates: Late November – December 2025
EP & LP transforms its rooftop into a whimsical holiday hideaway with themed cocktails, cozy fire pits, twinkling décor, and views over West Hollywood. Expect seasonal menus, photo moments, and plenty of merry mischief.
Mariah Carey Holiday Bar at the Mondrian
Location: Skybar at Mondrian LA, West Hollywood
Dates: Starts November 13
All we want for Christmas… is cocktails and diva holiday vibes. This Mariah-themed takeover brings glittering décor, signature drinks, and plenty of whistle-tone-worthy holiday anthems. Dress fabulously — Mariah would want that.
Image by Mariah Carey's Holiday Bar
Miracle Pop-Up Holiday Bar
Location: Multiple LA venues (historic seasonal pop-up)
Dates: Starts November
Known worldwide for its over-the-top decorations, collectible holiday mugs, and delightfully pun-heavy drink menu. A must-visit for anyone who believes more holiday sparkle is always better.
Holiday Movies, TV Nostalgia & Immersive Experiences
Gilmore Girls Holiday Studio Tour
Location: Universal Studios Hollywood
Dates: December 18 - January 4
Step into Stars Hollow as the famous backlot transforms into a wintery small town filled with fairy lights and hot cocoa. Re-create your favorite Gilmore Girls moments and enjoy holiday treats Lorelai and Rory would approve of.
Image by Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
Merry Movie Nights at Rooftop Cinema Club
Multiple locations: DTLA, 888 S Olive St 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA
Dates: November – December 2025
Watch all the classics — Home Alone, Elf, The Holiday — under the stars with cozy blankets, popcorn, and skyline views.
Image by 20th Century Studios Family
Family-Friendly Fun & Theme Park Cheer
Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood
Location: Universal City
Dates: November 24 – January 4
Celebrate Grinchmas™, enjoy snowfall on the Studio Tour, and experience the first-ever Holidays at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™.
Image by Universal Studios Hollywood
Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square
Location: Downtown LA
Dates: November 20 - January 11
Skate beneath the skyscrapers in a truly LA holiday experience.
Image by Pershing Square Holiday Ice Rink
Smorgasburg LA — Holiday Market Days
Location: Downtown LA
Dates: Select Sundays in December
Local makers, limited-edition seasonal treats, and buzzy holiday energy — a fun way to support small businesses.
Image by Smorgasburg Los Angeles
Whether you’re sipping cocoa under glowing oak trees, raising a candy-cane cocktail on a rooftop, or stepping into a TV town dusted with snow, Los Angeles comes alive with cheer every December. This city proves that you don’t need icy weather to feel the holiday magic — just a little sparkle, good company, and a festive spirit.
So grab your mittens (just for the photo), queue up the Mariah playlist, and get ready to sleigh the season in LA.
