Here’s how to celebrate the holidays in and around Los Angeles – Annenberg Media

What Los Angeles lacks in snow, it makes up for in festive cheer, dazzling lights, and a unique mix of holiday traditions. The city offers countless ways to enjoy the season. Whether you’re looking for a magical escape from the stress of final exams or want to get into the spirit, LA has plenty to offer.

Christmas at The Grove

Enjoy a magical night at The Grove as the iconic outdoor mall transforms into a winter wonderland. Enjoy the artificial nighttime snowfall and signature tree lighting and admire the twinkling lights while window shopping.

The centerpiece is a magnificent 100-foot-tall Christmas tree decorated with sparkling ornaments (perfect for a photo opportunity). Whether you’re shopping, dining or just enjoying the festive atmosphere, Christmas at The Grove promises a magical experience that captures the spirit of the holidays.

Winter Wellness Bash at Expo Park

Take a break from the end-of-year hustle and bustle at the Winter Wellness Bash on December 14th in USC’s backyard – just down the street from campus. This free event combines fun and relaxation with a variety of opportunities to practice self-care and mindfulness. You can attend yoga sessions and perform gentle movements to promote flexibility and inner peace, lace up your sneakers to run in the community 5K, or sample nutritious, nourishing snacks and meals. The Wellness Bash is a refreshing way to feel the spirit of the season while prioritizing your well-being.

LA Kings Holiday Ice at LA Live

Put on your skates to glide into the holidays with one of LA’s favorite winter traditions. Located in the heart of downtown, the skating rink is a quintessential December activity to spend with friends, family or even on a date. You can enjoy a night at the rink after or before a game, concert or movie as LA Live is located between Regal Theaters, Crypto.com and Peacock Theaters. Tickets are $25 per person, including skates and admission.

Holiday boat parade in Marina Del Rey

For a unique Southern California experience, the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade is a must-see. This year marks the 62nd anniversary of the tradition of lighting up the marina with festively decorated boats of all sizes while competing for the best design. Stroll through Fisherman’s Village or take a seat at Burton Chace Park and enjoy the parade from land. But the free event is more than just a visual spectacle – it brings families, businesses and local organizations together to celebrate the season. Bundle up, grab a hot tea or hot chocolate and watch the beautiful boats go by on December 14th at 6:00 p.m.

Astra Lumina

Step into a celestial realm of wonder at Astra Lumina, an immersive nighttime experience at the South Coast Botanic Garden just outside Torrance. This enchanting journey takes you through light installations, ethereal soundscapes and interactive elements. A beautiful blend of nature and technology, Astra Lumina is perfect for anyone looking to add some magic to their holiday season. It is a multi-sensory adventure across 87 hectares that combines sound and shimmer – an unforgettable experience away from the city. Discounted rates for students are just under $30.

Christmas cinema land

Located at the historic Heritage Square Museum in Montecito Heights, Yuletide Cinemaland is another outdoor vacation experience. Take a tour of a Victorian home, sample delicious bites from local vendors and food trucks, and watch classic Christmas films under the stars. There’s food, music and Santa Claus: what more could you want? Screenings include “Elf,” “Home Alone” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Doors open at 6:30 p.m. on various dates throughout December. Admission is $34 per person.

Holiday season at Warner Bros. Studio

Experience the essence of the season from a Hollywood perspective with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Warner Bros. Studio in Burbank. While you learn about movie magic and history, you can also see how the studio incorporated the holidays into its iconic sets. Gilmore Girls fans can take a stroll through the snowy streets of Stars Hollow from the Pavilion to Luke’s Diner. The tour takes you through iconic sets, costumes and props from “Friends,” “All American” and the DC Comics universe.

Los Angeles Ballet – “The Nutcracker”

If you want to dress up and enjoy a timeless classic, Los Angeles Ballet’s rendition of “The Nutcracker” is the perfect answer. This production reimagines the enchanting story of a child’s imagination. Each breathtaking scene is brought to life through beautiful costumes and graceful choreography. The Los Angeles Ballet brings this holiday favorite to venues across the city, including the Pasadena Civic Auditorium (December 3-5), Royce Hall (December 13-15) and the Dolby Theater (December 19-28). December).

Whether you want to glide on the ice, bask in the lights, or lose yourself in a theatrical performance, Los Angeles offers endless ways to celebrate the season.