With the holiday season officially underway, December is packed with festive events across West L.A. and the greater Los Angeles area. From light displays to concerts and family outings, here are 10 holiday activities to check out next month.
1. Enchant Los Angeles: Light Maze & Winter Village
This sprawling holiday attraction features a massive light maze, ice-skating trail, themed villages, seasonal food, and photo installations. It’s one of the biggest holiday events in the region and runs through late December.
2. Holiday Road at King Gillette Ranch
Located just over the hill in Calabasas, Holiday Road takes visitors on an illuminated walking trail filled with oversized ornaments, Christmas tunnels, and festive scenery. It’s a family favorite for nighttime holiday strolls.
3. L.A. Zoo Lights
The Los Angeles Zoo transforms into a lantern-lit wonderland each December, with glowing animals, light sculptures, and holiday music throughout the park. A great option for families with younger kids.
4. Ice at Santa Monica
Downtown Santa Monica brings back its popular seasonal ice rink, giving residents a chance to skate outdoors just blocks from the beach. Skate rentals are available on site.
5. Montana Avenue Holiday Walk
This local tradition brings together Montana Avenue businesses for a night of shopping, music, treats, and festive storefront displays. Families can enjoy giveaways, carolers, and community activities.
6. Main Street Holiday Event in Santa Monica
Main Street hosts its annual holiday celebration with tree lightings, food vendors, local artisans, and activities for kids. The event typically includes live music and appearances from holiday characters.
7. Downtown Santa Monica Holiday Market
A rotating lineup of vendors, crafts, gifts, and seasonal foods fills the Third Street Promenade throughout the month. It’s a convenient way to support local makers while checking off shopping lists.
8. Candlelight Holiday Concerts
Held at various venues including historic churches and theaters, these concerts feature classical musicians performing holiday favorites in candlelit settings. They sell out quickly, so reservations are recommended.
9. Menorah Lightings Across the Westside
Community menorah lightings are scheduled throughout Santa Monica, Brentwood, and Westwood. Many include music, hot drinks, and family activities hosted by local organizations.
10. Pacific Palisades Village Holiday Events
Palisades Village offers a series of seasonal programs, including photos with Santa, live entertainment, festive décor, and community-focused holiday activities throughout December.
