Last updated: November 11, 2024
Can't wait for holiday joy in Studio City? Dive into our guide for the best events and activities! For Studio City natives and travelers, this guide reveals the city's holiday treasures.
Popular events this season include the enchanting LA Zoo Lights, where stunning light displays bring the zoo to life after dark. Plus, experience the unique Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens, featuring a breathtaking array of illuminated art installations that capture the magic of the holidays. And the festivities at Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood is something you definitely don't want to miss, with themed attractions and seasonal shows. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Holiday celebration in a zoo setting
Explore an immersive landscape filled with dazzling wildlife-themed lantern sculptures, including magical Holiday Forest and spectacular holiday photo spots.
Where: Los Angeles | More Info: LA Zoo Lights - Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Interactive light installations in a botanical garden setting.
Descanso Gardens transforms into a vibrant, luminescent forest with interactive art installations, atmospheric lighting, and ambient music, featuring returning favorites like Tom Fruin's stained glass houses and HYBYCOZO's geometric sculptures.
Where: La Cañada Flintridge | More Info: Enchanted Forest of Light - Descanso Gardens
Unique gifts and handcrafted goods from local businesses.
Montana Avenue transforms into a vibrant holiday marketplace, featuring local businesses, unique gifts, handcrafted goods, and treats.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: Montana Ave Winter Shopping Festival
Immersive holiday experience with themed attractions and decorations.
Celebrate the holiday season at Universal Studios Hollywood with themed attractions, festive decorations, and special events that bring the magic of Hollywood to life.
Where: Universal City | More Info: Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood
Iconic parade with legendary celebrities and charitable mission.
The Hollywood Christmas Parade is a cherished tradition that brings the Hollywood community together with dazzling floats, marching bands, and performances. It features legendary celebrities and a profound charitable mission, including Toys for Tots, to help underprivileged children during the holiday season.
Where: Hollywood | More Info: Hollywood Christmas Parade
Free outdoor screening of a classic action film.
Enjoy a free outdoor screening of the classic action film "Die Hard" on the iconic Third Street Promenade in Downtown Santa Monica. The event features a themed photo opportunity, free snacks, and a lively atmosphere perfect for a family outing.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: Movie Friday: Die Hard
Handcrafted puppetry adaptation of The Nutcracker.
The Bob Baker Marionette Theater presents a unique adaptation of The Nutcracker, featuring over 100 handcrafted puppets in a cabaret-style performance. The show includes memorable characters like the Sugarplum Fairy and the Waltzing Flowers, set in an enchanted world of puppetry joy.
Where: Los Angeles | More Info: The Nutcracker - Bob Baker Marionette Theater
World-class holiday performances with diverse artistic offerings.
The Music Center offers a variety of holiday events, including concerts, plays, and cultural celebrations that showcase the city's rich artistic heritage. From classical music performances to theatrical productions, these events provide a diverse and enriching experience for all attendees.
Where: Los Angeles | More Info: Holiday Events at the Music Center
Interactive holiday displays and themed experiences inspired by the Harry Potter universe.
The immersive holiday experience showcases the beloved Wizarding World with dazzling light displays, themed decorations, and special seasonal treats. Guests can wander through iconic locations from the Harry Potter series, marveling at the stunning transformations that the area undergoes for the season. From unique merchandise to festive character interactions, the atmosphere captures the spirit of both Christmas and the magical world created by J.K. Rowling.
Where: Universal City | More Info: Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™
Seasonal outdoor ice skating with special themed events.
Ice at Santa Monica offers a unique opportunity to skate under California's sun and twinkling stars. Located in the heart of Santa Monica, the rink features nearly 8,000 square feet of shimmering ice and a 400-square-foot tot rink for little ones. Special events include the Rink Opening Celebration, Taylor's Birthday, and a New Year's Eve celebration.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: ICE Santa Monica
Holiday celebration with Santa, tree lighting, and street-wide festivities.
Miracle on Main Street is a holiday celebration featuring kids' activities, Santa, tree lighting, carolers, and street-wide festivities on the Heritage Museum lawn.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: Miracle on Main Street
Traditional reenactment of Mary and Joseph's journey with live music and festivities.
Las Posadas at Olvera Street is a nine-night festival reenacting the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem with traditional songs, colorful costumes, and vibrant music. The event, rooted in Christian and Catholic traditions, welcomes all participants. Each night, the crowd gathers as shepherds are led by an angel to ask for shelter at shops on Olvera Street, culminating in songs of celebration and the distribution of hot champurrado and sweet bread.
Where: Los Angeles | More Info: Las Posadas at Olvera Street
Immersive Halloween experience with guided tours and horror-themed entertainment.
Immerse yourself in a spine-tingling Halloween experience at Heritage Square Museum, featuring eerie entertainment, delicious street food, and hair-raising movie screenings. Explore the historic Victorian mansions, participate in Adult Trick-or-Treating, and enjoy spooky treats and horror-centric market vendors. The event includes double features presented in partnership with Paramount Scares, along with a 40th anniversary screening of "A Nightmare on Elm Street" and a face-off between Freddy Krueger and Jason.
Where: Los Angeles | More Info: Yuletide Cinemaland - Heritage Square Museum
