L.A may not be the first city that pops into your head when you think of holiday destinations. BUT, even with our palm trees, beaches, warmer weather, and the absence of snow flurries, there are actually plenty of holiday activities, places, and events in and around L.A. that will get you and your kids in a festive mood.
No, I’m not talking about Disneyland, Universal Studios, Six Flags and Knotts Berry Farm (although these are great options too). If you’re in L.A, or anywhere in Southern California, these are some of the best Christmas-y places to take your kids this holiday season.
1. Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens
1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
What’s in it: A one-mile walk through 10, large-scale light displays, many of which are interactive, located in some of the most gorgeous areas of the famed Descanso Gardens.
Why kids would love it: Descanso Gardens is one of our favorite botanical parks in SoCal. It’s gorgeous during the day but at night, around this time of the year, this beautiful garden transforms into an enchanted forest, filled with dazzling lights that will make you feel like you’re inside a magical fairy forest.
What’s great too is that a lot of these light installations are interactive, so the kids are not just looking at them. There are buttons and gears that they can touch or step on to manipulate the lights and sounds.
Food and drinks: There’s a restaurant nearby called Maple and there are places inside the garden to get wine, hot chocolate and hot cider.
Accessibility: Accessible for strollers, wheelchairs and mobility assistance devices.
Parking: Free onsite and street parking, but it’s a first come first served.
Other reminders: Tickets have timed entry and must be purchased in advance. The one-mile walk takes about an hour and a half to complete but you can stroll at your own pace. Not all paths are paved cement so wear comfortable shoes and bundle up as it could get really cold at night.
Price: $28 and up depending on the date
2. Moonlight Forest at the L.A. Arboretum
301 North Baldwin Avenue, 91007 Arcadia, CA
What’s in it: A lantern art show designed and constructed by artisans from the Sichuan Province of China.
Why kids would love it: While not necessarily Christmas-themed, Moonlight Forest is also a festival of light, featuring over 60 colorful, gigantic lanterns in the form of jungle and sea animals, mythical creatures and botanical wonders. It’s a great and unique way to introduce kids to the ancient Chinese lantern art and also experience the L.A. Arboretum at night.
Food and drinks: There are food trucks, a cafe and a full bar at the festival. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.
Accessibility: Accessible for strollers, wheelchairs and mobility assistance devices.
Parking: Free parking onsite and at Santa Anita Park, with free shuttles to and from the park’s parking lot.
Other reminders: Just like enchanted, purchase this ticket online and in advance. This one mile walk takes about an hour and a half to complete. Bundle up and wear comfortable shoes.
Price: $20 and up depending on the date
3. The Grove
189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036
What’s in it: As if the stores, movie theater, restaurants, dessert places and, of course, the Farmer’s Market aren’t spectacular enough. During the holidays, this popular hangout place transforms into a winter wonderland, complete 15,000 Christmas lights, a 100-foot tall Christmas tree with about 10,000 ornaments, a candy cane house where you can take pictures with Santa, carolers, Christmas songs on repeat, and even snow falling.
Why kids would love it: Everything I said above is just spectacular. They left no stone unturned when it comes to invoking the holiday spirit. Plus, it’s just 30 minutes away from downtown L.A. so you can come here whenever you like.
Food and drinks: Plenty. But for the best holiday experience, head to Dominique Ansel Bakery for cronuts, frozen s’mores and blossoming hot chocolate.
Accessibility: Accessible for strollers, wheelchairs and mobility assistance devices.
Parking: First hour is free; $4 up to 1 and 1/2 hours and $1 additional every 30 minutes for up to 3 hours.
Other reminders: The Grove could get really crowded, especially during the weekends. Make sure to make reservations if you’re planning to dine in any of the restaurants outside the Farmer’s Market.
Other Sites You Might Like:
- The Americana, Glendale, CA
- L.A. Zoo Lights, Los Angeles, CA
- Christmas Boat Parade, Newport Beach
READERS: Got any other suggestions? Tell me your favorite holiday destinations in Southern California in the comments section below!
Leave a Reply