By: Haley Bosselman, Kendall Moller By: Haley Bosselman, Kendall Moller | December 5, 2024 | Food & Drink, Lifestyle, Feature, Guides,
Fairmont Century Plaza Swiss Chalet
From November through the end of December, holiday festivities are in full swing across Los Angeles. Discover what’s happening below.
Website/ 1821 Daly St 90031
Krampus Rumpus & Holiday Market returns to Benny Boy Brewing on Dec. 7 from 6 p.m. to midnight and on Dec. 8 from 4 to 10 p.m. Start with shopping from local vendors for gifts, cards, art, treats, Krampus-themed merchandise and more while enjoying music by polka cover band Die Sauerkrauts and Bavarian entertainment by Ladyhosen. Then, get ready for Santa’s scary helpers to sneak through the beer garden. Dress-up is encouraged and there will be prizes for outstanding costumes.
Website/ 648 S Broadway 90014
On Dec. 7, Clifton’s Republic will host a holiday tree lighting from 4 to 8 p.m. Its 40-foot-tall replica Redwood tree will light upon 8 p.m. Before then, there will be pictures for kids with Santa and his elves, a holiday toy drive, hot chocolate, s’mores and standard menu items. Admission is free with a toy donation otherwise entry is $5 for kids 15 and under and $10 for adults. Then, on Dec. 28 from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., there will be Clifton’s Saturnalia Ball & Winter Festival (21+). The pre-new year celebration invites you to come dressed to impress in Roman mythology-inspired costumes for a night of live music, dancing and captivating performances. Dinner is available for those who are interested in enoying the classic Clifton’s buffet between 6 and 9 p.m.
Website/ 743 S Lucerne Blvd 90005
The Ebell of Los Angeles will hold three holiday events. First, it will hold the annual Ebell Holiday Ball on Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. A chance to reflect on the year and get ready for 2025, the evening will feature a three-course dinner, festive cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres, live music and dancing. Then, on Dec. 11, the Ebell Holiday Boutique & Luncheon will take place from 10 a.m., followed by the Ebell Holiday Chorale Concert on Dec. 15.
Website/ 740 N fairfax 90046
Genghis Cohen is bringing back its annual Hanukkah ice cream collaboration. Starting Dec. 5, the special edition Hanukkah treat made in partnership with McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream will be available by the scoop or pint with pickup orders via Genghis Cohen’s website. Additionally, for the first time ever, it will be available for purchase nationally on the McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream website. The coveted flavor, Baby Got Mac(aroon), features toasted coconut macaroon cookies swirled into coconut cream ice cream and shards of melted, bittersweet Guittard chocolate.
Website/ 244 San Pedro St 90012
The Japanese American Cultural & Community Center will present Holiday Afternoon Tea: A Harmonious Blend of East and West on the weekends of Dec. 7 to 8 and Dec. 14 to 15. In collaboration with Japanese and Korean American chef Laura Ochikubo (The French Laundry, Providence, Gusto Bread), the service includes a glass of sparkling sake, Uji tea and a Japanese twist on British tea classics. Highlights include Japanese tea sandos, kabocha squash scones, wagashi and shoyu caramel bon bons. Reservations are required.
Website/ 23033 Pacific Coast Hwy 90265
On Dec. 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., lifestyle and apparel brand Jenni Kayne and small-batch ceramics purveyor Slo Studio will be at The Surfrider Malibu for a holiday pop-up shop experience in the lobby and library loft. Both days will offer shopping, and Dec. 8 will also feature a hand embroidery session by Sew Cool by TK and a wreath-making workshop led by Slo Studio from noon to 1:00 p.m. RSVPs are required for the workshop: [email protected].
Website/ 1320 Echo Park Ave 90026
The Lonely Oyster is keeping spirits bright with a special holiday menu throughout December. Crafted by executive chef Dom Crisp, don’t miss the chance to try the New York surf and turf; King Crabby Cavi-Bombs (two laminated crispy potato pave with creme fraiche, chive and Ostera Caviar); latkes with onion jam, smoked salmon, cremem fraiche, trout roe and chive and squid ink house-made eggless Paccheri noodles with lobster-vodka sauce. Bar director Philip Ross has whipped up cocktails to match, including the spiced Fireside Chat with rum, the Feliz Navidad with cranberry-infused tequila, the whisky-citrus-ginger Samurai’s Remedy and the Weighted Blanket (reposado tequila, French brandy, creme de cacao, peppermint, Fernet Whipped Cream, Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate).
Website/ 15225 Palisades Village Ln 90272
On Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Palisades Village will be ringing in the holiday season with an entire day of festivities. The property will become a winter wonderland with plenty for the family to do—kids activities, holidays treats, live entertainment, special promotions—all before the Christmas tree ceremonial lighting and gentle snowfall. In particular, there will be photos with Santa from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and storytime with Santa in partnership with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Website/ 777 S Alameda St 90021
On Dec. 7 and 14, stop by Row DTLA’s photo studio for a vintage holiday studio session. The 30-minute experience seats groups up to six in an old-school living room with a tinseled tree to capture memories with 90s Christmas vibes. Bookings are open.
Website/ 1740 Ocean Ave 90401
On Dec. 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Sandbourne Santa Monica will host a wreath-making workshop. Guided by Dominic Ibarra of Floral by Dom, the class will provide materials and a glass of sparkling wine. Attendees will also get 15% off brunch at Marelle. Tickets are available.
Website/ 919 S Grand Ave 90015
DTLA Alliance and ASU are joining forces on Dec. 14 to present A Saturday Picnic with Santa. Between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., stop by Grand Hope Park for a Santa Claus meet and greet, complete with milk and cookies. The afternoon will also feature live puppet and magic shows by Kiddle Karoo and crafts with Majestic Art Gallery.
Website/ 468 N Bedford Dr 90210
Available through Dec. 22, Crustacean Beverly Hills has multi-course holiday lunch and dinner menus that are keeping spirits bright. Beginning with a glass of complimentary bubbles, the three-course lunch menu features options like torched salmon sashimi, An’s Famous Garlic Noodles and filet mignon shaken beef, while the five-course dinner menu includes choices like a caviar langoustine roll, Mongolian lamb and a tasting of grilled prawns with the garlic noodles.
Website/ 1100 S Broadway 90015
The afternoon tea service at the Downtown LA Proper Hotel is getting a seasonal twist for the holidays. In the hotel’s Dahlia Lounge, enjoy a Nutcracker-themed tea service featuring tea sandwiches, sweet treats and Tealeaves teas. Menu highlights include pumpkin ginger eclairs and sandwiches like wagyu beef bacon and sweet potato and smoked salmon with lemon cream and aleppo.
Website/ 6555 Hollywood Blvd 90028
From Nov. 29 to the end of December, Frosty’s Christmas Pop-Up Bar brings yuletide fun, merriment extravagance right to Hollywood. Awash in tinsel, snowflakes, twinkle lights, ornaments and more, the holiday pop-up bar is fitting for couples, friends and large groups seeking a winter-wonderland party experience.
Website/ 118 E 6th St 90014
From Dec. 5 to 23, Cole’s French Dip will get a dark, festive makeover when Krampus’ Cove takes over the famed downtown eatery. The immersive cocktail pop-up by Erin Hayes and Kelsey Ramage transports guests into the world of Krampus by transforming the space with black Christmas trees adorned with doll heads, skeletons, skulls and faux severed body parts. Alongside seasonal cocktails, there will also be an interactive ticketed show with Krampus and the evil elves. Tickets are now available.
Website/ 303 Cordova St. 91101
From Dec. 23 to Jan. 1, Hotel Dena in Pasadena will have a holiday-inspired menu at its restaurant, Agents Only. Offerings will include dishes like the Milanesa, a panko-breaded New York steak with Morita demi-glaze served with a green field salad with house vinaigrette, cotija cheese and a small side of rice and beans, and the Chile en Nogada $28, a large poblano pepper stuffed with a beef and pork picadillo filling and topped with a nogada sauce made from cream cheese and goat cheese and served with Mexican rice.
Website/ 10250 Santa Monica Blvd 90067
Eataly will host its final after-hours storewide experience on Dec. 6 from 9 p.m. to midnight. In addition to bites and beverages, there will be a live DJ, specialty cocktails, a photo booth, a tarot card reader, a caricaturist and more.
Website/ 700 Wilshire Blvd 90401
From Dec. 20 to 22, Siete at the Santa Monica Proper will host a holiday market featuring a selection of goods from neighborhood partners like The New Bar, Siesta Co., Ghia, Doladira, Isa Isa and more. Pastries by acclaimed French pastry chefs François Daubinet and Mr. T’s Guillaume Guedj will also be available. Also, Palma has a festive tea menu throughout December available on the weekends from noon to 4 p.m.
Website/ 130 W Grand Ave 90245
After the El Segundo Christmas Parade on Dec. 8, head to El Segundo Brewing Company for its annual afterparty where guests can enjoy live music from The Stocking Stuffers, visits from Mrs. Claus, burgers from Proudly Serving and hot “poked” beer, a German winter tradition, featuring ESBC's Christmas Break Ale.
Website/ 6317 Wilshire Blvd 90048
Videre knows you can find the magic of L.A. rooftops all year round. Head in between Dec. 1 and Feb. 8, 2025, to experience its transformation into a winter wonderland. Visitors can make reservations to catch up with friends in ski chalet-themed cabanas over make-your-own s’mores and cheese fondue and seasonal cocktails like mezcal-spiked hot chocolate with coconut vanilla whipped cream. There will also be live holiday music on select nights and Christmas movie screenings every Tuesday. Don't miss A Christmas Story on Dec. 10
Website/ 10250 Santa Monica Blvd 90067
While you shop throughout the holiday season, Westfield Century City is making sure you can have a little fun too. Starting Nov. 23, the Holiday Village will come to life featuring a variety of festive activations. At Santa’s mailbox, kids can mail letters directly to Santa or they can guarantee a meet and greet (and a fun adventure to the North Pole) by heading to Santa’s Bungalow and Mrs. Claus’ bakery. There are plenty of photo moments at the picturesque clock tower and The Reindeer Railway Train, which will also have live performances by costumed villagers. Unwind from the fun at Blitzen’s Bar where handcrafted cocktails and hot cocoa flow. However, you won’t want to miss the village gem: the market. While perusing items like small-batch banana bread at Gone Bananas Bread, swimwear at Barquita, Japanese Confections at Royce and more, shopping is peppered with snowfall, holiday treats and live performances.
Website/ 6600 CA-27 91303
As part of its Eat, Drink, Be Merry Series, Westfield Topanga will host a paint and sip at Topanga Social on Dec. 5, 12 and 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. and ornament making on Nov. 24 and Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pinstripes. Additionally, there will be evening mixology classes at Jinya Ramen on Dec. 10 and at North Italia on Dec. 3 and 17. All season long, now through Dec. 14, shoppers can partake in the spin wheel giveaway from 11 a.m. to noon to win a variety of prizes.
Website/ 1324 5th St 90401
Downtown Santa Monica is set to light up the holiday season with a festive array of events. From the Ice at Santa Monica rink, presented by Disney+, to the vibrant tree lighting ceremony and Holiday Thursdays, there is no shortage of cheer. Whether you're ice skating, shopping or savoring delicious cuisine, Downtown Santa Monica offers something for everyone this holiday season.
Website/ 777 S Alameda St 90021
This 32-acre cultural hub is bringing the holiday spirit to life with a lineup of exciting events perfect for holiday shopping and supporting small businesses. This season, visitors can explore the Christmas Market, running from Nov. 29 through the end of December, featuring festive finds and unique gifts every Wednesday though Sunday. In addition to the market, ROW DTLA will host a variety of sample sales and open-air markets, making it an ideal destination for discovering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts while supporting independent local businesses.
Website/ 26800 Mulholland Hwy 91302
This immersive holiday event returns for its fifth year at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas. The 2024 edition promises an even brighter experience with new projection mapping, interactive photo opportunities and festive bars. Visitors can stroll through a mile-long trail filled with breathtaking holiday displays like the North Pole, Gingerbread Lane and Christmas tree forests. The event also features live Santa photo ops, carolers, food trucks and a winter market, making it the perfect family tradition. Holiday Road is open from Nov. 29 to Dec. 28. Tickets are on sale now.
Website/ 1400 N Cahuenga Blvd 90028
The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood has a lineup of holiday programming throughout December. Kick off the season at the annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 1 from 3 to 6 p.m., featuring holiday carolers, cookie decorating, photos with Santa and a Paw Works dog adoption pop-up. The evening comes to an end with the tree lighting at 5:45 p.m. hosted by actress and model Cynthia Bailey. Guests can also enjoy Santa-approved holiday movie nights every Friday on the rooftop with classics like Elf and Love Actually. For more fun, join “The Bingo Babe” Roxy Wood on Dec. 9 for a bingo night with prizes, including a two-night hotel stay.
Website/ 6400 Pacific Coast Hwy 90803
At 2nd and Pacific Coast Highway, the season comes alive with free, family-friendly events in a coastal setting. Highlights include “snowfalls,” tree lightings and multicultural celebrations like the Holiday Around the World market, honoring traditions from Mele Kalikimaka to Kwanzaa. Enjoy live music, holiday markets and moments with Santa, from photos to breakfasts and even pet friendly Santa Paws sessions. For little ones, don’t miss story time with Ms. Claus and the PCH Explorers Kids Club. Visit the website for event details and updates.
Website/ 135 N Grand Ave 90012
The Music Center will host dinner with Santa on Dec. 2 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The evening coincides with The Music Center’s annual L.A. County Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, creating a magical atmosphere for the whole family. Enjoy a family-style dinner, a meet-and-greet photo booth with Santa, cookie decorating for kids, a dessert bar and a hot chocolate station. Two seating options are available at 4 and 6 p.m. with ticket prices ranging from $50 to 95. Tickets are now available via Eventbrite.
Website/ 217 Metropole Ave 90704
Catalina Museum for Art & History offers a magical lineup of holiday events in December, perfect for celebrating the season on Catalina Island. On Dec. 6, the museum will host its Holiday Sip & Shop, a festive evening from 5 to 7 p.m. Guests can enjoy complimentary Champagne, cider and access to exclusive discounts in the museum store. The evening will also feature the Mixology at the Museum experience, with specialty cocktails crafted by Adam Wild. On Dec.14, the museum will present a Free LMU Choir Holiday Concert from 6 to 7:30 p.m., a beloved tradition in the Schreiner Family Plaza. Visitors can also enjoy holiday classics performed live, browse the museum’s exhibitions and savor complimentary holiday cookies, warm drinks and specialty cocktails available for purchase. These events bring art, history and holiday cheer together for a memorable season.
Website/ 512 Rose Ave 90291
Café Gratitude’s Venice location is adding a creative twist to the holiday season with a series of ceramics workshops in collaboration with the female-owned Handmade in Venice Beach. The first workshop on Nov. 24 at 2:30 p.m. will guide participants in creating and decorating flat holiday ornaments. For $60 per person, the two-hour class includes materials and expert instruction with optional glazing for an additional fee. Upcoming workshops include a holiday gifts ceramics session on Dec. 4 and another ornaments workshop on Dec. 8 at 2:30 p.m. Spots will fill up quickly; visit the website for details and to reserve a seat.
Website/ 124 4th St 90013
Experience the magic of the season with Grand Illuminations at The Yard at Cal Plaza in downtown Los Angeles. This mesmerizing winter light exhibition created by L.A.-based artist Liquid PXL runs nightly from Dec. 4 through Jan. 8, offering free displays of light and kinetic artistry. Highlights include 28-foot electric dandelions, a custom-designed 25-foot LED tree and an arbor arch trellis—all setting the stage for an unforgettable holiday experience. The festivities kick off on Dec. 4 with a holiday celebration featuring live entertainment, refreshments and a ceremonial lighting event from 5 to 8 p.m. This display celebrates community and creativity, showcasing art that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Website/ 8500 Beverly Blvd 90048
Beverly Center is a prime destination for festive fun and shopping this season. Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland featuring top-tier retailers like Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton, perfect for finding that special gift. Enjoy Black Friday perks like free parking and a pop-up bar by H&H Steakhouse. Explore your creative side with Crafting and Cocktails workshops, offering hands-on activities like wreath-making and cookie decorating. From Dec. 17 to 24, experience complimentary Santa photos, expert gift wrapping and a holiday display, complete with a 35-foot tree and mirrored gift boxes. Don’t miss the magic of Santa’s secret immersive speakeasy or the family-friendly Hanukkah celebration on Dec. 26.
Website/ 9641 Sunset Blvd 90210
The Beverly Hills Hotel will ring in the holidays with 12 Days of Soufflés from Dec 12 to 23. Crafted by the in-house executive pastry team, there will be a daily soufflé inspired by festive flavors. Then, on Dec. 18 and 19, the pastry team will hold two cookie-decorating masterclasses in Polo Private for kids. Each child will get to decorate 12 festive-inspired cookies.
Website/ 8500 Beverly Blvd 90048
In addition to being a one-stop shop for gift shopping, the Beverly Center is a spirited destination during the holidays. Between browsing from the lineup of more than 100 retailers and dining at the likes of For The Win or Yardbird, it transforms into a winter wonderland for the season.
Website/ Various
The Promenade at Westlake will hold its tree-lighting ceremony on Nov. 22 at 7:30 p.m. with musical performances, snow, fireworks and a visit from Santa Claus. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment and shop at a curated holiday market from 4 to 7 p.m. Then, The Grove will have its own tree-lighting celebration on Nov. 25 at 7 p.m. Hosted by Lance Bass, the ceremony will feature live entertainment, a drone show, Santa Claus, snowfall, fireworks and more. Other happenings include Menorah lightings in late December; nightly snowfalls at The Americana at Brand starting Nov. 14 and The Grove starting Nov. 25 and Santa meet and greets across various properties through Christmas (Reservations are now open through Dec. 24 and highly encouraged). On Dec. 7, Palisades Village will transform into a winter wonderland for the Holiday Stroll, which will have musical performances, a holiday market, a Champagne Chalet for Caruso Signature members, photo moments, a holiday market, Santa Claus storytime and more
Website/ 12731 Towne Center Dr 90703
Cerritos Towne Center will throw a holiday celebration on Dec. 8 from noon to 2 p.m. Free to attend, the spirited afternoon will feature crafts, games, festive activities, face painting, balloon twisters and take-home photos with Santa.
Website/ 41150 Via Europa 92591
Get out of town for the day without missing a beat of holiday fun. In Temecula, Europa Village has a number of holiday happenings including Nutcracker performances under the stars and a European-inspired holiday market, which will be open Nov. 30 to Dec. 1.
Website/ 2025 Ave of the Stars 90067
Celebrate the season at Fairmont Century Plaza’s Swiss Chalet, where an après-ski dining experience brings Alpine magic to L.A., starting Nov. 14. Nestled in a cozy setting, guests can indulge in a prix-fixe menu for $115 per person, featuring seasonal favorites like duck confit, wild mushroom risotto and a classic cheese fondue perfect for sharing. For a sweet ending, enjoy a make-your-own-hot-chocolate station that adds a fun twist. Ideal for intimate gatherings, each of the five chalets accommodates groups of two to eight, creating the perfect backdrop for holiday memories. Then, in December for a limited time, the Camphor Steak Frites Pop-Up will make its way to Lumière, serving diners on Dec. 5 to 7 and Dec. 12 to 14. This $65 prix-fixe menu includes a crisp salad and freshly baked bread and butter with the steak frites, along with craft cocktails and dessert available for an added treat. And in the spirit of self-care, the Fairmont Spa Century Plaza invites guests to unwind with exclusive holiday treatments to relax and rejuvenate through Jan. 3.
Website/ 1324 Fifth St 90401
From Nov. 8 to Jan. 20, 2025, Ice at Santa Monica will be open, bringing a winter wonderland and ice skating rink to the corner of Fifth Street and Arizona. It will kick off with a grand opening from 5 to 11 p.m. on Nov. 8 with live DJs, on-ice performances, remarks by city representatives and free sessions at 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis.
Website/ 1410 S Oak Knoll Ave 91160
Experience the magic of The Nutcracker in an enchanting holiday setting at The Langham Huntington. The Pasadena Civic Ballet, alongside guest artists, will present a captivating, one-hour performance in the grand Viennese Ballroom. Guests are invited to Clara's Magical Christmas Ball, where they’ll enjoy a holiday tea, browse the Land of the Sweets Holiday Boutique and create a keepsake pointe shoe signed by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Performers will roam the ballroom for photos, and guests can join in a festive sing-along and Christmas March, complete with holiday snowfall. A portion of proceeds supports the Pasadena Civic Ballet Company scholarship fund. Tickets are now available for the Nov. 30 show. Additionally, the hotel will have a wreath-making event on Nov. 30. Held in the courtyard, this festive workshop offers expert instruction and all the materials needed to create a beautiful, custom wreath using organic and sustainable foliage from Stems. Guests can enjoy holiday treats, coffee, tea and a sparkling wine toast as they craft their wreaths. Tickets are $135 and include instruction, materials, refreshments and complimentary valet parking. Be sure to reserve a spot in advance. In December, you can make a reservation for Teddy Bear Tea between Dec. 4 and 8. Seatings will take place at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. for a holiday afternoon tea service of sandwiches, scones, sweet treats, a puppet show and a Santa visit. Kids 12 and under will also get to take home a limited-edition Paddington x The Langham bear.
Website/ 225 N Canon Dr 90210
Starting Nov. 14, The Maybourne Beverly Hills will be awash in holiday lights and decor. The festive programming will continue with menorah lightings each night of Hanukkah; a Whiskey of the Day available at The Whisky Bar and Maybourne Bar from Dec. 1 to 24; gingerbread house decorating and festive afternoon tea from Dec. 12 to 23.
Website/ 30801 Pacific Coast Hwy 92651
Holiday festivities last the rest of the year at Montage Laguna Beach. The programming includes afternoon tea; a gingerbread house display starting after Thanksgiving weekend; holiday gift and crafting workshops for kids in the Paintbox Petite Program; gingerbread decorating classes on the Studio Lawn; wreath-making classes in The Loft Wine Room and Menorah lightings from Dec. 25 to Jan. 2.
Website/ 9882 S Santa Monica Blvd 90212
Throughout November in the Living Room, The Peninsula Beverly Hills has a Thanksgiving twist on its renowned afternoon tea. The service is made complete by Champagne by Laurent Perrier, one-of-a-kind teas and a tower of sweet and savory delights, including fall-themed pastries. Then, from Dec. 1 to 31, it will transform into a festive tea with holiday-themed pastries, Champagne, sweets, savory bites and tea. In the season’s spirit of giving, $5 from each visitor will be donated to Easter Seals. There will also be a transformation across the property in December. Alive with holiday decor, The Peninsula is a one-stop destination throughout December for shopping and dining in a festive setting. There will be carolers from Dec. 20 to 24; Santa visits on Dec. 24; the Polar Bear Gift Shop from Dec. 1 to 26 and The Twelve Days of Peninsula, which counts down to Christmas with the chance for guests to experience a variety of international flavors with sweets representing each of the 12 Peninsula hotels around the world.
Website/ 189 The Grove Dr 90036
Revolve will have its first-ever holiday shop at The Grove. From Nov. 14 to Jan. 4, stop by the winter-themed pop-up to browse Revolve and Fwrd apparel and accessories.
Website/ Rodeo Drive 90210
Rodeo Drive will come alive with holiday magic on Nov. 14 for the annual Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration. This year’s theme, Rodeo Nights, Holiday Lights, invites locals and visitors to enjoy the festive atmosphere along Beverly Hills' iconic shopping street from 5 to 8 p.m. The free event promises a spectacular evening of world-class entertainment, including performances by CoryLive, DJ Lady Sha and the Beverly Hills High School Drumline. A cappella group the ScatterTones and American Idol finalist Vonzell Solomon will also be included in the lineup. Mayor Friedman will lead the countdown to the final lighting, followed by a firework display and a visit from Santa himself, making this a can’t-miss kickoff to the holiday season.
Website/ 100 Terranea Way 90275
At the Terranea Resort, you can find holiday programming for the rest of the year. Starting Nov. 23, the Gingerbread Lounge will be on display during the week from 4 to 10 p.m. and on the weekend from 20 to 10 p.m. Guests can admire the seven-by-seven-foot gingerbread masterpiece and enjoy holiday cocktails, hot chocolate, apple cider and sweet treats. Also on Nov. 30, the Terranea will host its annual tree lighting ceremony from 4:30 to 7 p.m., which will feature caroling, dance performances, photo opportunities, cookie decorating and more. Later in the season, there will be a special meditation session. Silent Night at The Spa’s Movement Studio will take place on Dec. 15 at 5 p.m. for $35 per person. To make a reservation, call The Spa at 855.711.1282. Then, on Dec. 21, 22 and 23, there will be wreath workshops from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Later in the evening on Dec. 21, Terranea’s Beach Cove will have a screening with popcorn of Elf at 5:15 p.m. Guests will be kept cozy in Adirondack chairs, blankets and heaters and can select from candy and soft drinks for purchase.
Website/ 900 Newport Center Dr 92660
On Nov. 21, Vea Newport Beach will host its annual holiday tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. The ceremony will feature hot cocoa, sweet treats, live entertainment and Santa sightings and complimentary valet parking will be provided. Additionally, the hotel’s Holiday Hideout will return starting Nov. 15. The festive, swanky speakeasy offers seasonal cocktails and photo ops in a winter wonderland setting. It is open to 21+ guests on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to midnight and during the tree lighting.
Website/ 3400 Warner Blvd 91505
From Dec. 18 through Jan. 6, 2025, the Holidays Made Here edition of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is back in action. At the center of the experience will be the transformation of Midwest Street into Stars Hollow, Connecticut from Gilmore Girls where fans can enjoy coffee at Luke’s Diner, enjoy Pop-Tart treats, see costumes and props from the show, take part in activities like cookie decorating, trivia games and costume contests and take photos at fan-favorite spots like the Stars Hollow gazebo.
See also: The 9 Best Holiday Light Displays In Los Angeles
Photography by: Fairmont Century Plaza