It’s the most wonderful time of year, and Los Angeles clearly knows it! Embrace the cooling temperatures and lean into holiday cheer. The city is full of festive experiences whether you’re looking for a unique dining experience, excellent shopping, family fun and more. See below for all of the events happening in Los Angeles this holiday season.
On Dec. 16, Wendy Raquel Robinson’s Amazing Grace Conservatory will host Home for the Holidays at The Beehive Los Angeles. The intimate evening of entertainment, festive libations and cheer will honor alumna Issa Rae with the launching of a new scholarship in her name. In addition to celebrating 25 years, the evening will benefit the next generation of emerging artists. More information
On Dec. 13m Westfield Century City and CAMP welcomes families for a reading of The Return of the Christmas Wish by Aubrey Plaza and Dan Murphy. Guests will have the opportunity to receive a signed copy and create a custom craft inspired by the story. Tickets
On Dec. 17, Santa and his helpers are visiting the Neiman Marcus Cafe at Westfield Topanga for a special morning of festivities. The holiday breakfast experience includes a menu of breakfast pastries, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, potatoes, specialty beverages, a mimosa for 21+ adults and more. Tickets
Get into the holiday spirit at your favorite bars around town. The Wayfarer DTLA is serving up the Treat Yo’ Elf, a special holiday hot cocktail with carrot cake tea-infused Cruzam rum and topped with cinnamon butter and whipped cream. Over in Burbank, The Green Room has Rebel Without a Clause (Empress Gin, Peach Schnapps, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Bitters and Garnish with Santa’s Berry Hat) and Lost in the Big Apple (Apple Brandy, Pedro Ximenez, Benedictine, Becherovka, Krupnik Bitters, and Crushed Streusel). And if you’re in the Culver City area, head to Piccalilli for The Big (Toffee) Apple (Toffee caramel-washed Laird’s Bottle-in-Bond Apple brandy, Apple-infused Carpano Classico, Salted Creole Bitters), Fur Coat (Fernet Francisco, Green Chartreuse, Sweet Vermouth, Mint, Ango Bitters) or The Hall Decker (House botanically infused Plantation 3 Star Rum, Benedictine, pineapple, rosemary and allspice dram).
Presented by Noble33 and Thunderbolt, beverage director Carla Lorenzo will lead a cocktail tasting experience at Hotel Figueroa’s secret upstairs bar, Bar Alta, on Dec. 15, 16, 17 and 23. The tasting features eight curated cocktails and a rotating selection of amuse bouche to pair. Each night will have two 30-person seatings at 6 and 9 p.m. Reservations
On Dec. 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the holiday market will feature festive baskets, gift boxes and holiday DIY kits such as Little Dom’s Mini Amaro Kits, Wine + Hat Gift Boxes, Negroni DIY Kit Gift Boxes and Banh Oui’s Experience Through Taste Gift Basket, which includes foodie favorites such as Organic Chicken Liver Pate, Chili Crunch, Cham Churri, Japanese Red Curry Roux, Marinated Cow’s Milk Cheese and more. An assortment of pastries, holiday cookies, hand-painted stationery and handmade pottery by local artists will be available for purchase.
On Dec. 18, 23 and 24 from noon to 4 p.m., culinary bazaar The Proud Bird is hosting a pop-up for families looking to get into the Christmas spirit. The event will include photos with Santa, a holiday craft station, a hot cocoa station and more. 11022 Aviation Blvd 90045
Now and until Dec. 18, stop in at the Sofitel Los Angeles with unwrapped non-violent toys, books and/or games at the front desk, which will be given to children whose families are experiencing homelessness. The toy drive will benefit the PATH family program.
All month long, Westfield Culver City is getting into the holiday spirit. Through Dec. 24, security officers are handing out complimentary holiday goodies to shoppers between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. There will also be live holiday music performances between 2 and 6 p.m. at the level 1 center court on Dec. 16, 17, 18 and 24. From Dec. 12 to 24, head to the CHiPs for Kids table on level 2 at Target to donate a new, unwrapped gift to a child or teen in the community. And through Dec. 31, experience the Jingle Jangle x Uplift US Marketplace inspired by Netflix’s Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey.
Celebrate the joys of the holiday season with Revolve in an exclusive Winterland treat! Guests can shop from the Cozy Shop or Sweater Shop and receive free gift bundles or stuff stockings with Revolve beauty product favorites. Afterwards, stop by the AT&T hot cocoa spot for sweet bakery treats and hot cocoa. Revolve Winterland is open to the public Dec. 9-11 from 12 p.m to 9 p.m daily. To make a reservation visit Revolve Winterland here.
Netflix’s immersive shopping experience isn’t over yet. Check out Netflix’s Holiday House at the Grove filled with holiday cheer and festive activities. The Netflix Holiday House is located on the second floor of the Netflix ready for photo opportunities and tons of gifts to choose this holiday season.
Starting Dec. 8, experience the Green Room Winter Wonderland where guests are transported into a glistening holiday oasis. After winterland photo-ops, enjoy holiday-inspired cocktails such as the Lost in The Big Apple inspired by Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, or the Rebel Without A Claus made with Empress gin, peach schnapps and Santa’s “berry hat” or Grinch-inspired “Whoville holiday cream puffs”.
Santa returns once again this holiday season at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows on Dec. 11 from 2 p.m to 5 p.m for a celebratory afternoon surrounded by holiday decor and plenty of festivities like a photo-op with Santa, live music and arts and crafts! In partnership with local non-profit Santa MoniCARES, Westside Food Bank, and Chrysalis, guests are also encouraged to bring canned food or new and gently worn clothing, or monetary gifts for donations. Whiskey lovers can also enjoy the ultimate Sazerac Box experience in the Lobby Lounge this season.
Four Roses Distillery is hosting its first-ever ‘Four Roses Old Fashion Film Night at the Million Dollar Theater on Dec. 14 from 6 to 10 p.m. It will showcase A Christmas Story on the big screen with plenty of Kentucky-favorite concession snacks. Four Roses Distillery is also giving back this season with all proceeds from the event benefiting the Midnight Season cause. RSVP
From Nov. 25 to Dec. 31, Ovation Hollywood is bringing all the best feel goods of the holiday season. Join in on the holiday program, a mix of events and festivities including Jingle 5 Carolers, photos with Santa, Kwanzaa celebration, candy cane stilt walkers, menorah lighting ceremony and more.
The Krampus’ Cove pop up isn’t your typical holiday destination. Join in on the dark, twisted festivities to celebrate the legend of Krampus. The event is accompanied by a demented decked-out space with black Christmas trees and haunting decor. Guests can even enjoy spooky festive cocktails from 5 to 7 p.m at in their selective seating. Make sure to reserve your spot for this unique immersive experience through Eventbrite.
At the Lilly Rose every Wednesday through Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. is a holiday high tea and highball experience serving up Christmas cheer and savory tea bites towers. The experience is $60 per person and reservations can be made here.
Now through Dec. 31, an immersive Nutcracker experience located at the Lighthouse Artspace Los Angeles is open. Guests are immersed in 500,000 cubic feet of Nutcracker projections featuring the most memorable scenes from “The March of the Toys” to “The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”. Tickets can be purchased here.
Benny Boy Brewing is hosting a hipster opera and ugly sweater holiday event on Dec. 12 starting at 5 p.m. The opera tells the story of a group of hipsters falling in and out of love in L.A. and is accompanied by music sung in Italian with English subtitles. Tickets can be purchased for $20 and come with one free drink ticket. This event is only 21+.
RUNWAY Playa Vista is hosting a series of holiday events through Dec. 23 including cocoa and carols, photos with Santa, RUNWAY Kid’s Club: Holiday Edition and a creative communal holiday artisan market. For more information and dates visit here.
Santa Monica Place welcomes friends and families for holiday festivities all throughout December. Guests can visit its winter wonderland and watch performances by the Santa Monica Beach Belles, as well as festive baking classes hosted by The Gourmandise School. Nightly menorah lightings will also take place from Dec. 18- 26.
Located at DTLA FIGat7th is the Come Up Market for Black creative brands and entrepreneurs where entrepreneurs can network and receive tons of support from the community. The Come Up helps create socio-economic transformation while creating generational within the Black community. To learn more about the event and get involved visit here.
Join The Groundlings in a holiday show filled with merry cheer and sketch comedy. The event runs now through Dec. 17 at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday night. Ticket prices range from $22-28 and can be purchased through here or call (323) 934- 4747.
This Hotel Figueroa x Simone The Label collaboration features the local BIPOC-owned, socially conscious jewelry pop-up. Every Thursday through Saturday evening from Dec. 1 to 23, stop in for holiday magic, decor and a holiday shop to pick up custom STL jewelry.
From Nov. 19 through Dec. 24, visit 2nd & PCH for selfies with Santa and tons of other festivities and shopping. On Dec. 9, make sure to catch the special holiday film The Santa Claus starting at 6 p.m with warm cups of cocoa available for purchase.
KithTreats x Kithmas is back with its third annual holiday campaign with world-renowned chef Jacques Torres. From Dec. 9 to 18, you can shop the Kith Treats for Cocoa Puffs collection of apparel, accessories, and home goods, as well as enjoy an exclusive menu of chocolate confections.
On Dec. 4 from noon to 4 p.m., head to the rooftop bar at Freehand Los Angeles for an afternoon of drinks specials, a live DJ and shopping from local vendors. 416 W 8th St 90014
On Dec. 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., FIDM Holiday Market will showcase the college’s alumni and their creative brands. The festive outdoor shopping event will feature a collection of products from over 30 brands including men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, accessories, jewelry, candles, art, cosmetics and more. There will also be music, food trucks, and a visit from Santa (11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.). Be sure to make it in early: there will be complimentary coffee and tea from The Cappuccino man until 2 p.m. Learn more
From Dec. 3 to 31, everyone’s favorite food haven will be transformed by holiday cheer. The month-long celebration at Grand Central Market will have family-friendly activities, such as Santa meet and greet, family photo sessions, holiday shopping and workshops like wreath making, cookie decorating, live music and more. Learn more
The holiday celebrations never stop at The Grove, The Americana at Brand, Palisades Village, The Promenade at Westlake and The Commons at Calabasas! See below for the full lineup of happenings.
Dec. 3 (9:30 am and 11am) – Santa Brunch at The Americana at Brand: Enjoy delicious brunch favorites, goodie bags and exclusive vouchers for photos with Santa at Trattoria Amici! (Reservations required)
Dec. 3 (4:30-8pm) – Holiday Stroll at The Commons at Calabasas: Enjoy a variety of holiday entertainment whilst strolling through surprises, delights, and goodies by restaurants and shops along the way. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance!
Dec. 9 (5-8pm) and Dec. 10 (11am-8pm) – Holiday Stroll at Palisades Village: Featuring spirited music and merrymaking on Swarthmore Avenue prior to two snow fall shows.
Dec. 18 (4-6pm) – Menorah Lighting Ceremony at Palisades Village: Celebrate the first of eight nights of Chanukah with Rabbi Zuche’s blessings, musical entertainment, and traditional light bites.
Dec. 19 through Dec. 24 – Santa’s House at The Americana at Brand: Capture a moment with Santa Clause! Reservations can be made online and are highly encouraged.
Dec. 20 (6:30pm) – Menorah Lighting Ceremony at The Grove: Blessings by Village Synagogue’s Rabbi Fogelman and a musical performance by Nissim Black. Completed by a gentle snowfall and Chanukah refreshments.
Dec. 21 (6:30pm) – Menorah Lighting Ceremony at The Commons of Calabasas: Pre-show musical entertainment, kid friendly activities and complimentary refreshments in association with the Calabasas Shul.
Lightscape is back in Los Angeles with three new installations, 15 new displays and returning favorite Winter Cathedral. Illuminate your holiday at the L.A. Arboretum’s impressive 127 acres of plants, natural landscapes, historic architecture and stunning lights. Tickets
On Dec. 3 from 2 to 8 p.m., Gasolina Cafe + Wine Bar will host a Winter Holiday Bazaar with Fair Trade LA. While sipping on hot chocolate or a favorite cocktail, guests can enjoy live jazz music, henna artistry and holiday ornament-making for the kids. 21150 Ventura Blvd 91364
The premier outdoor mall will have its Holiday Market in full swing until Dec. 24. Between moments of “snowfall” and live performances (like Squad Harmonix on Dec. 4 and 11 at noon), shop at popups by Our Place, Diamond Art Club, SuperHigh, Little Posh, Luna Lili and more. Be sure to also visit Santa in his bungalow at Mrs. Claus at her bakery. Furry friends also get a little holiday fun with Pet Day on Dec. 1 and 8.With a reservation ticket, guests and their pup can capture a holiday-themed photo experience with Santa. Also, until Dec. 26, Westfield is celebrating Hanukkah with a seasonal and changing mural on Level 1 near Nordstrom Court.
Near Target, you’ll find Santa ready to capture memories of Christmas magic until Dec. 24. Be sure to book your appointments in advance! For more merriment, get festive in your Santa photo and wear your favorite holiday PJs every Tuesday in support of St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Then, on Thursdays, change it up for an ugly sweater! In addition, the Westfield Topanga Trolley is running between Westfield Topanga and The Village from 1 to 9 p.m. until Dec. 25 to make shopping easier and more festive. Hop on at the grand entrance by AMC Dine-In Topanga 12 and The Village.
From Nov. 28 to Dec. 1 and Dec. 5 to 8, Birdie G’s is hosting a Hanukkah-themed series that features different guest chefs from around the country: Sang Yoon (Father’s Office), Lee Wolen (Chicago’s Boka), Elizabeth Heitner & Nestor Silva (Malli), Michael Solomonov (Philadelphia’s Zahav), Miles Thompson (he’s opening a new restaurant in LA), Ana Sortun (Cambridge’s Oleana), Katianna and John Hong (Yangban Society) and Christopher Kostow (The Restaurant at Meadowood). The chefs will prepare Hanukkah-inspired dishes alongside some of Birdie G’s signature Jewish dishes. Reservations
Why leave L.A. to get to the mountains? The Fairmont Century Plaza is transporting visitors to the ski slopes of the Swiss Alps starting Nov. 14. The experience will take over the outdoor patio of The Bar with three wood chalets enlivened by cozy decor and delicious tidings. You’ll have the chance to gather around a private fire pit with an elevated s’mores kit or book a chalet and choose from a prix-fixe menu of chocolate or cheese fondue and a curated selection of winter cocktails and non-alcoholic favorites. Website
See also: See All Of The Can't-Miss Events Happening In L.A. This November
In partnership with CBS, The Grove will put on 24th Annual A Home for the Holidays at The Grove show on Nov. 20 at 7 p.m. Gloria Estefan is set to host the event, which will also feature performances from Andy Grammer, Little Big Town, David Foster and Kat McPhee and a firework show. It will later broadcast on CBS on Dec. 23 and be available to stream on Paramount Plus. Website
On Nov. 19 to 20 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., head to The Americana at Brand for a day of face painting, bubbles, a dance challenge and browsing PatPat holiday pajamas. Influencers The Gerber fam, Fluellen Fam, and Grace & Daniel Fam will be joining in on the fun. Full schedule:
Saturday, Nov. 19
11:00am – 5:00pm: #PatPatDoubleTake Dance Party at the top of every hour
1:00pm – 3:00pm: Face Painting
3:00pm – 6:00pm: Bubble Play Party and Drawing
Sunday, Nov. 20
11:00am – 5:00pm: #PatPatDoubleTake Dance Party at the top of every hour
11:00am – 1:00pm: Face Painting
1:00pm – 3:00pm: Drawing
3:00pm – 6:00pm: Bubble Play Party and Drawing
On Nov. 18, The Promenade at Westlake will hold its annual tree lighting ceremony.=, which will include musical performances, snow, Santa Claus and fireworks. While the show begins at 7:30 p.m., guests are encouraged to arrive at 5 p.m. to enjoy the Holiday Market. Website
The holidays return to downtown Santa Monica, including the Ice at Santa Monica skating rink. Posting up on the corner of Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue at 1324 Fifth St., the ice rink grand opening takes place Nov. 16 6 to 10 p.m. and will be open daily until Jan. 16, 2023, noon to 10 p.m. More info
Los Angeles wants you to join in on spreading holiday cheer.
See also: The 15 Best Gifts From L.A.
Photography by: Photo Provided by Downtown Santa Monica
