Los Angeles Christmas lights 2026

1200 block of E. Acacia Ave (at California St, west of Sepulveda), El Segundo · Walk-through · ~12 mi from downtown LA

Typically about Dec 13 to Dec 23, roughly 5pm to 10pm (2025 ran Dec 13 to 23)

A dead-end block of about two dozen homes decorated every year since 1949, with trains, reindeer, giant characters and music. Santa often sits in a covered sleigh at the end of the cul-de-sac, and residents hand out cocoa and candy canes.

Tip: In 2025 the city ran a free shuttle on select nights (4:30 to 10pm) from Recreation Park, Library Park and Sycamore Park, and closed Walnut/California and Center/Acacia to cars 5 to 11pm, so plan to walk in. Stroller friendly once you are on the block.

Robert Rd and Reese Rd off Pacific Coast Hwy, plus Doris Way and Sharynee Ln (between PCH, Calle Mayor, Anza Ave and Sepulveda Blvd), Torrance · Neighborhood · ~18 mi from downtown LA

Typically first full weekend of December to Jan 1, about 6pm to 10pm (2025 ran Dec 6 to Jan 1)

One of the South Bay's biggest resident displays, running for more than 40 years, where nearly every house on tree-lined Robert Rd is decorated. It is resident-run, not a city event.

Tip: Skip the traffic by parking on PCH, Calle Mayor or Prospect and walking in to Robert Rd. Arrive right after sunset to beat crowds; there are no public restrooms.

Naples Island canals (Rivo Alto Canal, Naples Plaza), Long Beach · Neighborhood · ~22 mi from downtown LA

Typically all of December, nightly after dusk

Waterfront homes along the Naples canals decorate for the season, and the lights reflect off the water. It is at its busiest on boat parade night in late December.

Tip: Park outside the island and walk the canal paths; the bridges on 2nd St and Appian Way give the best views.

Naples canals and Alamitos Bay, Long Beach · Boat parade · ~22 mi from downtown LA

Typically a Saturday in mid to late December at 6pm (Dec 21, 2024; Dec 20, 2025)

A tradition of almost 80 years where lit boats wind through the Naples canals past decorated waterfront homes. The 2025 theme was A Tropical Winter Wonderland.

Tip: Best spots are the Rivo Alto Canal, the 2nd St and Appian Way bridges, and Alamitos Bay Marina; families set up chairs early in the day. Streets close around 5pm and non-resident cars are restricted, so use the Mother's Beach lot (5839 Appian Way) or the Basin 4 lot (6001 Appian Way).

Main Channel, viewed from Burton Chace Park and Fisherman's Village, Marina del Rey · Boat parade · ~13 mi from downtown LA

Confirmed for Saturday, Dec 12, 2026: festivities 4 to 8pm, light show 5:45pm, parade 6 to 8pm

The 64th annual parade, themed Hollywood Under The Stars, with lit boats, carolers, food trucks, a photo booth and a kids' art corner at Burton Chace Park. A short holiday light show opens the night before the boats go by.

Tip: Burton Chace Park (13650 Mindanao Way) and Fisherman's Village (13755 Fiji Way) are the main viewing spots. County lots cost about $5 to $15 and Lot 4 is closed for construction; the event runs rain or shine.

King Harbor, viewed from Moonstone Park (280 Marina Way), Redondo Beach · Boat parade · ~17 mi from downtown LA

Typically a Saturday in mid-December: paddle craft about 3:30pm, lit boat parade about 5:30 to 7pm (2025 was Dec 13)

Run by King Harbor Yacht Club, with lit sailboats, powerboats and outrigger canoes, plus a paddleboard parade of decorated boards before dark. In 2025 a concert on the pier came first, 2 to 4pm.

Tip: Moonstone Park is the best viewing spot; come for the paddle parade at dusk and stay for the boats.

San Pedro Town Square and Promenade (6th St and Harbor Blvd), LA Waterfront, San Pedro · Boat parade · ~22 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Saturday in December, 4 to 8pm; tree lighting about 5pm, boat parade after dark (2025 was Dec 6)

The Port of LA's free waterfront festival with real snow, Santa photos, Nutcracker scenes and the official tree lighting, ending with the 60-plus-year-old harbor boat parade of powerboats, sailboats, tall ships and working harbor craft.

Tip: In 2025 the parade started around 6pm in the East Basin and reached the San Pedro promenade around 7pm. Free parking at 22nd and Miner Sts or downtown San Pedro, with a free Red Trolley to the event.

Rainbow Harbor and Shoreline Marina, viewed from Shoreline Village, Long Beach · Boat parade · ~20 mi from downtown LA

Typically a Saturday in mid-December, viewing party about 5:30 to 7:30pm (2025 was Dec 13)

Lit boats loop through Shoreline Marina and Rainbow Harbor in downtown Long Beach. Shoreline Village hosts a free viewing party with holiday music, a balloon twister and snow during the parade.

Tip: Watch from the Shoreline Village boardwalk and restaurants or the marina break wall behind the village. No tickets needed.

Manhattan Beach Pier and downtown, Manhattan Beach · Tree lighting · ~15 mi from downtown LA

Typically a weeknight the week before Thanksgiving, about 6 to 9pm with the pier lighting at 7pm (2025 was Wed, Nov 19)

The city's official start to the season: the pier is outlined in lights, local school choirs sing, and downtown shops stay open late. The Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the pier holds an open house with cocoa and cookies.

Tip: Downtown parking fills fast; walk or bike in if you can.

Manhattan Beach Pier, Manhattan Beach · Event · ~15 mi from downtown LA

Typically a Sunday in mid-December, daytime activities with fireworks at 7pm (2025 was Dec 14)

A full day at the pier with a snow park, Santa and live music, finishing with fireworks over the ocean.

1300 block of Third Street Promenade (Santa Monica Blvd to Arizona Ave), Santa Monica · Tree lighting · ~15 mi from downtown LA

Typically a Thursday in late November, 6 to 8pm (2025 was set for Nov 20 and moved to Dec 4 for weather), plus Holiday Thursdays in December

Santa lights the official city tree, then poses for free photos and makes it snow on the Promenade. Local choirs and dance groups perform, and Holiday Thursdays in December add cocoa, crafts and a holiday market.

Tip: Take the Metro E Line to Downtown Santa Monica, which is a block away; downtown parking structures fill up.

Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica · Event · ~15 mi from downtown LA

Typically mid to late December, dusk to about 11:35pm (2025 ran Dec 11 to Dec 30)

The pier's solar-powered Pacific Wheel runs a red-and-green holiday light program with wreaths, reindeer, falling snow and an 80-foot waving snowman. A 55-foot lit tree stands above the West Coaster.

Tip: Good views from the beach and Palisades Park bluffs if the pier is crowded.

Downtown Culver City (Culver Blvd), Culver City · Tree lighting · ~9 mi from downtown LA

Typically an early December Thursday from 5pm, tree lighting about 6pm (2025 was Dec 4)

Downtown fills with tons of real snow for sledding, plus carnival games and music, then the tree lighting and Santa's arrival. In 2025 celebrity guests helped light the tree.

Venice Canals (Linnie, Howland, Sherman and Grand canals near Dell Ave), Venice · Neighborhood · ~14 mi from downtown LA

Typically December through New Year's, after dusk

Canal-front homes and the little arched bridges are strung with lights, making for a quiet walk. There are no official decorating contests, so the amount of decor varies year to year.

Tip: Walk only; the canal paths are narrow but flat. Park near Venice Blvd and Dell Ave.

Daisy Ave between Hill St and Pacific Coast Hwy (Wrigley), Long Beach · Neighborhood · ~18 mi from downtown LA

Decorated median through December; parade typically a mid-December Saturday at 5pm (2025 was Dec 13)

Since 1953 the grassy median on Daisy Ave has held a Christmas village and nativity scene, with lit trees down the lane. The 71st neighborhood parade in 2025 is one of the city's oldest holiday traditions.

Downtown, 300 E. Ocean Blvd and Rainbow Bridge, Long Beach · Walk-through · ~20 mi from downtown LA

Typically all of December, evenings

About half a million lights, a 67-foot tree, walk-in giant ornaments and lit dancing fountains at the Long Beach Convention Center plaza. LED Santa hats hide around the plaza and Rainbow Bridge for a scavenger hunt.

Tip: Easy to combine with Shoreline Village, the Aquarium and The Pike, all within walking distance.

4128 Falcon Ave, Bixby Knolls, Long Beach · Neighborhood · ~16 mi from downtown LA

Typically December evenings; check the display's calendar for show nights

A homeowner-run show that grew to more than 100,000 lights synced to music, with new props and characters each year. Visitors can tune in on FM radio or use a sidewalk speaker button.

Tip: Keep driveways clear and use parking lights only while watching from the car. Optional donations go to a community arts nonprofit.

2nd & PCH shopping center, Seaport Way, Long Beach · Tree lighting · ~22 mi from downtown LA

Typically the Thursday before Thanksgiving, 5 to 8pm (2025 was Nov 20: Santa 6:15pm, tree lighting 6:30pm, then fireworks)

Santa arrives, the tree is lit and fireworks follow, right next to Naples and Alamitos Bay.

2nd St, Belmont Shore, Long Beach · Event · ~21 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Saturday in December, 6 to 9pm (2025 was Dec 6)

A night parade down 2nd St, running more than 40 years, with a different theme each year (2025 was Jingle Jammies).

Tip: Families stake out curb spots on 2nd St from late afternoon.

Aquarium of the Pacific, Rainbow Harbor, Long Beach · Ticketed event · ~20 mi from downtown LA

Typically early to late December (2025 ran Dec 6 to 21)

Holiday decorations and lights throughout the aquarium, with daily Santa Diver appearances in the big tank, a Kwanzaa display and holiday films. It is a daytime event included with admission, not an evening light show.

Tip: Reservations required; members and kids under 3 are free.

The Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach · Ticketed event · ~21 mi from downtown LA

Typically early to late December; check the Queen Mary for this year's schedule

Now billed as Holly Days, a month of programming through Christmas Eve: Santa at Sunday brunch (Dec 6, 13, 20, 27), gingerbread houses, live entertainment, and a grown-up Peppermint Lounge Dec 4 to 24. Check the Queen Mary for daily family events.

South Coast Botanic Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd (Palos Verdes Peninsula), Rolling Hills Estates · Ticketed event · ~19 mi from downtown LA

Confirmed Nov 13, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027, nightly 5 to 8:30pm, closed Christmas Day

A new Peter Pan themed light trail through the botanic garden, from a glowing London skyline to the Lost Boys' hideout and Crocodile Creek. Plan 60 to 90 minutes on the self-guided walk.

Tip: Stroller friendly on a one-mile paved loop, though some stretches are steep and there is no seating. Book ahead; tickets can sell out.

Cerritos Civic Center, 18125 Bloomfield Ave, Cerritos · Tree lighting · ~16 mi from downtown LA

Typically the Monday of Thanksgiving week, 5 to 7pm (2025 was Nov 24)

The city's free tree lighting ceremony at the Civic Center to kick off the season.

Citywide (participating homes marked with lawn signs), Lakewood · Neighborhood · ~15 mi from downtown LA

Typically December, after dusk; the city publishes a map of participating homes

A city program where residents sign up their decorated homes, get a lawn sign, and appear on a map for a self-guided drive.

Tip: Look for the city's showcase map in early December and plan a driving loop.

Westchester and Playa del Rey, Los Angeles · Neighborhood · ~11 mi from downtown LA

Typically mid to late December, 5 to 9pm nightly

A self-drive tour of decorated homes across Westchester and Playa del Rey, with a map that lets you vote for a fan favorite. Proceeds go to mental health services at Airport Marina Counseling Service.

Tip: Get the map before you go and plan a route; homes are spread out, so this is a driving tour rather than a walk.

Pier Plaza and downtown Hermosa Beach, Hermosa Beach · Tree lighting · ~16 mi from downtown LA

Typically one weekend in late November, daytime festival with an evening tree lighting

The Chamber's downtown festival has carnival rides, vendors, music and Santa photos, and ends with a tree lighting near the pier.

Tip: Past years offered free shuttle parking; downtown street parking fills fast.

Malaga Cove Plaza, Palos Verdes Estates · Tree lighting · ~19 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Sunday in December, 5 to 7pm, tree lit around 6:30pm

Carolers, a handbell choir, cookie decorating and free hot chocolate in the plaza's Mediterranean-style courtyard, followed by the city tree lighting.

Tip: The plaza is small; come by 6pm for a view of the lighting.

Santa Rosa Ave between Woodbury Rd and Altadena Dr, Altadena · Drive-through · ~12 mi from downtown LA

Typically lit from a ceremony on the first Saturday of December through the holidays, nightly from dusk (2025 lighting was Sat Dec 6)

A mile of towering deodar cedars strung with lights since 1920, the oldest large-scale outdoor holiday lighting display in the US. It was relit for the 2025 season after the January 2025 Eaton Fire: none of the 153 cedars were lost, a Disney donation replaced damaged strands, and a memorial tree honors the 19 Altadena residents who died. Many surrounding homes are still rebuilding, so be respectful driving through.

Tip: Most people drive slowly down Santa Rosa Ave with headlights low; the lighting-ceremony night has food trucks and big crowds, so come a later weeknight for an easy drive.

Upper Hastings Ranch, north of Sierra Madre Blvd and west of Michillinda Ave (around Hastings Ranch Dr), Pasadena · Neighborhood · ~12 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Saturday of December through Dec 31, nightly 6–10pm (2025: Dec 6–31)

A 45-square-block midcentury neighborhood lit every year since 1951, with each block given its own theme and some homes running full animatronics. After the Eaton Fire destroyed about 80 homes here, the 2025 Light Up went ahead with a bright star on each empty lot, and Valley Light Dr neighbors rebuilt the handmade angels that were lost.

Tip: Park on the edge and walk the themed blocks with a stroller, or drive slowly; weekends close to Christmas are the busiest.

Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge · Walk-through · ~10 mi from downtown LA

Nov 22, 2026 – Jan 9, 2027, select evenings

A one-mile nighttime walk through Descanso's oak woodland and gardens with large interactive light installations. It is one of the most popular ticketed light walks in LA, and kids enjoy the hands-on pieces.

Tip: Tickets are timed and must be bought in advance; prices are higher on weekends and close to Christmas, so a weeknight in late November or early December is cheapest and calmest.

Los Angeles Zoo, Griffith Park (5333 Zoo Dr), Los Angeles · Walk-through · ~7 mi from downtown LA

Nov 20, 2026 – Jan 10, 2027, select nights; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day, New Year's Eve and some other dates

The zoo's after-dark lantern walk. The 2026 theme features larger-than-life illuminated birds, butterflies, insects, flowers, marine creatures and Ice Age giants, plus Santa, a snow-globe photo spot and a small skating rink (separate ticket).

Tip: Free parking in the zoo lot; the path is paved and stroller-friendly. The box office runs 5:45–8:45pm on event nights, but buying ahead is safer on weekends.

Griffith Park, 4400 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles · Ticketed event · ~5 mi from downtown LA

Typically the day after Thanksgiving to early January, nightly about 5–8pm weekdays and 5–9pm weekends; closed Christmas Eve, Christmas night and New Year's Eve

A 10-minute ride on a small train around a one-mile track decorated with lit holiday scenes. It is cheap, short and good for toddlers and preschoolers.

The Grove, Fairfax District (Mid-City), Los Angeles · Tree lighting · ~7 mi from downtown LA

Typically a mid-November tree lighting, then nightly snowfall at about 6pm and 8pm through Dec 31 (2025: lighting Nov 17, snow from Nov 18)

A 100-foot white fir in The Park with a televised lighting show, then a 'snowfall' twice a night all season. Santa's Workshop runs by reservation.

Tip: The lighting night is extremely crowded; for the snowfall alone, a weeknight show is easier. Use the Grove parking structure.

The Americana at Brand, Caruso Ave, Glendale · Tree lighting · ~6 mi from downtown LA

Typically a mid-November tree lighting, then nightly snowfall at about 7pm and 8pm through early January (2025: snow Nov 13 – Jan 4, lighting Nov 19)

An 80-foot white fir by the fountain lawn, with fake snow falling twice nightly and Santa's House by reservation.

Tip: Weeknight snowfalls are far calmer than weekends; the trolley and lawn make it easy with small kids.

Hollywood Blvd and Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, Los Angeles · Event · ~7 mi from downtown LA

Sunday, Nov 29, 2026, evening

The 94th edition of a parade that started in 1928, with celebrities, marching bands, floats and Santa at the end. It benefits Toys for Tots.

Tip: Streets close early and parking is hard; take the Metro B Line to Hollywood/Highland and claim a curb spot well before the start.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal City · Ticketed event · ~9 mi from downtown LA

Nov 21, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027, daily (announced)

Grinchmas turns the plaza into Who-ville with a 65-foot tree, evening tree lightings with fake snow and Grinch meet-and-greets, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter gets its holiday look. New for 2026, Merry Minions adds holiday decor and characters in Minion Land.

Tip: Stay into the evening for the tree lighting and snow.

Santa Anita Park, 285 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia · Ticketed event · ~13 mi from downtown LA

Returning for 2026 (location confirmed, dates not yet posted); 2025 ran Nov 21 – Dec 28, 5–11pm

Billed as the world's largest Christmas light maze, with a story-driven hunt for missing sculptures, a real-ice skating trail, snow slide, Christmas village and Santa across about 10 acres. Its 2025 LA debut was the first time the company came to Southern California.

Tip: Buy timed tickets ahead; skating is a separate add-on.

Fairplex, 1101 W McKinley Ave, Pomona · Ticketed event · ~27 mi from downtown LA

Typically late November to early January, Wed–Sun evenings from 6pm (2025: Nov 21 – Jan 4)

A 20-acre holiday lights carnival at the county fairgrounds with more than five million lights, synchronized light-and-music shows, characters and carnival treats.

Tip: Fairplex has large paid lots; Fridays and Saturdays stay open later.

The Bloc, 700 S Flower St, Downtown, Los Angeles · Event · ~1 mi from downtown LA

Typically early to late December, light shows on the hour 5–9pm (2025: Dec 7–31)

A free downtown light show where a 32-foot tree and canopy of lights sync to holiday music every hour in the evening.

Tip: Easy by Metro (7th St/Metro Center is next door); a show lasts a few minutes, so time your arrival to the top of the hour.

Burbank City Hall steps (275 E Olive Ave), Burbank · Tree lighting · ~10 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Saturday in December, around 6pm (2025: Sat Dec 6)

Short, classic city tree lighting on the City Hall steps with live performances and a Santa visit, steps from downtown Burbank's restaurants.

Tip: Olive Ave (Glenoaks to San Fernando Blvd) and Third St close roughly 2–8pm, so park in a downtown structure and walk over.

City Hall Perkins Plaza (613 E Broadway), Glendale · Tree lighting · ~7 mi from downtown LA

Typically an early-December weeknight at 6pm (2025: Wed Dec 3)

City Hall tree lighting with performances, Santa and a toy drive, a few blocks from the Americana at Brand.

Tip: Pair it with a walk to the Americana's big tree afterward.

Montrose Shopping Park (Honolulu Ave at Ocean View Blvd), Glendale · Tree lighting · ~11 mi from downtown LA

Typically the Friday after Thanksgiving, 5–8pm (2025: Fri Nov 28)

Small-town style tree lighting in the walkable Montrose Shopping Park, run by Glendale Community Services & Parks, with a toy drive.

Tip: Combine with a drive through the La Crescenta light blocks a few minutes north.

3000–3100 blocks of Paraiso Way, plus 2800 block Alabama St, 3100 block Orange Ave, 3900 block Ramsdell Ave, 2400–2500 blocks Prospect Ave, La Crescenta · Neighborhood · ~12 mi from downtown LA

Typically early December through New Year's, evenings

Paraiso Way is the Crescenta Valley's traditional holiday street, and a Paraiso Way home took Best in Show in the Crescenta Valley Weekly's 2025 contest. Nearby, an Alabama St display won for its lights synced to music.

Tip: Residential foothill streets: drive slowly or park and stroll the Paraiso Way blocks, and keep noise down.

St. Albans Rd between Monterey Rd and Huntington Dr, next to Lacy Park, San Marino · Neighborhood · ~8 mi from downtown LA

Typically early December through New Year's, evenings

Residents string lights on the 50 to 60 foot evergreens that line nearly the whole block, a tradition that started during the Depression and was revived after World War II. It is quieter and more old-fashioned than the big themed streets, with towering lit trees instead of yard inflatables.

Tip: Park near Lacy Park and walk the block; it is short and easy with a stroller.

Valmont Dr, off Norumbega Dr north of Foothill Blvd, Monrovia · Neighborhood · ~16 mi from downtown LA

Typically December, evenings

Nearly every house on this short foothill street decorates, which makes it Monrovia's best-known light street. It is a small, local display rather than a regional attraction.

Tip: Drive north on Norumbega from Foothill; Valmont is on the left before the bridge. It is a residential street, so go slowly or park nearby and walk.

E. Newburgh St, Glendora · Neighborhood · ~23 mi from downtown LA

Typically late November through December, nightly from 5pm

A home light show set to music that you tune in on your car radio (101.5 FM in 2025). It is a single-home display on a residential street.

Tip: Watch from your car with the radio on, or park nearby and stay on the sidewalk.

Claremont Village and the Depot, 200 W. 1st St, Claremont · Tree lighting · ~30 mi from downtown LA

2026 dates officially announced: Friday, December 4, 2026, 5 to 8pm, tree lighting at 6pm

The city tree is lit at the historic Depot while Village shops serve as Cheer Stops with free treats. In 2025 the evening also had carolers, live reindeer and Santa.

Tip: Pick up a map of participating shops at City Hall or the Depot. The Village is compact and walkable with a stroller.

California Botanic Garden, 1500 N. College Ave, Claremont · Ticketed event · ~31 mi from downtown LA

Typically three Friday and Saturday pairs in December, 6 to 9pm

Paths lined with luminarias and string lights lead between live music stages, with art installations and food for sale. It is a calm, candlelit alternative to the big light mazes.

Tip: Buy tickets in advance; nights can sell out. Dress warmly because the garden gets cold after dark.

Meridian Ave near Mission St (Meridian Iron Works museum area), South Pasadena · Tree lighting · ~7 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Thursday in December, starting around 4:30pm

The city lights its tree and menorah with the high school marching band and local leaders. Kids can drop letters in Santa's Magical Mailbox, which answers with a little light and music show.

Tip: It is next to the Mission St shops and the Metro A Line stop, so taking the train avoids the parking crunch.

Starts at 322 N. Baldwin Ave, walks down Baldwin Ave to Kersting Court, Sierra Madre · Event · ~14 mi from downtown LA

Typically the Sunday before Christmas, 6 to 8:30pm

Residents carry candles or flashlights in a procession down Baldwin Avenue to Kersting Court. It is a small-town community event rather than a big display.

Tip: No parking on N. Baldwin Ave between Baldwin and Alegria or in Kersting Court, so park nearby and walk. Bring layers; it gets chilly.

Renaissance Plaza, 1 E. Main St, Alhambra · Tree lighting · ~7 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Friday in December, about 5 to 9pm

Downtown Alhambra's tree lighting, where Santa arrives on an Alhambra fire truck and poses for free photos. There are games, live music, face painting and vendors.

Tip: Plan to be there by 6pm for Santa's arrival.

Temple City Park, 9701 Las Tunas Dr, and Las Tunas Dr parade route, Temple City · Event · ~11 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Friday in December, 5 to 9pm, parade at 7pm

A free festival with real snow, sled rides, a holiday train and Santa. At 7pm a parade heads east on Las Tunas Drive from Cloverly Avenue, and the street lights switch on as Santa passes.

Tip: Stake out a spot along Las Tunas before 7pm to watch the lights come on.

Downtown San Dimas (Bonita Ave), San Dimas · Tree lighting · ~25 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Saturday in December, parade at 4pm and tree lighting at 6pm

An afternoon parade through downtown followed by the city tree lighting after dark.

City Hall, 3660 D St, La Verne · Tree lighting · ~28 mi from downtown LA

Typically early December, 6pm

A short, small-town tree lighting at City Hall with a visit from Santa. Old Town La Verne's shops are a block away.

Lubao Ave & Oxnard St (eight square blocks near Pierce College), Woodland Hills · Neighborhood · ~20 mi from downtown LA

Typically the first Saturday in December until the first Saturday after New Year's, 6–10pm (2025 opened Sat Dec 6)

A Valley tradition since 1952: about eight square blocks of homes around Lubao Ave and Oxnard St decorated with lights, figures and artificial snow. Residents run it informally.

Tip: Drive with headlights dimmed, or park on a side street and walk if traffic backs up. Come by 10pm on weeknights and 11pm on weekends, when many homes switch off.

3901 Longview Valley Rd, Sherman Oaks · Neighborhood · ~13 mi from downtown LA

Typically opens the Friday after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year's Day, evenings (2025 premiered Nov 28)

A single-home show the homeowner has run for about 20 years, with handmade animatronic characters, computer-controlled lights and a new music-and-video show each year. It won ABC's Great Christmas Light Fight in 2015.

Tip: It sits on a hillside residential street, so park carefully and watch from the sidewalk. Check the website for the nightly schedule before you go.

Wakefield Ct off Copper Hill Dr and Courtland Way (between Seco Canyon and Haskell Canyon), Saugus · Neighborhood · ~32 mi from downtown LA

Typically all of December, nightly about 5:30–10pm

Santa Clarita's best-known display: 41 homes on a double cul-de-sac with a canopy of lights strung house to house and 'The Night Before Christmas' told along the street. Residents often hand out candy canes.

Tip: Park nearby and walk the cul-de-sac; it is flat and stroller-friendly. Pair it with Homestead Place a few blocks west.

Homestead Pl (Paragon Dr area, near Wakefield Ct), Saugus · Neighborhood · ~33 mi from downtown LA

Typically December, evenings

A decorated cul-de-sac close to Wakefield Court, with a family tradition of handing out candy canes.

Tip: Best seen on foot; park once and walk both Homestead Place and Wakefield Court.

Plaza Escovar, Old Orchard II, Valencia · Neighborhood · ~29 mi from downtown LA

Typically December, Sun–Thu 5:30–9pm, Fri–Sat 5:30–11pm

A single-home pixel show in the Old Orchard II neighborhood: more than 19,000 lights synchronized to a rotating playlist of about 33 songs.

Tip: It is a quiet residential street, so park on the street and watch from the sidewalk.

Clearidge Dr, Essex Pl and Woodfield Pl (North Valencia / Northbridge), Valencia · Neighborhood · ~32 mi from downtown LA

Typically December; luminarias Fri–Sun, 6–10pm

Clearidge Drive and nearby streets have decorated together for more than two decades, and on Friday through Sunday nights residents line the curbs with glowing luminarias.

Tip: Visit on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday to see the luminarias. It works as a second stop after Wakefield Court.

Keats Ln off Poe Pkwy, Stevenson Ranch · Neighborhood · ~30 mi from downtown LA

Typically December, evenings

A decorated cul-de-sac known for homemade moving pieces, including a Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, helicopter and teeter-totter.

Tip: Park on Poe Parkway and walk in; it is a short, flat loop.

Departs McBean Regional Transit Center, 24375 Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita · Event · ~31 mi from downtown LA

Typically three nights in mid-December, tours 6–9pm (2025 ran Dec 12–14)

The city runs trolley tours of decorated neighborhoods, so parents can look instead of driving.

Tip: Seats are limited and the last tour leaves around 9pm, so plan on an earlier departure with young kids.

The BLVD (downtown Lancaster Blvd), Lancaster · Event · ~45 mi from downtown LA

Typically a Saturday in mid-December, 5–9pm (2025: Sat Dec 13, tree lighting at 6pm)

Lancaster's one-night downtown holiday festival with the city tree lighting on The BLVD, a Christkindlmarkt-style market, real-snow sledding, a Christmas train ride and Santa's Workshop crafts. The street is decked with lights, wreaths and holiday scenes.

Tip: Arrive by 5pm to catch the 6pm tree lighting; free hot chocolate is limited and goes early.

Antelope Valley Medical Center, W Avenue J, Lancaster · Tree lighting · ~44 mi from downtown LA

Typically an early-December weeknight, 5–7pm (2025: Wed Dec 3)

A small, heartfelt hospital tradition: the tree was planted in 1994 to honor a young patient, and the evening includes the tree's story, carols by Palmdale High School singers, refreshments and Santa.

Poncitlán Square (38315 9th St East), Palmdale · Walk-through · ~37 mi from downtown LA

Typically day after Thanksgiving through the first weekend of January, dusk–10pm nightly (2025: Nov 28–Jan 4)

Palmdale's downtown square is lit nightly for about five weeks, with a free movie night and a Holiday Magic evening (artificial snow, cookie decorating, Santa) on December Fridays.

Tip: Any night works for a quick walk-through; go on the Holiday Magic Friday if kids want snow and Santa.

Poncitlán Square (38315 9th St East), Palmdale · Tree lighting · ~37 mi from downtown LA

Typically an early-December weeknight, 4pm with the lighting around 4:45pm (2025: Tue Dec 2)

City tree lighting with carolers, Santa, giveaways, a toy drive and free hot chocolate and churros while they last.

Tip: It starts early (before 5pm), so it suits younger kids; arrive at 4pm for the free treats.