2025 Bucket List
Last Updated on Apr 11, 2025
On Christmas Day, spend time exploring LA’s festive offerings with a Christmas brunch at The Beverly Hills Hotel. For a holiday stroll, visit the Los Angeles County Arboretum, where the gardens are beautifully decorated for the season. Take a drive down Rodeo Drive for some last-minute holiday shopping, or check out the holiday lights at LA's Historic Core. For those who enjoy an alternative Christmas Day, Venice Beach offers a relaxing spot for a Christmas Day surf or picnic by the ocean.
November 23, 2025
The 5th annual Hermosa for the Holidays celebration will transform Downtown Hermosa Beach (1 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254) into a festive winter wonderland in December 2025. This beloved event combines the Holiday Open House with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, offering a weekend filled with family-friendly activities, shopping, and entertainment. Visitors can browse unique gifts from local artisans and retailers, ride the Ferris wheel at Pier Plaza, and enjoy festive fun at the storytime tent and Letters to Santa writing station. The celebration features live music, including the Rock for Tots concert on Saturday, followed by the community concert and tree lighting ceremony on Sunday. Families can also capture special holiday memories with photos with Santa and spread the spirit of giving at the Giving Village. With so much to see and do, Hermosa for the Holidays is the perfect way to kick off the festive season by the beach!
November 29, 2025
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting on November 19, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Downtown Manhattan Beach and at the Manhattan Beach Pier. This beloved annual tradition transforms the scenic coastline into a festive wonderland, featuring dazzling lights, live holiday music, and a joyful community atmosphere. Stroll through the charming downtown area, where local shops and restaurants offer special holiday treats, perfect gifts, and seasonal dining experiences. Gather with family and friends to witness the spectacular lighting of the pier, a breathtaking sight that marks the official start of the holiday season in Manhattan Beach.
November 14 - 16, 2025
Christmas Around the World invites you on a captivating musical journey through nine countries, exploring the rich tapestry of traditions, songs, and stories that make the holiday season special across the globe. From the festive markets of Germany to the warm family gatherings in Mexico, each destination offers a unique take on celebrating Christmas. In Ireland, England, and France, age-old carols echo through the air, while Norway and Sweden embrace the charm of cozy traditions like the Swedish "Jul" feast. Israel offers a glimpse into the religious roots of Christmas, while the USA and Canada share a blend of multicultural influences. Across all these countries, the themes of hope, joy, and community resonate, uniting the world in a season of warmth and goodwill.
November, 2025 - January, 2026
Imaginarium – Holiday Magic returns by popular demand, offering an unforgettable experience for all ages! This dazzling holiday event features 1.5 miles of festive cheer, with millions of lights illuminating the path through the Fantasyland Holiday Light Show, the largest in America. Enjoy thrilling carnival rides, games (separate purchase required), and meet Santa himself! The fun continues with a free, three-times-daily circus show, illuminated Christmas trees, stars, and balloon drops, as well as a nightly synchronized music and light show. Delight in holiday treats and beverages, explore infinity mirror rooms, and interact with life-like creatures in this electrifying adventure. Don’t miss out on this magical event at the Fairplex, open select nights from November 22 to January 5!
Thursday, December 25th
Join the festive fun aboard The Queen Mary for 12 Days of Christmas, running from December 12 to 23, 2025! This holiday extravaganza offers a delightful mix of activities, including cookie decorating, gingerbread house building, and stocking decorating, along with enchanting performances and dance parties. Each day features unique events, like the grand Lighting of the Stacks Ceremony and a magical Snow Day with real snow. Families can enjoy cozy moments with Mrs. Claus, snap photos with Santa, and participate in fun challenges like finding hidden Elves on the Shelves. With general admission at just $25 and special activity passes available, there's something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season aboard the iconic ship.
November, 2025
Get ready for a rock-infused holiday celebration as the Trans-Siberian Orchestra gears up for their 2025 Winter Tour with "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO and More!" Bursting with excitement, the band is thrilled to hit the road and bring their electrifying performance to fans across 62 cities nationwide. In this year's tour, TSO unveils a revamped presentation of the timeless and multi-generational holiday tradition, "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve." Brace yourself for an audiovisual spectacle that transcends traditional holiday concerts, as TSO weaves a musical tapestry of festive spirit, powerful rock melodies, and a dazzling light show that promises to make this holiday season truly unforgettable. Don't miss the chance to experience the magic as TSO takes you on a journey through the heart of Christmas with their signature blend of rock and holiday cheer.
Warm Fuzzies with a Side of Sarcasm is the ultimate holiday event for those who prefer their cheer with a dash of wit. Embrace the mischievous charm of the Grinch™ as you join in the fun of Grinchmas™, a Who-tacular celebration packed with laughter, music, and festive antics. From meeting the green grump himself and his trusty dog Max to mingling with the quirky residents of Who-ville, this is a holiday experience like no other. Marvel at the lighting of the dazzling Dr. Seuss-inspired tree while you enjoy the sarcastic yet heartwarming atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to spice up your holiday season!
Step into a world of wonder and magic as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Studios Hollywood transforms into a holiday haven that brings the enchanting festivities of the wizarding world to life. From the iconic Hogwarts™ castle to the charming streets of Hogsmeade™, this immersive experience is a must-see for fans and visitors of all ages, offering a blend of holiday cheer, awe-inspiring decor, and spellbinding performances that create an unforgettable Yuletide experience.
December, 2025
Holidays at Greystone on December 7 & 8 invites guests to experience the enchantment of the season in the beautifully adorned Greystone Mansion & Gardens. The mansion comes alive with festive decorations, celebrating a variety of multicultural themes and traditions. Visitors can enjoy a range of joyful activities, including live music, caroling, and dancing, along with craft-making and storytime for all ages. A highlight of the event is the captivating marionette performances, adding an extra touch of holiday magic to this unforgettable celebration. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at one of Los Angeles' most iconic landmarks.
November, 2025 - January 7, 2026
L.A. Zoo Lights, a beloved annual holiday tradition, is set to captivate visitors once again. This enchanting event offers a magical journey through an immersive landscape adorned with mesmerizing lantern sculptures featuring wildlife and botanical wonders, all illuminated beneath the twinkling stars of the Los Angeles Zoo. In addition to strolling through this wonderland, guests can enjoy a festive array of activities, from carousel rides to savoring delicious seasonal treats, and even shopping for radiant holiday-themed merchandise. This year, the experience promises even more wonder with new attractions such as the "Winter Wildlands," showcasing majestic pine trees, shimmering ice crystals, and vivid "northern lights" projections, as well as the "Dazzling Desertscape" featuring live roaming entertainment and motion-sensing "dancing cacti." With magnificent displays of native California wildlife and so much more, L.A. Zoo Lights is a joyous celebration of the holiday season for all ages to enjoy.
5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
December 13, 2025
The 63rd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025, promising an evening of festive maritime magic. The celebration kicks off at 4:00 PM with family-friendly activities at Burton Chace Park, including gourmet food trucks, a festive photo booth, and a kids' art corner. At 5:45 PM, a dazzling drone light show will illuminate the sky, setting the stage for the main event: the Holiday Boat Parade from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, where boats adorned with lights and decorations will glide through the marina. Spectators can enjoy prime viewing spots at Burton Chace Park and Fisherman's Village. The event is free and open to the public, with parking available in designated lots; attendees are encouraged to arrive early due to expected crowds.
Viewing Spots
November, 2025 - January 2026
The holiday spirit shines bright at Knott's Merry Farm, transforming the park into a classic holiday festival with winter wonderland-inspired décor, thousands of twinkling lights, themed garland, and jumbo snowflakes. Knott's Merry Farm offers a plethora of Christmas activities for families, creating joyful experiences inspired by the spirit of the holidays. Enjoy Christmas shows like "Home for the Holidays," a musical revue with classic Christmas tunes, magical dancing toys, and dazzling snow on an elaborate wintertime stage. The beloved ice show featuring the famous beagle and the Peanuts Gang returns, showcasing world-class ice skaters. Indulge in delectable holiday dining unique to this season, and explore the Christmas Crafts Village in the streets of Calico for one-of-a-kind gifts. The magical Snow and Glow experience, Santa's Christmas Cabin, and a nightly Christmas tree lighting ceremony further enhance this wondrous winter celebration, making Knott's Merry Farm a must-visit holiday destination.
December 2025
Embracing the festive magic, the Venice Canals transform into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, captivating visitors with their enchanting Christmas Lights & Holiday Boat Parade in 2025. Nestled in an idyllic neighborhood near Los Angeles, the Venice Canals become a picturesque haven adorned with shimmering lights that gracefully drape over wooden-framed bridges. This charming scene invites locals and visitors alike to embark on a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, immersing themselves in the warm glow of countless holiday lights that bedeck houses and bridges throughout the month of December. For those looking to experience this holiday spectacle, it's advisable to park a few blocks away, as the Venice Canals radiate a festive hustle and bustle during this joyful time of the year. Whether by foot or by boat, the Venice Canals Christmas Lights & Holiday Boat Parade offer a delightful and festive experience that captures the spirit of the season in this coastal California gem.
The annual Manhattan Beach Lighting of the Pier is a beloved holiday tradition that brings the community together to kick off the festive season with warmth and cheer. Typically held in late November, this free event transforms the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier into a dazzling display of twinkling lights, illuminating the structure and casting a magical glow over the ocean. The celebration includes live music, holiday carolers, and performances from local artists, creating a joyful ambiance as families, friends, and neighbors gather to enjoy the sights and sounds. Along with the lighting ceremony, many nearby shops and restaurants participate in the festivities, offering treats and seasonal specials, making it a wonderful way to experience the charm and community spirit of Manhattan Beach during the holidays.
=December, 2025
Celebrate the holiday season with the 2025 Winter Solstice Christmas Tree Run in Long Beach, California, tentatively scheduled for December 24. This festive event features a scenic 5K run/walk and a 1K Kids Fun Run through the picturesque El Dorado Park East, offering participants a flat and fast loop surrounded by pine trees and serene lakes. All finishers receive a commemorative medal, and the first 100 finishers are awarded a free Christmas tree, adding a unique touch to the holiday festivities. Children aged 10 and under can join the fun run for free, making it a perfect family-friendly outing.
December, 2025
Manhattan Beach Boulevard will transform into a spectacle of color and light as the annual Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks illuminate the sky above the iconic Pier. Families and friends will gather along the boulevard, eagerly awaiting the dazzling display that marks the beginning of the holiday season. Against the backdrop of the majestic ocean, bursts of vibrant fireworks will paint the night, filling the air with excitement and joy, creating cherished memories for all who attend.
November- December, 2025
The LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE is a beloved winter tradition in downtown Los Angeles, transforming Peacock Place into a festive outdoor skating rink. Presented by Coca-Cola, the 2025–2026 season is expected to run from late November through early January, offering visitors the chance to skate under the stars in the heart of the city. While specific dates and details for the upcoming season have yet to be announced, past events have featured general admission tickets priced at $25, including skate rentals, with tickets available for purchase on-site . Skaters have also enjoyed special promotions like "Supper & Skate," providing discounts at nearby restaurants such as Lazy Dog and Sendero when presenting their skating receipts .
Sunday, November 30, 2025 at 6:00 PM
The 2025 Hollywood Christmas Parade is set to dazzle on Sunday, November 30, beginning at 6:00 PM in the heart of Hollywood. This cherished tradition, celebrating its 93rd anniversary, will feature a vibrant procession of celebrity appearances, towering character balloons, festive floats, and award-winning marching bands. The parade follows a U-shaped 3.2-mile route, starting at Hollywood Boulevard and Orange Drive, proceeding east to Vine Street, south on Vine to Sunset Boulevard, and then west on Sunset back to Orange Drive. Attendees can enjoy free curbside viewing along most of the route, while reserved grandstand seating is available for purchase through Ticketmaster. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast nationally on The CW Network and other outlets during December. Beyond the spectacle, the parade supports the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve's Toys for Tots program, collecting new, unwrapped toys for children in need, embodying the spirit of giving during the holiday season.
American Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker - December 11 - 21, 2025
American Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker is a beloved holiday tradition that captures the magic and wonder of the season with stunning choreography, elaborate sets, and a timeless score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The production, which has been a staple of ABT's winter programming, brings to life the story of Clara, a young girl who embarks on a fantastical journey through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. With its enchanting visuals, including the iconic battle between the Nutcracker and the Mouse King, as well as the spectacular dance sequences, ABT's The Nutcracker is a joyous celebration of the holiday spirit. The company's rendition is known for its exquisite performances, showcasing the skill and artistry of its world-class dancers, making it a treasured experience for audiences of all ages.