2025 Bucket List
Last Updated on Feb 10, 2025
Thursday, November 27, 2025
On November 27, 2025, Los Angeles offers numerous ways to celebrate Thanksgiving. Attend the annual Hollywood Christmas Parade, which often takes place on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, featuring celebrity appearances and festive floats. Participate in a Turkey Trot, such as the one in Downtown Los Angeles, to kickstart the day with a healthy activity. Enjoy a Thanksgiving feast at renowned restaurants like The Bazaar by José Andrés or The Bel-Air, which offer special holiday menus. Visit The Grove or Americana at Brand to witness the lighting of their Christmas trees and enjoy live entertainment. Explore the Harvest Festival Original Art & Craft Show at the Pomona Fairplex for unique holiday shopping. Take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park to appreciate the fall weather. Attend a Thanksgiving service at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. Volunteer at local shelters or food banks, such as the Los Angeles Mission, to give back to the community. Experience the Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens, an interactive nighttime event that usually begins in late November. Finally, catch a live performance or concert at venues like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, which often hosts special events during the holiday season.
Fall, 2025
The "World of Color - Season of Light," presented by PANDORA® Jewelry, is a dazzling holiday spectacle held at Paradise Gardens Park in Disney California Adventure Park. Scheduled to return in fall 2025, this show transforms water, light, story, and song into a mesmerizing holiday celebration. Beloved moments from Disney and Pixar films illuminate a towering wall of mist, while hundreds of sky-high fountains dance to festive music amidst shimmering snowflakes. The show features classic films like Cinderella, Lady and the Tramp, Beauty and the Beast, Toy Story, and Fantasia, alongside contemporary hits such as Frozen and Inside Out, weaving stories of friendship, family, and love. With a joyous musical score of seasonal favorites and cherished movie tunes, and Goofy's madcap musical light display adding extra fun, this awe-inspiring performance creates an emotional tapestry that might become a cherished family holiday tradition.
Select Evenings November - December 31
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain is a fantastic destination for a Thanksgiving visit, offering a unique blend of thrilling rides and festive holiday experiences. The park transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with millions of sparkling lights, holiday decorations, and seasonal music, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy special holiday-themed shows, meet-and-greets with Santa, and indulge in festive treats and hot cocoa. For those seeking adrenaline, the roller coasters and other attractions remain open, providing a perfect mix of excitement and holiday cheer. It's an ideal place for families and friends to create lasting memories during the Thanksgiving season.
November 2024 - January 5, 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.
Mid November 2025
The Pershing Square Holiday Ice Rink is a beloved seasonal attraction that transforms the heart of downtown Los Angeles into a winter wonderland. Open from mid-November through early January, the rink provides a festive and fun ice skating experience for all ages. Surrounded by the city's towering skyscrapers and adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations, the rink offers daily public skating sessions, special events, and themed skate nights. Whether you're an experienced skater or a beginner, the Pershing Square Holiday Ice Rink is a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit and create lasting memories with family and friends.
October 19, 2025
Get ready for a day of festive fun at the World Famous Pumpkin Race in Manhattan Beach on October 19, 2025! This free, family-friendly event takes over Manhattan Beach Boulevard and transforms it into Pumpkin Race Land, where creativity, competition, and Halloween spirit collide. Build and decorate your own pumpkin racer and compete in the thrilling race down the boulevard—just remember, cheaters never prosper! The event kicks off with a lively festival at 12:00 PM, featuring games, activities, and plenty of spooky surprises, followed by the highly anticipated Pumpkin Races at 2:00 PM sharp. Whether you're there to race, cheer, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere, this is one Halloween tradition you won’t want to miss!