As December ramps up, we are rounding together the best local events to enjoy. From Holiday light shows to evenings on the skating rink and more, we have you covered! Check out all the winter fun happening this December 8 through December 10!!
Los Angeles Weekend Events | December 8 – December 10
Squid Game: The Trials
When: Until January 31, 2024
Where: Fairfax District
What: This real-life version of Squid Game is much safer than its on-screen counterpart, offering a chance to participate in six challenges drawn from the popular Netflix show. Over a 70-minute period, participants can accumulate points through various games, overseen by a character resembling the Front Man from the series. These games are adaptations of classic childhood favorites, including unique versions of marbles, Battleship, and Operation, along with direct adaptations from the series like Red Light, and Green Light.
Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square
When: Until January 7
Where: Pershing Square
What: In Los Angeles, a city not usually associated with winter festivities, an enchanting transformation occurs when an ice skating rink is set up amidst the towering skyscrapers of Downtown. This urban winter wonderland invites you to glide across the ice at Pershing Square’s open-air holiday rink. Imagine soft snow underfoot as you skate, with the convenience of included skate rentals. Additional amenities like lockers and skating aids are available for a nominal fee, enhancing your festive experience.
L.A. Zoo Lights
When: November 17, 2023 – January 7, 2024
Where: L.A. Zoo
What: This holiday season, the L.A. Zoo will extend its hours into the evening on most nights through January, presenting a charming twist on its luminous holiday tradition. For its 2023 edition, L.A. Zoo Lights will feature new sculptures and introduce “Winter Wildlands,” an area inspired by animals that thrive in snowy environments.
Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | December 8 – December 10
Marina Del Rey Boat Parade
When: December 9
Where: Marina del Rey
What: Cozy up with a blanket at Fisherman’s Village or Burton Chace Park and witness a stunning display as 70 boats adorned with festive lights and decorations sail through the marina, competing in various categories like Best Theme, Best Animation, Best Band, and Best Lights. The celebration kicks off at 5:55 pm with a dazzling fireworks show, followed by the parade of boats at 6 pm, happening regardless of the weather.
The Dr. Seuss Experience
When: Until January 31
Where: Santa Monica
What: Immerse yourself in the whimsical universe of Wockets and Truffula Trees at The Dr. Seuss Experience, an interactive adventure inspired by the beloved books of Dr. Seuss. This enchanting experience brings to life the vivid characters and landscapes from classics like The Cat in the Hat and The Lorax. Guests can explore a series of rooms, each offering unique interactions with characters and perfect photo opportunities. At the heart of this pop-up lies a mirror maze, inspired by The Sneetches, providing a captivating challenge. Catch this touring show at Santa Monica Place starting in November 2023 for a magical journey through the world of Dr. Seuss.
For the Record: Love Actually Live
When: Until December 30
Where: Beverly Hills
What: Between late November and the conclusion of December, the cherished musical series, For the Record, brings forth a stage production inspired by the globally adored holiday film, Love Actually. Transforming the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills into a festive winter backdrop, the show employs a multimedia set, a live orchestra, and songs from the movie to reenact the intertwining love stories featured in the film.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | December 8 – December 10
WinterFest
When: December 9
Where: Sportsmen’s Lodge
What: Join the festive celebration at The Shops at Sportsmen’s Lodge for the second annual Winterfest event on Saturday, December 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.! Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland with fun-filled activities and workshops for all ages, including complimentary kids’ activities and special workshops for adults at $20 each. Space is limited, so RSVP early to enjoy this day of family fun, games, giveaways, and holiday cheer.
Shaping Gravity: Abstract Art Beyond the Picture Plane
When: Until March 10
Where: Glendale
What: Experience the vibrant interpretations of abstraction by seven artists at this complimentary exhibit at the Forest Lawn Museum. Explore diverse artworks ranging from sculptures and paintings to augmented reality pieces and interactive video projections. Featured artists include Jen Stark, Molly Larkey, Shane Guffogg, Michelle Jane Lee, Christine Nguyen, Rema Ghuloum, and Sara Ippolito.
VALLEY RELICS MUSEUM EXPERIENCE
When: Every Saturday and Sunday
Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys
What: Visit the Valley’s beloved Museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | December 8 – December 10
4th Annual Camarillo Old Town Glow and Holiday Village
When: December 9, 4pm – 9pm
Where: Old Town, Camarillo
What: Get ready for the 4th Annual Camarillo Old Town Glow on Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 4-9 pm. Join the festivities at the Holiday Village located behind the Studio Channel Islands Art Center at 2222 Ventura Blvd, accessible with your Glow tickets. Delight in snow activities, a train ride, stunning light displays, and festive food and drinks. Advance tickets are available for $10 or $15 at the door, with free admission for children under 2 years.
Holiday Road
When: November 24 – December 27
Where: Santa Monica Mountains
What: Wander through King Gillette Ranch as it transforms into a luminous wonderland during Holiday Road, where the Santa Monica Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop. This event, brought to you by the creators of Nights of the Jack, features a nearly mile-long walking trail adorned with holiday charm. Experience a mesmerizing display of festive decorations, including a canopy of icicle lights amidst the treetops, a quaint Christmas village, large standalone ornaments, and archways twinkling with lights. While you’re there, don’t miss the food trucks and a holiday-themed bar for an extra touch of seasonal delight.
Wild Lights and Ocean Nights at America’s Teaching Zoo
When: December 1 through December 3
Where: 7075 Campus Rd, Moorpark
What: This holiday season, America’s Teaching Zoo transforms into a festive wonderland with its WILD LIGHTS & OCEAN NIGHTS event. Guests are invited to a 45-minute self-guided tour through the zoo, adorned with dynamic lights, interactive experiences, and photo opportunities. Highlights include the ‘Under the Sea’ experience at Rajah’s Retreat, the ‘Illuminated Jungle’ with a ‘Glow in the Dark Garden,’ and a grand 12-foot-tall Holiday Tree near Santa’s Workshop. Be sure to see Ira the Lion under the dazzling ‘Canopy of Lights,’ and don’t miss the chance to meet Santa on December 10th and 17th.