It is the most festive time of the year! Likewise, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the season all around town. From holiday markets to seasonal ice rinks and more, there is something for everyone. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood December 19 through December 21.
Los Angeles Weekend Events | December 19 – December 21
Stevie Wonder
When: December 18 – December 21
Where: Fairfax District
What: Melrose Trading Post adds holiday cheer to its Sunday market in December, with over 260 vendors, live music, and festive family activities. Snap a pic in the Rock ’n’ Roll Santa booth, join a gift-making workshop, or catch a jazz caroling or ballet performance. Admission is free on December 7 and 14 with a toy donation, and entertainment union members get in free all month.
Holiday Book Party at A Good Used Book
When: December 19
Where: Echo Park
What: Need a last-minute gift for the book lover in your life? Head to Echo Park Village bookshop A Good Used book, where you’ll find an expertly curated selection of used books along with some new editions. Each weekend, it hosts a marketplace spotlighting local vendors, and at this Friday’s holiday market, you’ll find Thai street food, Hawaiian butter mochi and snacks, vinyl records and riso prints, flash tattoos and live pet portraits—plus free Taiwanese beer from Formosa Imports. Drop by and support local small businesses.
MAUM Market
When: December 20
Where: Arts District
Left your gift buying to the final countdown? MAUM Market has your back. On December 20, this beloved AAPI-focused market returns to ROW DTLA with free entry and a stellar lineup of thoughtfully curated goods—think ceramics, kids’ toys, beauty finds, art, homewares, and more. It’s family- and pet-friendly, with just enough sparkle to make your last-minute shopping feel intentional.
Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | December 19 – December 21
The Long Beach Nutcracker
When: Until December 21
Where: Long Beach
What: Long Beach Ballet’s The Nutcracker goes big—really big. Celebrating its 43rd anniversary this December with six performances, this beloved production features a full live orchestra, a horse, a flying sleigh, and dazzling pyrotechnics. It’s a high-energy, SoCal-style twist on the holiday classic that keeps audiences coming back year after year.
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
When: Until December 21
Where: Newport Beach
What: Celebrate the season seaside at the 117th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, sailing through the harbor nightly from December 17 to 21. Over 100 dazzling yachts and boats cruise a 14-mile route, visible for free from bayfront spots like Marina Park, with extras like dining packages, boat cruises, and reserved seating available. Expect fireworks on opening night and nightly drone shows lighting up both ends of the harbor.
Dog Walking Hours at South Coast Botanic Garden
When: Until January 25, 2026
Where: South Coast Botanic Garden | Rancho Palos Verdes
What: If your dog is basically your shadow, mark your calendar for the monthly Dog Walking Hours at South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes. On select Sundays, you and your leashed pup can explore 87 acres of garden paths (just avoid the rose garden and a couple of restricted spots). With water stations, open trails, and optional obedience classes, it’s a dreamy day out for both human and hound.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | December 19 – December 21
Holidays Made Here
When: Until January 4
Where: Warner Bros. Studio | Burbank
What: Calling all Gilmore Girls devotees: Warner Bros. Studio Tour is transforming Stars Hollow into a holiday wonderland from December 18 to January 4. Stroll through festive sets, sip cocoa at Luke’s Diner (featuring actor Scott Patterson’s real coffee brand), and maybe even meet the man himself. Bonus: 2025 marks the show’s 25th anniversary, with new sets, exclusive merch, and a nightly light show—all included with regular or event-only admission.
Holiday Road
Where: King Gillette Ranch, Calabasas
When: Until December 27
Holiday Road transforms King Gillette Ranch into a glowing winter escape, complete with towering light installations, a whimsical Christmas village, and appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The nearly mile‑long walking trail winds through the Santa Monica Mountains and offers countless photo moments, festive décor, and seasonal bites from food trucks along the way. It’s a charming outdoor experience ideal for families, date nights, or anyone looking to immerse themselves in holiday magic.
Nochebuena: A Christmas Spectacular
When: December 20 – December 22
Where: Northridge
What: Celebrate the season with the vibrant 10th anniversary of Nochebuena at The Soraya, presented by Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles. This mariachi-filled spectacle showcases traditional dances and music from regions across Mexico, with four lively performances featuring Grammy-nominated singer and actress Ximena Sariñana. A beautiful fusion of cultural pride, holiday joy, and artistic talent.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | December 19 – December 21
Wild Lights Event at The Teaching Zoo
When: December 19-23
Where: 7075 Campus Rd, Moorpark
What: The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College transforms into a glowing winter wonderland during “Wild Lights,” a family-friendly evening event filled with dazzling displays, interactive light installations, and photo ops. Guests can enjoy a self-guided 45-minute stroll through the zoo, with select nights featuring a visit from Santa. While not focused on the animals, this festive experience offers seasonal magic for all ages.
Holly Jolly Half Marathon, 5K, and 10K in Camarillo
When: December 21
Where: 152 Westpark Ct, Camarillo
What: The 13th Annual Holly Jolly Half Marathon, 5K, and 10K is planned for Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the Pleasant Valley Soccer Fields, 150 Westpark Ct., Camarillo. Start / Finish will be at the Pleasant Valley Fields Park at the Village At The Park Sports Complex. This course is mostly on the flat Camarillo bike path. No auto traffic to worry about on this course.
Chanukah Celebration and Menorah Lighting
When: December 21
Where: Constitution Park, Paseo Camarillo
What: Chabad of Camarillo’s annual Chanukah Celebration returns on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 2:30 to 4:30 pm at Constitution Park. The free community event features a menorah lighting, music, donuts and latkes, a gelt drop for kids, and an amazing circus show. Guests are encouraged to RSVP.