As December soon comes to a close, it’s time to enjoy the best of the season. From holiday light shows to festive fairs and more, there is something for everyone. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from December 26 through December 28.
Los Angeles Weekend Events | December 26 – December 28
L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow – Griffith Park
Where: L.A. Zoo | Griffith Park
When: Until January 11, 2026,
What: This luminous experience brings oversized glowing animal lanterns, dazzling tunnels, and playful installations to the Los Angeles Zoo. Enjoy an immersive light spectacle that invites guests to wander through glowing trails illuminated by oversized animal lantern sculptures and seasonal displays. It’s a playful, family‑friendly twist on holiday lighting — especially under the California night sky.
Grand Illuminations
When: Until January 4, 2026
Where: DTLA
What: Downtown’s Grand Illuminations returns December 3 with a free lighting ceremony, live music, a holiday market, and seasonal sips from noon to 7pm. The showstopper? Electric Dandelions—towering LED sculptures that shimmer like fireworks—plus a 25-foot tree and Lumiverse light display, glowing nightly through January 4 at Cal Plaza.
Enchant Los Angeles
Where: Santa Anita Park, Arcadia
When: Through December 28, 2025.
What: This year, a 10‑acre holiday maze sweeps into Arcadia with a claim to fame: the “world’s largest Christmas light maze.” On top of wandering through twinkling labyrinths, you can glide on real ice, take a spin on the Ferris wheel, and browse a festive village filled with local artisans and seasonal treats.
Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | December 26 – December 28
Winter Fest OC
When: Until January 4, 2026
Where: Costa Mesa
What: For more than a decade, this Costa Mesa holiday favorite has transformed Orange County into a full-on winter wonderland. Stroll through a Forest of Lights, play in the snow, go ice tubing, snap photos with Santa, and catch live entertainment, or level up with carnival rides, ice skating, polar putt-putt, and fireside igloos. Hot cocoa and festive treats keep the cheer flowing all night long.
Locals’ Night at the Santa Monica Pier
When: Until May 21, 2026
Where: Santa Monica Pier
What: Santa Monica’s monthly pier series returns with a festive December edition: “Holiday Cheer on the Pier.” On December 18, enjoy a Holiday Winter Art Mart featuring local makers, festive waterfront activations like Sandy Cane Lane, and family-friendly entertainment including a Santa sand sculpture and Bob Baker Marionette Theater performance. Entry is free, and it’s the perfect excuse to actually hang out at the Pier.
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 26 – December 28
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.
Ugly Sweater Holiday Skate Party
When: December 27
Where: Moonlight Rollerway, Inc. | 5110 San Fernando Rd., Glendale
What: Pull on your ugliest, most over-the-top holiday sweater and roll into a festive night of skating fun at Ugly Sweater Roller Skate Night. Glide around the rink, show off your seasonal style, and compete for prizes honoring the tackiest sweaters in the house. All ages are welcome, with skate rentals available at the window if you don’t bring your own.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | December 26 – December 28
Afternoon Tea at Oynx
When: December 27
Where: Four Seasons Hotel | Westlake Village
What: Savor the refined flavors of Japanese cuisine at ONYX, an elevated sushi destination tucked inside the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village. This sophisticated spot blends precision and elegance, offering fresh sashimi, artful signature rolls, and robata-grilled dishes in a sleek, modern setting. Just minutes from Thousand Oaks, ONYX invites diners to enjoy an exceptional omakase experience or sip from a curated sake list while indulging in some of the best sushi Westlake Village has to offer.
Christmas Tree Lane
When: Until December 26
Where: Henry T. Oxnard Historic District | F and G Streets | Oxnard
What: From December 14 through December 26, the historic lane glows nightly from 6 PM to 10 PM. For the most enchanting experience, take a walk through the 10-block loop—but remember to stay off private lawns and driveways. Dress warmly, park on nearby streets, and use the trash bins at intersections to help keep the neighborhood beautiful. If you’re driving, keep your headlights on for safety and go slow. Please be courteous to residents, supervise little ones, and avoid touching or climbing any displays. Crowds grow on weekends, so bring patience and holiday cheer!
Paint & Sip
When: December 28
Where: Rosenthal-The Malibu Estate Vineyard
What: Unleash your creativity at this laid-back Paint & Sip event, where artistic vibes meet your favorite glass of wine. Your ticket includes all painting supplies and a 20% discount on wine purchases, so you can unwind, create, and toast to a night well spent! Perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike—just bring your imagination and good energy.