We may not have a White Christmas in L.A., but there’s nothing quite like the sight of a palm tree wrapped in twinkling lights. From immersive experiences to free displays, we are lucky to have no shortage of sparkling holiday lights in Los Angeles. Here are the very best light displays to check out this holiday season.
Looking for more holiday happenings? Check out our list of the best holiday events in Los Angeles.
Holiday Lights In Los Angeles
From ancient forests to colorful zoo animals, Los Angeles is home to some truly unique lighting experiences during the holidays. With so many fun things to do, it can be hard to know what to make time for in the deluge of Christmas events, but these incredible light displays are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.
Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens
Nov. 20, 2022–Jan. 8, 2023
Enchanted Forest of Light is a one-mile trek through several inspiring lighting experiences in some of the most beloved areas of Descanso Gardens. It is an immersive nighttime experience unlike anything else in Los Angeles. Popular recurring favorites include a town of dazzling “stained glass” houses by contemporary sculptor Tom Fruin created in the Rose Garden, sparkling geometric installations from HYBYCOZO on the Main Lawn, the Flower Power light installation on the Promenade, and exquisite lighting and sound effects in the Ancient Forest.
Holiday Road at King Gillette Ranch, Calabasas
Nov. 25 – Dec. 30
Located on the grounds of King Gillette Ranch, the legendary Christmas Road holiday experience in Calabasas is back for a unique experience for visitors of all ages. The spectacular walking trail features illuminated lights, larger-than-life Christmas displays, and iconic holiday images. Grab a drink or a holiday treat, and head out on the road!
L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow in Griffith Park
Nov. 18, 2022 – Jan. 22, 2022
The LA Zoo lights are back and better than ever this year! Explore an immersive landscape filled with spectacular lantern sculptures of animals among blooming flowers, towering trees, and more for a wild wonderland of light that is as uplifting as it is magnificent.
Lightscape at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Nov. 11, 2022 -Jan. 8, 2023
The Arboretum is transformed into an illuminated nighttime experience thanks to the critically acclaimed international spectacle of light, art, and music known as Lightscape! Explore the trail to the spectacular Winter Cathedral as you stroll past stunning new installations.
Griffith Park Train Holiday Light Festival
Nov. 25, 2022 – Jan. 6, 2023, Nightly
This one-mile holiday light festival train ride through Griffith Park gets its annual festive overlay with thousands of glittering Christmas lights and holiday displays. New this year, in addition to the train ride, you can check out the Holiday Kiosk for gifts and snap photos at the three winter-themed photo booths. Tickets are available in person and online.
Free Holiday Lights in Los Angeles
Not every beautiful light show requires costly ticket prices. There are plenty of twinkling neighborhoods in Los Angeles to check out a magical holiday show without spending a dime.
Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills
Each year the residents of Candy Cane Lane deck out their houses with colorful lights and displays. Located at the intersection of Lubao and Oxnard, families often show out in big crowds on weekends to check out the displays, so head there during the week if you want to avoid traffic.
City of Beverly Hills
Santa’s sleigh and reindeer have famously soared above Wilshire and Beverly Drive for decades. There’s plenty more holiday cheer to be found along Santa Monica Boulevard and the glittering streets of Beverly Hills. There’s so much to explore with Christmas Tree and Menorah displays, holiday lights, and the must-see Glowing Gardens at the Beverly Canon Gardens.
Sleepy Hollow Christmas Lights
Torrance’s seaside neighborhood is transformed each year into a winter wonderland of dazzling lights and festive decor. You can even meet Santa Claus and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate as you enjoy the strolling around. The display, found at Pacific Coast Highway and Calle Mayor, is generally open nightly from 6 to 10 pm.
Downtown Santa Monica
The famous shopping cart Christmas tree at Edgemar is a truly unique sight. All along Main Street Santa Monica, you’ll find holiday cheer, and you can support local businesses while you shop. Don’t miss the Miracle on Main Street event with tree lighting and caroling! You can also head to the Third Street Promenade for Winter Lit featuring traditional Christmas trees and the Holiday Ice rink.
Any awesome holiday lights in Los Angeles we missed? Share your favorite spots on our Local Anchor Facebook page.
