The holiday season is right around the corner, and you know what that means—it is time to start planning the schedule for this year’s winter break. Luckily, living in SoCal has a major advantage: you cannot run out of things to do in Los Angeles. We’ve compiled a list of the best Los Angeles attractions for the whole family to enjoy this season.
14 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles for Winter Break
Disney’s Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation
The classic children’s story of a honey-loving bear and his pals comes to life on stage at the Kirk Douglas Theater. Performances run through Dec. 30, 2022.
Discover more family-friendly Broadway musicals coming to L.A. in 2023.
Skirball Hannukah Family Festival
Celebrate the spirit of the holiday with music, puppetry, and theatrical performances. You can also enjoy snacking on latkes and jelly donuts, fun crafts, and posing at the photo booth. The event takes place Dec. 18, 2 – 5:30pm, with a menorah lighting at 6pm.
Science of Gingerbread at Discovery Cube LA
Pay a visit to the magical gingerbread village exhibit. Guests can decorate holiday cookies, discover the science of snowflakes, enjoy storytime, meet Santa, and more! The special exhibition runs through Jan. 1, 2023.
Teddy Bear Tea
Back again for the first time since 2019, this beloved Los Angeles event invites kids of all ages to high tea at the iconic Langham Huntington Hotel. Enjoy sandwiches, sweets, and even a special visit from Santa. Every young guest receives a teddy bear to bring home as a memento. Dates vary through Dec. 24, 2022, with seatings at 10 am and 1pm.
New Year’s Eve Glow Party and Fireworks in Marina Del Rey
Looking to crank it up family-style for New Year’s Eve? Head to the Marina del Rey for a Glow Party with D.J.s at Burton Chace Park. Dance the evening away, then enjoy the fireworks show at 9pm and again at midnight for the bigger kids. The Glow Party begins at 7pm.
L.A. Zoo Lights
The famous L.A. Zoo lights are back this year with a brand new look featuring magnificent displays of glowing animals. Mixing the beauty of nature with the light spectacles that make the holidays so magical, L.A. Zoo Lights remains one of the favorite kids’ activities during winter and a staple of Los Angeles.
Snow Tubing at Mt. Baldy Resort
Snow in L.A. is a rarity, but that doesn’t mean your kids’ white winter wishes can’t come true. Mt. Baldy Resort is a short enough drive that you can play in the snow and be back in time for dinner by the beach.
Check out more places to play in the snow near L.A.
Sand Sledding at the Beach
Not feeling up to snow boots and jackets? Throw on your flip-flops instead and head to one of the best beaches in Los Angeles to take the kids sand sledding.
Check out our guide to sand sledding spots.
Holiday Road at King Gillette
Holiday Road takes the poinsettia crown for things to do in Los Angeles during winter break. Bright lights, Christmas ambiance, hot drinks, and fresh snow—Holiday Road brings a walking trail straight from the North Pole to the heart of L.A.
Kidspace Children’s Museum Winter Frolic
The California sun might tempt you to enjoy winter break on a Los Angeles beach, but don’t give up on your kids’ winter wonderland dreams. Winter Frolic allows kids to build ice sculptures that won’t melt, ice skate on their socks safely, and enjoy other spectacular winter-time games. Running daily through Jan. 8, 2023.
Bob Baker’s Nutcracker
No winter holiday is complete without The Nutcracker, and no kids’ list of things to do in Los Angeles can exclude Bob Baker’s Marionette Theater. Conclusion? Bob Baker’s The Nutcracker is simply a must. Let your kids join Clara and the Nutcracker in their efforts to defeat The Mouse King. Performances through Jan. 8, 2023.
Lightscape at the Arboretum
The botanical beauty at the Arboretum turns ethereal with Lightscape—a stunning light, art, and music extravaganza sure to delight your senses. Explore the Fire Garden or the splendid Winter Cathedral and let the beauty do the talking.
Holiday Light Festival at Griffith Park Train Ride
Who knew the Polar Express had a stop at Griffith Park? A mile-long track decorated in the most exquisite and charming holiday decor and a train exploring every one of them—a classic family activity during the season.
Enchanted at Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens transforms into a tranquil garden of lights and wonder for the winter holidays. The aptly named Enchanted is an interactive and immersive experience unlike any other, making it a perfect family activity to enjoy together.
Check out these other thrilling immersive experiences if you’re looking for more fun things to do in L.A. for winter break.
For more winter break activities, check out our lists of upcoming holiday events in L.A. and Orange County and 40+ Fun Things to Do With Kids in L.A.
What are your family’s plans for winter break? Share your favorite events for a perfect holiday season on Local Anchor’s Facebook group and help other parents plan the ideal winter break.
