Say goodbye to 2022 and hello to 2023! A new year means plenty of new and exciting things to do. Brush off the holiday fog and get out and explore with the kids as you set your intentions for an eventful year ahead. Check out the best things to do with kids in Los Angeles and the South Bay in January 2023.
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Top 10 Fun Things to Do With Kids In Los Angeles in January
The weather in January may be chilly, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some outdoor activities. Take the kids to Griffith Park for a day of exploration on its many hiking trails and playgrounds. Or, take the family to the beach for a sunny (and windy) stroll along the oceanfront. For more fun ideas and family events, see out our list below:
Related: Best Children’s Museums in LA
Holiday Light Shows
Ongoing through Jan. 15
Didn’t make it to your favorite light displays this year? There’s still time to enjoy a holiday tradition. Enchanted at Descanso Gardens, The LA Zoo Lights, and Lightscape at the Los Angeles County Arboretum run through January 8, while Astra Lumina at the South Coast Botanic Garden runs through January 15, giving you an extra week to enjoy the winter lights one last time.
The Rose Parade
Jan. 2, 2023
Checking out the Rose Parade is one of those must-do’s on the list of things to do with kids in Los Angeles. Every January, the Rose Parade takes place in Pasadena, California and offers a unique experience for kids and adults. There are plenty of floats, marching bands, and other entertainment to enjoy.
Floatfest: A Rose Parade Showcase
Open Jan. 2 and 3
Can’t make the parade? You can still get an up close look at the floats. Floatfest: A Rose Parade Showcase features a 2-mile showcase of Rose Parade floats following their appearance along the parade route. Each year, nearly 70,000 visitors head to Sierra Madre and Washington Boulevards in Pasadena for the chance to walk within a few feet of the floats and appreciate up close, the creativity and detail of each magnificent display.
Ice Skating at an Outdoor Holiday Ice Rink
Ongoing through January
Ice skating at an outdoor holiday ice rink is a great winter activity for the whole family. The joy of feeling the breeze on your face while gliding effortlessly around the rink can make any winter day special even if it is warm and sunny. From Santa Monica to Woodland Hills there are plenty of outdoor rinks still open this month. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced skater, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Go to the Local Mountains to See Snow
If you’re looking for a snow fix, but don’t want to travel far, you’re in luck! There are several great places for snow near Los Angeles that offer snow tubing, skiing, and snowboarding all without setting foot on an airplane. Check out our guide to the best places for snow near Los Angeles and learn more about the best places to go for a winter wonderland experience as well as some tips to make the most of your snow day.
Go to an LA Kings Hockey Game
Select dates in January
Going to an LA Kings hockey game is a great way to experience the excitement of the sport. The atmosphere in the stadium is electric and you can feel the energy of the fans, who come from all over to cheer on their team. The sound of skates grinding against ice, sticks clashing and players battling for control of the puck make it an unforgettable experience. After the game, there are plenty of opportunities to mingle with other fans, stop for photo ops or purchase souvenirs at the arena’s gift shop. A night at an LA Kings hockey game is truly a memorable event!
Monster Jam at Angel Stadium of Anaheim
January 14, 2023
Monster Jam at Angel Stadium of Anaheim is sure to get the whole family excited! It’s a high-octane event featuring some of the biggest, baddest monster trucks around. You can watch as they race and compete in events like freestyle, wheelie competitions, and more. The stadium offers plenty of seating so you won’t miss any of the action. Plus, there’s often additional entertainment like autograph sessions with drivers, pit parties where you can meet and take pictures with your favorite monster trucks, and even special opportunities to ride in one! Monster Jam at Angel Stadium of Anaheim is an exciting experience for all ages that you won’t want to miss.
Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center
January 15
Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic is a musical extravaganza full of singing and dancing, with the beloved characters from Sesame Street. It is sure to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family! The colorful costumes, dazzling lights, and foot-stomping music create an atmosphere that will captivate young and old alike. Kids can even get up on stage with Elmo to help him perform his magic tricks! With over 25 million fans worldwide, this show is sure to bring smiles to many faces.
Looking for more live entertainment options? Check out our guide to family-friendly Broadway musicals in L.A.
Mary Poppins at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center
January 21, 2023
Coming to the The Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center recently, Mary Poppins. will delight audiences young and old with its colorful costumes, lively choreography and beautiful sets. The talented cast and crew worked hard to bring the beloved classic to life in a unique way. The story follows Mary Poppins as she comes to help a dysfunctional family and teaches them lessons about kindness, understanding and compassion that they wouldn’t otherwise learn. Everyone in the theater is sure to be captivated by the show’s wonderful storytelling, heartfelt characters, and impressive soundtrack.
PASADENA COMIC CON 2023
January 29, 2023
The Pasadena Comic Con features some of the industry’s most talented writers, artists, and creators. It will also have exclusive panels, interactive activities, and celebrity guests. A variety of vendors will showcase their products including comics, toys, games and collectibles. There will be something for everyone at this event! With so much to see and do, Pasadena Comic Con 2023 promises to be an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss out on.
Looking for more fun things to do with kids in Los Angeles? Check out these city guides:
101 Fun Things to Do With Kids in the South Bay
