15 Exclusive Things To Do In Los Angeles This December 2025 That Will Blow Your Mind
Los Angeles transforms into a holiday spectacle every December, offering a unique blend of warm weather, dazzling lights, and world-class entertainment that makes it one of the most exciting places to be as the year closes out. This year, December 2025, brings a fresh lineup of events, from iconic light installations making their grand return to exclusive concert experiences and pop-up markets that only the savviest Angelenos know about.
Forget the generic holiday guide; this is your insider's list to the most current, must-attend activities that capture the true spirit of a Southern California winter. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun, a romantic night out, or a high-energy concert to ring in the New Year, Los Angeles in December is an absolute powerhouse of festive energy.
The Most Dazzling Holiday Light Spectacles and Winter Pop-Ups
December in Los Angeles is defined by its stunning light displays, which take full advantage of the mild California evenings. These aren't just simple Christmas lights; they are immersive, high-production experiences that draw crowds from around the globe.
1. Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanic Garden
Making its highly anticipated return, Astra Lumina offers an enchanting night walk through the South Coast Botanic Garden. This experience is a celestial, magical pathway where the stars descend to illuminate the garden's natural beauty. Tickets sell out quickly, making this one of the most exclusive and talked-about holiday events in the region.
2. Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens
A perennial favorite, the Enchanted Forest of Light transforms Descanso Gardens into an interactive, mile-long nighttime experience. Visitors walk through unique, illuminated installations, including sparkling forests and glowing art pieces. This is a perfect activity for families and couples seeking a truly magical evening.
3. LA Zoo Lights: Animals, Glow, and Family Fun
The LA Zoo Lights is a spectacular display that covers the zoo grounds in a vibrant, festive glow. Beyond the millions of lights, the event features spectacular animal-themed displays and a water-and-light show, offering a unique holiday experience that supports the Los Angeles Zoo's conservation efforts.
4. Holiday Road at King Gillette Ranch
For those willing to venture slightly outside the city center, Holiday Road at King Gillette Ranch provides an expansive, immersive walk-through experience. This event is known for its massive, whimsical holiday installations and is a favorite for creating stunning photo opportunities.
5. L.A. Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. Live
Embrace a classic winter tradition by ice skating at the L.A. Kings Holiday Ice rink at L.A. Live. Skating around the dazzling Christmas tree in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles is a quintessential holiday experience, running until early January 2026.
World-Class Entertainment: Concerts, Theater, and Classical Performances
Los Angeles’s world-renowned venues come alive in December with special holiday programming, from rock concerts to classical ballet, cementing its status as a global entertainment hub.
6. KISS FM's Jingle Ball
The annual KISS FM's Jingle Ball is one of the biggest pop music events of the season, featuring a lineup of A-list artists. This concert is a high-energy, must-see event for music lovers and a definitive sign that the holiday season has arrived in LA.
7. "Home Alone" in Concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall
Experience the beloved holiday film "Home Alone" with a live orchestra performing John Williams' iconic score. Held at the architecturally stunning Walt Disney Concert Hall, this event, scheduled for early December 2025, offers a unique and sophisticated way to enjoy a classic Christmas movie.
8. Los Angeles Ballet's The Nutcracker
No holiday season is complete without a performance of Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker." The Los Angeles Ballet presents this classic at the Dolby Theatre, offering a traditional, yet spectacular, theatrical experience that runs through late December.
9. New Year's Eve with The Roots at LA Phil
For a truly unforgettable New Year's Eve, the Los Angeles Philharmonic hosts a special concert featuring the legendary hip-hop band, The Roots. This highly anticipated event is a dynamic and high-energy way to welcome the new year, offering a blend of classical venue and modern sound.
10. Candlelight Concerts: Hans Zimmer's Best Works
For a more intimate and atmospheric musical experience, check out the Candlelight Concert series. In December, one of the featured performances includes a tribute to Hans Zimmer's best works, performed in a stunning, candlelit setting, offering a romantic and unique musical escape.
Unique Local Gems and Cultural Experiences
Beyond the major attractions, Los Angeles offers smaller, more curated experiences that provide a deeper dive into the city’s creative and cultural scene. These are the activities that give you true topical authority on LA's December offerings.
11. Unique Markets at California Market Center
Unique Markets is a ticketed pop-up event focused on modern, high-quality design and independent creators. Held at the California Market Center, it's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and support small businesses, moving beyond the typical mall shopping experience.
12. A Current Affair: Pop Up Vintage Marketplace
For vintage enthusiasts, A Current Affair’s Pop Up Vintage Marketplace is a must-visit, typically running in early December. This event gathers top vintage retailers and collectors, offering unique, sustainable, and fashionable gifts for the holiday season.
13. Venice Sign Holiday Lighting
The iconic Venice Sign gets its annual holiday makeover with a special lighting ceremony. This is a free, festive, and distinctly "LA" event that draws the local community and offers a great photo opportunity to capture the coastal holiday spirit.
14. Bob Baker Marionette Theater's Holiday Special
A true Los Angeles institution, the Bob Baker Marionette Theater presents its annual Holiday Special: Winter Wonderland. This charming, old-school performance is a delightful, nostalgic experience that is perfect for all ages and a wonderful break from the high-tech holiday attractions.
15. L.A. County Tree Lighting Ceremony at The Music Center
The official L.A. County Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place at The Music Center’s Jerry Moss Plaza on December 1st. This is a free, community-focused event that officially kicks off the holiday season in Downtown Los Angeles, complete with performances and festive cheer.
Planning Your December LA Adventure: Key Entities and LSI Keywords
Navigating Los Angeles in December requires a strategic approach, especially when dealing with traffic and sold-out events. The key to maximizing your experience is to book tickets early for high-demand attractions like Astra Lumina, the Enchanted Forest of Light, and major concerts like KISS FM's Jingle Ball or New Year's Eve with The Roots. Use these entities and LSI keywords to guide your planning:
- Iconic Venues: L.A. Live, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Descanso Gardens, South Coast Botanic Garden, King Gillette Ranch, The Music Center, Dolby Theatre, Pantages Theater.
- Must-See Events: LA Zoo Lights, Holiday Road, L.A. Kings Holiday Ice, Venice Sign Lighting, Bob Baker Marionette Theater, Unique Markets.
- Seasonal Themes: Holiday Events, Christmas Activities, Winter Light Shows, Ice Skating, Holiday Pop-ups, Vintage Marketplace, Classical Concerts, New Year's Eve Celebrations.
December in Los Angeles offers a vibrant and diverse calendar of events that cater to every interest, from high culture to family fun. By focusing on these exclusive and current activities, your holiday season in Southern California will be truly unforgettable and full of unique experiences.
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