Christmas Markets Southern California 2024: Top Festive Destinations
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46) The Grand Village Holiday Market
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You should definitely check out The Grand Village Holiday Market in Southern California. This market is a festive delight perfect for families and friends. You will find loads of unique holiday gifts, tasty treats, and live entertainment.
As you stroll through the market, you can enjoy the beautiful holiday lights and decorations. There are plenty of stalls with handmade crafts, perfect for finding special presents. There are also many food vendors offering tasty seasonal snacks and hot drinks.
One of the highlights is the live performances. Watch local musicians and performers put on amazing shows that capture the holiday spirit. Kids will love the craft activities and the chance to meet Santa Claus.
With its charming atmosphere and variety of activities, The Grand Village Holiday Market is a must-see event this holiday season.
Details:
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 1 – 24, 2024 | 123 Grand Ave, CA | 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Free Entry |
47) San Pedro Craft Holiday Market
San Pedro offers a charming holiday experience at the Craft Holiday Market. This market is held at the Port of Los Angeles, known for its vibrant community atmosphere.
You’ll find unique handmade gifts, ranging from quirky crafts to beautiful artwork.
Local artisans bring their best work, making it a great spot for holiday shopping.
In addition to crafts, you can enjoy seasonal foods and festive decorations. The market also features live music and entertainment, adding to the cheerful holiday spirit. It’s an enjoyable outing for family and friends.
The Craft Holiday Market is open only on specific dates in December, so mark your calendar.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 2-3, 17 | Port of Los Angeles, San Pedro, CA 90731 | 1 PM – 7 PM | Free Admission |
48) Santa Monica Pier Holiday Celebrations
Celebrate the holidays at the Santa Monica Pier with festive events and activities. There’s something charming about the Pier’s lights and sounds during this magical season.
Bring your family to the Santa Monica Playhouse on December 31 for the Annual Musical Revue. Enjoy champagne, juice, and a dessert buffet.
On December 11, stop by the Fig Tree for photos with Santa, cookie decorating, and other crafts.
It’s a great place to get into the holiday spirit with music and delicious food from Fig Restaurant.
If you love music, don’t miss the Noelles, an all-female a cappella group performing classic holiday songs in doo-wop style. They sing outside the Looff Hippodrome on December 21 and 22.
From December 6 to January 11, you can explore art installations and enjoy free family entertainment at the Holiday Cheer on the Pier.
These fun activities make the pier a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
| Date | Address | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2024 | Santa Monica Playhouse | 7 PM & 10:30 PM | $5 off each ticket with code TT |
| Dec 11, 2024 | Fig Tree, Santa Monica Pier | 2 PM – 5 PM | Free |
| Dec 21-22, 2024 | Looff Hippodrome, Santa Monica Pier | 4 PM, 5 PM, 6 PM | Free |
| Dec 6, 2024 – Jan 11, 2025 | Santa Monica Pier | 6 AM – 10 PM | Free |
49) Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas
You’re in for a treat if you visit Universal Studios Hollywood during the Christmas season. The park transforms into a holiday wonderland, filled with festive decorations and special events that will make your visit unforgettable.
You’ll find two main themes for the holiday season: the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Grinchmas.
The magical world of Harry Potter is adorned with holiday lights, and you can enjoy live performances, holiday-themed food, and even snowfall.
Grinchmas brings the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss to life. Meet the Grinch and his dog, Max, in person. The Grinchmas tree lighting ceremony is a highlight you won’t want to miss.
Throughout the park, you’ll see dazzling decorations, twinkling lights, and themed Christmas trees. Characters from popular movies, like the Minions, also get into the holiday spirit with special costumes and appearances.
If you’re in Southern California from late November to early January, Universal Studios Hollywood is a fantastic spot to soak in the holiday fun.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 24, 2023 – Jan 1, 2024 | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 | Park hours vary | Check website for details |
50) Holiday by the Bay, San Diego
When you visit Holiday by the Bay in San Diego, expect festive fun for everyone. Located in the picturesque San Diego Bay, this event captures the spirit of the season with twinkling lights, holiday music, and cheerful decorations.
You can enjoy ice skating under the stars at the boardwalk. The rink is beautifully set with a view of the bay, giving you a unique experience.
For kids, there are opportunities to meet Santa and enjoy holiday crafts. The festive atmosphere is perfect for making holiday memories.
There are plenty of food stalls offering hot cocoa, gingerbread cookies, and other holiday treats.
You can enjoy these seasonal goodies while strolling along the bay.
Holiday by the Bay also features live performances and holiday-themed entertainment. From local bands to theatrical performances, there is always something to keep you entertained.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 1, 2023 – Jan 2, 2024 | Embarcadero, San Diego, CA | 10 AM – 10 PM | Free entry, activities and food priced separately |
