Christmas Markets Southern California 2024: Top Festive Destinations
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66) Little Tokyo Christmas Celebration
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Little Tokyo in Los Angeles turns into a festive wonderland during the holiday season. The streets are filled with glowing lights and cheerful decorations, creating a magical atmosphere.
You can stroll around and enjoy the vibrant displays, from traditional Japanese decorations to modern holiday touches.
One of the highlights is meeting Shogun Santa. He’ll be at the Japanese Village Plaza on December 16 and 17, ready to take photos with visitors. It’s a unique experience where you can see Santa with a Japanese twist.
In addition to Shogun Santa, there are other holiday activities to explore. Enjoy shopping for unique gifts at local stores or savor delicious Japanese cuisine. It’s a perfect place to find special presents for your loved ones while enjoying festive food and drinks.
Also, don’t miss Oshogatsu, which marks the Japanese New Year. Although not a Christmas event, it’s another way to experience the rich culture of Little Tokyo. Oshogatsu will be held on January 1, 2024, featuring traditional music, dance, and street food.
| Date | Address | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 16 – 17, 2023 | Japanese Village Plaza, Los Angeles, CA | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Free |
| Jan 1, 2024 | Japanese Village Plaza, Los Angeles, CA | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Free |
67) Palm Desert’s WildLights
Palm Desert’s WildLights transforms the Living Desert Zoo into a sparkling holiday wonderland. This cherished event, now in its 31st year, is a perfect outing for families and holiday lovers.
Over a million colorful lights adorn the zoo, creating a festive atmosphere. You will see dazzling displays that leave you in awe. Walking through the beautiful lights, you will feel the holiday magic all around you.
On select nights, the event offers an exclusive 21+ evening, providing a unique experience for adults. You can enjoy the lights without the crowd, making it a special night out.
The event runs from November 22 to December 30, providing plenty of opportunities to visit. Plan your trip and make sure not to miss this enchanting holiday display.
Event Details
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 22 – December 30 | 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260 | 6 PM – 9 PM on select nights | Adults: $16, Kids: $12 |
68) Whoville Feast at Universal Studios
Get ready to munch like a Who in Whoville! At Universal Studios Hollywood, the Whoville Feast is a must-see event during the holidays.
Picture a festive setting with twinkling lights, colorful decorations, and all your favorite Whoville characters. You’ll see The Grinch, Max, and plenty of Whos making the rounds to spread holiday cheer.
The feast includes a delicious spread of holiday goodies. Think Who-pudding, roast beast, and other delectable treats inspired by the classic Dr. Seuss story. The dishes are as fun to look at as they are to eat, making it a perfect event for families.
Besides the food, the whole place buzzes with exciting activities. Expect live entertainment, including performances from the Whos of Whoville and maybe even a surprise visit from The Grinch himself.
The Whoville Feast runs from the end of November to the start of January, giving you plenty of time to join in the fun. Make sure to grab your tickets early, as this event is popular and spots fill up quickly.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov. 24, 2023 – Jan. 1, 2024 | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA | Various hours | Starting at $109 for one day* |
69) Forest Lawn Christmas Festival
The Forest Lawn Christmas Festival is a holiday event filled with festive cheer. You’ll find this festival at the Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California.
Each year, the Forest Lawn Christmas Festival transforms the grounds into a winter wonderland. Expect dazzling lights, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, and live musical performances.
At the festival, various holiday-themed displays add to the festive spirit. Kids can enjoy activities like ornament decorating and holiday crafts.
Food stands offer seasonal treats like gingerbread cookies and hot cocoa. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a snack while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.
Meet Santa Claus himself at the festival. Kids can share their Christmas wishes and take photos with Santa.
Event Details
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 1-24, 2024 | 1712 S. Glendale Ave., Glendale, CA 91205 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Free Admission |
70) Mar Vista Holiday Market
Get ready to experience the charm of the Mar Vista Holiday Market. This festive market is a neighborhood favorite, offering a cozy and friendly atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping.
You’ll find a variety of unique, handmade gifts from local artisans. From homemade candles to handcrafted jewelry, there’s something special for everyone on your list.
The market also features delicious food stalls. Enjoy holiday treats like gingerbread cookies and warm beverages while you stroll through the market.
Kids can have fun with activities like face painting and holiday crafts. There are also performances from local musicians and singers to keep you entertained.
Make sure to visit the pet adoption booth. You might find a furry friend to bring home for the holidays.
This market is well-known for its community vibe. It’s a great place to meet neighbors and make new friends while getting into the holiday spirit.
Before you leave, don’t forget to stop by the photo booth for a festive family picture.
Here’s the important info:
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 7 & 14, 2024 | 12234 Venice Blvd | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Free |
