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Los Angeles Holiday Events 2026 to Make Magical Memories (Updated)

From Beverly Hills and Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles and the South Bay, explore 27 Christmas tree lightings and holiday celebrations taking place November 7 through December 7.

Los Angeles starts celebrating Christmas well before Thanksgiving. On November 7, Citadel Outlets in Commerce opens the season with its 25th annual tree lighting concert, featuring a 115-foot Christmas tree. Nine days later, The Grove celebrates its own 25th anniversary with performances, fireworks and a drone show.

Across Los Angeles County, the 2026 holiday calendar brings Christmas tree lightings to neighborhoods from Beverly Hills to Burbank. Coastal communities are joining in, with celebrations in Santa Monica, Hermosa Beach and Rancho Palos Verdes.

This guide covers 27 Los Angeles Christmas tree lightings and related holiday illumination events. Many are free, although some require tickets or advance registration.

Events are organized by date, then by area, with locations, admission information and official links to help visitors plan.

All times are Pacific. Dates and schedules may change.

November 2026 Christmas Tree Lightings

Saturday, November 7

1. Citadel Outlets Christmas Tree Lighting Concert

Commerce | Southeast Los Angeles

Citadel Outlets kicks off its 25th annual tree lighting celebration with a concert and a 115-foot Christmas tree. The shopping destination has planned musical performances, Santa’s arrival and a snow show following the lighting.

  • Time: Concert begins at 5 p.m.
  • Address: 100 Citadel Drive, Commerce, CA 90040
  • Admission: Free. No tickets required.
  • Highlights: Musical performances, Santa, giant Christmas tree and snow show.

Official information: Citadel Outlets Tree Lighting

Friday, November 13

2. Plaza West Covina Holiday Magic Tree Lighting

West Covina | San Gabriel Valley

Plaza West Covina hosts Holiday Magic, a four-hour seasonal celebration featuring its annual Christmas tree lighting. Visitors can combine the evening with shopping and dining at the mall.

  • Time: 4 to 8 p.m.
  • Address: 112 Plaza Drive, West Covina, CA 91790
  • Admission: Confirm with organizer.
  • Highlights: Tree lighting and holiday activities.

Official information: Plaza West Covina Events

Saturday, November 14

3. SPARKLE DTLA Grand Debut at The Bloc

Downtown Los Angeles

The Bloc launches SPARKLE DTLA with a synchronized holiday light show and live entertainment. The outdoor installation features millions of possible color combinations, programmed to music.

The opening event includes seasonal activities and entertainment. The light show continues nightly from November 15 through December 31.

  • Time: Grand debut from 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Address: The Bloc, 700 W. 7th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017
  • Admission: Free.
  • Highlights: Synchronized lights, Santa photos, holiday music and family activities.
  • Note: This is a holiday light show rather than a traditional tree lighting.

Official information: SPARKLE DTLA Grand Debut

Monday, November 16

4. The Grove’s 25th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

Fairfax District | Central Los Angeles

The Grove marks 25 years of Christmas celebrations with a major holiday entertainment program.

Lance Bass hosts the evening, with announced performers including Nicole Scherzinger and Jason Mraz. The celebration also features fireworks, a drone show, Santa’s arrival and the first scheduled snowfall of the season at The Grove.

  • Time: 7 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m.
  • Address: 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036
  • Admission: Free, subject to capacity.
  • Highlights: Celebrity performances, fireworks, drone show, Santa and snowfall.
  • Planning tip: Arrive early. Space is limited.

Official information: Christmas at The Grove

Wednesday, November 18

5. Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting and Holiday Open House

Manhattan Beach | South Bay

Downtown Manhattan Beach celebrates with its annual Pier Lighting and Holiday Open House. The evening includes seasonal entertainment and activities throughout the downtown shopping district.

The pier lighting is scheduled for 7 p.m.

  • Time: 6 to 9 p.m. Pier lighting at 7 p.m.
  • Location: Downtown Manhattan Beach and Manhattan Beach Pier
  • Admission: Free public celebration.
  • Highlights: Illuminated pier, holiday music, shopping and dining.
  • Note: The event centers on lighting the pier rather than a traditional Christmas tree.

Official information: Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting

Thursday, November 19

6. Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration

Beverly Hills | Westside

Beverly Hills celebrates the holiday season with its annual Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration.

The 2026 event also marks 50 years of Rodeo Drive, with live entertainment, seasonal installations and the ceremonial lighting of the famous shopping street.

Food trucks and wine gardens are planned along the route.

  • Time: 5 to 8 p.m.
  • Location: Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
  • Admission: Free.
  • Highlights: Holiday lighting, live performances, food trucks and wine gardens.

Official information: Beverly Hills Holiday Festivities

7. Regent Santa Monica Beach Holiday Tree Lighting

Santa Monica | Westside

Regent Santa Monica Beach welcomes the holiday season with a community celebration centered on its 45-foot Christmas tree.

The hotel plans live music, visits with Santa, seasonal refreshments and a seaside boutique.

  • Time: 4:30 to 7 p.m.
  • Address: 1700 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401
  • Admission: Open to the public.
  • Highlights: 45-foot tree, Santa, musical entertainment and holiday shopping.
  • Phone: 310-458-6700

Official information: Regent Holiday Tree Lighting

8. Los Angeles Union Station Tree Lighting

Downtown Los Angeles

Union Station presents its 11th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony inside the historic Ticket Concourse.

Charles Phoenix hosts the free event. Announced entertainment includes Mariachi Ausente and Lizzy & the Triggermen, along with Santa photos and family activities.

  • Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
  • Address: 800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
  • Admission: Free. No ticket required.
  • Highlights: Live music, Santa, seasonal treats and children’s activities.
  • Transportation: Metro, Metrolink and Amtrak serve Union Station.

Official information: Union Station Tree Lighting

Friday, November 20

9. Glendora Village Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting

Glendora | San Gabriel Valley

The Glendora Village Holiday Stroll brings seasonal music and holiday shopping to the downtown district.

The evening includes a visit from Santa and the ceremonial tree lighting in the plaza.

  • Time: 6 to 9 p.m. Tree lighting at 6:30 p.m.
  • Address: 224 N. Glendora Avenue, Glendora, CA 91741
  • Admission: Public community event.
  • Highlights: Tree lighting, Santa photos and Village shopping.
  • Phone: 626-963-4128

Official information: Glendora Chamber of Commerce

10. The Promenade at Westlake Tree Lighting

Westlake Village | Conejo Valley

The Promenade at Westlake opens its holiday celebration with an afternoon market followed by an evening Christmas tree lighting.

The holiday market begins at 4 p.m. Published organizer schedules differ on the ceremony time, listing either 7 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. Visitors should check the latest schedule before arriving.

  • Time: Holiday market at 4 p.m. Lighting ceremony reported for 7 to 7:30 p.m.
  • Location: The Promenade at Westlake, Westlake Village
  • Admission: Confirm with organizer.
  • Highlights: Holiday market, seasonal entertainment and tree lighting.
  • Note: Final ceremony time requires confirmation.

Official information: Promenade at Westlake Holiday Events

Saturday, November 21

11. Light Up Main Street in Old Town Newhall

Santa Clarita | North Los Angeles County

Santa Clarita’s annual Light Up Main Street celebration turns five blocks of Old Town Newhall into a holiday festival.

The city has announced entertainment, food trucks and children’s activities, including a snow zone featuring 20 tons of real snow.

  • Time: 4 to 8 p.m. Tree lighting around 5:30 p.m.
  • Location: Main Street, Old Town Newhall, Santa Clarita
  • Admission: Free.
  • Highlights: Christmas tree lighting, snow zone, Santa and live entertainment.

Official information: City of Santa Clarita

12. Covina Christmas Tree Lighting

Covina | San Gabriel Valley

The City of Covina holds its annual Christmas tree lighting on November 21. The evening brings residents together for a community holiday celebration.

  • Time: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
  • Location: Covina, California. Confirm the event address with the city.
  • Admission: Confirm with organizer.
  • Highlights: Christmas tree lighting and community holiday activities.

Official information: City of Covina Events

Sunday, November 22

13. Hermosa for the Holidays Tree Lighting

Hermosa Beach | South Bay

Hermosa Beach closes its Hermosa for the Holidays weekend with a Christmas tree lighting at Pier Plaza.

The larger holiday festival includes a market, live entertainment and a Ferris wheel. Santa is also scheduled to take part in Sunday’s celebration.

  • Time: Festival activities from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tree-lighting program from 5:45 to 6:15 p.m., with lighting around 6 p.m.
  • Location: Pier Plaza, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
  • Admission: Public event. Certain activities may have fees.
  • Highlights: Beachside tree lighting, Santa, holiday market and entertainment.

Official information: Hermosa for the Holidays

Saturday, November 28

14. Terranea Resort Annual Tree Lighting

Rancho Palos Verdes | Palos Verdes Peninsula

Terranea Resort hosts its annual oceanfront Christmas tree lighting with a 30-foot tree, seasonal entertainment, carolers and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The resort also encourages guests to bring an unwrapped toy to support Toys for Tots.

  • Time: 4:30 to 7 p.m.
  • Address: 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
  • Admission: $32 for ages 13 and older; $15 for ages 5 to 12; free for ages 4 and younger. Additional fees may apply.
  • Registration: Advance registration required.
  • Highlights: Oceanfront ceremony, Santa, carolers and holiday entertainment.

Official information: Terranea Holiday Tree Lighting

Monday, November 30

15. Los Angeles County Holiday Tree Lighting

Downtown Los Angeles

The Music Center hosts the annual Los Angeles County Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at Jerry Moss Plaza.

The event includes live music, art activities, snow flurries and complimentary hot chocolate.

Visitors can also explore the LA2050 Holiday Impact Market before the county’s ceremonial tree lighting.

  • Time: 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Location: Jerry Moss Plaza at The Music Center, Downtown Los Angeles
  • Admission: Free.
  • Highlights: Tree lighting, live performances, holiday market and hot chocolate.

Official information: The Music Center Holiday Tree Lighting

December 2026 Christmas Tree Lightings

Wednesday, December 2

16. La Crescenta Library Tree Lighting Ceremony

La Crescenta | Crescenta Valley

La Crescenta Library hosts its 12th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, bringing families together for music and seasonal activities in the library courtyard.

A children’s magic show is scheduled before the evening celebration.

  • Time: 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. Magic show from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
  • Address: 2809 Foothill Boulevard, La Crescenta, CA 91214
  • Admission: Community library event.
  • Highlights: Tree lighting, music, magic show and family photos.

Official information: LA County Library Event

Thursday, December 3

17. Downtown Culver City Tree Lighting Sled-tacular

Culver City | Westside

Downtown Culver City hosts its annual Sled-tacular at Town Plaza.

The tree lighting is scheduled for 6 p.m., with holiday activities continuing through the evening.

  • Time: 5 to 8:30 p.m. Tree lighting at 6 p.m.
  • Address: Town Plaza, 9300 Culver Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232
  • Admission: Public celebration.
  • Highlights: Community tree lighting and holiday festivities.

Official information: Downtown Culver City 2026 Events

18. Grand Illuminations at The Yard at Cal Plaza

Downtown Los Angeles

The DTLA Alliance and Grand Performances open Grand Illuminations with an installation by Los Angeles creative studio Liquid PXL.

The display features a 25-foot LED tree and interactive lighting installations. Opening day also includes a holiday market, stage entertainment and a community lighting countdown.

  • Time: Market from noon to 8 p.m. Stage show at 5 p.m. Tree lighting at 5:30 p.m.
  • Address: The Yard at Cal Plaza, 350 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90071
  • Admission: Confirm with organizer.
  • Highlights: LED tree, interactive light art, holiday market and live music.

Official information: DTLA Grand Illuminations

19. Glendale Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

Glendale | San Fernando Valley

Glendale plans its annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall’s Perkins Plaza, with performances and an appearance by Santa.

Conflicting dates for December 2 and December 3. Attendees should confirm the final date before visiting.

  • Date: December 3, provisional.
  • Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
  • Address: Glendale City Hall, 141 N. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91206
  • Admission: Community event.
  • Highlights: City Hall tree lighting, performances and Santa.

Official information: City of Glendale Calendar

20. Fairmont Miramar Tree Lighting Ceremony

Santa Monica | Westside

The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows welcomes the holidays with its annual tree-lighting ceremony in the Miramar Gardens.

Plans include carols performed by the Santa Monica High School Choir, hot chocolate and photos with Santa.

  • Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
  • Address: 101 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401
  • Admission: Check organizer for RSVP details.
  • Highlights: Choir performance, Santa photos and hot chocolate.

Official information: Fairmont Miramar Tree Lighting

Friday, December 4

21. Claremont Holiday Promenade and Tree Lighting

Claremont | Eastern San Gabriel Valley

Claremont celebrates with its annual Holiday Promenade throughout the Village, followed by a tree-lighting ceremony at the historic Depot.

Participating businesses plan holiday treats and special promotions. Santa photos are also scheduled.

  • Time: 5 to 8 p.m. Tree lighting at 6 p.m.
  • Address: Claremont Village and Depot, 200 W. First Street, Claremont, CA 91711
  • Admission: Free.
  • Highlights: Tree lighting, Village shopping, seasonal treats and Santa photos.
  • Phone: 909-399-5490

Official information: City of Claremont Holiday Promenade

22. Rick’s Tree Lighting Grand Illumination

Whittier | Southeast Los Angeles County

Uptown Whittier hosts a community holiday illumination event at Rick’s Drive-In on Greenleaf Avenue.

The neighborhood celebration is scheduled for December 4.

  • Time: 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Address: Rick’s Drive-In, 7254 Greenleaf Avenue, Whittier, CA
  • Admission: Confirm with organizer.
  • Highlights: Neighborhood holiday lighting event.

Official information: Whittier Uptown Association

Saturday, December 5

23. Palisades Village Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Stroll

Pacific Palisades | Westside

Palisades Village marks its first holiday season since reopening with a day of seasonal activities and an evening tree lighting.

Caruso has announced a holiday stroll, live entertainment, Santa photos, shopping activities and snowfall.

  • Time: Holiday Stroll from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tree lighting at 5:30 p.m.
  • Location: Palisades Village, Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles
  • Admission: Check organizer for activity details.
  • Highlights: Community tree lighting, holiday market, Santa and snowfall.

Official information: Caruso Holiday Announcement

24. Altadena Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony

Altadena | San Gabriel Foothills

Altadena’s Christmas Tree Lane returns with a community lighting ceremony along Santa Rosa Avenue.

Organizers plan to illuminate nearly a mile of deodar trees with more than 20,000 lights.

Winterfest takes place the same day, with vendors and family activities.

  • Time: Winterfest from 3 to 9 p.m. Lighting ceremony at 6 p.m.
  • Location: Santa Rosa Avenue and Mariposa Street, Altadena, CA 91001
  • Admission: Free.
  • Highlights: Historic Christmas Tree Lane, live music and Winterfest.

Official information: Christmas Tree Lane Association

25. Burbank Mayor’s Tree Lighting

Burbank | San Fernando Valley

The City of Burbank hosts its annual Mayor’s Tree Lighting on the steps of City Hall.

The short ceremony includes seasonal performances and a visit from Santa before the tree is illuminated.

  • Time: 6 to 6:30 p.m.
  • Address: Burbank City Hall, 275 E. Olive Avenue, Burbank, CA 91502
  • Admission: Free.
  • Highlights: City Hall tree lighting, performances and Santa.

Official information: City of Burbank

Monday, December 7

26. Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting

Long Beach | Downtown Waterfront

The 12th annual Visit Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting returns to Terrace Theater Plaza with a 67-foot Christmas tree and more than 500,000 lights.

The celebration includes live entertainment, falling snow and fireworks following the tree lighting.

  • Time: 5 to 8 p.m.
  • Address: Terrace Theater Plaza, 300 E. Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
  • Admission: Free, but tickets are required.
  • Highlights: Giant Christmas tree, fireworks, snow and live performances.
  • Planning tip: Weekly ticket releases begin November 9. Tickets are limited to four per person.

Official information: Visit Long Beach Tree Lighting

27. Downey Christmas Tree Lighting

Downey | Southeast Los Angeles County

Downey hosts its annual Christmas tree lighting at the Civic Center with live entertainment and seasonal activities.

The announced program includes snow play, arts and crafts, vendors and photos with Santa.

  • Time: 6 to 8:30 p.m.
  • Location: Downey Civic Center, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, CA 90241
  • Admission: Confirm with organizer.
  • Highlights: Christmas tree lighting, Santa photos, snow play and activities for children.

Event information: Downey Community Events Calendar

Which Los Angeles Christmas Tree Lightings Are Free?

Several major events explicitly advertise free admission, including Citadel Outlets, The Grove, Rodeo Drive, Union Station, The Music Center, Claremont, Burbank and Altadena’s Christmas Tree Lane.

Some celebrations have different requirements. Long Beach requires free admission tickets, while Terranea Resort charges admission and requires advance registration.

For hotel ceremonies, shopping center events and neighborhood celebrations, confirm reservation policies or activity fees directly with the organizer.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Christmas tree lightings start in Los Angeles in 2026?

The first event in this guide takes place Saturday, November 7, at Citadel Outlets in Commerce. Its 25th annual Tree Lighting Concert begins at 5 p.m. The schedule continues through December 7 with events in Long Beach and Downey.

Where can families see Christmas lights for free in Los Angeles?

The Grove, Rodeo Drive, Union Station, the Los Angeles County Holiday Tree Lighting at The Music Center and Altadena Christmas Tree Lane have announced free public celebrations. The Bloc in Downtown LA also offers a free holiday light show.

Do Los Angeles Christmas tree lightings require tickets?

Many public celebrations do not require tickets. Long Beach requires free admission tickets, and Terranea Resort charges admission with advance registration. Check each organizer’s website for the latest policies.

Which holiday events are closest to Beverly Hills and Santa Monica?

Rodeo Drive hosts its lighting on November 19. In Santa Monica, Regent Santa Monica Beach celebrates November 19, followed by Fairmont Miramar on December 3. The Grove’s celebration takes place November 16 in the Fairfax District.

Where can visitors see Christmas tree lightings by the beach?

Regent Santa Monica Beach hosts a November 19 ceremony, Hermosa Beach celebrates November 22, and Terranea Resort lights its oceanfront tree November 28. Fairmont Miramar follows on December 3.

What is the largest Christmas tree in this guide?

Citadel Outlets in Commerce advertises a 115-foot Christmas tree. Long Beach plans a 67-foot tree at Terrace Theater Plaza, while Regent Santa Monica Beach features a 45-foot tree.

Last updated: November 3, 2026. Event dates, times, admission requirements and activities may change. Confirm details with the official organizers before attending.

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