Christmas in Los Angeles is a truly magical experience. The city may not be blanketed in snow, but it shines bright with festive lights, holiday events, and endless ways to get into the holiday spirit. From glamorous shopping centers and sparkling boat parades to one-of-a-kind holiday markets, Los Angeles makes sure Christmas is unforgettable. Here’s our guide to the top five ways to celebrate Christmas in Los Angeles and how Xpress Shuttles can get you there comfortably and in style.
Marvel at the Magic of Griffith Park’s Holiday Light Festival
Griffith Park transforms into a holiday Wonderland each December, attracting visitors of all ages to the Holiday Light Festival. This annual light show is a site to behold, with massive displays, enchanting decorations, and even a whimsical winter village. The highlight is a mile-long train ride experience where you’re surrounded by twinkling holiday lights, giant candy canes, reindeer, and dazzling holiday scenes.
Pro Tip: Book a shuttle for an early evening slot to catch the sunset over the hills. The view is spectacular and makes the lights shine even brighter.
Celebrate Coastal Style at the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
LA is one of the few places where you can celebrate Christmas by the warm holiday waters of the Pacific at Marina Del Rey’s Annual Holiday Boat Parade. At this LA holiday tradition you’ll see everything from fishing boats to luxury yachts decked out in colorful lights and holiday decorations. The festive vibes are unmatched as you watch these floating displays glide across the water, creating a holiday light show you won’t forget.
Pro Tip: Pack a cozy blanket and warm drinks to sip as you watch the parade. It’s the ultimate way to stay warm while soaking in those coastal vibes. Parking is very limited and not inexpensive, so arrive as early as possible.
Cinema Under the Stars with a Christmas Movie
Nobody pulls off an alfresco movie night better than the Rooftop Cinema Club in DTLA (Downtown LA). You can even choose to cozy up with your special someone on an Adirondack chair or pay a little more for a loveseat, and watch some of the best holiday classics with a personal heater and complimentary hot beverage with each ticket!
Pro Tip: Parking lots and structures can be pricey and are always in high demand; even more during the holiday season. Add to that, the legendary traffic associated with LA and you’re looking at an expensive and time-consuming trip. Book a ride with us and you’ll be free to enjoy a few adult beverages without the worry of getting pulled over.
Ice Skate Under the Stars at Pershing Square or LA Live
Just because you’re in Southern California doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on ice skating! Head to the iconic ice rinks at Pershing Square or LA Kings Holiday Ice for a classic winter experience- California style. Lace up your skates, hit the rink, and glide around with the city lights as your backdrop. Pershing Square’s Holiday Ice Skating Rink is over 7,000 square feet and includes a weekly DJ spotlight, and curling sessions while the LA Kings Holiday Ice Rink is nestled in the heart of Downtown LA.
Pro Tip: Wear layers, because while it may not be freezing, the ice rink can get chilly! DTLA parking can be notoriously difficult around the holidays, and expensive. Don’t blow your gift-buying budget with parking fees and plan ahead!
Steal Your Family’s Heart at Universal Studios Grinchmas
Universal Studios Hollywood is already a pretty magical place with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal City Walk, and Super Nintendo World, but during the holidays you can be a part of the most Who-tacular holiday celebration at Grinchmas! This celebration is included with the price of admission to the theme park or an annual pass. You can party with the Grinch himself and his dog Max, along with the other residents of Whoville among the twinkling holiday lights. There’s even a nightly snow flurry!
Pro Tip: Make sure to check out our previous post on Planning Your Trip to Universal Studios to make sure you maximize your fun time and minimize your stress levels.
Why Choose Xpress Shuttles for Your Christmas Adventures?
With Xpress Shuttles services, you don’t have to worry about traffic, directions, or parking. We’ll get you to your destination comfortably and on time. Whether you’re traveling with a special someone or with a large group of friends and family, our executive cars or limousines and spacious shuttles can accommodate your needs. We’ll pick you up from wherever you want and drop you off right in the heart of all the festivities. No long walks from faraway parking lots.
Grab your holiday sweater, gather your friends and family, and let’s make this Christmas in Los Angeles the most unforgettable holiday of the year. Wherever your holiday spirit takes you, let us make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. Book your ride with us and celebrate the season with ease and comfort!