Things to do in Los Angeles for Christmas

updated 2026

Hikes

Some of the best sightseeing hikes are:
– Griffith Park
– Runyon Canyon
– Hollywood Sign
– Malibu’s Solstice Canyon

Farmer’s Markets

Farmer’s Markets are my favorite way to shop locally & find unique treats and gifts. I always look for a local bakery with healthier ingredients and stock up on treats to give to my family and friends. Some of my favorite markets are:
– Calabasas
– Pacific Palisades
– Santa Monica

The Grove

I love to come here during the holiday season to catch up over dinner with my girlfriends. It’s one of the most beautifully decorated areas in Los Angeles, in my opinion. The Grove is an outdoor mall and gets crowded closer to Christmas time. The fountain bar is my favorite for a night out with my girlfriends. It’s in the center of the mall, next to the fountain, with outdoor seating to enjoy the Christmas decor. The Grove often has pop-up shops, which can make for a fun shopping experience or a post-dinner walk. Last season, we experienced a Netflix pop-up.

Palisades Village (reopening in 2026)

This is a sweet place to spend some time with family. Whether making dinner reservations (I recommend Blue Ribbon Sushi), seeing a movie, or grabbing a warm beverage and your Christmas photo in front of the tree, it’s a very relaxed environment and the beach is right down the street.

The Golden Triangle (area in Beverly Hills)

The area is a hub for shopping, and streets are decorated for Christmas, making it an enjoyable place to sightsee, walk around, or have a meal. I like il Pastaio for its outdoor dining area.