5 min
Updated: Nov 25, 2023
 Thanksgiving is one of the most beloved holidays in the United States, and Los Angeles is no exception. With its sunny weather and diverse population, L.A. offers a variety of Thanksgiving events to suit all tastes and interests. Here are a few fun and festive Thanksgiving events to check out in and near Los Angeles in 2023!
Downtown Los Angeles
Start your Thanksgiving Day off with a healthy dose of exercise at the Turkey Trot Los Angeles. This annual event offers a 5K, 10K, and kids' run, so there's something for everyone. The course winds through Downtown Los Angeles, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Grand Central Market. After the race, enjoy a post-race celebration with food, drinks, and live music.
321 E Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91502
Whether you're a competitive runner, casual jogger, or enthusiastic runner, this Turkey Trot is for you. More than 3,500 Burbank YMCA members, residents and dedicated runners from the Los Angeles area descend upon the streets of downtown Burbank to enjoy an event filled with fitness, family, friends, and fun! Run, walk, or push a stroller...have a great time while you support a great cause!
5333 Zoo Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Take a walk on the wild side and visit the L.A. Zoo Lights on Thanksgiving Day. This enchanting light display features over 5 million twinkling lights and festive displays throughout the zoo. See your favorite animals illuminated in a whole new way, and enjoy special holiday-themed activities such as carolers, storytime, and crafts.
532 S Olive St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
Lace up your skates and enjoy a skate around the outdoor ice rink in Pershing Square. This popular rink offers stunning views of Downtown Los Angeles and is a great place to get into the holiday spirit. After your skate, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee from one of the nearby vendors.
13755 Fiji Way
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Make this holiday truly special with a Thanksgiving buffet cruise in Marina del Rey. You and your guests will enjoy a celebratory dinner buffet with all the trimmings freshly prepared by a chef. While onboard, enjoy incredible views of Southern California’s world-famous beaches and pristine harbor views, City Cruises’ distinctive hospitality, full bar service, and festive décor.
Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Kick off the holiday season with the Hollywood Christmas Parade. This iconic parade features floats, balloons, marching bands, and celebrities. The parade route winds through Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, passing by some of the city's most famous landmarks.
26800 Mulholland Hwy.
Calabasas, CA 91302
Holiday Road is the most exciting holiday experience located at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas, California from the producers of Nights of the Jack! Expect to see larger than life holiday installations, thousands of Christmas lights, Santa, Mrs. Claus, Elves, countless candy canes and all your favorite holiday cheer all from the comfort and safety of your own vehicle! Holiday road opens the day after Thanksgiving.
301 N Baldwin Ave.
Arcadia, CA 91007
Immerse yourself in a magical world of light at Lightscape at the L.A. County Arboretum. This dazzling light display features over 20 illuminated installations, including a magical light cathedral. Wander through the gardens and marvel at the stunning displays, or take a break and enjoy a festive snack or drink from one of the on-site vendors.
1418 Descanso Dr.
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens. This enchanting light experience features illuminated trees, flowers, and other natural elements. Follow the winding paths through the forest and discover the hidden beauty of the night.
1201 S Figueroa St,
Los Angeles, CA 90015
One of the world's largest and most prestigious auto shows is back at the LA Convention Center with 1000+ vehicles and the most test drive and ride experiences in our show’s history! The show is your one-stop-shop for comparison shopping new cars, trucks, SUVs, gas, hybrid, electric vehicles and more, without any sales pressure. The Los Angeles Auto show is happening from November 17th through November 26th and is open on Thanksgiving Day.
26300 Crenshaw Blvd,
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
South Coast Botanic Garden presents GLOW, a visually stunning art installation that will transform the lush botanic oasis into an oceanic experience for Garden Lights & Ocean Waters theme using thousands of lights. Glow has not yet announced their 2023 dates, but they are usually open on Thanksgiving weekend!
BroadStage at SMC Performing Arts Center
1310 11th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Westside Ballet of Santa Monica returns to the Broad Stage for its annual Nutcracker on Thanksgiving weekend. Journey with Clara to an enchanted world filled with whirling snowflakes, Spanish chocolate, and a dashing prince. The traditional full-length ballet in two acts is performed to Tchaikovsky's majestic score, complete with a Victorian-style party scene and the dazzling Sugar Plum Fairy.
Providing the perfect opportunity to introduce children to classical music and dance, the whole family will be mesmerized by the extravagant performance including world-class professional dancers and pre-professional and student performers.
3649 Mission Inn Avenue,
Riverside, CA 92501
The Annual Mission Inn Hotel & Spa Festival of Lights will commence on November 18th. This annual holiday event will include dazzling holiday lights on the front of the hotel, animated characters, and much more. Lights will be on the exterior of the front of the hotel! This event is free and open to the public.
1313 Disneyland Dr.
Anaheim, CA 92802, USA
Holiday celebration returns with wonder, joy, and, of course, plenty of magic in both Parks in November. Gather together to enjoy the heartwarming delights of live music, dance, and holiday-inspired performances, meet Santa and his joyful elves at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, and much much more. Disneyland is open on Thanksgiving Day.
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
Enjoy a Thanksgiving feast in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood. Dine at the Three Broomsticks or the Leaky Cauldron, and enjoy traditional Thanksgiving dishes with a magical twist. After dinner, explore the Wizarding World and enjoy the many rides and attractions.
8039 Beach Blvd.
Buena Park, CA 90620
Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and a Holiday Celebration at Knott's Berry Farm. Dine at the Ghost Town Hall Restaurant or the Calico Saloon, and enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings. After dinner, meet your favorite Peanuts characters and enjoy the holiday-themed shows and attractions.
No matter what you're looking for in a Thanksgiving event, you're sure to find something to your liking in and near Los Angeles. So get your gobbling gear on and prepare to have a fun and festive Thanksgiving!
Gobble gobble, y'all!
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