43 Free Christmas Events in Los Angeles Kids Will Love (2026)
Christmas in Los Angeles can add up fast. Between ice rinks, light shows and holiday theater tickets, one festive weekend can cost as much as the presents under the tree. The good news? Some of the most joyful traditions in Southern California don't cost a thing.
We rounded up 43 free Christmas events in Los Angeles, plus a few worth the drive to Orange County, Riverside and Ventura, for the 2026 season. You'll find glittering boat parades, neighborhood tree lightings, free photos with Santa, snow in the city and a Christmas Eve concert that locals treasure. Every listing was checked against the organizer's own website, and when a 2026 date hasn't been posted yet, we say so and tell you when it usually happens.
Bookmark this page, because we'll keep updating it as organizers release their 2026 schedules. Planning a bigger splurge too? Our 58 Dazzling Christmas and Holiday Events for LA Families guide covers the ticketed shows, and our guide to the best holiday lights in Los Angeles maps out the brightest displays.
Free Christmas Events in Los Angeles: 2026 Dates Already Confirmed
A number of organizers have already locked in their 2026 dates. Here's a quick calendar you can screenshot right now, with full details for each event below.
Sat., Nov. 21: Mission Inn Festival of Lights Switch-On Ceremony (Riverside)
Thur to Sun., Nov. 27, 2026 to Jan. 3, 2027: Lighting of the Bay at Newport Dunes
Sun., Nov. 29: The Hollywood Christmas Parade
Sat., Dec. 5: Belmont Shore Christmas Parade and Montrose Christmas Parade
Sun., Dec. 6: San Pedro Spirit of the Holidays Parade, Westlake Village Holiday Sing-Along and the Chanukah Celebration at the Original Farmers Market
Fri. to Sun., Dec. 11 to 13: Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights
Sat., Dec. 12: Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade, Glendora Christmas Parade, Uptown Whittier Christmas Parade and the Redondo Beach Pier Holiday Celebration
Sat. and Sun., Dec. 12 and 13: Huntington Harbour Boat Parade
Sun., Dec. 13: Skechers Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks
Wed. to Sun., Dec. 16 to 20: Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Fri. and Sat., Dec. 18 and 19: Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks
Thu., Dec. 31: Marina del Rey New Year's Eve Fireworks & Glow Party
Celebrating Hanukkah too? In 2026 the holiday begins at sundown on Friday, Dec. 4, and ends at nightfall on Saturday, Dec. 12, so most free menorah lightings will land in that window.
Free Holiday Parades in Los Angeles
Few things beat hearing a marching band before you can see it. Every parade below is free to watch from the curb, so pack a blanket, a thermos of cocoa and a little patience for parking.
Hollywood Boulevard at Orange Drive (parade start)
Hollywood Blvd & Orange Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Sunday, November 29, 2026
Time: To be announced (last year it started at 6 p.m.)
LA's most famous holiday parade rolls down Hollywood Boulevard the Sunday after Thanksgiving with giant balloons, marching bands, celebrities and, of course, Santa in the grand finale. Curbside viewing is free along most of the route, while grandstand seats are sold separately through the parade's official ticket page. Toys for Tots is the official charity, so consider bringing a new, unwrapped toy.
Parent tip: Skip the parking hunt and take the Metro B Line to Hollywood/Highland or Hollywood/Vine. Streets near the route close well before the parade, so plan to arrive early and bring layers for the evening chill.
East 2nd Street, Belmont Shore
East 2nd Street between Livingston and Bayshore
Long Beach, CA 90803
Saturday, December 5, 2026
6 to 9 p.m.
Belmont Shore's beloved first-Saturday-in-December tradition fills 2nd Street with about 100 entries, more than a dozen marching bands and a big finish from Santa. The organizer describes it as free and open to all ages. 2nd Street closes to cars ahead of the parade, so arrive early to claim a curb spot and grab dinner at one of the neighborhood's family-friendly restaurants.
Honolulu Avenue, Montrose Shopping Park
Honolulu Ave between Rosemont Ave and Verdugo Rd
Montrose, CA 91020
Saturday, December 5, 2026
6:10 p.m.
This small-town favorite has a 2026 theme kids will love: The Christmas Time Machine. More than 150 groups march down Honolulu Avenue, and Santa makes a memorable fly-by in a Glendale Police helicopter. It's free to watch from the sidewalk.
Parent tip: Pop-up tents aren't allowed, and chairs and blankets can't be set out before parade day. Several city lots close in the afternoon, so give yourself extra time.
Downtown San Pedro (parade start)
13th Street & Pacific Avenue
San Pedro, CA 90731
Sunday, December 6, 2026
1 to 3 p.m., rain or shine
The 46th annual parade is a true hometown celebration, with little leagues, scouts, high school bands and equestrian units winding from Pacific Avenue onto 6th Street. The San Pedro Chamber of Commerce calls it open and free to the community. An afternoon start makes it a great pick for families with little ones who can't stay up for evening events.
Glendora Village (parade start)
Glendora Avenue & Bennett Avenue
Glendora, CA 91741
Saturday, December 12, 2026
9 a.m.
Glendora's morning parade follows a 1.25-mile route from the Village south to Foothill Boulevard before ending near Sandburg Middle School. It's free and open to the public anywhere along the route, and the early start leaves the rest of your Saturday wide open. Bring coffee for the grown-ups and a snack bag for the kids.
Uptown Whittier
Greenleaf Avenue between Hadley Street and Mar Vista Street
Whittier, CA 90601
Saturday, December 12, 2026
Time: To be announced (last year it started at 10 a.m.)
Floats, bands and holiday music take over Greenleaf Avenue for this long-running Uptown tradition. Watching from the curb is free, and the walkable district makes it easy to add lunch or a little holiday shopping afterward.
Main Street, Downtown El Segundo
Main Street from Imperial Avenue to El Segundo Boulevard
El Segundo, CA 90245
2026 date: To be announced (the chamber holds it on the second Sunday of December)
Time: To be announced
Marching bands, floats and vintage cars roll down Main Street in one of the South Bay's most charming parades. It's free to watch. Last year, families could park near Main Street and El Segundo Boulevard and ride a free shuttle to the start, so check the chamber's page for 2026 parking details.
Devonshire Street, Chatsworth
Devonshire Street & Canoga Avenue
Chatsworth, CA 91311
2026 date: To be announced (last year it was a Sunday in mid-December)
Time: To be announced
The Kiwanis of Chatsworth pairs a parade of marching, equestrian and float units with a festival of food vendors, games and a holiday boutique. With thousands of spectators and a Valley small-town feel, it's an easy afternoon out. No tickets are sold, and watching the parade is free.
Daisy Avenue, Wrigley neighborhood (parade start)
Daisy Avenue & West Burnett Street
Long Beach, CA 90806
2026 date: To be announced (last year it was a Saturday evening in mid-December)
Time: To be announced
Dating back to 1953, this parade is special because it travels down a residential street lined with decorated trees rather than a business district. Expect bands, musical groups and floats with plenty of neighborhood spirit. The City of Long Beach notes that parking is limited, so carpool or take Long Beach Transit.
Free Holiday Boat Parades and Waterfront Celebrations
Southern California's answer to a white Christmas? Boats wrapped in twinkling lights gliding across dark harbors. These waterfront events are free to watch from shore, although parking and optional cruises usually cost extra.
Burton Chace Park
13650 Mindanao Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Saturday, December 12, 2026
Park activities 4 to 8 p.m.; light show 5:45 p.m.; parade 6 to 8 p.m.
About 75 decorated boats cruise the main channel for the 64th annual parade, themed “Hollywood Under the Stars” for 2026. The organizers don't sell tickets, and Burton Chace Park and Fisherman's Village are the two official viewing spots. For 2026 the schedule lists a light show rather than fireworks.
Parent tip: The parade runs rain or shine but can be canceled if the Coast Guard issues a small-craft advisory, so check the official site that evening. Paid lots near the park fill quickly.
Marina Park
1600 West Balboa Boulevard
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Wednesday, December 16, to Sunday, December 20, 2026
Nightly, starting around 6:30 p.m.
Now in its 118th year, this is one of the oldest boat parades in the country, and it runs five nights in a row. Marina Park is the largest free public viewing area. Opening night on Dec. 16 kicks off with fireworks at the Newport Pier at 6:15 p.m., and drone shows light up the sky on parade nights. Harbor cruises are available for a fee if you'd like to see it from the water.
Huntington Harbour
Public viewing from the harbour beaches
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Saturday, December 12, and Sunday, December 13, 2026
Time: To be announced (last year it started at 6 p.m.)
This volunteer-run parade celebrates the 2026 theme “America 250: Music to the Moon and Back” with boats glowing through the harbour's channels on two nights. Watching from the public beaches is free, and the parade supports music education programs. The organizers warn that parking is extremely limited, so carpool and arrive early.
Dana Point Harbor
34571 Golden Lantern
Dana Point, CA 92629
Friday, December 11, to Sunday, December 13, 2026
6:30 to 8 p.m. nightly
The 51st annual parade sails in with a playful 2026 theme, “Harboritaville.” Families can watch for free from the harbor's boardwalk and parks, and charter cruises are available for an extra fee. With three nights to choose from, it's easy to pick the evening that fits your family's schedule.
Ventura Harbor Village
1583 Spinnaker Drive
Ventura, CA 93001
Friday, December 18, and Saturday, December 19, 2026
Festivities from 4 p.m.; parade 6:30 to 8 p.m.; fireworks after the parade
Ventura celebrates its 50th Parade of Lights with a festive village atmosphere, a DJ and fake snowfall, followed by fireworks each night. Admission is free, while carnival rides cost extra. Free parking is available along Spinnaker Drive and nearby lots, and free shuttles run from designated lots, which makes the evening much easier with kids.
Naples canals and Alamitos Bay
Naples Island
Long Beach, CA 90803
2026 date: To be announced (usually the Saturday before Christmas)
Time: To be announced
Decorated boats weave through the narrow Naples canals, bringing the lights so close you can practically wave at the captains. It's a free neighborhood tradition run by the Naples Improvement Association. Walk the canal paths for the best views, and dress warmly for the ocean breeze.
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort (Pavilion C)
1131 Back Bay Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
November 27, 2026, to January 3, 2027 (Thursday through Sunday; closed Dec. 24, 25 and 31)
4 to 9 p.m.
More than 50 lighted displays float on the bay during the 36th annual Fire & Lights Festival. Entry is free, and families can catch fire dancers on Friday and Saturday evenings and photos with Santa on Saturdays through Christmas. Parking is free for under 30 minutes and paid after that, and inflatable slides and concessions cost extra.
Manhattan Beach Pier
Manhattan Beach Boulevard & Ocean Drive
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Sunday, December 13, 2026
3 to 8 p.m.; fireworks at 7 p.m.
The 38th annual celebration draws roughly 20,000 people for an afternoon of holiday fun capped by fireworks over the pier. Past years featured a snow park, carolers, live bands and a Santa float, and the 2026 schedule should be posted closer to December. In past years, the snow park asked for a new, unwrapped toy or canned food donation, so pack one just in case.
Fisherman's Wharf, Redondo Beach Pier
West end of the Redondo Beach Pier
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Saturday, December 12, 2026
1 to 4 p.m.
This free afternoon on the pier brings a holiday concert, carolers, crafts and a photo station. Little ones can hunt for treats along Candy Cane Lane on the pier and boardwalk from 1 to 2 p.m., while supplies last. The event is weather permitting, so check the pier's page before you head out.
Hermosa Beach shoreline
15th Street at the beach
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
2026 date: To be announced (usually the first Saturday of December)
Time: To be announced (last year it began at 9 a.m.)
Who needs real snow? Families grab buckets and build snowmen out of sand in this quirky city tradition. It's free to join or watch. Bring shovels, sunscreen and a few holiday props to decorate your creation, and check the City of Hermosa Beach's calendar for 2026 details.
San Pedro Town Square and Promenade
6th Street & Harbor Boulevard
San Pedro, CA 90731
2026 date: To be announced (last year it was the first Saturday in December)
Time: To be announced (last year 4 to 8 p.m.)
The Port of Los Angeles throws a seaside holiday party with a tree lighting, snow play, photos with Santa and Nutcracker scenes, plus the LA Harbor Holiday Boat Parade in the evening. Admission was free last year, with food vendors available for purchase. Free parking and a free trolley made it easy to get around.
Free Christmas Lights and Tree Lightings Near Los Angeles
Nothing flips the holiday switch like the moment a giant tree blazes to life. These tree lightings and light displays are free to enjoy, though a few charge for parking or optional extras.
The Bloc
700 South Flower Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
2026 dates: To be announced (last year shows ran nightly Dec. 7 to 31)
Last year's showtimes: every hour from 5 to 9 p.m.
Millions of lights dance to holiday music in the heart of downtown, turning The Bloc into a free nightly light show. All ages are welcome, and the short shows are perfect for kids with limited attention spans. Pair it with a Metro ride for an easy car-free outing.
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
3649 Mission Inn Avenue
Riverside, CA 92501
Switch-On Ceremony: Saturday, November 21, 2026, at 5 p.m.
Festival: Nov. 22 to Dec. 31, 2026 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)
It's a drive, but the Mission Inn's dazzling display is one of the most famous holiday light shows in the country. Walking the lights, courtyards and photo spots is free, and the switch-on night ends with fireworks. The ice rink, Santa photo experiences and dining are paid extras.
Parent tip: The City of Riverside lists the festival through Dec. 31, while the hotel lists Jan. 3, 2027, so confirm before planning a late-season visit.
Santa Rosa Avenue
Santa Rosa Avenue (about one mile of lighted deodar cedars)
Altadena, CA 91001
2026 lighting date: To be announced (the ceremony is usually on a Saturday in early December)
Time: To be announced
This beloved mile of century-old deodar cedars has been lit for more than 100 years. The trees survived the January 2025 Eaton Fire, and the community relit the lane last December with a memorial honoring neighbors who were lost. A slow drive under the glowing canopy is free and unforgettable, and it's a meaningful way to support Altadena this season.
Candy Cane Lane, near Sycamore Park
1100 and 1200 blocks of East Acacia Avenue and the 900 block of California Street
El Segundo, CA 90245
2026 dates: To be announced (last year it ran Dec. 13 to 23)
Last year's hours: 5 to 10 p.m. nightly
For more than 75 years, neighbors have transformed these blocks into a walkable wonderland of lights and inflatables. It's free, and opening night traditionally includes a visit from Santa. The streets close to non-resident traffic in the evenings, and last year the city ran a free shuttle from Recreation Park and the library.
Rodeo Drive
All three blocks of Rodeo Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
2026 date: November 2026, exact date to be announced
Time: To be announced (last year 5 to 8 p.m.)
Beverly Hills welcomes the season with Santa's arrival, costumed performers, stilt walkers and a fireworks finale over Rodeo Drive. It's free and open to everyone. After the lighting, stroll to nearby Beverly Gardens Park for more city holiday displays.
The Grove
189 The Grove Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90036
2026 date: To be announced (last year it was in mid-November)
Time: To be announced (last year 7 p.m., with doors at 5 p.m.)
Santa lights The Grove's towering tree with the season's first snowfall, plus drones and fireworks. There was no official ticket requirement last year, but the property recommends arriving early to secure a spot, and it gets very crowded. If you'd rather skip the crowds, The Grove's nightly snowfall runs all season.
The Americana at Brand
889 Americana Way
Glendale, CA 91210
2026 dates: To be announced (last year Nov. 13 to Dec. 31)
Last year's snowfall times: 7 and 8 p.m. nightly
The Americana doesn't hold its own tree lighting, but its nightly snowfall is a free, magical treat for kids who have never seen flakes fall. Photo packages at Santa's House cost extra. Time your visit for a snowfall and grab a warm drink before the show.
Third Street Promenade (1300 block)
Third Street Promenade between Santa Monica Boulevard and Arizona Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90401
2026 dates: To be announced
(Last year the lighting was on the first Thursday of December)
Time: To be announced (last year 6 to 8 p.m.)
Downtown Santa Monica's tree lighting kicks off a string of free Holiday Thursdays with photos with Santa, artificial snowfall, crafts, hot cocoa and choirs. The Promenade is stroller-friendly and packed with places to eat. The nearby ice rink is a paid extra.
California Heritage Museum
2612 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
2026 date: To be announced (last year it was the first Sunday in December)
Time: To be announced (last year 3:30 to 7 p.m.)
Main Street merchants host a free neighborhood celebration with a tree lighting on the museum lawn, carolers, kids' activities and a visit from Santa. Last year the tree lighting used free advance registration, so watch for an RSVP link once 2026 details are posted.
La Pintoresca Park
45 East Washington Boulevard
Pasadena, CA 91104
2026 date: To be announced (last year it was a Friday in mid-December)
Time: To be announced (last year 5 to 6 p.m.)
This sweet Pasadena tradition includes Santa's arrival, crafts, story time, holiday music and refreshments. It's free, short and perfect for preschoolers. Bring your own camera for a snapshot with Santa.
Burton Chace Park
13650 Mindanao Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
2026 dates: To be announced (last year it ran nightly Dec. 1 to 31)
Last year's hours: 4 to 10 p.m.
Light installations glow across this 10-acre waterfront park all December, with live music on select evenings. It's free, wheelchair accessible and a lovely stroll before or after dinner in the marina.
Participating LA County Parks
Dozens of county parks across Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County, CA
2026 dates: To be announced (last year it ran Dec. 2 to 25)
Times vary by park
Formerly known as Winter Wonderland, this free county program brings holiday characters, crafts, games, performances and snacks to 34 parks. Last year, select parks such as Belvedere, Steinmetz, Valleydale, Carver, Roosevelt, El Cariso, Loma Alta and Stephen Sorensen hosted snow days. No registration was required.
Free Santa Visits, Sing-Alongs and Community Celebrations
Want a Santa photo without the $40 photo package? These community events, museums and shopping centers offer free festive fun. For even more options, check our guide to places to take photos with Santa in and near Los Angeles.
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, The Music Center
135 North Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012
2026 date: To be announced (traditionally held on Christmas Eve)
Time: To be announced (last year 3 to 6 p.m.)
More than 20 local choirs, music ensembles and dance companies from across LA's cultures share the stage at this free three-hour show. Seats are free, but reservations are encouraged and were released in mid-December last year, so set a reminder. Can't make it downtown? The show also airs on PBS SoCal.
Ovation Hollywood (Level 3)
6801 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90028
2026 dates: To be announced (last year late November through Christmas Eve)
Times vary by day
Santa poses for free digital photos that are emailed to you, and printed copies are an optional $5. It's one of the most budget-friendly Santa visits in town. Pair it with a walk along the Walk of Fame to see the holiday decorations.
Citadel Outlets
100 Citadel Drive
Commerce, CA 90040
2026 date: To be announced (last year the tree lighting was in early November)
Time: To be announced
Santa lights what the Citadel bills as the world's tallest live-cut Christmas tree, followed by snow and live performances. The lighting concert was free with no tickets needed last year, and nightly snow shows ran throughout the season.
Homestead Museum
15415 Don Julian Road
City of Industry, CA 91745
2026 date: To be announced (last year it was the first Sunday in December)
Time: To be announced (last year noon to 4 p.m.)
Step back in time at decorated historic homes with live music, holiday crafts, seasonal treats and a visit with Santa. The museum offers free tours, but confirm 2026 admission details on its website before you go. Pack a picnic, since the grounds are lovely for lunch.
The Shoppes at Westlake Village
30770 Russell Ranch Road
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Sunday, December 6, 2026
3 to 6 p.m.
The City of Westlake Village hosts a free afternoon of caroling and live music, face painting, crafts, hot cocoa and a photo booth. Bring a food or toy donation for the event's drive, which supports local charities and enters donors into a raffle.
One Colorado Courtyard
41 Hugus Alley
Pasadena, CA 91103
2026 date: To be announced (last year it was the Sunday before Christmas)
Time: To be announced (last year 1 to 2 p.m.)
Santa and an elf share Christmas stories and cookies in the Old Pasadena courtyard. It was free last year with an RSVP through the organizer's link. At just an hour long, it's ideal for toddlers.
The Market Place (Paradise Park, near Regal Edwards)
2961 El Camino Real
Tustin, CA 92782
2026 dates: To be announced (last year three Sundays from late November to mid-December)
Time: To be announced (last year noon to 2 p.m.)
Kids can craft ornaments while a holiday DJ keeps the mood merry at these free Sunday workshops. Craft kits were limited to one per guest while supplies lasted, so arrive early.
Free Hanukkah and New Year's Eve Celebrations
The season in Los Angeles is gloriously diverse. These free celebrations bring families together for menorah lightings and a kid-friendly countdown. You'll find more ideas in our guide to Hanukkah celebrations and menorah lightings for LA families.
The Original Farmers Market, Market Plaza
6333 West 3rd Street
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Sunday, December 6, 2026
2:30 to 5:30 p.m.; menorah lighting at 5 p.m.
Celebrate the third night of Hanukkah with music, kids' crafts and a festive menorah lighting at one of LA's most beloved landmarks. The event has been free to attend in past years. Arrive hungry, because the market's food stalls make it easy to turn the afternoon into dinner.
Third Street Promenade (1400 block)
1400 block of Third Street Promenade
Santa Monica, CA 90401
2026 dates: To be announced (Hanukkah runs Dec. 4 to 12, 2026)
Last year: nightly lightings around sundown
Downtown Santa Monica hosts a menorah lighting each night of Hanukkah, led by local community groups. It's an easy stop while you're enjoying the Promenade's holiday decorations.
Beverly Gardens Park, Lily Pond
North Santa Monica Boulevard between North Cañon Drive and North Beverly Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
2026 date: To be announced
Time: To be announced (last year 5:30 to 6 p.m.)
The City of Beverly Hills gathers the community for a short, festive menorah lighting beside the park's Lily Pond. It's a sweet way to mark the holiday before an evening walk past the city's lights.
Burton Chace Park
13650 Mindanao Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Thursday, December 31, 2026
7 p.m. to midnight
Ring in 2027 at this free party with two fireworks shows. Last year the first show went off at 8:59 p.m. to match the East Coast midnight, which is perfect for kids who won't make it to 12. Food trucks and parking cost extra, streets nearby close in the evening, and lots fill early, so plan ahead.
Parent Tips for Free Holiday Events in LA
Free events can be the best memories of the season, as long as you plan a little. Here's what we've learned from years of cocoa-fueled evenings with kids.
Check the official website the week of the event. Dates, times and parking can change, and boat parades can be canceled because of weather.
Arrive early. Popular parades and tree lightings fill up an hour or more before showtime.
Take transit when you can. Metro makes the Hollywood Christmas Parade and Sparkle DTLA much easier.
Dress in layers. Coastal evenings get chilly fast, especially at harbor events.
Bring cash and a small toy or canned food item. Some lots are cash only, and many events host donation drives.
Pack glow sticks or light-up accessories so you can spot your kids in a crowd.
Keep ear protection handy for little ones at fireworks shows.
Need help making the season merry on a budget? Our guide to free Christmas trees, toys and holiday assistance can help. And if you want to plan a festive road trip, see our list of magical Christmas towns near LA.
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Takeaway
You don't need a big budget to fill December with holiday magic in Los Angeles. From the Hollywood Christmas Parade and glowing boat parades to tree lightings, free Santa photos and a New Year's Eve countdown made for kids, the best traditions here are often free.
Pick two or three events that fit your family's rhythm, save the confirmed 2026 dates now and check back as more organizers post their schedules. Planning ahead for Dec. 25? Our list of family-friendly spots open in Los Angeles on Christmas Day has you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best free Christmas events in Los Angeles for families?
The Hollywood Christmas Parade, the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade, Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena and the L.A. County Holiday Celebration are among the most popular free options. For a daytime outing with young kids, the San Pedro Spirit of the Holidays Parade and the Glendora Christmas Parade are great choices.
2. Is the Hollywood Christmas Parade free to attend?
Yes. Curbside viewing is free along most of the route on Hollywood Boulevard. Grandstand seats are paid and sold through the parade's official ticket page. The 2026 parade is on Sunday, Nov. 29.
3. When is the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade in 2026?
The 64th annual parade is on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026. Activities at Burton Chace Park run from 4 to 8 p.m., with a light show at 5:45 p.m. and the parade from 6 to 8 p.m.
4. Where can kids see snow for free in Los Angeles during the holidays?
Last season, free snowfall happened nightly at The Grove and The Americana at Brand, during Holiday Thursdays in Downtown Santa Monica and at select LA County Parks during Holiday in the Park. Ventura Harbor's Parade of Lights also features fake snowfall. Check each official site for 2026 times.
5. What free holiday events are in LA on Christmas Eve?
The L.A. County Holiday Celebration at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is traditionally held on Christmas Eve and is free, although reservations are encouraged. It also airs on PBS SoCal, so you can watch from home in your pajamas.
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