All events are subject to change. Please confirm with the event organizer before attending.
The Elf on the Shelf’s Magical Holiday Journey in Pomona
NOVEMBER 5 - JANUARY 2: An outdoor immersive experience featuring scenic displays, a Christmas village with shopping and dining options, an ice-skating rink, and a heart-warming walk-through journey that explores Christmas cheer from an elf’s perspective and culminates in a magical trolley ride.
“The Nightmare Before Christmas” Meet & Greet at 2ND & PCH
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5: See a movie screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas and meet Jack and Sally. Movie is complimentary, self-seating available on a first come first serve basis.
Day Out With Thomas at SoCal Railway Museum in Perris
NOVEMBER 6, 7, 11, 13 & 14: Thomas, Percy, and Sir Topham Hatt are coming to Southern California Railway Museum! Take a ride behind Thomas and Percy, enjoy photo ops, live music, petting zoo, balloon twister, and more!
Brick Fest Live in Pasadena
SATURDAY & SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6-7, 2021: Build family memories and express your creativity! Enjoy live interactive stage shows, life-size models, building activities, meet LEGO masters, and more.
PlayLA Youth Sports Launch
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6: Enjoy a day of free sports, and meet some of LA's Olympic & Paralympic athletes! Participate in youth and adaptive sports clinics led by coaches, free lunch, expo fair, giveaways, and more.
Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience in Torrance
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7: Witness some of the most incredible stunts ever performed by dogs. It’s not just a show, it’s an experience! The experience has amazing tricks, big air stunts, comedy antics, dancing dogs, athletic feats, and is the most entertaining show of its kind.
Centennial Farm Discovery Day in Costa Mesa
SELECT DATES, NOW - JUNE 2022: Tour the farm at your own pace and experience radish planting, chick education, oxen demonstrations and our variety of plants and livestock on display.
Veterans Day Skateboarding Workshop in Long Beach
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11: The workshop will be a fun way to help your child gain some knowledge, find an appreciation, and develop a passion for skateboarding. The day will also be filled with skateboarding lessons, games, and prizes.
Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular in Anaheim
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12: This all-new production will feature some of the greatest holiday songs of all time performed with the world-renowned cast of Cirque Musica.
Dinosaur Train Day at Children’s Museum at La Habra
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13: Meet and greet with Buddy the Dinosaur from PBS's Dinosaur Train! The event also features dinosaur experts from Ralph Clark Park, crafts, story time, and more.
Griffith Park 125th Anniversary Celebration
NOVEMBER 13: To celebrate Griffith Park’s 125th anniversary, the Autry Museum will be free today. Visitors have the opportunity to see the exhibition Investigating Griffith Park and join special programs all connected to L.A.’s favorite park.
Portrait Power Family Day at The Huntington
NOVEMBER 13: Explore the power of portraits at The Huntington with art activities that are fun for the whole family. Experience Kehinde Wiley’s Portrait of a Young Gentleman in the Thornton Portrait Gallery, make your own self-portrait collage (while supplies last), and strike a pose at our portrait selfie station.
America Recycles Day
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15: Join Discovery Cube and OC Waste & Recycling in pledging to always reduce, reuse, and recycle so we can continue to preserve our planet for future generations.
World of Illumination Reindeer Road in Arcadia
NOVEMBER 17 - JANUARY 2: Drive along a one mile journey to see 350+ North Pole theme installations, millions of animated lights, synchronized musical experience, and more.
Holidays at the Harbor – Dana Point Harbor
NOVEMBER 17 - JANUARY 2, 2022: Each night throughout the holiday season, the Harbor’s magnificent light display will illuminate the evening sky for guests of all ages to enjoy. Plus, see the Boat Parade of Lights (Dec 10-12), go on Boat Rides with Santa (Dec 4-5), and celebrate Hanukkah with a Menorah Lighting.
Magic of Lights at Angel Stadium in Anaheim
NOVEMBER 19 - DECEMBER 26: The Angel Stadium parking lot is transformed into a vibrant drive-through, holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations
GLOW at South Coast Botanic Garden
NOVEMBER 20 - JANUARY 17, 2022: South Coast Botanic Garden is proud to present GLOW (Garden Lights & Ocean Waters), a visually stunning light display that will transform their lush botanic oasis into an oceanic experience.
Public Skate Session at East West Ice Palace in Artesia
NOVEMBER 20, DECEMBER 4, 11, and DECEMBER 20 - JANUARY 1: Public skate sessions are back at East West Ice Palace on select days. Visit their website for the public skate schedule.
Public Skate Session at East West Ice Palace in Artesia
SATURDAYS, NOVEMBER 20, 2021 SATURDAYS, DECEMBER 4, 11, and DECEMBER 20 – JANUARY 1 Public skate sessions are back at East West Ice Palace on select days. Visit their website... View Article
Disney’s Encanto Nights at South Coast Botanic Garden’s GLOW
NOVEMBER 21-23, 2021: Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto Nights at GLOW will feature a special pop-up experience to introduce you to Casa Madrigal. Enjoy hands-on activities and a picture-perfect installation inspired by Disney’s upcoming movie, Encanto.
Oceanfront Ice Rink in Huntington Beach
NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 31: Skate and chill where the sand meets the snow with oceanfront ice skating, reserved firepit experiences, theme nights, holiday cocktails and bites, group skate sessions, performances and more holiday delights.
Thanksgiving Week Rock Climbing Camps – Sender One in Santa Ana and LA
NOVEMBER 22-24: Looking for something fun and health-conscious to do for your child this season? Sign up for Sender One's 3-day rock climbing camp! Activities include rope climbing, bouldering, games, zip line, king swing, slackline, and Sender City.
The Holiday GEM
NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 19: Ring in the holidays at The GEM Theatre with a 'fun for the whole family' holiday revue, featuring a brand new story! Backed by live musicians, stunning costumes and a whimsical set; Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and a cast of talented performers close out our season in true holiday fashion! Performances Thursday - Sunday.
Pomegranate Days at the Oasis Camel Dairy in Ramona
NOVEMBER 26-28, 2021: Enjoy an open farm tour, feed the camels and mini sheep, and see a fun live show featuring talking parrots, pardoned racing turkeys, and more. Camel rides available for purchase.
Dodgers Holiday Festival
NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 23: The Los Angeles Dodgers are hosting a Holiday Festival in the beautiful, newly-renovated Centerfield Plaza, warning track, and bullpens complete with nightly entertainment, an ice skating rink, scenic and light displays, holiday-themed food and beverage, and an opportunity to take photos with Santa!
The Immersive Nutcracker Walk-Through Experience in LA
NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 31, 2021: A dreamlike family-friendly walk-through experience of the most beloved holiday fairytale accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. Think theatre, VR and projection combined with magic and classical music.
Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood
NOVEMBER 26 - JANUARY 2, 2022: Get into the spirit as you enjoy the Park adorned with holiday decorations, holiday-themed food, characters, photo opportunities, exclusive merchandise, and more!
Snow N Glow in Ventura
NOVEMBER 26 - JANUARY 2, 2022: A snow-filled, family-friendly holiday experience full of fun things to do. Go snow-tubing and stroll through an immersive light trail with a million glowing lights! Private igloo rental available.
A Christmas Carol at South Coast Repertory in Costa Mesa
NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 26, 2021 A Christmas Carol, Orange County’s favorite holiday tradition returns live, in-person, at South Coast Repertory. From the first “Bah humbug” to the final “Wassail,” this timeless classic is sure to rekindle your family’s holiday spirit.
Family Events at Bowers Museum – Storytime & Winter Festival
NOVEMBER 27, DECEMBER 18 & 19: Join them every last Saturday of the month for story book reading in the galleries followed by a simple, fun art project that kids will love. On December 19, enjoy the Winter Festival with complimentary face painting, art projects, live performances, and a unique treat!
Holiday Events at Southern California Children’s Museum
NOVEMBER 29, DECEMBER 1 & 31, JANUARY 1: Enjoy Hanukkah Story Time, Story Time with Santa, Noon Year's Eve Party and a Rose Parade Viewing Party.
Christmas Carol at the Ahmanson Theater in LA
NOVEMBER 30, 2021 – JANUARY 1, 2022 An immersive experience that is brimming with Christmas spirit. Featuring dazzling staging, moving storytelling, and 12 cherished Christmas carols, including “Joy to the World,” “Silent Night,” and “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear,” it is “so infectious you’ll leave the theatre with a heart full of joy and... View Article
Seas ‘n’ Greetings at Birch Aquarium in San Diego
DECEMBER 1-31, 2021: Experience the magic of the holidays in the underwater world at Birch Aquarium during this month-long holiday celebration featuring SEAsonal decor, music, and activities for the whole family.
Frontier Family Christmas at El Dorado Frontier in Long Beach
DECEMBER 2-5, 10-2, 17-19, 2021: Evening holiday train rides, Santa Claus meet and greets, live holiday music, food, Christmas decor and more.
Light of the World at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest
DECEMBER 2-19, 2021: During this walk-through event, share the joy of community while sipping on hot chocolate, strolling through Christmas-themed lands, and snapping photos of the illuminated night sky.
A Charlie Brown Christmas Live in Anaheim
DECEMBER 3-19, 2021: Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life in the all-new stage adaptation! Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang as they produce their own Christmas play and ultimately learn the true meaning of the season.
Holiday Open House at Rancho Los Alamitos
DECEMBER 3-5: In the early 1900s, the Bixby family hosted the ranch’s community of workers, families, and friends for a big Christmas party. And now you’re invited! Bring your family and friends for a festive afternoon at Rancho Los Alamitos. Tour the decorated Ranch House, get creative with crafts for kids, and enjoy music and light refreshments. Free. Parking reservations required.
One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure at Mt. SAC Planetarium
Big Bird, Elmo and their friend from China, Hu Hu Zhu, take viewers on a 30-minute journey of discovery to learn about the Big Dipper, the North Star, the Sun, and the Moon. Recommended for preschool age kids Tickets available online. Click here!
Christmas Parade in Seal Beach
DECEMBER 3: Floats, cars, wagons, strollers, bikes, boats, bands, and animals will all be part of the parade this year, along with the arrival of Santa Claus on Main Street!
The Nutcracker by the Los Angeles Ballet
DECEMBER 4-26, 2021: The Nutcracker is the city’s holiday tradition perfect for celebrating the season. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, Los Angeles Ballet stays true to the traditions of the holiday story with some surprises! Performances at Alex Theatre (Dec 4-5), Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center (Dec 11-12), Royce Hall UCLA (Dec 17-19), and Dolby Theatre (Dec 23, 24, 26).
Santa’s Jolly Trolley & Tree Lighting – City of Dana Point
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2021: Come see Santa as he rides on the Jolly Trolley with his elves from the City of Dana Point Recreation Division! The Jolley Trolley will be making stops to four parks. At the last stop, La Plaza Park, the annual tree lighting ceremony will be held with carolers, hot chocolate, and cookies.
December Events at The Children’s Museum at La Habra
DECEMBER 4, 11, 21, and 31, 2021: Join the Children's Museum at La Habra for fun, holiday festivities! Photos with Santa at La Habra Tamale Festival (12/4), Santa's Elves Workshop (12/11), Stories & Cookies with Mrs. Claus (12/21), and New Years at Noon (12/31).
Holidays Around the World at Segerstrom Center for the Arts
SATURDAYS, DECEMBER 4 & 11, 2021: Enjoy live performances from local music and dance groups that celebrate holiday traditions from around the world, create your own seasonal craft, and spectacular snowfall.
Cruise-In with the Clauses at The Zimmerman
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2021: Cruise-In with the Clauses, enjoy Victorian Christmas Carolers, a Hot Wheels Raffle, and photo opportunities with Santa & Mrs. Claus. Donate unopened toys, savor $3 sundaes, and enjoy all the vintage, classic, and custom automobiles!
The Nutcracker Ballet at La Mirada Theatre
DECEMBER 4-5, 2021: Join La Mirada Theatre this holiday season as the lights fade, the music swells, snowflakes fall, flowers waltz and a young girl dreams about a magical sweet-filled world in the charming and magical The Nutcracker Ballet.
Snow N Glow Holiday Festival in Del Mar
DECEMBER 4 - JANUARY 2, 2022: Go tubing down a giant snow hill made with real snow, sip on hot cocoa, and stroll through a million festive lights. Igloo private party rentals, s'mores kits, food and drink available for purchase.
Boat Rides with Santa at Dana Point Harbor
DECEMBER 4 & 5: Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching will host Boat Rides with Santa on Saturday, December 4 and Sunday, December 5. $5 donation. Register early. This event sells out.
City of La Mirada Chili Holiday
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2021: Festivities include live entertainment, holiday crafts, coffee and hot chocolate, cookies, and of course, chili! Enjoy snow sledding, take a photo with Santa, and ride the holiday train through a winter wonderland.
Corona del Mar Christmas Walk
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2021: Festivities include live entertainment, Santa visits and snapshots, vendor gifts, children's activities, and more.
Holiday Open House at Homestead Museum
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2021: You and your family can explore Christmas in the 1920s as you wander the first floor of this beautiful home. Take photos, hear holiday music, visit with Santa, sit-in for a story, or make a craft during your visit to enjoy these beautiful historic decorations.
Disclaimer: The Kidsguide team does their best to keep event details accurate at the time of posting, but information can change without notice! Be sure to double-check with the event organizer before heading out. Kidsguide is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or changes on our calendar—we’re just here to help you find the fun!
