Happy New Year friends! It’s time to get 2025 off to an amazing start. There’s also plenty to do this month in LA and we don’t want you to miss out on any of it. Happy scrolling, let’s crush this year.
LA Zoo Lights
Now – January 5th 6:30/7:00
Location: 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles CA
Experience the holiday season like never before at L.A. Zoo Lights. There is a spectacular nighttime display of twinkling lights and magical moments. The zoo transforms into an enchanting wonderland, perfect for families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts alike. The highlights of the event include walk through glowing tunnels, illuminated animal sculptures, and shimmering landscapes. See the zoo come alive ina. way like never before with themed areas and large light installations. Perfect for a magical day full of family fun. This is a must see holiday tradition. Buy your tickets here.
Winter Fest
Now-January 5th, 4pm-10pm
Location:
The largest winter festival in Southern California returns to Costa Mesa for its 10th anniversary. A winter wonderland with festive holiday decor, snow and ice activities, immersive activities, carnival rides, games and a holiday light show! Enjoy rides like the Turbo Speed and the Giant Wheel, which offers views of lights from nearly 100 feet above the festival. Don’t miss out on this Southern California snowy paradise, buy tickets here.
Christmas at Santas Village
Now – January 5th, 10am-2pm
Location: 28950 CA-18Sky forest, 92385
Find holiday magic at Santa’s Village. Escape to the mountains for a festive adventure unlike anything else just outside of Lake Arrowhead. The amusement park transforms into a winter wonderland filled with Christmas cheer. Experience all the different things offered, enjoy the dazzling Lighting Displays, A Train Ride Through a Festive Landscape, Seasonal Treats to Warm Your Heart, and Ice Skating Under the Stars. Or experience more holiday magic and have breakfast with Santa or tea with Mrs. Claus. Don’t miss the most wonderful time of the year. Buy your tickets here.
Descanso Gardens: Enchanted Forest of Light
Now – January 5th, 5:30-10pm
Location: 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Enjoy this shimmering spectacular nighttime experience. Enchanted Forest of Light features a one-mile walk through unique festive lighting displays. Popular displays include a town of stained glass, geometric installations, and flower art. The route is also wheelchair and stroller accessible, so this is the perfect family activity. Buy tickets here.
Bob Baker’s Nutcracker
Now – January 5th
Location: 87 Sierra Madre BlvdSierra Madre
Don’t miss out on one of the best holiday traditions around. Celebrate the season with a cherished holiday favorite. The Bob Baker Marionette Theater is back with its annual production, a magical show that has audiences love since 1969. Enjoy the delightful large-scale marionettes, intricate sets, and engaging storytelling, perfect for all ages. This is the enchanting production of the season. Don’t miss your chance to bring some cheer to your holiday season. Tickets for sale here.
Mission Inn Festival of Lights
Now – January 6, 2025
Location: Mission Inn, 3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside
The Mission Inn in Riverside, CA, is celebrating its 30th Annual Festival of Lights this year. Yup, that’s right! The festival will go to January 6, 2025. If you have never been, this is the year to go and experience the holiday cheer even after the holidays. The Mission Inn is home to one of the nation’s largest free holiday light displays, which should be enough reason to get cozy and head out to see what all of the hype is about.
Ice at Santa Monica
Now-January 20th
Location: Corner of Arizona Ave and Fifth Street in Downtown Santa Monica
Just because we live in Southern California doesn’t mean we can’t experience winter activities. The winter wonderland is back in the heart of Santa Monica with the seasonal ice skating rink. With themed nights, live music, and plenty of festive decorations, its safe to say this coastal ice rink is the perfect way to welcome winter. More details here.
Arcane Last Drop: Pop up Experience
Now – February
Location: 414 S Western Ave, Los Angeles
Step Into the World of Arcane at The Last Drop Bar. Koreatown’s Boba Bear transforms into Arcane’s Last Drop Bar, bringing the gritty, steampunk world of Zaun to life in celebration of the popular Netflix show’s second season. Immerse yourself in this experience with exclusive drinks crafted for fans of the series, enjoy games, photo ops, and a chance to explore the stunningly detailed, Zaun-themed space. As well as don’t miss build your own cocktail classes and exciting cosplay contests. Don’t miss out, RSVP here.
Live Talks Los Angeles
Now – February 18th
Location: 2425 16th St. Santa Monica, 90405
Spend your night with thought-provoking conversations and unforgettable evenings with some of the most fascinating minds. This speaker series brings together authors, entertainers, artists, scientists, and cultural icons for lively discussions. From interviews to book talks and personal storytelling, each event offers a different and unique way to engage with the speakers. Whether you’re a curious mind or a culture enthusiast, this evening will be filled with inspiration, discovery, and connection. More details here.
New Year’s Day Brunch at 1212 Santa Monica
January 1st, 11am-3pm
Location: 1212 Santa Monica: 1212 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica
This lively brunch is the perfect way to start your new year. Enjoy delicious entrees like eggs, blueberry lemon pancakes, and refreshing mimosas or Bloody Marys, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica. Whether you’re recovering from a night of celebrations or simply enjoying a relaxing start to the year, this brunch offers everything you need for the perfect New Year’s Day experience. More info here.
The Rose Parade
January 1st, 8am
Location: Colorado Blvd. Pasadena
Start your year off the LA way. The parade features four types of entries: beautifully floral-decorated floats entered by a participating companies, equestrian units, bands from all over the country, and Tournament Entries. The 5 1/2-mile Rose Parade route begins at the corner of Green Street and Orange Grove Blvd. in Pasadena. Cuddle up in your layers, grab a coffee or hot chocolate, and grab your seat at the iconic Rose Parade.
Vision Board Party
January 4th, 1:30pm to 2:30pm
Location: Online
Kickstart Your 2025 Goals with a Vision Board Workshop. Join Best Selling Author & Editor in Chief of The LA Girl, Erika De La Cruz, for a transformational Vision Board Creation Process designed to help you gain clarity on your goals for 2025. Receive a Vision Board Cheat Sheet to map out your dreams, Erika’s powerful 2025 Affirmation List, and EPIC giveaways from some of our favorite brands. This online workshop is the perfect way to set the tone for an incredible year, all from the comfort of your home. RSVP your tickets here.
Monster Jam
January 4th, 5th, 18th & 19th
Location: Angel Stadium, Anaheim CA
Start off your 2025 right with all this perfect action packed fun events. Get some tickets and make memories that will last a lifetime. With all the best thrills inlcuding high flying stunts, jaw dropping tricks, and all the excitement as massive Monster Jam trucks and world-champion drivers take over the track. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite truck or screaming at the top of your lungs during the freestyle competition, this is an ultimate day of fun for the whole family. Grab your tickets here.
A Complete Unknown Costume Exhibit
January 6th 10am-January 17th 5pm
Location: 919 S Grand Ave, LA
Experience the iconic styles of the past. Searchlight Pictures, in collaboration with ASU FIDM, is having an exclusive immersive exhibit that celebrates the costume designs from the film “A Complete Unknown”, crafted by Academy Award-nominated costume designer Arianne Phillips. Step into the early 1960s and witness Bob Dylan’s remarkable transformation from a young, musician to a cultural icon. Explore Phillips’ stunning interpretation of Dylan’s signature style, from the perfectly tailored Levi’s to the iconic jackets and everything in between. This is your chance to dive into the artistry behind the costumes that shaped Dylan’s story, don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience history through this unique lens.
Supercross Championship
January 11 & January 25th
Location: Angel Stadium, Anaheim CA
Are you ready to rev up the excitement in 2025? The 2025 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship is back and kicking off with the SuperMotocross World Championship Series in Anaheim. Experience all the most competitive off road motorcycle racing championship, with top riders giving the ultimate showdown. Don’t wait, buy your tickets here.
Rose Bowl Flea Market
January 12th
Location: Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena
Don’t miss the Annual Rose Bowl Flea Market, the ultimate shopping destination with over 2,500 vendors offering everything from coveted antiques and rare vintage treasures to the latest fashion trends! This year there is more excitement, making it clear why it’s been called the “Flea Market of the Stars” for over five decades. Admission Details: Tickets are available for purchase online until 3:00 PM on event day. General admission begins at 9:00 AM, but early birds can snag the best finds with early admission starting at 5:00 AM. Join thousands of shoppers at this iconic event and discover unique items you won’t find anywhere else. Ticket info here.
Candlelight DTLA: A Tribute to Taylor Swift
January 17th
Location: The Biltmore Los Angeles, 506 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles
Calling all Swifties and music lovers! At thisCandlelight Concert, enjoy a special tribute to Taylor Swift in one magical multi-sensory musical experience while under the gentle glow of a candlelight setting. Listen to the Orchid Quartet play your favorites including “Lover,” “Shake it Off,” “All Too Well,” and many more songs both old and new. Reserve your tickets before they’re gone.
Lunar New Year Festival
January 18th – January 19th
Location: Monterey Park
Ring in the Lunar New Year at the annual Monterey Park Lunar New Year Festival. This vibrant two day celebration transforms five blocks of Downtown Monterey Park into a legendary street fair. Experience the traditions and festive atmosphere with Folk Art Displays, delicious food, performances, and a carnival zone filled with family-friendly rides and activities. Free parking shuttles will be available at the festival, which is free for all. Join in on the fun, and don’t miss out. More info here.
2025 Uncorked LA
January 25th, 5pm-9pm
Location:
Raise a glass and celebrate a decade of incredible wines, music, and memories. There will be many different ways to celebrate, such as exploring over 100 wines and bubblies from around the globe, enjoying live music performances and sets by a DJ, snacking on delicious dishes from favorite local food trucks, and so much more! Come with your friends ready to drink and dine, and raise a toast to 10 years of Uncorked! Get your tickets here.
Weekend Performance at Rose Bowl
January 25th, 8pm
Location: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr Pasadena, CA
Superstar The Weeknd is taking over the Rose Bowl Stadium for an unforgettable unique night of music. Come and experience the magic of his live performance as he brings his hits and groundbreaking stage production to one of the most iconic venues in the world. Get ready to sing along to favorites like “Blinding Lights,” “Save Your Tears,” and “Starboy,” along with tracks from his latest album. This a experience you won’t want to miss. Buy your tickets here.
Cheese Burger Week
January 26th- February 1st
Location: Various restaurants in Pasadena
The City of Pasadena is hosting a week long celebration to commemorate the invention of the Cheeseburger in 1924. With restaurants offering exclusive deals, you can grab a Cheeseburger Passport with collectable stamps and exciting prizes when you visit various restaurants. You can also book a room at a participating Pasadena hotel to get a free cheeseburger or food and beverage offer. See all the yummy deets of the week here.
Lektrik: A Festival of Lights in LA
January-March
Location: 111 Raging Waters Drive, San Dimas, 91773
Step into a world of enchantment, literally. This huge-festival of lights promises an unforgettable journey through over 40 breathtaking lamp scenes. Crafted by 150 artisans, using 120 tons of steel and 150,000 feet of silk, Lektrik transforms the park into an immersive wonderland like no other. From acrobatic performances to artisan vendors, mouthwatering food and beverages, and endless photo opportunities, this magical event has something for everyone. Buy your tickets here.
