• Bob’s Baker Nutcracker (Nov 25 2023 – Jan 7th 2024)
Bob Baker’s Nutcracker returns most triumphantly this year to the Bob Baker Theater! This beloved version of the story has been running since 1969, and every performance ends with ice cream. Over 100 handcrafted puppets to take audiences on an adventure into the enchanted world of the Nutcracker. Favorites characters include the Sugarplum Fairy and her Promenading Cakes, the Waltzing Flowers, the Nutcracker band, The Go-Go’s and more. (price: $25; Children under 2 free)
https://www.bobbakermarionettetheater.com/bob-bakers-nutcracker-2023
• Winter Fest OC (Nov 24 2023 – Jan 7, 2024)
Winter Fest OC in LA brings you real snow in a city where rain is the closest thing to winter. Slip and slide on epic ice tubing runs, stroll through a million twinkling lights, pet some furry friends at the petting zoo, and enjoy live shows that’ll bedazzle you. Don’t miss the nightly tree lighting with fireworks as you enjoy ice skating, a North Pole journey, yummy -holiday grub, photo ops, and a neverending 150-meter ice slide. This event has all the fun, food and entertainment of a full-fledged winter carnival, but keep in mind ticket prices may vary depending on the day of your visit. (price online: Child: $29.99 Adults: $34.99)
• Ice at Santa monica (Nov 1 2023 – Jan 15 2024)
Get ready to experience Ice at Santa Monica, a winter adventure that combines the magic of the holiday season with the beauty of California’s coastline. This seasonal ice rink fulfills your dreams of gliding across a smooth-as-glass surface within four blocks of the Pacific Ocean. As the sun sets and paints the sky in breathtaking hues, the rink comes alive with sparkling lights and festive decorations, creating an atmosphere filled with enchantment and wonder. (Price: $20)
https://www.downtownsm.com/ice-at-santa-monica
• Lightscape (Nov 17 2023 – Jan 2, 2024. Not every day)
Experience a winter walk on the dark side of the garden and let your imagination soar with the new sights and sounds along the Serpent Trail and Forest Path. The reimagined Lightscape merges nature and art in the mesmerizing Fire Garden, awesome Arch of Light, eye-catching Feast of Light, exotic Dancing Palms, and other spectacular installations. Fan favorite, the magnificent Winter Cathedral, returns! Food trucks every night and a full bar too. Pssst–Santa is coming to Lightscape on select nights. Arboretum members save up to $6 a ticket. (Price: $29–$35 (plus $4 fee); parking $20)
• LA Zoo Lights (Nov 17 2023 – Jan 7 2024
Explore an immersive landscape filled with dazzling new lantern sculptures of animals among blooming flowers, towering trees, and more, for a nature-focused holiday celebration that’s as inspiring as it is breathtaking. This year’s experience features all-new seasonal wonders, including a magical Winter Wildlands with majestic pine trees, glowing ice crystals, snow-loving animals, views of the “northern lights,” and spectacular photo spots for the ultimate holiday snaps. (Price: starting at $18)