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Delightful Christmas Events at LA Malls + Hotels 2025

Updated for 2025

As the air grows crisper and the nights longer, a wave of festive excitement sweeps through Southern California. ‘Tis the season when Los Angeles transforms into a winter wonderland, and the famed shopping malls and fabulous hotels and resorts across the region come alive with the magic of Christmas and holiday cheer.

Decking the Halls in Style at LA Shopping Malls and Resorts

Holiday lighting and decor at Santa Monica Place, photo courtesy of Santa Monica Place
Holiday lighting and decor at Santa Monica Place, photo courtesy of Santa Monica Place

Find Holiday Celebrations at SoCal Shopping Malls

Holiday Events at The Collection at RiverPark
2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, CA 93036

  • Tree Lighting Celebration
    Wednesday, November 19th, 7:00 – 8:00 pm
    There’s no better way to welcome the season than with a Tree Lighting Celebration! Head over to Collection Park for holiday entertainment provided by Music Freqs and Hip Hop Mindset, an extravagant tree lighting, and a spectacular fireworks show — plus an appearance from Santa.
  • Photos With Santa
    Friday, Nov. 21st through Wednesday, December 24th
    The holiday season isn’t complete without a family picture with Santa! Be sure to visit Santa’s Workshop at Town Center Drive (Between Cheesecake Factory and Larsen’s) to create special memories with keepsake photos that will bring holiday joy for years to come. Reservations are required and can be made online.
  • Merry Vibes Market
    December 6th, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
    Come out to Park View Court on December 6th and “support local artisans while finding unique treasures for your loved ones. Get into the holiday spirit with a fun mix of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind, and locally made goodies that are perfect for your gift list. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect present or just want to soak up the festive vibes, the Merry Vibes Holiday Market, hosted by Sun and Shine Market, is the place to be. Shop local, grab some awesome gifts, and make holiday memories with us!”
  • Santa Paws Pet Photo Nights
    November 25th – December 16th
    Four-legged fur friends are part of the family, and part of the fun! Every Tuesday, furry friends are invited to meet Santa for a photo at Santa Paws Pet Nights. Reservations are required and can be made online.
  • Peppermint Kids Club
    Saturday, December 13th, 10:30 am – 12 pm
    Everyone’s favorite holiday characters are stopping by The Collection once again for a morning of fun, sponsored by Sunny Smiles Dentistry for Children and Young Adults. Stop by Collection Park for arts and crafts, dance parties, and fun surprises.
  • Black Friday
    Friday, November 28th
    Don’t miss out on amazing deals at popular shops and restaurants throughout The Collection. Before the big day, be sure to follow @thecollectionrp for gift ideas and special offers.
  • Small Business Saturday
    Saturday, November 29th
    Celebrate Small Business Saturday by paying a visit to local small businesses at The Collection! They are waiting with open doors and tons of great shopping, dining, and service experiences to enjoy.

Holiday Events at 2nd & PCH
6480 East Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, CA 90803

2nd & PCH, the premier waterfront destination in Long Beach, invites the community to experience the joy and magic of the holidays with free, family-friendly events in a beautiful coastal setting. This year’s holiday season promises unforgettable experiences, featuring live entertainment, picturesque snowfall, one-of-a-kind holiday markets, vibrant cultural celebrations, and much more. It’s sure to be a season to remember. There’s something for everyone to enjoy with a full calendar of activities ranging from a spectacular tree lighting ceremony to Santa meet-and-greets.

Holiday Event Calendar

Outdoor Holiday Markets

  • Dreamer’s Market — Mele Kalikimaka
    Saturday, December 6th | 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
    Celebrate the spirit of the season at the Dreamer’s Market: Mele Kalikimaka, where island-inspired cheer meets holiday magic. Browse an enchanting selection of local vendors offering unique gifts perfect for the holidays. 
  • 714 Market + Hanukkah Event with Shul by the Shore
    Saturday, December 13th & Sunday, December 14th | 12:00 p.m. – 6:00  p.m.
    Browse this holiday market for one-of-a-kind gifts from local artisans and vendors, perfect for last-minute shopping. 
  • Hanukkah Event with Shul by the Shore
    Sunday, December 14th | 12:00 p.m. – 6:00  p.m.
    Join Shul by the Shore for a festive Menorah Lighting in celebration of Hanukkah. Gather with the community and kindle the lights of the menorah together.
  • The Maker’s Hive — Winter Wonderland
    Saturday, December 21st | 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
    Experience a festive winter wonderland at The Marker’s Hive market, showcasing more than 30 unique artisans and handcrafted goods. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and delightful photo opportunities, creating the perfect setting for joyful holiday memories.
  • Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony & Santa Arrival
    Thursday, November 20th | 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
    Join in the much-anticipated Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy a live performance by SZN4 from the hit show Building the Band, Santa’s Arrival, crafts, face painting and more. Guests are encouraged to RSVP, with the ceremony beginning at 6:00 p.m. The event will culminate in a fireworks display lighting up the Long Beach sky, marking the official start of the holiday season at 2ND & PCH. 
  • Coastal Snowfall
    Saturdays & Mondays, November 22nd to December 24th | 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
    Experience the wonder of coastal snowfall in Southern California. Enjoy this magical holiday snowfall at various dates throughout the season, creating the perfect backdrop for family memories. The snowfall  starts every hour at the top of the hour  at 5:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m.for a duration of 15 minutes. 
  • Breakfast with Santa
    Saturday, December 6th & Saturday, December 13th | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
    Start the day with a festive breakfast at Noble Rotisserie featuring a special visit from Santa. This event is a favorite for families and includes a delicious breakfast spread, perfect for kicking off the holidays. Reservations are required.
  • Santa Photos (Paid Photos, Selfies with Santa, Silent Santa & Santa Paws) & Santa’s Mailbox
    Professional Photos: Fridays – Sundays throughout the holiday season, starting Friday, November 21st | 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. From December 19–24, Santa’s professional photo hours will be extended to 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM for those last-minute holiday wishes!
    Selfies with Santa: Every Monday November 22nd – December 15th | 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
    Santa Paws: Friday, December 5th – Monday, December 8th  | Hours vary
    Silent Santa: Sunday, December 7th & Sunday, December 14th | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
    Capture holiday memories with photos of Santa. Pet lovers are invited to participate in Santa Paws photo sessions with their furry friends. The Silent Santa event offers a calm, sensory-friendly environment designed for neurodiverse individuals and families, including those with special needs. Guests can enjoy a quiet, welcoming setting to meet Santa without bright lights, loud sounds or large crowds. Online RSVPs are required for Silent Santa. Pet Photos with Santa do not require RSVPs; however, advance reservations are encouraged to reduce wait times.
The Tree Lighting Celebration at the Collection at River Park 2022, photo used with permission
The Tree Lighting Celebration at the Collection at River Park 2022, photo used with permission

Holiday events at all the Caruso Properties:
The Americana at Brand, 889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210
The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90036
The Promenade at Westlake, 140 Promenade Way, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Palisades Village, 15225 Palisades Village Ln., Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
The Commons at Calabasas, 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas, CA 91302

  • Tree Lighting Spectaculars
    The annual “Christmas at The Grove” Tree Lighting Celebration returns on November 17th at 7:00 pm, featuring a star-studded show of musical performances by Nick Carter, Dasha, Loud Luxury, Kevin Woo, and other special guests. The Promenade at Westlake will host its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 21st, featuring a whimsical holiday show and family-friendly event, complete with musical performances, fireworks, and a very merry welcome from Santa Claus.

Citadel Outlets
100 Citadel Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90040

You’ll find many holiday events at the Citadel Outlets this holiday season.

  • November 8thCitadel Outlets’ Annual Tree Lighting Concert
    Citadel Outlets is hosting its 24th Annual Tree Lighting Concert on November 8th in Center Court. Starting at 5:00 pm, the free concert features original pop songs and holiday favorites, with a special visit from Santa Claus to light California’s Tallest Live-Cut Christmas Tree for the first time this season. Followed by the first snowfall of Snowy Nights, a nightly snow show spectacular, this family-friendly concert is a holiday tradition you won’t want to miss! Remember to bring a new, unwrapped toy to be donated to CHiPs for Kids.

Holiday Fun at The Point
850 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., El Segundo, CA 90245

  • Sun & Sea at The Point — Small Business Saturday
    November 29th, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
    Save the date for one of our favorite markets of the year: Small Business Saturday! This Christmas market will be full of local vendors with the best gift ideas, Santa photos, toy drives, and so much more.
  • Snow Showers at The Point
    December 6th – 27th
    Enjoy magical snow flurries on the grass every Saturday in December between 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Snow Flurries will take place every 30 minutes and last for approximately 5 minutes.
  • Holiday Block Party & Toy Drive at The Point! Benefitting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
    Saturday, December 6th, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
    The Point is partnering with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles for a Holiday Block Party and Toy Drive on December 6th! Guests are welcome to donate a new toy or household item and in return receive a shopping and dining passport to unlock special holiday incentives at The Point shops & restaurants, including discounts, free gifts, enter to win promotions, sweet treats, and more.  Plus, The Point will be buzzing with performances and fun for the entire family, including story time with Mrs. Claus, a short performance of The Nutcracker, and more.

Cerritos Towne Center
12731 Towne Center Dr., Cerritos, CA 90703

Cerritos Towne Center will be having a free family-friendly holiday celebration on Sunday, December 7th, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Santa will be there, and the event will feature crafts, games, photo ops, and more for all ages.

Anaheim Hills Festival
8020 E. Santa Ana Canyon Rd., Anaheim, CA 92808

  • Holiday Spectacular
    December 13th, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm (courtyard near Petco)
    The community is invited to a festive holiday spectacular with tons of activities and photo opportunities with Santa. The event will take place on Saturday, December 13th, from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. There will also be crafts for kids, face painting, balloon art, and more. Personal cameras are allowed, and dressing in an “ugly sweater” is encouraged!
  • Stock & Stuffers
    November 12th – 16th (next to Panera Bread)
    Check out the arts and crafts holiday show featuring handmade treasures, festive decorations, one-of-a-kind gifts, and more created by talented crafters, makers, and curators.
  • Holiday Carolers
    November 29th (by Bath and Body Works) and December 13th (by See’s Candies)
    The Holiday Carolers, one of the most sought-after caroling groups in SoCal, will perform on select Saturdays in November and December from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm. They will sing a variety of traditional, contemporary, and jazzy carols in four-part harmony.
  • Santa in the Hills
    Select dates in November & December (courtyard near Petco)
    The Anaheim Firefighters Association invites you to visit Santa Claus for photos on select dates and times through December 23rd. Photo packages start at $35. No pre-registration is required.

Passport to Santa
The Beverly Center (8th floor), 8500 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048

You can “embark on a magical family journey through the North Pole” with your Passport to Santa starting November 22nd through December 31st from 10 am to 4 pm. There, you’ll find Christmas legends, festive prizes from Santa, and stamps to collect for special prizes, as well as Santa himself! The spectacular finale is a visit to Santa’s workshop with a bounce house, ball pits, caroling, and more. Tickets are available online and can be upgraded to VIP tickets for extra perks.

Oh! What Fun Holiday Happenings
Ovation Hollywood, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028

You’ll find festive magic this holiday season at the Ovation Hollywood Shopping Center. A few of the events this season include:

  • Tree Lighting Celebration
    Saturday, November 22nd, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm
    The Jingle 5 and Holly Belles will provide festive performances that “capture magical moments”. Beginning at 5 pm, Santa will light the tree, then be present for complimentary photos in his cozy chalet. You can also nibble on treats and sip hot cocoa or festive cocktails, plus shop for special holiday finds.
  • Photos with Santa
    November 28th, 29th, and 30th from 12 – 7 pm (plus additional dates and times)
    Go to level 3 and visit with Santa in his festive photo booth to receive a complimentary photo delivered straight to your email. For $5, you can also purchase an on-demand photo to take home with you. This is a first-come, first-served event.
  • The Jingle 5: Holiday Carolers
    November 28th & 29th (plus additional dates and times)
    Listen to The Jingle 5 Carolers as they delight with complimentary holiday music in the Center Courtyard. Performance times vary. Check the website for additional information.
  • Candy Cane Stilt Walkers
    November 28th, 29th, and 30th (plus additional dates and times)
    Check out the “tallest Candy Canes in Hollywood” and snap a picture near the Christmas tree. Dressed in bright red and white stripes, these candy canes will spread delight and smiles to your holiday season.
  • The Holly Belles: Holiday Carolers
    November 30th (plus additional dates and times)
    The Holly Belles will bring classic holiday tunes blended with contemporary favorites this holiday season. “Their rich harmonies and festive flair capture the spirit of the season, creating a joyful atmosphere” that will have everyone toe-tapping and singing along!

SoCal Resorts and Hotels with the Holiday Spirit for 2025

Holiday Events at Terranea Resort
100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

Terranea Resort spreads joy this holiday season with luxe hospitality and special celebratory offerings for everyone who visits. Memorable events at Terranea Resort during the holiday season include:

  • Enchanting Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
    Saturday, November 29th, from 4:30 to 7:00 pm
    Resort guests and the Palos Verdes community are invited to begin the holiday season oceanfront at Terranea Resort’s Front Drive. Admission to the celebration is complimentary. In addition to the lighting of a beautiful, tall tree adorned with hundreds of ornaments, lights, and a brilliant star, the evening will feature caroling and dance performances by local arts groups. Families can capture photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy rides on a festive trackless train, and participate in seasonal activities such as sending postcards to Santa’s North Pole workshop. Children’s book author Jane Bakerink, creator of “Piney: The Lonesome Pine”, will also be on-site for a special book signing. Guests may indulge in hot chocolate and cider stations, decorated cookies for purchase, grab-and-go bites, and a cash bar. Attendees are requested to donate an unwrapped gift to Toys for Tots.
  • Gingerbread Lounge in the Lobby Lounge
    Starting Saturday, November 29th, to Friday, January 2nd; weekdays from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm; Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 pm to 10 pm, Terranea Resort unveils its popular Gingerbread Lounge.

    This holiday pop-up showcases a gigantic 7-by-7-foot gingerbread masterpiece, adorned with gumdrops, candy canes, and royal icing, revealing a functional bar and a magical gingerbread village – crafted from over 1,000 pounds of house-made gingerbread. Yuletide spirit abounds as guests sip holiday cocktails and non-alcoholic favorites, savoring a selection of delectable festive sweets. Children are invited to pen letters to Santa and enjoy some complimentary treats, while live music adds to the excitement in the resort’s lobby daily, from 7:00 to 11:00 pm.
  • Gingerbread Workshops 
    Saturday, December 13th and Saturday, December 20th, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm
    Creative guests are cordially invited to express their decorative talents and holiday spirit as they fashion their own gingerbread masterpieces in the Marineland 3 ballroom. Decorators are graciously hosted and guided by the Terranea pastry chef team. $150 per gingerbread house.
  • “Piney: The Lonesome Pine” Movie Showing & Author Book Signing
    Saturday, December 6th, and Tuesday, December 23rd, from 4:00 to 5:30 pm
    Guests can meet Jane Bakerink, creator and author of “Piney: The Lonesome Pine.” Families will enjoy a screening of the beloved holiday film, followed by special interactions with the author behind the heartwarming tale. Movie viewing is complimentary. An author-signed picture book is $25 each. Piney toys are available for purchase.
  • Beach Cove Movie Night Featuring “Elf”
    Saturday, December 20th, starting at 5:15 pm
    As part of the resort’s holiday programming, Terranea will present a special outdoor screening of the holiday favorite “Elf.” Guests of all ages can enjoy the comedy classic from the comfort of Adirondack chairs set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Complimentary popcorn will be provided with candy and soft drinks available for purchase at the Beach Cove Kiosk. Resort guests are complimentary. Non-guests are $25 for adults and $15 for children (ages 18 and under).
  • Winter Solstice Hike
    Sunday, December 21st, starting at 10:00 am
    On the Sunday before Christmas, guests are invited to join a guided nature hike along Terranea Resort’s scenic native plant trails. The excursion begins outside Pointe Discovery and continues to the historic Point Vicente Lighthouse, offering seasonal adventure and panoramic ocean views in celebration of the winter solstice. The hike is complimentary for guests and visitors of the resort.
  • Kids’ Club Special Holiday Activities and Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party
    During the month of December: New Year’s Eve Kids’ Party, Wednesday, December 31st, from 7:30 pm to 12:30 am.
    Terranea Resort offers a variety of holiday-themed activities for children ages 3 to 12 throughout December. Kids Club sessions include postcards to the North Pole, ornament decorating, festive crafts, and seasonal surprises. A highlight of the program is the specially designed New Year’s Eve party featuring dinner, a bounce house, a double-feature movie, snacks, and a celebratory countdown to 2026. Advanced reservations required for New Year’s Eve party and are available online at terranea.com/festive. 
Holiday-performance-by-Beach-Belles-at-Santa-Monica-Place-Courtesy-of-Santa-Monica-Place
Holiday performance by the Beach Belles at Santa Monica Place, photo courtesy of Santa Monica Place

No Matter Where You Go, There’s Plenty of Holiday Fun to be Found in SoCal

Seasonal Shopping Galore

Of course, holiday shopping remains a central attraction at these malls. Southern California’s shopping destinations boast a diverse range of stores, from luxury boutiques to well-known retailers, ensuring you can find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Many malls offer extended shopping hours during the holiday season, making it easy for even the busiest shoppers to find time to browse and purchase.

The Joy of Giving Back

In the spirit of giving, many Southern California malls participate in charity drives and events during the holiday season. You can make a difference in your community by participating in toy drives, food donations, and other charitable activities organized by these malls, spreading the true essence of the season.

So, grab your peppermint latte, put on your coziest scarf, and join us as we unwrap the joy of Christmas and holiday events at Southern California shopping malls. It’s time to make unforgettable memories and embrace the holiday spirit in this sunny corner of the world.

Shopping malls are not just places to hunt for the perfect gift; they are also vibrant hubs of holiday activity. With twinkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and joyful melodies filling the air, these malls offer much more than just retail therapy.

Southern California is renowned for fantastic shopping, with high-end mall experiences around most corners. And while many parts of the country are blanketed in snow, Southern Californians get to enjoy a mild and sunny Christmas. This unique blend of coastal beauty and traditional holiday festivities sets the stage for unforgettable experiences at shopping malls throughout the region.

MomsLA is your source for Things to do with Kids in Los Angeles

Disclaimer: MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.

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