Shiny Bright Lights

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…with candy canes and silver lanes that glow…” – one of my favorite Christmas song that just gives the Christmasy vibe. 

California does not have snow besides the mountains, but that does not mean California is short of Christmas spirit. In fact, there are so many sparkling lights around around L.A. to go check out that will give you the Christmas spirit. I have compiled a list of places to check out. 

I have been to some and some are still pending, but once the kids are on break, this may not be a bad idea to check them out. 

1.Enchanted: Forests of Lights – Descano Gardens, La Cannada Flintridge

As the name suggests it, it is for sure an enchanted place. The place is decked up with beautiful lights each with different themes like the Japanese tea garden, a rose garden of lights, Symphony of Oaks and many more. It takes around an hour to view the whole place. Make sure to dress warm as it does get chilly. We all enjoyed it a lot. Tickets do sell out fast so make sure to get it beforehand.

2.  LA Zoo – Los Angeles

This is by far one of the popular places to go with kids as they get to see all the nocturnal animals. The zoo is transformed into a magical winter jungle with a disco ball forest, whimsical 3-D animations, a glowing “Northern Lights” featuring animal constellations that come to life and more. They even have real reindeer! 

3.  The Grove – Los Angeles

It is one of the most lively places, where you see people and feel the festive spirit. The have one of the biggest Christmas tree and their water fountain show is set to holiday tunes. The biggest excitement for kids is snowfall which happens at 7pm and 8 pm every night and you do not want to miss that. We went there last year, and kids enjoyed the snow a lot. 

4. The Mission Inn – Riverside

The Mission Inn is a must to go to if you have not yet. It is one of the nation’s largest holiday lights on display and it is currently in its 26th year.  The castle like hotel is said to have a record breaking of 5 million lights with 400 animated figures! There is a long waiting line to get in and lot of walking, so dress up warm and make sure kids are well fed. ( My kids got tired and cranky from the walking). 

5. The Living Desert’s Wildlights – Palm Springs

Palm Springs is quite a drive so maybe you can make a 2-day trip of it. Their desert zoo has thousands of twinkling lights, dazzling displays, shows, Holiday Express train, live music, games, activities for kids and many more. People come from far and near to see the Wildlights.  

6. Newport Beach Boat Parade – Newport Beach

Boats are and have always been a fancy to watch. This is the 110th year of the boat parade.  You will get to see beautifully decorated boats, yachts, kayaks and canoes sail along the harbor. This parade is hosted by Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce. They have games, activities and lot of restaurants near the harbor to dine at. If you plan on visiting, make sure you get their early as parking and traffic gets packed. The first and last day they also do fireworks. They also have Grand Marshals perform. Go online to check their schedule for each day.

7. Brea Eagle Hills Christmas Lights – Brea

This is one of my favorite places to take the kids every year as it is close by to me, but also every year the houses have new decoration. The houses are beautifully decorated and have a Christmas theme/story to tell. You can either drive through the area or get down and walk to the different houses. 

8. Candy Cane Lane – El Segundo

This El Segundo neighborhood has been lighting up since 1949. The houses are said to have over the top decoration of lights. You will have to park your car and walk a few blocks. At the end of the block, you can meet Santa Claus and take pictures with him. The line for Santa Claus does get long so be sure to come early. 

These are few places that are must to see in this Christmas season. If you know of any places that have been missed, do share them with us! Happy Holidays to you and your family!