Amy MariettaFun things to do for Christmas in LA
Just because there’s no snow on the ground doesn’t mean you can’t have a Christmassy Christmas in LA. Angelenos holiday shop, decorate their homes, drink spiked vegan eggnog, and exchange gifts just like anybody else during the festive season.
Just in case it’s your first seasonal holiday in LA, though, and you need a little help getting into the Christmas spirit, I’ve put together a list of 7 fun things to do for Christmas in LA. Keep reading for my favorite things to do for Christmas in LA (and driving distance;).
Disneyland at Christmas
The Magic Kingdom is a marvel at any time of year, but it’s extra special at Christmastime. The halls are decked to the rafters and Santa and his elves are ever present.
As you might expect, it’s extremely popular at Christmas, even on Christmas Day, so try to arrive early to enjoy as much fun as you can cram in before the crowds descend. You may need a sweater in the morning, but you’ll be needing sun cream before the day is over.
Queen Mary Christmas
Climb aboard the Queen Mary in Long Beach for a quick trip to the North Pole. Of course, the ship doesn’t actually sail from SoCal to the Arctic Circle, but it creates enough atmosphere to make you almost believe you’re there.
You can build your own gingerbread house, go ice skating on the top deck, or take in views of Long Beach. They even have a 4D theater aboard the graceful ocean liner which shows The Polar Express in 4D, accompanied by mist, snowfall and other amusing life-like experiences.
Sky Slide
Give your inner daredevil a taste of flying through the air over LA on the Sky Slide at the OUE Skyspace. Slide 40 feet down a fully enclosed and completely transparent slide 1000 feet above ground level.
Also at OUE you can enjoy a beer, cocktail or a glass of wine while nibbling on gourmet snacks. Soak up sunshine and take in breathtaking views while working up the nerve to tackle the slide.
Angels Flight
Less thrilling perhaps than the Sky Slide but no less fascinating is the nearly 120 year-old Angels Flight, a narrow gauge funicular railway and the shortest railway in the world. The term funicular refers to the system of cables and counterweights that enable the cars to transport passengers up and down steep hillsides.
The Grove
The Grove is the place Joe and I go whenever we want to get into the holiday spirit. The combination of the holiday music, artificial snow, and happy vibes are perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.
El Gordo — Spanish Christmas Lottery
Established in March 1812, Spanish National Lottery, or El Gordo, is the second-longest lottery in the world to run uninterrupted. The first Christmas draw was held in December of the same year.
El Gordo is reputed to have the largest payout of any other lottery in the world, which may contribute to its popularity. The printed tickets are works of art in their own right, so even if you lose, you have a beautiful keepsake to frame and display. You can buy Spanish Xmas Lottery tickets online here.
Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive is one of my favorite areas to walk around during the holiday season. The designer stores draped in holiday decor is such a vibe. Don’t forget to check out the Cupcake ATM in Beverly Hills or The Grove if you have a sweet tooth like me 🙂
That’s all folks! Hope you have the happiest of holidays with your loved ones:)