LAKings Archives - Circa LA

Let it Glow: LA’s Brightest Holiday Celebrations

’Tis the season to sparkle and shine, and no one does razzle-dazzle quite like LA! Descanso Gardens, LA Arboretum, and South Coast Botanic Garden are lighting the night with brilliant illuminations and interactive displays. You’ll find seasonal entertainment galore, including holiday concerts, a live production of Love Actually, and a mesmerizing ballet performance of the beloved Nutcracker Suite. Ice skating enthusiasts can show off their glides and spins at LA Kings Holiday Ice, and if you prefer to do some shopping while soaking up the holiday vibe, Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc is presenting one of LA’s largest multi-colored immersive experiences. Check websites for tickets and other details.

Circa Holiday Celebration at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Circa residents are invited to join us for The Great Holiday Celebration on December 13 from 7PM to 10PM in the 8th Floor Lounge. Revel in a Great Gatsby themed evening, and be sure to dress to impress! Enjoy live music, hors d’oeuvres, and specialty cocktails. If you would like to give back, please bring an unwrapped toy for our holiday toy drive.

Astra Lumina holidays near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Astra Lumina South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90274

We’ve always been told to reach for the stars, but what if the stars could reach for us? Embark on an enchanted night walk across mysterious grounds to discover a celestial pathway of lustrous light, cosmic visions, and astral song. Immerse yourself in illuminating encounters of lighting, projection and sound, and connect with the stars before they return to the sky above. Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanic Garden is the 17th experience in the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series.

Sparkle DTLA holidays near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Sparkle DTLA The Bloc 700 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Experience the season of joy with a magical holiday light show as 18 million hues of lights illuminate the night and synchronize to festive tunes. Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc will take you through an unforgettable nighttime journey that includes one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays. Capture your perfect photo-op moments at this ultimate holiday experience. Sparkle DTLA is free to attend and is open to all ages. Furry friends are also welcome!

Descanso Gardens holidays near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Enchanted Forest of Light Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Enchanted Forest of Light is an interactive, nighttime experience unlike anything else in Los Angeles, featuring a one-mile walk through spectacular lighting displays in some of the most beloved areas of Descanso Gardens. Don’t miss popular returning illuminated favorites, including an entire town of magical “stained glass” creations on the Main Lawn by contemporary sculptor Tom Fruin; sparkling geometric installations from HYBYCOZO in the Rose Garden; Flower Power on the Promenade; and exquisite lighting effects in the Ancient Forest.

Lightscape at LA Aboretum holidays near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Lightscape at LA County Aboretum 301 N Baldwin Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007

Escape into a world of color, imagination and sound. The internationally acclaimed Lightscape has been reimagined for 2023 with brand new installations from around the world. Wander through captivating illuminations that dazzle the senses and celebrate the holidays with joy and good cheer. Whether with friends, family or a date, enjoy a memorable evening of art and nature.

Love Actually Live holiday performance near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Love Actually Live The Wallis 9390 N Santa Monica Blvd. Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Love Actually Live, the critically acclaimed theatrical experience, makes a triumphant return to commemorate the film’s 20th anniversary. Set within a picturesque London cityscape, iconic scenes from the film are displayed on screens alongside all-star singers and a live orchestra. L.A.’s quintessential holiday tradition brings together friends and loved ones in an awe-inspiring winter wonderland, where film and live action seamlessly intertwine. Love Actually film Director Richard Curtis will donate his royalties from this production of Love Actually Live to Comic Relief, a major charity based in the UK.

Harry Potter Christmas at Universal Studios Hollywood near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

Celebrate the season in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. Join in the fun as Hogwarts™ castle lights up for the holidays and festive decor brightens up the streets of Hogsmeade™ in Universal Studios Hollywood. Enjoy a hot Butterbeer™ while the Frog Choir puts a holiday spin on its performances. Then shop for delightful seasonal merchandise, sure to please everyone on your holiday gift list.

LA Master Chorale holiday concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Master Chorale Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

LA Master Chorale is presenting a festive line-up of holiday concerts including Handel’s Messiah, Carols on the Plaza, and the ever popular Messiah Sing-Along. Founded by the legendary Roger Wagner in 1964, the Los Angeles Master Chorale is “the finest-by-far major chorus in America” (Los Angeles Times) and a vibrant cultural treasure. Hailed for its powerful performances, technical precision, and artistic daring, the Chorale is a founding resident company of The Music Center and choir-in-residence at Walt Disney Concert Hall.

LA Phil Deck the Hall holiday concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Phil Deck the Hall Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

A treasured L.A. tradition, Deck the Hall offers outstanding holiday programming for a wide variety of tastes at Walt Disney Concert Hall. The program includes Chanticleer, Home Alone in Concert, Arturo Sandoval’s Swinging Holiday, and a Holiday Sing-Along. Make sure to arrive early for drinks and merriment in the fun-filled Winter Wonderland. Snowshoes and mittens not required!

The Nutcracker Suite holiday ballet performance near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Nutcracker Suite Two California Plaza 350 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

American Contemporary Ballet presents an immersive experience for all five senses of the Tchaikovsky classic that delights children and adults alike. American Contemporary Ballet was founded by choreographer Lincoln Jones and dancer Theresa Farrell to produce original contemporary classical ballets. The company performs over 60 shows each season, spanning a repertory which includes works by George Balanchine, Fred Astaire, Lincoln Jones, and reconstructions of seminal ballet works.

LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Kings Holiday Ice L.A. LIVE 800 W Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Skate like a King! The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice brings outdoor ice skating to L.A. LIVE. Skate your way into the holiday season and enjoy the rink until January 8, 2024. Bring your friends, family, date or enjoy the ice before and after a sports game or concert. Grab a bite to eat or drink when you come to skate at L.A. LIVE. Present your LA Kings Holiday Ice receipt on the day you skate at participating L.A. LIVE restaurants to receive discounts and dinner deals.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Sparkle DTLA

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Astra Lumina

Photo #4: Sparkle DTLA

Photo #5: Descanso Gardens

Photo #6: LA Arboretum

Photo #7: The Wallis

Photo #8: Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo #9: LA Master Chorale

Photo #10: LA Phil

Photo #11: American Contemporary Ballet

Photo #12: LA Kings

It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And there are so many marvelous ways to celebrate the holidays in LA, many not far from Circa. Put some sparkle in your season with holiday light shows at Descanso Gardens and LA Arboretum. Ice skating enthusiasts can show off their glides and spins at LA Kings Holiday Ice and Pershing Square outdoor rinks. Or take in a holiday performance at Walt Disney Concert Hall. And if you’re looking for some gift giving inspiration, Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc is presenting one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive experiences. Check websites for health & safety protocols.

Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Enchanted Forest of Light Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Lightscape at LA Arboretum holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Lightscape LA Aboretum 301 North Baldwin Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007

Lightscape is an internationally acclaimed extravaganza of light, art and music that transforms the Arboretum into an illuminated night experience! Wander along stunning new installations on an expanded trail that includes the magnificent Winter Cathedral. Due to high demand, they highly recommend you purchase tickets in advance to ensure your entry.

LA Zoo Lights holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow 5333 Zoo Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027

L.A.’s brightest winter tradition has been reimagined for the 2022/2023 season! Explore an immersive landscape filled with spectacular lantern sculptures of animals among blooming flowers, towering trees, and more, for a wildlife-centered experience that’s as inspiring as it is breathtaking. Nature is something we all share, and this celebration of nature’s wonders is meant for all to enjoy.

LA Kings Holiday Ice holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LA Kings Holiday Ice L.A. LIVE 800 W Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Skate Like A King! The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice brings outdoor ice skating to L.A. LIVE on Xbox Plaza right out front of Crypto.com Arena. Skate your way into the holiday season and enjoy the rink until January 8, 2023. Bring your friends, family, date or enjoy the ice before and after a sports game or concert.

Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square 532 S Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

The hottest place to chill during the holidays, Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square is back for a season of outdoor ice skating in the heart of downtown LA. Plan a night out with your friends and get on the ice. Open daily through January 8, 2023.

Deck the Hall Holiday Concerts at Walt Disney Concert Hall holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Deck the Hall Holiday Concerts Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

A treasured L.A. tradition, Deck the Hall offers outstanding holiday programming for a wide variety of tastes at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Make sure to arrive early for drinks and merriment in the fun-filled Winter Wonderland. The program includes The Nutcracker with Dudamel: Tchaikovsky & Ellington, Home Alone in Concert, A Chanticleer Christmas, and more. Snowshoes not required!

The Nutcracker Suite ballet performance holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The Nutcracker Suite Two California Plaza 350 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

American Contemporary Ballet presents an immersive experience for all five senses, of the Tchaikovsky classic that delights children and adults alike. American Contemporary Ballet was founded by choreographer Lincoln Jones and dancer Theresa Farrell to produce original contemporary classical ballets. The company performs over 60 shows each season, spanning a repertory which includes works by George Balanchine, Fred Astaire, Lincoln Jones, and reconstructions of seminal ballet works.

Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc 700 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Experience a magical holiday show as 18 million hues of lights illuminate the night and synchronize to festive tunes. Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc will take you through an unforgettable nighttime journey that includes one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays. Capture your perfect photo-op moments at this ultimate holiday experience. Get in some holiday shopping, then grab a bite and beverage at the eclectic line-up of restaurant offerings.

Holidays at ROW DTLA near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Holidays at ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

That winter wonderland you’ve been looking for is right here at ROW. Enjoy festive holiday decor, holiday markets, cozy winter workshops and expertly curated gift guides by some of LA’s best creatives. For Christmas movies, music, cookies, and cocktails, you’ll find everything you need to sleigh this holiday. Did we mention they will also be offering free gift wrapping? It’s true.

Holiday Wonderland at Grand Central Market near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Holiday Wonderland at Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Celebrate a month of holiday spirit at Grand Central Market. There’s lots to see and enjoy with food, friends, family and fun from special appearances with Santa to Instagrammable photo moments, holiday workshops, live music and more.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Descanso Gardens

Photo #2: Descanso Gardens

Photo #3: LA Arboretum

Photo #4: LA Zoo

Photo #5: LA Kings / L.A. Live

Photo #6: Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square

Photo #7: LA Phil

Photo #8: American Contemporary Ballet

Photo #9: The Bloc

Photo #10: ROW DTLA

Photo #11: Grand Central Market

Sparkle and Shine: Where to See the Holiday Lights in LA

’Tis the season to sparkle and shine, and no one does razzle-dazzle quite like LA. To kick off the season, Union Station in DTLA has illuminated a towering 30-foot tree with thousands of glistening lights, not too far from Circa. Many of SoCal’s botanic gardens are resuming their holiday light shows, with brilliant installations at Descanso Gardens, LA Arboretum and South Coast Botanic Garden. Ice skating enthusiasts can show off their glides and spins at LA Kings Holiday Ice and Dodger Stadium outdoor rinks. And if you prefer to do some shopping while soaking up the holiday vibe, Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc is presenting one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive experiences. Check websites for health & safety protocols.

Sparkle DTLA holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Sparkle DTLA The Bloc 700 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Experience the season of joy with a magical holiday light show as 18 million hues of lights illuminate the night and synchronize to festive tunes. Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc will take you through an unforgettable nighttime journey that includes one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays. Safely capture your perfect photo-op moments at this ultimate holiday experience. Sparkle DTLA is free to attend and is open to all ages. Furry friends are also welcome!

Dodgers Holiday Festival holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Dodgers Holiday Festival 1000 Vin Scully Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Los Angeles Dodgers are hosting a Holiday Festival in the beautiful, newly-renovated Centerfield Plaza, the warning track, and both bullpens. Enjoy nightly entertainment, scenic and light displays, holiday-themed food and beverages, and an opportunity to take photos with Santa. For the first time ever, Dodger Stadium offers an illuminated, open-air ice skating experience constructed across the outfield.

LA Kings Holiday Ice holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

LA Kings Holiday Ice L.A. LIVE 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Skate Like A King! The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice brings outdoor ice skating to L.A. LIVE on Xbox Plaza right out front of Staples Center (to be renamed Crypto.com Arena on December 25). Skate your way into the holiday season and enjoy the rink through January 7, 2022. Bring your friends, family, date or enjoy the ice before and after a sports game or concert.

Enchanted Forest of Light Descanso Gardens holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Enchanted Forest of Light Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Enchanted Forest of Light is an interactive, nighttime experience unlike anything else in Los Angeles, featuring a one-mile walk through unique lighting experiences in some of the most beloved areas of Descanso Gardens. New this year will be an entire town of magical stained glass creations built in the Rose Garden by contemporary sculptor Tom Fruin. Popular returning favorites returning include sparkling, swirling installations from HYBYCOZO on the Main Lawn, Flower Power on the Promenade, and exquisite lighting effects in the Ancient Forest.

Lightscape LA Arboretum holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Lightscape LA Aboretum 301 North Baldwin Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007

Direct from a sold-out run in London, Lightscape makes its West Coast debut at the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden. The internationally acclaimed Lightscape is the must-see holiday event for 2021. Wander through the magnificent Winter Cathedral and experience the breathtaking Fire Garden and more. Lightscape transforms the Arboretum into a night of wonder and light for an unforgettable holiday event for family and friends.

L.A. Zoo Lights holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

L.A Zoo Lights 5333 Zoo Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027

L.A. Zoo Lights returns for the 2021-22 season with more glowing animals and an unforgettable nighttime journey that includes the world’s largest illuminated pop-up storybook, a magical disco ball forest, giant glittering snowflakes, and a twinkling tunnel filled with dynamic swirls of color. L.A. Zoo Lights is a not-to-be-missed holiday light experience and has glowed brighter each year since its debut in 2014. This year’s event features more light animals than ever before, spectacular new additions – both hand-crafted and high-tech – and returning favorites.

GLOW holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

GLOW South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

South Coast Botanic Garden is proud to present GLOW, a visually stunning art installation that transforms the lush botanic oasis into an oceanic experience for their Garden Lights & Ocean Waters theme, using thousands of outdoor lights. Food, drinks, and music will have you hanging on the beach, drinking cocktails on the bayou and chasing waterfalls. And a stunning kelp forest will take your breath away and spark your interest in the beauty of the sea. This year’s exhibit also includes interactive experiences and themed nights.

Holiday Light Festival Griffith Park holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Holiday Light Festival 2021 Griffith Park 4400 Crystal Springs Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Griffith Park & Southern Railroad welcomes visitors for an evening train ride around a festively decorated one-mile track. The Holiday Light Festival features magical scenes and tens of thousands of lights that will help set the mood for a wonderful holiday season. Weather permitting, the train will run nightly except Christmas Eve, Christmas Night, and New Year’s Eve. Tickets are available for purchase at the ticket booth – no online or phone sales.

Christmas Tree Lane Altadena holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Christmas Tree Lane Santa Rosa Ave. Altadena, CA 91001

Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena is the oldest large-scale Christmas lighting spectacle in the United States. In 1885, real estate magnate John P. Woodbury of the Woodbury Family, the founders of Altadena, planted 134 deodar trees (broad conical cedars) as a grand mile-long driveway entrance to the mansion he would build. Woodbury’s mansion was never built, but the trees thrived and the “driveway” became Santa Rosa Avenue. Every Christmas season for more than 80 years, the majestic deodars on the “Mile of Christmas Trees” are strung with 10,000 lights for you to drive through and enjoy.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Descanso Gardens

Photo #2: The Bloc

Photo #3: Los Angeles Dodgers

Photo #4: LA Kings

Photo #5: Descanso Gardens

Photo #6: LA Arboretum

Photo #7: L.A. Zoo

Photo #8: South Coast Botanic Garden

Photo #9: Griffith Park & Southern Railroad

Photo #10: Christmas Tree Lane/JerryShots

Celebrate the Season in Spectacular DTLA!

It’s your time to sparkle and shine – and DTLA is all aglow with fabulous festivities to make your spirits bright! Join in song with hundreds of fellow revelers – plus a jazz combo, a choir, and the mighty pipe organ at the LA Phil Sing-Along. Thrill to the music of Mozart in LA Opera’s final performance of The Magic Flute. Immerse yourself in brilliant holiday light displays and ice skate under the glittering LA skyline. There’s np end to the holiday magic when you celebrate the season in spectacular DTLA!

Deck the Hall – LA Phil Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

A treasured L.A. tradition, Deck the Hall offers outstanding holiday programming for a wide variety of tastes at Walt Disney Concert Hall! Make sure to arrive early for drinks and merriment in the fun-filled Winter Wonderland. The program includes guest artist performances, sing-alongs and more – snowshoes not required!

The Magic Flute LA Opera Dorothy Chandler Pavilion 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Dec 15 True love is never easy. Especially when there’s a giant spider chasing you. And she’s your mom. LA Opera presents The Magic Flute, composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and conducted by James Conlon / Grant Gershon. A dazzling celebration of love conquering all, The Magic Flute transports you into an enchanted world where good battles the forces of darkness. With the seamless interaction between onstage performers and projected hand-drawn animation, this inventive and charming interpretation brilliantly captures Mozart’s delightful blend of high comedy and adventure.

Grand Park Winter Glow DTLA 200 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Expanded across Grand Avenue to include the newly renovated Music Center Plaza, Grand Park’s Winter Glow returns for its second annual nighttime public art display, offering an immersive experience that spans two county locations this holiday season. As the days shorten and darken, the park celebrates light as a giver of warmth, a source of beauty, and the key component to bringing people together during the fall and winter months. In this interconnectivity, guests and families can share thoughts, identity, and space, making new holiday memories as they stroll through an illuminated and interactive art installation. Familiar pathways and historic fountains will lead to exciting new discoveries as the latest in light and projection technology transform spaces on The Music Center Plaza and in Grand Park.

Messiah Sing-Along Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Dec 18 LA Master Chorale conductor leads the popular do-it-yourself version of Handel’s Messiah, where the audience is the chorus.This will be the 39th annual Messiah Sing-Along and is sure to pack the house. Bring your own score or purchase one in the lobby. A limited number of VIP onstage tickets are available to bring you closer to the musical action. Hallelujah!

Winter Wonderland Pershing Square 532 S Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Lace up your skates and glide into the holidays with ice skating in Pershing Square! The Bai Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square offers the quintessential winter activity in the heart of beautiful downtown Los Angeles. Surrounded by art, lively activity, and the impressive city skyline, you can enjoy enjoy holiday concerts and other festive events under the sun and stars. Complete schedule HERE

Sparkle DTLA The Bloc 700 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Experience the world’s largest illuminated interactive holiday display at The Bloc in DTLA. Sparkle DTLA takes you through a magical nighttime journey of 16 million beautiful hues of lights that illuminate the city skyline and synchronize to your favorite holiday songs at the top of each hour. The display features a 16-foot larger-than-life ornament that you can walk through, and a 32-foot tree that you can enter to capture your perfect photo-op moments. The dazzling light display and interactive experience is the ideal holiday backdrop to creating special memories with your friends and family.

LA Kings Holiday Ice L.A. LIVE 800 W Olympic Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90015

Skate like a King as the LA Kings bring the Ice Skating Rink back to L.A. Live. Skate around a huge Christmas tree, surrounded by the signature vibrant LED screens of LA Live. Go early or stay late after a concert or sports game to skate the night away.

Holidays at Union Station 800 N Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Explore one of L.A.’s most iconic gems – Union Station – during the most festive time of the year. Learn the history of this extraordinary Spanish Colonial Revival and Art Deco monument as you enjoy the sounds, and sights of the season. You’ll cover the majority of Union Station from the famous Waiting Room—seen in countless movies—to the Fred Harvey Restaurant, much of which has been beautifully decorated for the season. Stay after the tour on December tour dates for Union Station’s free Cocoa Concerts. Enjoy a concert, cocoa bar, holiday light display, and more from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. on the South Patio.