TheBlocLA Archives

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

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

Say Hello to Summer: Outdoor Movies are Back

June 20 is the Summer Solstice, marking the longest day of the year and the beginning of summer. What could be more fun than celebrating the season at an outdoor movie! Ever since the first patented drive-in movie theatre opened in New Jersey in 1933, movies under the stars have been a summer rite of passage. Today, outdoor movies are bigger than ever, with parks, rooftops, and even airports popping up state-of-the art screens and sound systems, many just short distance from Circa. Southern California is also host to some of the most iconic drive-in theaters in the US, with design themes ranging from Route 66 to Tiki kitsch and 50s cool. Feast from food trucks and concession stands, or pack your own picnic. Say hello to summer, outdoor movies are back.

Street Food Cinema outdoor movies near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Street Food Cinema Los Angeles State Historic Park 1245 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Launched in 2012, Street Food Cinema is more than just an outdoor movie, it’s an experience bringing together the best in pop culture films, gourmet street food and progressive new music. Street Food Cinema reinvents the traditional movie going experience – al fresco style. Every element is carefully curated to develop a unique atmosphere that will make you want to come back again and again.

Poolside Dinner & A Movie JW Marriott outdoor movies near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Poolside Dinner & A Movie JW Marriott L.A. LIVE 900 W Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Enjoy movies under the stars on the Rooftop Pool Deck at the JW Marriott. Tickets include a two-course meal (one appetizer and one entree selection), plus unlimited popcorn and complimentary soft drinks. Full bar is available, but not included in the ticket price.

Cinespia outdoor movies near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Cinespia Hollywood Forever Cemetery 6000 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90038

Cinespia brings movie magic to life with screenings of classic films to an audience from around the world, including some of Hollywood’s most famous faces. With over 30 events per year, Cinespia hosts dazzling screenings under the stars at iconic venues including The Hollywood Forever Cemetery and The Greek Theatre. The 2021 season, presented by Amazon Studios, marks the 20th anniversary of the first and longest running outdoor screening series in Los Angeles.

The Bloc outdoor movies near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Drive in Movies at The Bloc 700 S Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Coming soon! Calling all movie lovers – The Bloc invites you to experience a night at the movies from the comfort of your car every Thursday night in the month of August. The Bloc is a vibrant, open-air urban center in the heart of downtown Los Angeles encompassing a full city block along LA’s iconic 7th Street corridor, The Bloc connects the financial, fashion, jewelry, and theater districts – and the 7th Street Metro Center Station, where four DTLA lines converge. More details to come HERE

Sounds of Summer WUTI outdoor movies near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Sounds of Summer Exposition Park South Lawn 500 Exposition Park Dr. Los Angeles, CA. 90037

Sounds of Summer is a screening series curated by WUTI (Women Under the Influence) in partnership with Crush Palace for everyone that has been craving shared musical experiences over the past year. WUTI is very excited to be partnering with Dublab to curate the Talking Heads inspired sounds at the Stop Making Sense screening extravaganza on June 25.

Rooftop Cinema Club outdoor movies near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Rooftop Cinema Club Santa Monica Airport 3233 Donald Douglas Loop S. Santa Monica, CA 90405

Enjoy movies under the stars at the Santa Monica Airport. Movies will be projected onto a 52-foot screen, and audio will be broadcast through the FM transmitter radio in your car. Each parking spot will now come with a designated tailgating area, giving you the option to watch the film from within or outside of your vehicle. You are welcome to bring your own food and drink, but they also offer local food trucks every Thursday through Sunday and a selection of classic cinema concessions nightly.

Mission Tiki outdoor movies near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mission Tiki Drive-In Theatre 10798 Ramona Ave. Montclair, CA 91763

For those of you who like your movies with a side of kitsch, Mission Tiki Drive-In in Montclair is just the ticket. The box office opens 1.5 hours before showtime on Friday and Saturday nights and 1 hour before on Sunday through Thursday. Come early to get the best parking spots. Admission is $10 for adults. Check their website for weekly schedule.

Rubidoux outdoor movies near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Rubidoux Drive-In 3770 Opal St, Riverside, CA 92509

The Rubidoux, with its original 1948 screen tower still standing tall, is the last of the classic drive-in theaters remaining in Southern California. Though it retains much of its original character, time has transformed this gem into a thoroughly modern outdoor theatre. The incorporation of FM transmitters and Technalight digital projection ensures the best possible picture and sound available. The box office and snack bar have gotten a new treatment as well, and are now reminiscent of the theatre’s original postwar Route 66 heritage.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Street Food Cinema

Photo #2: Street Food Cinema

Photo #3: JW Marriott

Photo #4: Cinespia

Photo #5: The Bloc

Photo #6: WUTI

Photo #7: Rooftop Cinema Club

Photo #8: Mission Tiki

Photo #9: Rubidoux Drive-In

Let It Glow: Where to See the Holiday Lights in LA

It’s time to sparkle and shine, and DTLA is all aglow with holiday lights to make your spirits bright. You’ll also find some spectacular displays just a short distance from Circa, such as Altadena’s legendary Christmas Tree Lane and St. Albans Road in San Marino. This year, you can experience seasonal celebrations from the comfort of your car, like the Dodgers Drive Thru Holiday Festival and The Bite LA Sweets Crawl at Whittier Narrows’ Legg Lake. Or take a moment to reflect on nature’s beauty at Descanso Gardens and stroll among the stunning art installations at South Coast Botanic Garden. This season, there’s no end to the holiday magic when you let it glow.

Sparkle DTLA 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 night time journey that includes one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays. Capture your perfect photo-op moments at this ultimate holiday experience.

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

Dodgers Drive Thru Holiday Festival Dodger Stadium 1000 Vin Scully Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

The 2020 World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers are hosting a drive-thru Holiday Festival, complete with a light show, LED video displays, faux snow, and interactive displays honoring the Dodgers World Championship and celebrating the holidays. The Dodgers Holiday Festival is a great way to enjoy the holidays responsibly from the comfort of your own vehicle. Open nightly 5-10PM until December 24. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Grand Park holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Grand Park 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

This year Grand Park is trading its annual Winter Glow for a thoughtful art installation called “Ground Our Present, Dot Our Future,” featuring walkways flecked with Angelenos’ messages about hope and social connection. Read them in the glow of a lighted selfie wall, fountain and holiday tree in front of the Music Center. Until Jan. 2, 2021. Free admission.

Reflections at Descanso Gardens holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Reflections at Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens invites you to take a moment to reflect and enjoy the beauty that’s all around us. Discover art pieces in the garden, special seasonal plantings, self-guided activities, and a beautiful Wishing Tree created by artist Kaz Yokou Kitajima. Walk through the Golden Grove where gold-burnished logs and stones will appear from the base of the oaks creating a festive glow. Stroll through the Camellia Forest and visit the Mirror Tree, adorned with mirrors that reflect the light and beauty around it, and make a wish for the New Year. Non-members must purchase tickets online in advance.

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

Christmas Tree Lane Santa Rosa Ave. (between Woodbury Ave. and Altadena Dr.) Altadena, CA 91001

GLOW at South Coast Botanic Garden 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 lights designed by California Outdoor Lighting. The walk is set to an artistically curated soundtrack featuring a little something for everyone, including original music created for GLOW by Jerzy, as well as Baja surf music, Train, and Vivaldi. Let the colors wash over you like a wave and the music be your current, guiding you through this unique and unforgettable after-dark walk.

St. Albans Road near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

St. Albans Road St. Albans Rd. & Huntington Dr. San Marino, CA 91108

Every December, the tall majestic pines that line Saint Albans Road are bedecked in colored lights to resemble giant Christmas trees. This old San Marino neighborhood is also a treasure trove of stately old California architecture, all dressed up for the holidays.

Mission Inn & Spa holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Festival of Lights Mission Inn & Spa 3649 Mission Inn Ave. Riverside, CA 92501

The Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is one of the nation’s largest holiday light collections, voted “Best Public Lights Display” by USA Today. The Festival of Lights is a cherished annual tradition created by the inn’s owners as a gift for the community back in 1992. Every year, it attracts over 500,000 visitors, all thrilled to watch the display come to life through the holidays. This year, the hotel will feature dazzling lights on the exterior of the hotel, interior lighting, and holiday décor that captures the true essence and history of this beautiful venue.

Winterlit Downtown Santa Monica holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Winterlit 1351 3rd Street Promenade Downtown Santa Monica, CA 90401

Winterlit returns to Downtown Santa Monica to brighten up the holiday season. Tens of thousands of lights will illuminate the Third Street Promenade’s festive outdoor retail, and holiday-inspired art installations will come to life at eleven stops throughout Third Street Promenade, featuring window displays in storefronts and murals created by local artists who were asked to interpret what the holiday season means to them during this unprecedented year.

The Bite LA Stocking Stuffer Sweets Crawl holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Stocking Stuffer Sweets Crawl Legg Lake 751 Santa Anita Ave. South El Monte, CA 91733

From the creators of The Bite LA: Halloween Food Crawl and the former creative director of the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride, comes a seasonal twist on the drive-thru experience offering immersive winter holiday fun. Whittier Narrows’ Legg Lake is transformed into a winter wonderland with sweets and activities all available from the comfort of your car. Stock up on sweets with your complimentary BITE LA stocking (8 Sweets Bites are included). Get your bag of 5 safe, cotton plush ‘sno-balls’ (included with your ticket) and enter the Snowman Sno-Ball Fight. Dress up your ride in the ugliest holiday sweater or decor and be entered to win prizes throughout the season. The gaudier the merrier.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: The Bloc

Photo #2: The Bloc

Photo #3: Los Angeles Dodgers

Photo #4: Grand Park

Photo #5: Descanso Gardens

Photo #6: Christmas Tree Lane

Photo #7: South Coast Botanic Garden

Photo #8: Red Tricycle/Sarah P. via Yelp

Photo #9: Mission Inn & Spa

Photo #10: Downtown Santa Monica

Photo #11: The Bite LA

Discover LA’s Amazing Murals & Street Art

Los Angeles is renowned as one of the most exciting places in the world for street art. Incredible murals and art walls appear all around the city, and many have become permanent, treasured fixtures. Artists have found their canvas on buildings, walls, freeway barriers, and even LA River storm drains, enriching our public art scene and attracting street art fans from around the world. Many of the most significant artworks are in Downtown Los Angeles near Circa. Whether you’re an art lover looking for new neighborhoods to explore or just want to snap some fresh content for your social feed, get out there and discover LA’s amazing murals and street art.

Kobe Bryant Murals

The City of Los Angeles recently came out in droves to pay their respects to sports legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant on Kobe Bryant Day August 24, 2020. Figueroa St. between Olympic and MLK will soon be Kobe Bryant Blvd. In celebration of his life, there are dozens of amazing Kobe Bryant murals located in Downtown Los Angeles and the Arts District near Staples Center. You can view a MAP of all Kobe mural locations and follow along at Instagram.com/KobeMural Pictured: Mural by Los Angeles-based visual artist AISEBORN at 1348 Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90015.

Kobe Mural by Jonas Never 1337 Lebanon St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Nearby the Staples Center, Los Angeles sports muralist Jonas Never created a Kobe Bryant mural to honor the star’s NBA career in 2016. Following the news of the accident, fans gathered at the Downtown Los Angeles mural along the 1300 block of Lebanon Street. Hundreds of people have written down their tributes on post-its and hung them bellow the iconic mural. The artwork features Kobe doing his iconic Mamba yell along with “Los Angeles Culture” styled as the Lakers’ logo.

Kent Twitchell Ed Ruscha Monument American Hotel 303 S. Hewitt St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

A veritable legend in the L.A. mural scene is Kent Twitchell, who is internationally famous for his realistic multi-storied mural portraits. He’s been painting across the city for decades, although some of his most beloved pieces have been erased over the years, such as his original portrait of the artist Ed Ruscha. Fortunately, Twitchell had the chance to do an updated version of Ed Ruscha Monument on the side of the American Hotel in the Arts District. One of his moet iconic works, Harbor Freeway Overture, a depiction of three Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra musicians, is located on the Citiicorp Plaza parking structure at 8th St. and the Harbor Freeway.

Street Art @The Bloc 700 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90017

Explore the street art at The Bloc while social distancing and rocking your masks. You’ll have plenty of great opportunities to perk up your social media feed as you pose with colorful murals featuring the work of WRDSMTH, Antigirl, Colette Miller, and more. Hashtag #bestofdtla to enter-to-win a $1,000 giveaway! Pictured is a dramatic 30-foot mural by Robert Vargas with photo by @vero.parga

Arts District Dog Park 1004 E 4th Street Los Angeles, CA 90013

Here’s the chance to see some amazing LA murals while taking your pooch on a well-deserved trip to the park. True to its creative surroundings, The Arts District Dog Park is punctuated with colorful murals by LA artist Septerhed. Featured on ABC7 LA, KTLA, WKBW Buffalo, and more, Septerhead is an LA-based artist specializing in murals, illustrations, paintings, live painting and other wave lengths. The park includes a dog water fountain, separate small dog area, shade trees, benches for humans, a community bulletin board, pooper-scoopers, and trash bins. Not run or supported by the City of Los Angeles, this volunteer-run park is a true example of community spirit.

Leo Limón LA River Catz

For 35 plus years East LA-born artist Leo Limón has been painting the Los Angeles River cat faces on the storm-drain covers in a beloved project known as the LA River Catz. In the 70s, Limón developed an interest in the arts and discovered a prime, neglected canvas in the L.A. River’s storm drains. His detailed paintings of cat faces represent his love for the unique flora and fauna of our urban river. With help from the city, Leo hired youth from different high schools, not only working with them to paint over 30 feline faces, but also working to reduce violence and other challenges facing his young assistants. Cats were chosen because the storm drains themselves look like a cat\’s face with the sealing hinges appearing as pointy ears and the doors themselves being a circular shape like a face. Limon is involved with groups whose efforts are to revive the Los Angeles River as a historic region, cultural art enclave and tourist destination.

Guide to LA Arts District Murals

Discover Los Angeles has a great guide to the Downtown LA Arts District Murals. Please note that the walls are in a constant state of flux and some artworks are more permanent than others. Murals give way to the elements, their colors fading with time. Some are obliterated as walls are taken over by new artists. The Arts District you see when you visit one summer may not be the one you see the following year. The lesson here is to always take photos! Pictured is Bloom by Hueman, an Oakland based painter and street artist.

The Mural Conservancy of Los Angeles

The Mural Conservancy of Los Angeles (MCLA) was created by a coalition of artists, public art advocates, city of Los Angeles and state of California public officials, and restoration specialists. MCLA built long-term programs to retain mural arts as a part of Los Angeles’ cultural legacy and establish murals as a significant part of our city’s cultural heritage. MCLA maintains a free database of Los Angeles’ Mural History linking artists, murals and neighborhoods. The MCLA website allows submissions of murals created recently in Los Angeles, forming an ever growing archive joining the historic with the new. Pictured is a mural by Vyal at The Container Yard arts center 800 East 4th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013. Vyal is one of the most identifiable graffiti artists on the West Coast.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Harbor Freeway Overture/Kent Twitchell

Photo #2: Kobe Mural/AISEBORN

Photo #3: Kobe Mural/Jonas Never

Photo #4: Kent Twitchell/Ed Ruscha Monument

Photo #5: The Bloc/Photo cred: @vero.parga Mural by: @therobertvargas

Photo #6: Arts District Dog Park/Septerhed

Photo #7: Leo Limón LA River Catz

Photo #8: Bloom by Hueman/Discover Los Angeles

Photo #9: MCLA/Vyal/The Container Yard

Your Ultimate Guide to Last Minute Holiday Shopping

Holiday shopping got you stumped? If you’re looking for unique and eclectic gifts, DTLA is brimming with options to play Santa – and please everyone on your nice list. From family to fashionistas, bookworms, culture vultures, pet lovers, tiny tots, and even your geekiest friends, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to last minute holiday shopping in DTLA!

Artists & Fleas Holiday Pop Up Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Dec 21-22 Artists & Fleas introduces a brand-new marketplace just in time for the holidays, bringing together the finest LA makers at Grand Central Market in DTLA. Spend the day checking all those gifts off your list and finishing off with one of our tasty recommendations in the market. Artists & Fleas Grand Central Market is located on the lower level. Walk the center of the market and head down the stairs to shop local makers.

A Little Tokyo Christmas & Holiday Boutique Aratani Theatre 244 San Pedro St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Dec 21 A Little Tokyo Christmas is back! Come enjoy music, laughter, and dancing by talented performers, celebrity guests, and beloved community members in this one-of-a-kind holiday show! Shop for unique crafts and gifts at the Holiday Gift Boutique and enjoy a fun-filled time for friends and family as Little Tokyo celebrates the holidays.

Poketo ROW DTLA 777 S. Alameda St. B1 Suite 174 Los Angeles, CA 90021

No holiday shopping spree would be complete without a trip to Poketo! Since its foundation in 2003 by husband-and-wife team Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung, Poketo has grown from a small startup into a creative hub and online destination for design-driven goods infused with aesthetic intentionality. Collections include everything from furniture & lighting to apothecary, tabletop, textiles, books & prints, and apparel. If you can’t the perfect gift at Poketo, it probably doesn’t exist!

The Library Store 630 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90071

The Library Store is operated by the Library Foundation of Los Angeles, which provides critical support to the Los Angeles Public Library resulting in free programs, resources, and services available to the millions of adults, children, and youth in Los Angeles. Through fundraising, advocacy, and innovative programs, the Library Foundation strengthens the Los Angeles Public Library and promotes greater awareness of its valuable resources. Shop the carefully curated collection of books, tees, totes, stationery and much more. All sales benefit the Los Angeles Public Library.

The Last Book Store 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

A true DTLA treasure, The Last Bookstore is California’s largest used and new book and record store, housed in a stunning 22,000 square-foot space in the Spring Arts Tower. In addition to over 250,000 new and used books on two floors, including the Arts & Rare Book Annex, the shared space includes tens of thousands of vinyl records and graphic novels, and a huge mezzanine level featuring the Labyrinth Above the Last Bookstore, Gather Yarn Shop, and the Spring Arts Collective gallery shops.

Rolling Greens 1005 Mateo St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Rolling Greens is Southern California’s premier destination for unique home + garden, featuring the finest live and artificial plants, home decor, containers, antiques and one-of-a-kind accents. The Arts District location includes a showroom, greenhouse, outdoor deck, and 25,000 square feet of multi-use event space, continuously curating a lifestyle outside creative bounds. Want to decorate your Christmas tree like a professional? Rolling Greens has an enormous selection of beautiful and high-quality decorations and their staff can show you how to expertly layer and style your tree to ensure wow factor!

Hauser & Wirth 917 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Occupying a former flour mill in DTLA’s Arts District, Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles is a vibrant communal space that links art and architecture with a dynamic events program. In addition to supporting and collaborating with many local and international cultural organizations, nonprofits, and universities, the Los Angeles gallery fosters public dialogue with the arts through a range of activities that engage the city’s diverse population. Manuela, the onsite restaurant, offers seasonal, locally-sourced produce, a chicken coop, and an open-air courtyard and garden. Additionally, the site is home to the first ARTBOOK store in Los Angeles, the Gallery Shop, which offers a curated selection of hand-crafted products, and Hauser & Wirth Publishers’ Book Lab.

Mr. G’s for Toys The Bloc 750 W 7th St #G720 Los Angeles, CA 90017

Mr. G’s for Toys is a real classic DTLA gift shop with a fun little twist. Explore their unique toy collection, from some of the latest toys and retro games – sure to please tiny tots and geeky friends alike! The gift shop also features trendy DTLA swag and souvenirs, as well as some good ol’ novelty merch, like mugs, postcards and more.

Pussy & Pooch Pethouse and Pawbar 564 S Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

You lead a stylish, progressive life and your pet companion should, too. That’s the thinking behind Pussy & Pooch, an adventurous destination where convenience meets community in a design-forward, social experience for pets and people. With a focus on nutrition and green living, the store is dedicated to providing a playful and edgy twist to the traditional pet store experience. Services include pet grooming, pet dental, and pet parties, along with an insane array of boutique pet toys, furniture and accessories. Pussy & Pooch offers convenient local delivery, and in-store and curbside pick-up for online orders.

Galerie.LA Gift Shop ROW DTLA 767 S Alameda St. Suite 192 Los Angeles, CA 90021

GALERIE.LA presents Gift Shop – a rotating holiday pop-up marketplace at featuring all ethical and local designers. Every Saturday & Sunday until December 22nd from 11am to 6pm. GALERIE.LA believes that supporting local is immensely important, so they’ve hand-selected a few of their favorite designers to make buying a thoughtful gift effortless. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or a co-worker, Gift Shop will have something for everyone!

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.