The One Thing To Do in Southern California Before the End of the Year

If Los Angeles had an official postcard moment for the holiday season, it would be Christmas at The Grove. Though the city comes alive with light installations, festive concerts, and holiday pop-up markets, nothing is quite as iconic as this outdoor shopping institution. Each year, The Grove transforms into a glowing wonderland where palm trees coexist with massive Christmas decorations, and even nightly snowfall drifts onto excited crowds as holiday music dances through the air. No matter if you are a lifelong Angeleno or visiting for the first time, The Grove at Christmastime is a must during the holiday season.

A Dazzling Holiday Atmosphere That Feels Straight Out of a Movie

The Grove takes the holidays seriously when it comes to decorating. From the moment you step onto the cobblestone-lined walkways, twinkling lights are wrapped around every tree with oversized ornaments glistening above. The Christmas tree is so tall, even the most sincere holiday enthusiasts gasp in delight.

Then comes the snow. Yes, snow in sunny Los Angeles. Nightly "snowfalls" turn mild December evenings into a soft-lit spectacle. Come to photograph it, dance in it, or simply marvel at the absurdly charming and cinematic experience that makes all ages smile.

Shopping That Actually Feels Fun (Yes, Even Holiday Shopping)

Most holiday shopping can feel like a sprint, but shopping at The Grove makes it something you want to linger over, with luxury boutiques, classic favorites, seasonal pop-ups, and various specialty stores. If you are just finalizing your shopping or happily starting it late, The Grove makes it easy to enjoy with cheery decorations, gorgeous storefronts, and live music. 

You can wander from store to store under strings of lights, pause for a peppermint hot chocolate, or sit near the fountain and absorb the joyful energy. It’s shopping with all the stress removed and all the holiday charm amplified.

The Legendary Farmers Market: Food, Flavor, and Festive Cheer

After a few hours of shopping, visitors are sure to be hungry, making the Original Farmers Market a culinary paradise wrapped in nostalgia. Steps from the main shopping street, this landmark is an endless array of options. Here, you’ll find everything from Brazilian barbecue, Cajun comfort food, French breads and cheeses, authentic tacos, handmade chocolates, and nuts. Whatever you’re in the mood for, the Original Farmers Market is serving it.

The Original Farmers Market has its own festive touches during the Christmas season. Seasonal treats appear at bakeries, and the comforting warm smells of global cuisines float through the air. Graze from stall to stall, or enjoy a sit-down meal, this is one of the most satisfying and delicious holiday activities to do in the city of L.A.

Holiday Entertainment Everywhere You Look

Part of what makes The Grove so magical is that there’s always something happening. Carolers, musicians, photo ops with Santa, and Instagram-worthy displays line the walkways. Kids stare in awe at the giant toy soldier decorations, and couples pose under the glowing ornaments. You might even spot a celebrity doing their own holiday shopping. This is Los Angeles, after all.

Of course, you can’t forget the iconic trolley. Riding it through The Grove during Christmastime feels timeless, whimsical, and undeniably heartwarming.

Why This Should Be Your One Must-Do Holiday Outing

The Grove is the rare holiday outing that brings together every joyful element of the season—shopping, lights, music, food, family time, and childlike wonder–into one beautifully curated experience. For travelers seeking something more to explore in Southern California, be sure to use the Only In Your State AI-powered itinerary planner to receive customized local restaurant, activity, and event suggestions.

If you do only one festive thing in Los Angeles this year, spend an evening at The Grove at Christmas. Stroll, shop, eat, wander, take photos, enjoy the magical "snow," and let yourself get swept up in a holiday mood that feels both nostalgic and wonderfully L.A. Because honestly, there’s nothing else like it.