The Los Angeles Zoo, in partnership with LA Pride, will host a family-friendly LGBTQIA+ edition of L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow on Wednesday, Jan. 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. The Zoo welcomes all LGBTQIA+ friends, families, and allies to celebrate the new year at the Zoo’s totally reimagined, wildlife-centric LED lights display showcasing over 30 of the Zoo’s most beloved animals including giraffes, elephants, orangutans, lemurs, koalas, and condors, along with other charismatic inhabitants.  

“We are so excited for this partnership with Christopher Street West and L.A. Pride,” said Denise Verret, CEO & Zoo Director, Los Angeles Zoo. “The L.A. Zoo is committed to creating a place for all the beautifully diverse communities of Los Angeles to feel welcomed and experience belonging while connecting with nature and biodiversity. I am thrilled to have members of our LGBTQIA+ community and their allies enjoy this special holiday tradition and establish lasting experiences and memories for years to come.” 

The 60- to 90-minute stroll through L.A. Zoo Lights takes guests through desert, garden, and jungle landscapes filled with larger-than-life glowing sculptures, magical lights, and immersive exhibits in a dazzling display of light and color. There are several animated and interactive displays and photo opportunities for family and friends to enjoy. They include a guest-activated kaleidoscope of lights; glowing ring swings; a wisteria tunnel that leads to a light fountain; a cherry blossom-lined path; and a giant alligator, peacock, and bird wings for a unique photo opportunity; and so much more. A full bar will be available for those 21+. Tickets to L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow start at $27 for children (2-12) and $34 for adults (13+). All ages are welcome. To purchase tickets, please visit www.lazoo.org/zoolights. 

Credit: L.A. Zoo.

Celebrate the last night of 2022 with the entire family with the specially ticketed Family New Year’s Eve experience at L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow. This not-to-be-missed all-ages celebration includes express entry to L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow, buffet dinner with soft drinks and dessert, a kid-friendly dance party and games, fun photo ops, live broadcast of the Times Square ball drop, and a New Year’s toast with complimentary champagne for adults (21+) and sparkling apple cider for kids. A cash bar is available. 

A night like this only comes around once a year, so gather the family for the ultimate way to experience L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow, the Zoo’s nighttime spectacular featuring beautiful lantern sculptures of animals among blooming flowers, towering trees, and more. This reimagined, wildlife-centric LED lights display showcases over 30 of the Zoo’s most beloved animals including giraffes, elephants, orangutans, lemurs, koalas, and condors, along with other charismatic inhabitants. The 60- to 90-minute stroll through L.A. Zoo Lights takes guests through desert, garden, and jungle landscapes filled with larger-than-life glowing sculptures, magical lights, and immersive exhibits in a dazzling display of light and color. There are several animated and interactive displays and photo opportunities for the family to enjoy. They include a guest-activated kaleidoscope of lights; glowing ring swings; a wisteria tunnel that leads to a light fountain; a cherry blossom-lined path; and a giant alligator, peacock, and bird wings for a unique photo opportunity; and so much more.  

Family New Year’s Eve guests have exclusive access to a dedicated area in the heart of the L.A. Zoo Lights route. Dinner will be served from 6 to 8 p.m. and holiday desserts served from 7 to 9 p.m. Family New’s Eve guests are welcome to explore L.A. Zoo Lights until closing at 10 p.m. Tickets are $100 for adults (18+) and  $75 for children (2-17); children younger than 2 are free. All ages welcome. Ticket sales end Dec. 23. To learn more, visit www.lazoo.org/zoolights. 

Credit: L.A. Zoo.

There’s an ocean of ways to celebrate the “sea”son at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Visitors can watch Santa Diver swim with sharks, look for holiday décor underwater with the fishes, witness snowfall, and go shopping all at the Aquarium of the Pacific during its holiday celebration from December 3 to 23. The Aquarium will have photo opportunities with Santa and a snow play area during Aquarium Holidays on weekends through December 18.

                        Throughout the celebration, you can see a display of gingerbread houses and holiday themed art projects created by Aquarium staff, a nearly three-story-tall holiday tree, and a sign with various holiday greetings in the Great Hall. While viewing the animals, look for seasonal décor in and around the Aquarium’s habitats from Shark Lagoon with its stockings for the sharks and rays to fish swimming by underwater holiday decorations.

TOY DRIVE:   From Saturday, December 3 through Friday, December 23, you can bring in an unwrapped toy valued at $15 or more to donate to the Spark of Love toy drive and will receive a coupon for $7 off a regular adult or child admission (limit one coupon per toy received). There is a maximum of six discounts per party for six or more toys received.

WHEN:           Aquarium Holidays: Saturday, December 3 to 23, 2022, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

WHERE:         Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802

COST:            Included with general admission: $36.95 per adult (ages 12+), $26.95 per child (ages 3-11), $33.95 per senior (ages 62+), and free for Aquarium members and children under age three

Advance reservations are required.

INFO:              (562) 590-3100 or aquariumofpacific.org/events/info/aquarium_holidays/

Credit: Aquarium of the Pacific.

Event Features Music, Dancing, Fireworks and Access to Select Rides and Attractions; Included with Theme Park Admission

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

 Universal Studios Hollywood rings in 2023 with EVE, Hollywood’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration featuring music entertainment, a brilliant fireworks display and access to select rides and attractions, on Saturday, December 31 with extended hours until 2:00 a.m.

Included in the price of theme park admission, EVE is the ultimate way to bid farewell to 2022 and usher in 2023 that begins with a full day of fun, enjoying popular and award-winning rides and attractions, before transitioning to the new year in a park-wide celebration and special midnight countdown.

Universal Studios Hollywood’s night to remember begins at 9:00 p.m. as an energetic party kicks off with multiple entertainment hubs featuring DJs spinning an eclectic array of music for guests to dance into the new year with their choice of pop, rock, hip-hop, EDM and Latin music. Iconic photo ops located around the theme park will also provide a memorable backdrop to capture and share moments from the big night.

A lively New Year’s countdown rounds out the event before a dazzling fireworks display punctuates the nighttime sky. A winter snowfall and confetti bursts also add to the festive evening within designated areas.

A selection of food and beverages, including desserts, champagne, beer, wine and cocktails, as well as memorabilia will be available for purchase. Guests must be 21+ and have a valid photo ID to purchase alcoholic beverages.

It’s a day and night filled with exciting entertainment and one-of-a-kind blockbuster attractions, including mega-attraction “Jurassic World—The Ride,” Illumination’s award-winning “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash” and “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and the world-famous Studio Tour. Guests can visit Springfield, U.S.A. and “The Simpsons Ride™” and experience heart-pounding thrills on “Transformers™:  The Ride-3D” and “Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride.”

While reveling in the New Year, guests can enjoy the “Awesomest Celebration of the Season,” including holiday favorite, “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” featuring “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts ^TM Castle” which brings the iconic Hogwarts castle to life in a stunning spectacle. The Who-bilation continues at “Grinchmas” where joyful park-goers can delight in the wonderous Who-ville and meet its infamous villager, The Grinch and his faithful dog Max, plus the Whos.

Holiday festivities at Universal Studios Hollywood run daily now through Sunday, January 1, 2023.

To purchase tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood, which includes Holidays and EVE access, guests can click here.

More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood.

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit seaside at Ventura Harbor Village, located off California Highway 101, where friends and family from near and far, are invited to add sun and sparkle this season. Trade in snow for sand and snow boots for flip flops – it’s time to enjoy another iconic event lineup at this stunning destination situated along the waterfront in Ventura. The Harbor is truly a “must SEA” spot this time of year.

Ventura Harbor is mustering up more holiday magic than ever with ocean-inspired decorations in a color palette of twinkling blue, aqua, and green beachy hues. On display for all to see are spiraling sea pearls, a scenic “SEAsons Greetings” photo op, whimsical holiday trees, vibrant wreaths, and other festive décor that reflects off the glistening marina waters. Seasonal décor can be enjoyed from now through the New Year!

Visitors are encouraged to take a seaside stroll to enjoy the lights and stop in for quality food on a cozy covered patio – a perfect way to entertain and spend quality time with loved ones. Following a relaxing meal, explore the Harbor Village for one-of-a-kind gifts. Ventura’s locally-owned shops and art galleries have everything from handmade treasures to fun stocking stuffers.

Ventura Harbor offers an array of community festivities for the holidays including Small Business Saturday, Santa Paddle, Winter Wonderland & Marketplace, and the most anticipated event of the year – Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks. Visit venturaharborvillage.com/events/ to SEA a full stellar line-up of events to make your holidays merry and bright!

Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace 2022

Seas the day and add a little glee with Ventura Harbor Village’s annual Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace 2022 on Saturday, December 10th from Noon to 3:00pm. Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus for photos and get up close to two of their reindeer! Live Dickenson carolers and holiday characters will be roaming, catch the Toy Soldier band, play in the faux snowfall, and browse a Pop-Up Village Makers Market along the seaside Promenade. Featured Harbor Village artisans and creators include Lemon & Lei, Harbor Village Gallery & Gifts, Mermaid Gallery and Ventura Pottery Gallery. In addition, complementary crafts for kids will provided by Lakeshore. venturaharborvillage.com/event/winter-wonderland-holiday-marketplace-2022/

Arrive early on Saturday, December 10^th at 11:00am for Ventura Harbor’s 6^th Annual Santa Paddle – a sure bet for holiday fun.  Santa Trades Reindeer for Paddle Board in a salute to the sea, whereby visitors rent a kayak, SUP, or stand-up YOLO board or character pedal boats from Ventura Boat Rentals to join the fun.  Everyone is invited to dress festively in the spirit of the season in red and white Santa’s elves, and of course Santa Hats! Arrive early to secure your rental needs. venturaharborvillage.com/events/

Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks 2022

It’s an “Out of this World” moment when spectators get their first glimpse of the magnificent boats amid festive décor at the 45^th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks on Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17,2022 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. Vivid and bright, the procession of colorfully decorated boats is a spectacle to behold. This year’s theme of “Out of This World” will be all things outer space. Here’s peek at what’s planned: 

4:00pm & beyond – Kids Rides & Carnival Games on the Harbor Village main lawn
5:30pm – Faux Snowfall, LED Performers twinkle and shine along the Harbor Village Promenade
6:30pm – Boat Parade Begins (two laps throughout Ventura Harbor)
8:00pm – Fireworks (weather pending) – look northwest for best viewing

The celebration spotlights more than 25 illuminated power and sail boats per night as they cruise around the entire Harbor – plus carnival rides, sweet treats, warm drinks, and waterfront dining throughout Ventura Harbor Village. To cap off the evening, a fireworks display lights up the night sky and sea on both Friday & Saturday at approximately 8:00pm (weather permitting). Event admission and parking are complimentary. venturaharborvillage.com/parade-of-lights/ 

Plan to vote for the prestigious People’s Choice Award on the Ventura Harbor’s Facebook page! View all parade entries on the “2022 People’s Choice Award” album and “like” your favorites. Boat owners are invited to bring holiday cheer to the Ventura County Community by joining the parade.

Entering as a boater is completely free, plus awards and participation prizes will be given, including cash and gift certificates. To join the parade with your decorated boat, visit venturaharborvillage.com/pol-boaters/ for details. 

Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights is made possible by the following sponsors:Four Points by Sheraton & Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Portside Ventura Harbor, Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market, Ventura West Marina, Ventura Isle Marina, Channel Watch Marine / Tow Boat US, Island Packers, The Greek Mediterranean Steak & Seafood, Brophy Bros. Restaurant & Clam Bar, On the Alley, Ventura Yacht Club, Ventura Marina Community, Ventura Keys Association, Mavcco Market, Ventura Harbor Boatyard, Coastal Cone, Harbor Cove Café, Deep Sea Winery, Sunbelt Rentals, RP Barricade, Cumulus Broadcasting, Ventura Breeze, VC Reporter, & Valley Scene Magazine. 

Holiday goers can also revel in the true spirit of the season with these special public on-the-water activities and holiday cruises: 

Island Packers Public Holiday Cruises

Island Packers Holiday Lights Cruises:

Cruise in style to view holiday lights with friends/family during a one-hour Island Packers Holiday Lights Cruise on select dates from December 7- 23, 2022. Cost: $18 per adult, $16 per senior (55+), and $12 per child. For advance reservations call 805-642-1393.

Island Packers Parade of Lights Cruises:

For those who wish to see the colorfully-lit boats up close, look no further than Island Packers Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights Cruises on December 16 and 17, 2022. Cruises depart at 5:45pm, 6:00pm, & 6:15pm. Fare is $38 for adults, $35 for seniors and $28 for children under 12. Group rates are available. For advance reservations call 805-642-1393 or visit islandpackers.com to book.

Get on the Water with Ventura Boat Rentals

A menagerie of charter boats (ducks, dragons, flamingos and swans) offered by Ventura Boat Rentals get visitors in the holiday spirit with both public daytime and nighttime rentals when the boats are lit with colorful lights. In addition, Ventura Boat Rentals is also offering private holiday boat charters to experience California Sleigh Rides and to view the Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks.  For advance reservations call 805-642-7753 or visit venturaboatrentals.com.                             

Shop Local On Small Business Saturday

Get a jump start on gift shopping without the big box bustle, and partake in Small Business Saturday on November 26, 2022 from 11:00am – 6:00pm. There is no shortage of one-of-a-kind gifts and original finds for family and friends! Ventura Harbor Village has a holiday shopping trail that makes shopping a breeze with a pedestrian-friendly promenade adjacent to the glistening water, live entertainment, and complimentary parking. Holiday shoppers can give the gift of year-round experiences by purchasing gift cards too!  venturaharborvillage.com/event/shop-small-saturday-2022/

See these gift ideas to match the different personas of everyone on your list:

The AdventurerVentura Dive & Sport, The Ultimate Escape Rooms, Island Packers & Gift Shop have numerous options to please adventurous tweens and adults, whether they prefer exploring the sea or solving riddles to escape a themed room on land.

The Art EnthusiastDiscover beautiful hand-crafted pottery, original art, and sea themed décor for for the art lover or new home owner in your life  at Harbor Village Gallery & Gifts, Mermaid Gallery, and Ventura Pottery Gallery. 

The Wine & Chocolate LoverFor holiday entertaining and gifting, visit the new Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room (each bottle produced in small batch) and Top This Chocolate for customized chocolate bars, table chocolates, and chocolate stocking treats.

The FashionistaBrowse Anja’s Boutique has European linen garments and jewelry, Barefoot Boutique for California casual apparel and accessories, Casa De Regalos for sporty wear, Hats Unlimited for hats of all sizes and shapes, Harbor Market & Liquor for Ventura Harbor wear, Lost In Socks for an array of themed socks, Treasure Cove  for sea themed jewelry, and Ventura Swimwear which boasts an extensive collection of swimwear and cozy accessories.

The Self Care LoverLook no further than Frenchies Modern Nail Care, Silhouettes By The Beach full-service salon to complete a fantastic holiday look, and the perfect stocking stuffers are handmade holiday soaps, salves, and bath bombs from Lemon & Lei.

The Foodie FriendTake a gastronomic stroll and give the gift of a savory meal to the foodie lovers. The Harbor has cuisine from around the world all in one place – American, Cuban, French, Greek, Mexican, and fresh seafood. Grab a dining gift certificate at Ventura Harbor Village restaurant for every palate. 

Cuisine From Around the World:

Holiday Fare On Christmas

Make memories with a casual meal or gather for a special dinner with family and friends at one of the popular dining options at Ventura Harbor on Christmas Day, December 25, 2022. Visit venturaharborvillage.com/dine/ to learn restaurants are open on Christmas Day. 

Ring in 2023 on New Year’s Eve

Enjoy the live music seaside with the band “Blown Over” from Noon to 3 PM on December 31, 2022 in beautiful Ventura Harbor Village. Listen from the scenic Village promenade or while dining on a nearby waterfront restaurant patio. SEA you seaside in celebration of the New Year! venturaharborvillage.com/events

Waterfront Dining On New Year’s Day

Welcome 2023 waterside and toast the New Year with a savory selection of al la carte and pre fixe menus items accompanied by handcrafted and specialty cocktails at an array of restaurants on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2023. Visit venturaharborvillage.com/events/ to learn which restaurants are open on New Year’s Day.

Admission & Parking Information:

Admission for Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace, Parade of Lights, and Santa Paddle are complimentary. Complimentary event parking is available in Ventura Harbor Village Parking Lots, designated spots along Spinnaker Drive, Surfer’s Knoll  Beach, Harbor Cove Beach, and Safe Harbor Ventura Isle (Dolphin Parking Section only).

Arrive early for best parking and shopping throughout the Ventura Harbor Village. Consider taking Uber and Lyft to the events this year. Dinner reservations are recommended or arrive early to dine in venues throughout Ventura Harbor. Parade and fireworks are weather pending. For best views of the parade, reserve a Parade of Lights cruise.

For a complete schedule of holiday events and entertainment and additional visitor information, contact Ventura Harbor Village at 805-477-0470, or visit VenturaHarborVillage.com.  Ventura Harbor Village is located at 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura, CA 93001. 

Ventura Harbor Village is excited to welcome the community with an outdoor, open-air public space to spend and enjoy the holiday. The Harbor asks that visitors please be mindful during their visit and seaside safely. 

Post, share, and tag your experience @VenturaHarbor for a chance to be featured!

Credit: Ventura Harbor Village.

Since the park’s opening in 1955, the holidays have always marked a special time for SkyPark at Santa’s Village, which serves as Santa’s year-round home in the San Bernardino Mountains. This year, from November 17th through January 8th, families and adventure-seekers can come to the Southern California park for an exciting winter wonderland getaway. SkyPark at Santa’s Village, which is open year-round, will feature an immersive holiday experience, seasonal treats, special winter activities, and adventures for adults and children of all ages.

To purchase tickets, click here:

https://skyparksv.centeredgeonline.com/areas

To learn more:

https://skyparksantasvillage.com/santas-village-2022/

It’s the most wonderful time of the year so why not celebrate the holiday season at Santa’s Village? Break out the winter coats and pour the hot chocolate because. Santa and the elves have been working hard all year to make guest’s visits extra magical, and they just can’t wait to meet everyone. So pack up the kids, bring your Christmas spirit, and start making memories at this nostalgic one-of-a-kind theme park nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains!

When: November 17 – January 8th

Special Holiday-Themed Events Include:

Kids Imagine Nation Christmas Spectacular

This holiday show will have you dancing and singing along! For show times, please check the Entertainment QR code when you arrive at the park.

Ice Skating at the Silver Bells Arena

Skate amid the evergreens in our spacious outdoor arena. Weather permitting. Guests are welcome to bring their own skates or rent a pair. Skate rentals are included with paid admission.

Photos with Santa Claus at His House

Get your picture taken with Santa himself! Please make a reservation to see Santa when you arrive at the park. A standby line will also be available.

Tree Lighting Ceremony with Santa & Village of Lights Spectacular

The characters of the NorthWoods will parade and dance their way up Candy Cane Lane to meet Santa at the Village Christmas Tree for a festive ceremony to commemorate the season. Then, the entire village will come alive with a dazzling light show set to holiday music.

Additional Limited-SpaceExperiences:

– Breakfast with Santa

Meet Santa and enjoy a delicious breakfast of waffles, breakfast breads, fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, Elves’ special casseroles, and breakfast meats, paired with a variety of juices, coffee and hot cocoa.

– Tea with Mrs. Claus

Join Mrs. Claus and her friends for a unique, private tea party experience. Mrs. Claus has been working extra hard and has prepared a fun-filled afternoon of stories, tea, sandwiches, and treats in your honor.

For more about these special experiences, visit:

https://skyparksantasvillage.com/breakfast-with-santa-tea-with-mrs-claus-2022/

Want to stay on-site? Check out the SkyPark Camp + RV Resort: 

http://skyparkcamprv.com

To purchase park tickets and special experience tickets visit:

https://skyparksv.centeredgeonline.com/areas

Credit: SkyPark at Santa’s Village
SkyPark at Santa’s Village is an alpine-themed family adventure park that caters to thrill-seekers of all ages. Surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest, the year-round park features a world-class mountain bike park as well as fantasy forest themed characters, attractions, self-powered rides, rustic restaurants, and shops nestled in the historic Santa’s Village theme park. SkyPark’s Northwoods offers up-close and personal time with nature as you bike, hike, fish, and climb. During the holidays, the park is transformed into Santa’s Village; with cookie decorating, carols, special character meet & greets, and the popular tree lighting ceremony. For more, visit: https://skyparksantasvillage.com

Celebrate the holidays at OC Parks’ Heritage Hill Historical Park this December with Candlelight Walk and Holiday Lights.

The 36th annual Candlelight Walk will take place over three festive evenings, December 9-11 from 5 to 9 p.m. Take a stroll through the merry grounds, enjoying historical buildings adorned with décor from the past. Join the jubilation and enjoy live musical performances, holiday crafts for kids and a visit with Santa Claus! Refreshments will be available for cash purchase.   

The merriment continues December 16-18 from 5 to 9 p.m. with OC Parks’ Holiday Lights. Gather friends and family to wander through twinkling lights, and don’t forget your camera for various holiday-themed photo opportunities. Pets are welcome outdoors on leashes no longer than six feet. Please note that additional entertainment and refreshments will not be provided.

“We are excited to see friends, families, and neighbors come together for this year’s Candlelight Walk and Holiday Lights at Historic Heritage Hill,” said Vice Chairman Donald P. Wagner, Orange County Board of Supervisors. “It is a wonderful way to celebrate Orange County’s vibrant history and create new and joyful memories this holiday season.”

Both holiday events are free to attend with free parking. Inclement weather may cancel the events.

Heritage Hill Historical Park

25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630

http://www.ocparks.com/heritagehill/ 

(949) 923-2230 

36th Annual Candlelight Walk

Date: December 9, 10 and 11

Time: 5 – 9 p.m.

Cost & Parking: Free

Holiday Lights 

Date: December 16, 17 and 18

Time: 5 – 9 p.m.

Cost & Parking: Free

Credit: OC Parks.