California lights up in November and December with sparkling displays that celebrate the magic of the season. If you’ll be traveling during this holiday seasons, you might have one of these special displays nearby your destination. Here are eight of the best light displays across the state for you and your family to explore this holiday season.
1. Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens
- Location: La Cañada Flintridge
- Dates: November 17, 2024 – January 7, 2025
- Website: Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens transforms into an illuminated forest featuring interactive light displays and art installations. Visitors can stroll through the garden pathways as they light up with colorful, immersive designs.
2. Festival of Lights at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
- Location: Riverside
- Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 6, 2025
- Website: Mission Inn
This famous holiday festival includes over five million lights illuminating the historic Mission Inn. With animated characters, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a dazzling tree, this display is a Southern California favorite.
3. LA Zoo Lights
- Location: Los Angeles
- Dates: November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025
- Website: LA Zoo
Families can enjoy a magical journey through the LA Zoo, where animated light displays, themed lanterns, and glowing animal sculptures transform the park into a holiday wonderland.
4. Christmas Tree Lane
- Location: Altadena
- Dates: December 7, 2024 – December 31, 2024
- Website: Christmas Tree Lane
Christmas Tree Lane is one of California’s oldest holiday traditions. This mile-long stretch of cedar trees is adorned with thousands of lights, creating a magical pathway perfect for a family stroll or a slow drive.
5. Solvang Julefest
- Location: Solvang
- Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025
- Website: Solvang USA
Known as California’s Danish Christmas village, Solvang shines with holiday lights, a nativity pageant, and a beautiful tree in the town square. This quaint display captures the spirit of a traditional European Christmas.
6. Imaginarium at CalExpo
- Location: Sacramento
- Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 6, 2025
- Website: CalExpo
Drive through a mile-long stretch of holiday lights and festive displays at CalExpo. Highlights include illuminated tunnels, animated figures, and themed zones to captivate all ages.
7. Garden of Lights at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
- Location: Fort Bragg
- Dates: November 29, 2024 – December 31, 2024 (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday)
- Website: Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
The gardens glow with twinkling lights set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. This display offers a peaceful, scenic experience with thousands of LED lights illuminating plants, trees, and unique sculptures.
8. Redding Garden of Lights at Turtle Bay Exploration Park
- Location: Redding
- Dates: November 17, 2024 – December 31, 2024
- Website: Turtle Bay Exploration Park
The Redding Garden of Lights features a dazzling display at Turtle Bay Exploration Park, where visitors can enjoy illuminated pathways, themed sections, and scenic garden views set against the beautiful Sundial Bridge. This walk-through experience includes holiday music, seasonal treats, and opportunities for family photos.
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