Celebrating the Holidays in Los Angeles

Thanksgiving is over, meaning the holiday season has officially begun!  There are several holiday traditions in Los Angeles worth checking out.

The Hollywood Christmas Parade (map)

The parade occurs every year on the Sunday after Thanksgiving (Nov. 29th this year) at 6 p.m. at Hollywood Blvd. at Orange.  This years’ Grand Marshal is All My Children‘s Susan Lucci.  Much like the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving parade, this parade features bands, floats, and celebrities!  Reserved grandstand seating is available for $35 by calling 1-866-PARADE1.

Department of Water and Power Light Show (map)

Every year, the DWP of Los Angeles sets up a fantastic light show that is located along one mile of Crystal Springs Drive, starting at the Los Angeles Zoo.  The lights are on December 18-30 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily.  You can drive your car through, walk, or take a shuttle along the course.  December 21st and 28th from 5 – 5:30 p.m. are “vehicle-free” Mondays, so bring out your bicycle!

Besides the light show, there will be a toy drive, a family mini-fair on December 11, 12 &13 during festival hours, featuring information on family activities, healthy nutrition, and some yummy treats.

L.A. County Holiday Celebration

This event is held on Christmas Eve, December 24th, from 3-9 p.m.  at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion of the Music Center (map).  The show is free, and will feature performers such as Salvation Army’s Children Tabernacle Chorus, Albert McNeil Jubilee Singers, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, Harmonic Bronze Handbell Ensemble, and the Palmdale High School Choral Union, just to name a few.  If you are unable to attend in person, the performance will be live streaming through KCET-TV on KCET.org and on the radio on KPFK 90.7 FM.

Ice Skating at Third Street Promenade (map)

Take a break from all that shopping and try ice skating just blocks from the beach!  The ice skating rink in Santa Monica is open from October 30 to Janurary 31, 2010.  Admission is $10 and includes skate rental.

Las Posadas at Olvera Street (map)

Home to a predominantly Mexican-American population, the tradition of Las Posadas takes place each year on nine nights, starting on December 16.  A costumed Mary and Joseph, followed by singers, musicians, and community members, go from house to house looking for a place to stay.  After the religious ceremony, a piñata full of candy is broken for the children.  Everyone is invited to attend.  For more information, call 213-625-5045.

Photo Credit:  Flickr