As we enter the last month of 2024, the anticipation for winter break is already heightened. As much as winter break is a time to relax, I always regret not participating in more winter activities. So, to prevent both you and I from letting break fly by without leaving our respective homes, here are five of the best activities near Los Angeles that can get you in the holiday spirit. 

1. Marina Del Rey Boat Parade: Marina Del Rey is about a one-hour drive from Pasadena and hosts an annual holiday boat parade. This year, it takes place on Saturday, Dec. 14 and is themed Margaritaville Holiday, celebrating the legacy of songwriter Jimmy Buffet.  I suggest getting there around 5:30 p.m. for a good spot, even though the parade starts at 5:55 p.m. The boat parade is an excellent opportunity to cozy up (bring a blanket is recommended—it gets cold) and watch the incredible display of lights not in the snow, but in classic California fashion, on the water. 
2. Tree lighting ceremonies: Nothing embodies Christmas more than a towering, glistening tree. Whether you observe Christmas or not, attending a tree lighting ceremony is a beautiful experience to witness with a community of neighbors and friends . Some of tree lighting ceremonies I like to watch are at The Grove, The Americana at Brand, and my ultimate favorite, Fashion Island in Newport Beach. The Americana at Brand will also begin hosting a daily Christmas experience featuring snowfall and Santa’s Workshop. The tree lighting dates vary, but most take place in late November. This is a great way to see holiday magic come to life!
3. Ice skating in Santa Monica: This year, Disney+ is sponsoring Ice at Santa Monica, an outdoor skating rink with all the elements of a perfect holiday night. The warm, lively atmosphere, holiday music, twinkling lighting and skating rentals all make up a memorable experience. My favorite aspect about this event is that the rink is outdoors, and although there is no snowfall, the outdoor ice and chill of the marine layer in Santa Monica really make it feel like winter. 
4. Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens: This event is a quintessential winter activity in the local area. It is a mesmerizing holiday experience that transforms the Gardens into a world of interactive, illuminated art that really feels like magic. Set against the naturally beautiful backdrop of Descanso, Enchanted blends art and nature in a way that feels otherworldly and very different from the Gardens on a typical day. This event takes place from Nov. 17 to Jan. 5 and will be an unforgettable experience!
5. Solvang: Solvang is a bit further from Pasadena but is considered one of the most fantastic holiday destinations in the country. A little more than two hours north of Pasadena, Solvang is a Danish town that features picturesque streets lined with quaint buildings and windmills that look like they could be in a Hallmark movie. Attend the Solvang parade on Saturday, Dec. 7, search the town during their yearly Nisser Hunt to find the hidden gnome, indulge in some hearty German sausages or Danish pastries or simply roam the streets of a real-life winter wonderland (without the snow). Whatever you choose to do, you will undoubtedly find yourself in a Julefest mood!

Whatever you choose to do this winter, know that even if our California streets aren’t lined with snow, there are so many activities that will enliven your holiday spirit just as much!