Your Essential Guide to Thanksgiving Weekend Fun in Los Angeles
After the turkey and trimmings, Los Angeles offers a vibrant array of activities to make the most of your long Thanksgiving weekend. From sparkling holiday light displays to thrilling sports and enriching cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Discover our top picks for a memorable holiday getaway right here in LA.
Experience the Magic: Dazzling Holiday Light Shows Across LA
Immerse yourself in illuminated wonder this holiday season with Los Angeles’s spectacular light installations. Perfect for families or a festive evening out, these events transform local gardens and venues into glowing spectacles.
| Event Name | Location | Dates & Hours | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enchanted – Forest of Light | Descanso Gardens, La Cañada Flintridge | Thru Jan 4 (closed Nov 27). Timed entry. | Interactive 1-mile walk, sculptural lights. Online timed tickets required. |
| Holiday Road | King Gillette Ranch, Calabasas | Opens Nov 28 (thru Dec 27). Timed entry. | Self-guided light walk with a “Winter Market.” Online tickets & parking pass mandatory. |
| Imaginarium, Land of Oz | Fairplex – Pomona | Various dates thru Jan 4. | Walk-through illuminated event, Oz-themed areas. Online tickets, Gate 17 parking. |
| L.A. Zoo Lights – Animals Aglow | Los Angeles Zoo | Thru Jan 11 (closed Nov 27). 6-10 p.m. | Nature-focused lantern sculptures, global wildlife displays. Timed tickets recommended. |
Rev Up Your Weekend: Auto Show Excitement & NFL Action
Whether you’re into horsepower or touchdowns, this weekend delivers high-octane thrills to keep you entertained.
Los Angeles Auto Show: Final Days to Explore Automotive Innovations
Don’t miss the LA Auto Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center, running through November 30. Explore the latest automotive brands, compare models, and even enjoy test drives. Remember, all tickets must be purchased online in advance.
Thanksgiving Football Extravaganza: Catch All the NFL Action
Beyond Thursday’s traditional triple-header, Friday brings a Black Friday match. Sunday features a full slate of games, including our local Rams against the Panthers and the Raiders clashing with the Chargers at SoFi. Monday Night Football wraps up the weekend with the Giants vs. Patriots.
Culture and History: Engaging Exhibits and Celebrations
Delve into unique cultural events and enriching exhibits that showcase both local heritage and broader narratives.
Cowboys and Christmas Trees at the Reagan Library
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley presents “Cowboys – History and Hollywood” (thru April 19, 2026) and the festive “An American Christmas” (thru Jan 4, 2026). Note: The museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 27.
The Getty Center: Art, Architecture, and Gardens
Visit the iconic Getty Center this weekend, November 28-30. Explore world-class art, stunning architecture, and serene gardens. It’s also the final weekend for the “Going Places: Travel in the Middle Ages” exhibit. Admission is free, but timed-entry tickets are required online, and parking has a fee.
CSUN Powwow: A Vibrant Cultural Celebration
Experience the 40th annual pan-tribal Powwow at California State University, Northridge, on November 29, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Enjoy bird singers, gourd dancing, and the grand entry at noon. Admission and parking in structure B3 are free.
Family Entertainment: Movies, Skating, and Parades
Complete your holiday weekend with classic entertainment, festive spectacles, and active fun for all ages.
Hit the Big Screen: New Releases Await
Catch the magic of cinema with major new releases like “Wicked: For Good” and “Zootopia 2,” offering perfect family outings or date nights.
Holiday Ice Rink at Pershing Square: Skate Downtown
The largest outdoor ice skating rink in LA is open daily from November 27 through January 11, 2026, offering one-hour sessions from noon to 9 p.m. Book your tickets and sessions on their website in advance.
Hollywood Christmas Parade: A Star-Studded Spectacle
The 93rd annual Hollywood Christmas Parade kicks off November 30 at 6 p.m. featuring Grand Marshal Luke Wilson. The parade supports the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign; bring new, unwrapped toys for donation.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Are events open on Thanksgiving Day?
Many attractions (Descanso Gardens, Reagan Library, L.A. Zoo) are closed on November 27th. However, the LA Auto Show and Pershing Square Ice Rink are open. Always check specific event websites for confirmation. -
How do I purchase tickets?
For most paid events, tickets must be purchased online in advance. Many require timed-entry reservations, and some do not sell tickets at the door. Pre-booking is highly recommended. -
What about parking at these venues?
Parking varies; some events (Holiday Road) require a parking pass purchased with tickets, while others (Getty Center) have paid parking, and some (CSUN Powwow) offer free parking in specific areas. Always check event details for parking information.
From festive light displays and cultural deep dives to high-energy sports and family entertainment, Los Angeles truly lights up for Thanksgiving weekend. Don’t let the holiday pass by without exploring some of these incredible local gems. Plan your activities now and make lasting memories!
LA Thanksgiving Weekend Fun Guide
