On any given night in Los Angeles, the city feels like one big celebration. Neon lights shine on Hollywood Boulevard during film premieres, while food trucks and live music fill neighborhood streets across town. In winter, palm trees sparkle with holiday lights, and in spring, cultural parades and street fairs bring color to every corner. Each season offers a new reason to gather, eat, and dance.
TL;DR
- LA’s festival calendar runs year-round across film, music, food, and culture.
- Spring: marathons, Coachella/Stagecoach, Fiesta Broadway.
- Summer: LA Pride, Bowl fireworks, Nisei Week; free concerts citywide.
- Fall: LA County Fair, Día de los Muertos, AFI Fest.
- Winter: holiday parades, Zoo Lights, Rose Parade/Rose Bowl.
- Use Metro for big events; arrive early, linger late; book popular tickets in advance.
Related Reads:
- The Traveler’s Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles
- Historic Theaters and Performance Venues in Los Angeles
- Filming Locations You Can Visit in Los Angeles
Overview
Los Angeles celebrates its diversity through a nonstop calendar of festivals and events that span every season. Across the city, film, music, food, and culture come together in parks, theaters, and open-air venues that keep LA’s energy alive all year. Each season brings its own rhythm: spring welcomes art fairs and cultural festivals, summer fills the streets with concerts and parades, fall highlights film and food events, and winter sparkles with holiday lights and community gatherings.
Because LA is home to so many cultures, you can experience something new almost every week, from Lunar New Year in Chinatown to Pride celebrations in West Hollywood, beachside music festivals, or Día de los Muertos processions in East LA. Each event adds another layer to the city’s story, showing how creativity and community thrive side by side.
This guide explores Los Angeles’s most popular annual events and festivals, from red-carpet premieres to community block parties, showing how the city’s diversity fuels its year-round energy.
Rose Parade & Rose Bowl Game (January)
The new year in LA kicks off with an explosion of color and tradition in Pasadena. The Rose Parade – a 135+ year tradition – sends grand floats completely covered in flowers rolling down Colorado Boulevard on the morning of January 1.
Accompanied by spirited marching bands and high-stepping equestrian units, these floats aren’t just pretty; they’re feats of floral artistry, each petal and seed carefully placed to wow the hundreds of thousands of spectators lining the route.
Following the parade, the festivities shift to the turf of the Rose Bowl Stadium for the famed Rose Bowl Game, a major college football showdown that afternoon. Together, the parade and game form Southern California’s cherished “America’s New Year Celebration,” blending small-town pageantry with big-game excitement.
Families camp overnight along the parade route to secure prime viewing spots, and Pasadena streets fill with the scent of roses and cheers of “Happy New Year!” as confetti flies. It’s a joyous, family-friendly spectacle – free to watch from the curb (just bring blankets and coffee for the early morning chill) or ticketed from grandstand seats for a closer view of the blooming floats.
Chinese New Year Festival in Chinatown (February)
In late winter, Los Angeles celebrates Lunar New Year with a burst of color and tradition in Chinatown. The highlight is the Golden Dragon Parade, a century-old procession that draws tens of thousands of spectators to Chinatown’s streets. Crowds line Broadway as lion dancers and a 100-foot golden dragon wind their way through a sea of red lanterns.
You’ll see marching bands, kung fu teams, and ornate floats, plus local dignitaries and celebrities waving from convertibles. The atmosphere is electric – firecrackers pop, kids perch on parents’ shoulders, and the smell of dumplings and noodles wafts from nearby food stalls.
Around the parade, Chinatown Central Plaza hosts a free Chinese New Year Festival filled with cultural performances: think traditional folk dances, acrobats, and arts-and-crafts booths where you can learn to write your name in Chinese calligraphy. Families come to enjoy lion dance blessings at local shops and sample delicacies like mooncakes and bao.
The best part? The celebration is open to all, with free sidewalk viewing (though limited grandstand seats can be purchased if you want a guaranteed spot ). It’s a vibrant, family-friendly event that showcases LA’s Chinese American community and welcomes the Lunar New Year with joy, noise, and plenty of good fortune.
Los Angeles Marathon (March)
Each spring, the Los Angeles Marathon turns the city streets into a 26.2-mile playground for runners from around the world. Beginning at dawn under the arches of Dodger Stadium, the course weaves through a who’s who of LA neighborhoods – from Downtown’s skyscrapers to the hip arts district of Silver Lake, down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, through West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, and finally to Century City.
It’s essentially a sightseeing tour on foot, with tens of thousands of runners pounding the pavement past landmarks and along spectator-lined boulevards. Along the way, you’ll find high school bands, cheer squads, and local residents throwing impromptu block parties to cheer on the racers. The Marathon, first run in 1986, has grown into one of the five largest in the U.S., typically featuring over 20,000 participants each year.
Elite athletes race for victory, but many everyday Angelenos run for personal triumph or charity causes – all soaking up the camaraderie as they conquer the “Stadium to the Stars” route (named for its start at Dodger Stadium and finish near the Avenue of the Stars).
Whether you’re running or watching, it’s an inspiring, citywide celebration of endurance and community spirit. Streets are closed to traffic – a surreal sight in car-loving LA – and the whole city gets in on the action. By the finish line, as medals are earned and sore legs find relief, one thing is clear: the LA Marathon isn’t just a race, it’s a 26-mile block party.
Coachella & Stagecoach Music Festivals (April)
When spring hits Southern California, music lovers set their compass east toward the desert. Every April, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival takes over the Empire Polo Club in Indio for two consecutive weekends of pure audio-visual magic.
Nearly 250,000 fans from around the world converge under the desert sun (and stars) for Coachella, one of the planet’s most famous music festivals. By day, festival-goers in bohemian attire wander between multiple stages featuring every genre – rock, hip-hop, pop, electronic – catching performances by today’s biggest artists and emerging indie darlings.
Colossal art installations tower above the crowds, from whimsical sculptures to interactive digital art, making the festival grounds as much a gallery as a concert. As dusk falls and the palm trees silhouette against a Technicolor sky, the energy peaks with headlining acts and a sea of people dancing in unison.
Not to be outdone, the following weekend the desert venue transforms for Stagecoach, Coachella’s country cousin. Stagecoach is the premier country music festival in the U.S., a three-day hoedown that celebrates country and Americana vibes.
Tens of thousands of fans dust off their cowboy boots and hats to sing along with Nashville’s latest stars and legendary icons under the open sky. Expect line dancing, BBQ aromas in the air, and even a cowboy saloon or two on the grounds. It’s a more laid-back, down-home atmosphere – think folk and bluegrass stages, vintage shop stalls, and families two-stepping together on the lawn.
Both festivals are ticketed and draw attendees from LA and far beyond, turning the Greater Palm Springs area into a giant music-themed camp (yes, many festival-goers camp on-site for the full experience). Despite being about a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles, Coachella and Stagecoach feel like honorary LA events – virtually every Angeleno music fan makes the pilgrimage at least once.
Fiesta Broadway (Cinco de Mayo Festival – Late April/May)
Downtown Los Angeles bursts with Latin flavor each spring during Fiesta Broadway, the city’s massive Cinco de Mayo celebration. Billed as the largest Cinco de Mayo festival in the U.S., Fiesta Broadway transforms the streets around Historic Broadway into a vibrant street fair of music, food, and culture.
What started in 1990 as a one-day party has become a beloved annual tradition drawing thousands of attendees each year. Several city blocks are closed to traffic and instead filled with main stages pumping out live Latin music – from mariachi and banda to salsa and pop – as well as community dance performances representing the diverse Latin American cultures of LA.
Everywhere you look are food vendors dishing out authentic tacos, pupusas, tamales, and churros. Families stroll between booths offering crafts, games, and giveaways from local businesses. Kids might get their faces painted with the colors of various Latin flags, while parents snag samples of spicy snacks or enter raffles. The atmosphere is friendly, loud, and muy divertido (very fun) – a true community fiesta in the heart of the city.
Traditionally held on the Sunday before May 5th (to avoid conflict with actual Cinco de Mayo), Fiesta Broadway is a free event and very family-friendly. Attendees span all ages, dancing in the streets and enjoying carnival rides set up for the occasion.
Over the years, the festival has featured big-name Latin musical acts as well as local performers, celebrating everything from Mexican folklórico dance to Caribbean reggaeton beats. It’s a day where Downtown LA essentially becomes one giant block party celebrating Latino heritage and the historic roots of Cinco de Mayo. Come hungry, bring sunscreen and comfortable shoes, and be ready to shout “¡Viva la Fiesta!” as you join the crowd.
LA Pride Parade & Festival (June)
In early June, LA Pride takes over the city with a kaleidoscope of color, music, and love. This annual LGBTQ+ Pride Parade and Festival has been running since 1970 and is one of the world’s largest Pride celebrations , traditionally drawing well over a hundred thousand people across the weekend.
After decades in West Hollywood, the main LA Pride Parade recently moved its route to the heart of Hollywood, where floats, marching bands, drag queens, community groups, and corporate allies march proudly down Hollywood Boulevard.
Rainbow flags line the street and confetti fills the air as spectators – LGBTQ+ folks and allies alike – cheer on the procession with palpable enthusiasm. It’s not uncommon to spot famous faces atop floats or serving as Grand Marshal, but the real stars are the diverse community members celebrating openly and joyfully.
The parade is free and very much a family-friendly party (earplugs recommended for little ones, as the music can be loud!). After the parade, a ticketed Pride Festival usually continues the festivities, featuring multiple music stages with big-name pop and electronic acts, DJs, food trucks, bar gardens, and interactive art and activism booths.
Whether you attend the parade, the festival, or both, LA Pride is a vibrant display of the city’s commitment to inclusion and self-expression. Streets are closed to traffic, replaced by dancing crowds and pop-up stages, and every storefront along the route seems to be decked out in rainbow.
The atmosphere is exuberant and welcoming – you’ll see everything from families with kids on their shoulders to flamboyant costumes that would make Lady Gaga proud. It’s truly a highlight of LA’s summer, embodying the city’s creative, open-hearted spirit.
Fourth of July Fireworks (Hollywood Bowl & Marina del Rey – July)
When Independence Day rolls around, Los Angeles celebrates with spectacular fireworks displays in unforgettable settings. Two of the most popular July 4th events are the Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Spectacular and the Marina del Rey fireworks over the ocean. Each offers a distinct LA take on patriotic fun.
At the legendary Hollywood Bowl, the Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular is an annual tradition that combines live music with a dazzling pyrotechnic finale. Nearly 18,000 people pack this outdoor amphitheater for a special concert – often featuring the LA Philharmonic or a famous headliner band – capped off by a fireworks show that lights up the night sky above the Bowl.
It’s widely regarded as one of Southern California’s top Independence Day shows and a family tradition for many Angelenos. Picture a warm summer night, a picnic basket at your feet (the Bowl famously allows BYO picnics for many shows), and as the orchestra strikes up the finale of the “1812 Overture,” bursts of red, white, and blue fireworks erupt in sync with the music.
The surrounding hills echo with booms and cheers – it’s goosebump-inducing magic. The Bowl’s July 4th concerts usually run for several nights (July 2, 3, and 4) with the big patriotic program on Independence Day itself. Tickets are required, but they range from inexpensive bench seats to more premium boxes, making it accessible for various budgets (buy early as it often sells out).
Meanwhile on the westside, Marina del Rey hosts one of LA’s best free fireworks displays. At 9:00 PM on July 4th, the Marina’s skies explode with a synchronized 20-minute fireworks show, with the reflections shimmering on the harbor below. Thousands of spectators gather at waterside spots like Burton Chace Park and Fisherman’s Village for front-row views (arrive by early evening to claim a patch of lawn).
The scene has a festive, picnic vibe: families and friends with coolers and blankets, boats sounding their horns in the marina, and patriotic tunes piped over loudspeakers. As each firework blooms above the boats, you’ll hear oohs and ahhs ripple through the crowd.
Because it’s free and outdoors, the Marina show is great for visitors – just be prepared for traffic when exiting, or better yet, use a ride-share or park farther away and walk in. Some folks even book dinner cruises or kayak in the harbor for a unique viewing perspective.
Whether you opt for the Hollywood Bowl’s mix of live music and fireworks or the breezy seaside charm of Marina del Rey, July 4th in Los Angeles is pure summer magic. It’s a time when the sprawling city comes together to look up at the same sky and celebrate – a reminder that even in massive LA, we’re one community under those dazzling lights.
Nisei Week Japanese Festival (August)
In the heat of August, Little Tokyo comes alive with the sounds and sights of Nisei Week, a multi-day celebration of Japanese-American culture and one of California’s longest-running cultural festivals (it began in 1934!).
“Nisei” refers to second-generation Japanese Americans, and while the festival’s roots go back to that generation, today Nisei Week welcomes everyone to share in Japanese traditions old and new. The festivities span about nine days (often in mid-August), centered around the Japanese American Community and Cultural Center and the historic streets of Little Tokyo in Downtown LA.
During Nisei Week, the neighborhood is filled with special events: martial arts demonstrations, tea ceremonies, kimono fashion shows, and exhibits of art forms like calligraphy and ikebana (flower arranging). At the heart of it all is the Nisei Week Grand Parade, typically held on one of the Sunday afternoons. Tens of thousands of people line 1st and 2nd Streets to watch this parade of elaborate floats, taiko drummers, colorfully costumed dancers, and community groups celebrating Japanese heritage.
You might see participants carrying mikoshi (portable Shinto shrines) or folk dancers performing the traditional ondo dance – which spectators often join in, creating a joyful moving circle down the street. Another big crowd-pleaser is the annual Taiko drumming showcase, where the thunderous rhythms of Japanese drums echo between downtown high-rises.
Food is a major draw too: Little Tokyo’s restaurants and street vendors serve up sushi, ramen, takoyaki, shave ice, and more. There’s even a Gyoza Eating Championship contest as part of Nisei Week, adding a fun competitive spirit. Throughout the week, cultural workshops invite you to try hands-on activities like origami folding or bonsai tree trimming.
Many events are free, and the festival is very family-friendly – it’s common to see multiple generations of families strolling the booths or dancing together at the public Bon Odori dance that usually closes the week. In the evenings, the streets are strung with lanterns and the community vibe is warm and welcoming.
LA County Fair (Pomona – September)
As summer fades, Angelenos head to Pomona for a time-honored slice of Americana: the LA County Fair. This sprawling fair, held at the Fairplex fairgrounds (about 30 miles east of Downtown LA), is one of the largest county fairs in the United States – historically attracting around a million visitors over its run.
For decades, it took place in early September as a celebratory end-of-summer bash (in recent years it shifted to May, but many still think of it as a fall tradition). Walking into the LA County Fair, you’re greeted by the nostalgic scents of funnel cake, corn dogs, and livestock hay all mingling in the warm air. It’s part county agricultural show, part carnival midway, part concert series – and entirely fun for all ages.
Expect the classic fair staples: a giant Ferris wheel and dozens of carnival rides whirling with neon at night; game booths beckoning you to win a giant stuffed animal; and exhibit halls filled with everything from award-winning homemade jams and quilting displays to futuristic gadgets being hawked by enthusiastic vendors.
The fair honors California’s farming roots with an operational farm and petting zoo (kids can milk goats or see newborn piglets), plus impressive produce and floral displays – prize-winning pumpkins, elaborate garden setups, you name it. There are live demonstrations too, like blacksmithing or how to churn butter, connecting city folks with rural traditions.
But make no mistake, a big draw is the food – outrageous food. The LA County Fair is famous (or infamous!) for its indulgent eats: deep-fried Oreos, 2-foot-long corn dogs, bacon-wrapped everything, and creative concoctions that dare you to take a bite (funnel cake cheeseburger, anyone?). It’s a yearly quest to find the most bizarre new fair food and bravely sample it. Balancing out the calories are the evening concerts and entertainment.
The fair’s grandstand hosts major musical acts spanning genres (rock, R&B, country), and admission to many concerts is often included with your fair ticket. You can also catch daredevil stunt shows, motocross, monster trucks, or even an old-fashioned demolition derby on certain nights – noisy, dusty fun under the stars.
Families will find plenty to keep kids delighted, from carnival rides sized for younger ones to magic shows and parades of farm animals. And for those seeking a thrill, the roller coasters, spinning rides, and haunted houses of the midway await. The fair runs all day and into the night; many love going in late afternoon to enjoy the daytime exhibits, then staying after dark when the lights of the midway create a carnival glow and temperatures cool down.
It’s a ticketed event (with various discounts on certain days) and parking at Fairplex can get busy – some prefer to take a Metrolink train to avoid traffic. By the time you leave, you’ll likely be happily exhausted, a bit sticky with cotton candy, and carrying some quirky souvenir or giant plush toy you miraculously won.
Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever (October)
As autumn arrives, Los Angeles celebrates Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) with perhaps its most visually stunning cultural festival at the historic Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
On an evening close to November 1st–2nd, the cemetery grounds become a vibrant celebration of life and remembrance, hosting the largest Día de los Muertos event in the U.S.. If “celebration at a cemetery” sounds unusual, prepare to be moved: Hollywood Forever’s Día de los Muertos is a beautiful melding of ancient tradition and modern artistic expression, honoring departed loved ones in a joyous, respectful way.
When you enter, you’ll stroll past elaborately decorated altars (ofrendas) built by families and artists – more than 100 altars spread throughout the cemetery, each one a labor of love. They range from intimate memorials for relatives to towering works of art dedicated to cultural icons.
You’ll see altars glowing with candles, lined with bright orange marigolds (the flower of the dead), sugar skulls, photographs, and favorite foods of those being honored. People dressed as elegant skeletons (called calacas or La Catrina figures) wander the paths, happy to pose for photos. In fact, many attendees paint their faces in the ornate skull designs – you might even get yours done at a face-painting booth to fully join the spirit.
As night falls, the cemetery truly comes to life: a vibrant procession of Aztec dancers in feathered headdresses snakes through the tombs, the beat of drums and cascabeles (rattles) echoing in the dark. Multiple stages showcase live music – expect everything from traditional mariachi and folklórico ensembles to rock en español and Latin American fusion bands.
Grammy-winning artists have performed here, lending serious musical cred to the event. There are also cultural dance performances, including indigenous danza rituals with dramatic costumes and movements that honor ancestors.
Everywhere you turn, color and activity abound: stilt walkers dressed as skeleton brides, art exhibitions inside a mausoleum, vendors selling handcrafted jewelry and pan de muerto (sweet bread), and the scent of copal incense mingling with that of street tacos and Mexican hot chocolate from the food stalls.
Despite the lively atmosphere, the tone remains respectful. Attendees stroll quietly when viewing altars, often exchanging stories about traditions or the loved ones they’re remembering. Many bring their children, dressed in little skeleton outfits, to teach them that Día de los Muertos is about love, not fear of death.
Hollywood Forever’s event typically requires a ticket (proceeds benefit cultural and cemetery preservation organizations) and it often sells out, so plan ahead. Parking in the area can be challenging on the night, so ride-shares or shuttle services are recommended.
By evening’s end, judges even award prizes for the best altars and the best-dressed calacas, adding a bit of friendly competition. But truly, there are no “winners” – everyone leaves feeling like they witnessed something profoundly beautiful and uniquely Los Angeles.
Under the moonlight and candle glow, surrounded by art, music, and memories, you’ll understand why thousands attend every year. It’s a night where joy and reverence dance together, proving that in LA, even the festivals in Los Angeles that honor the departed do so with an abundance of life.
AFI Fest – Hollywood Film Festival (November)
Come November, the spotlight shifts back to Hollywood for AFI Fest, the American Film Institute’s annual international film festival. For cinephiles, this is a must-attend event that offers a taste of global cinema right in the movie capital of the world.
Over about a week in early November, AFI Fest screens a curated selection of new feature films, documentaries, and shorts from around the globe – often including world premieres and awards-season contenders – and it’s completely free to the public.
Centered in the heart of Hollywood (venues typically include the historic TCL Chinese Theatre and nearby cinemas), AFI Fest combines the glitz of premieres with an accessible, fan-friendly spirit. By day, you can catch an eclectic mix of indie dramas, foreign-language Oscar submissions, insightful docs, and edgy midnight thrillers.
By night, Hollywood Boulevard lights up with red carpet premieres as major stars and filmmakers arrive for gala screenings. Past AFI Fests have seen the likes of director Q&As with Oscar winners and surprise celebrity appearances at screenings – you never know who might show up for a post-film discussion.
Despite the glamour, AFI Fest is known for being welcoming: tickets to regular screenings are free (yes, $0!) and even the big evening gala events offer free “rush” lines for those willing to queue for unclaimed seats. This egalitarian approach, started in 2009, makes it unique among major film festivals and draws movie buffs from all over the city.
The programming spans multiple sections: World Cinema for international highlights, New Auteurs for emerging filmmakers, Documentary spotlights, Midnight for cult-ish fare, and more.
You could find yourself watching a poignant European film one hour, then a buzzy Sundance-winning American indie the next. AFI Fest also tends to honor classic cinema – often including an anniversary screening of a beloved film or a presentation of a restored classic, connecting LA’s rich film heritage to its vibrant present.
While screenings are the main draw, there’s also a festival lounge and occasional panels or events where you might mingle with industry folks or fellow film fans. The atmosphere is upbeat and smart – expect lively conversations in lobby lines about cinematography or storytelling, a true treat for those who love cinema.
If you want to attend, plan ahead by reserving tickets online when they release (they go fast), but don’t be discouraged if a show is “sold out” – many people successfully walk-up via the rush line system.
For visitors, AFI Fest is a fantastic way to experience Hollywood beyond the usual tourist spots. You’ll step into the very theaters where movie history has been made, surrounded by an audience that’s genuinely passionate about film. And did we mention it’s free? Watching a potential Oscar contender in a historic Hollywood theater without spending a dime – now that’s an LA experience you can’t pass up.
Hollywood Christmas Parade & L.A. Zoo Lights (December)
December in Los Angeles means the holidays are celebrated with signature LA flair, blending tradition with flash. Two beloved events bookend the season: the Hollywood Christmas Parade – a Tinseltown twist on a holiday parade – and L.A. Zoo Lights, a whimsical nighttime light experience at the zoo. Together, they capture the magic of the season, LA-style.
Hollywood Christmas Parade: For over 90 years, the Hollywood Christmas Parade has rolled down Hollywood Boulevard to officially welcome the holiday season in LA. Held on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, this evening parade is a flashy, family-friendly spectacle of floats, famous faces, and festive fun.
Crowds line the street (free to stand along the curb, or you can purchase grandstand seats for a closer view) as marching bands from around the country step in rhythm and giant character balloons bob between palm trees. Since its inception in 1928, this parade has drawn Hollywood stars to participate – historically legends like Bob Hope and Jimmy Stewart waved to fans, and today you might see current TV actors, music celebrities, or local heroes as part of the lineup.
Every year has a Grand Marshal (often an A-lister or pop culture icon) who leads the procession in a classic convertible. The parade’s old nickname, “Santa Claus Lane Parade,” hints at the climax – Santa Claus himself arriving in a sleigh float, ushering in Christmas for Southern California.
Along with the glitz, there’s heart: the event partners with charities (like Toys for Tots) to collect donations for those in need. The backdrop of Hollywood’s neon marquees and the iconic Walk of Fame gives this parade a unique sparkle – where else might you watch Santa cruise past the Capitol Records Tower or El Capitan Theatre?
It’s a kitschy, only-in-Hollywood blend of small-town holiday parade charm and big-city showbiz dazzle. Dress warmly (late November nights can get chilly, by LA standards) and bring the kids – their eyes will light up at the sight of superheroes, princesses, and marching toy soldiers parading down the same street famous movie premieres happen.
L.A. Zoo Lights – “Animals Aglow”: On the other side of town, the Los Angeles Zoo in Griffith Park transforms after dark into a holiday dreamland known as L.A. Zoo Lights. From mid-November through early January, the zoo trades daylight for millions of twinkling lights in imaginative displays.
Guests stroll an evening circuit through the zoo (the real animals are mostly sleeping or off-exhibit, except for a few nocturnal creatures you might spot) to admire giant glowing lantern sculptures of elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife. Entire sections of the zoo become themed wonderlands – one area might be an illuminated “rainforest” with neon butterflies and flowers, another a polar scene with sparkling penguin and bear figures, and yet another an African savanna with towering giraffe lanterns under the stars.
In 2025’s “Animals Aglow” theme, for example, new lanterns showcased insects and plants alongside classic animal favorites. The lights are truly dazzling and make for perfect photo ops (bring your camera!). Some installations are interactive, like a colorful light tunnel or a giant “kaleidoscope” you can step inside for a trippy photo.
Throughout the route, holiday music plays and there are opportunities to grab seasonal treats: hot cocoa, mulled cider, churros, and other goodies. On select nights Santa Claus even makes an appearance for photo ops (usually for an extra fee, if you want a keepsake picture). A few rides operate, too: the Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel usually spins in a swirl of lights, and sometimes there’s a glowing “snow” sledding hill for kids.
Zoo Lights is timed-entry and ticketed (it’s a fundraiser for the zoo, supporting its wildlife conservation mission ). It’s immensely popular for date nights and family outings alike – imagine holding hands under twinkle lights or watching your child’s face light up at a 15-foot tall illuminated giraffe.
The event is accessible and spread out, so even on busier nights you can wander at your own pace without feeling too crowded. Plan for about an hour or two to see everything, and remember that it’s an evening outdoor event (dress in layers; LA winter nights can be crisp, especially in the park).
By merging the festive spirit with LA’s unique venues, both these events show how the city makes the holidays its own. One night you’re cheering on a parade with Hollywood stars, another night you’re walking through a glowing zoo – in Los Angeles, the holiday season is nothing short of magical.
Seasonal Planning Tips for Visiting L.A.
Choosing when to visit Los Angeles can be as much about the events as the weather. Here’s how to time your trip by season based on your interests:
- Spring (March – May): Mild temperatures and blooming jacaranda trees make spring ideal for outdoor cultural events. You’ll find art walks, food festivals, and events like the Cherry Blossom Festival in Little Tokyo or the massive LA Times Festival of Books at USC in April.
Spring is also marathon season (hello LA Marathon) and a great time for outdoor culture – think garden tours or Earth Day festivals. With less smog and clear skies after winter rains, your photos will pop. Book accommodations early if your spring visit overlaps with big events like March’s marathon or late April’s Fiesta Broadway, as downtown rooms can fill up.
- Summer (June – August): Summer is peak festival season, buzzing with concerts and city-wide parties. This is the time for music festivals and outdoor concerts galore – including free weekly concerts at Grand Park, Twilight on the Pier in Santa Monica, and world-class acts at the Hollywood Bowl (where many shows let you bring a picnic basket of food and wine).
Summer also brings cultural celebrations like LA Pride in June and Nisei Week in August, plus countless neighborhood block parties and movie nights in the park. Expect sunny, warm days (80s to 90s °F) and pleasant evenings – perfect for events under the stars.
Many summer concerts at the Hollywood Bowl allow you to bring your own picnic, so pack a blanket, snacks, and a bottle of wine to enjoy music under the stars like a local. Also, be mindful of June Gloom (foggy mornings in early summer) along the coast – it burns off by afternoon, just in time for sunset events.
- Fall (September – November): Autumn is LA’s secret season – the weather stays dry and warm, but the summer crowds thin. It’s an excellent time for film festivals and foodie events. September often features the tail end of summer concerts and fairs (like the LA County Fair) and the start of awards-season film festivals.
October is loaded: Halloween theme park nights, the popular West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval street party, and cultural events like Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever. Foodies flock to events such as the L.A. Beer Fest or Taco festivals in the cooler fall air. And November brings the prestigious AFI Fest and other film galas, making fall ideal for culture vultures.
Book hotels early for late October film festivals and Halloween events — both tourists and locals pack the city for these, and hotel rates can rise fast if you wait. Also, consider visiting just after Labor Day (early September) – you’ll catch summer-style events with a more relaxed vibe and potentially lower travel costs. - Winter (December – February): While much of the country bundles up, LA’s winter is mild (50s–70s °F) and packed with holiday parades and light displays. December is magical: check out the Venice Canals Holiday Boat Parade, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, and Knott’s Merry Farm or Disneyland’s holiday overlays if theme parks are your thing.
The city twinkles with events like L.A. Zoo Lights and neighborhoods decked out in decorations (don’t miss the over-the-top lights on Sleepy Hollow Lane in Torrance!). New Year’s brings the epic Rose Parade and Rose Bowl game as mentioned, and Chinese New Year often falls in late January or February, continuing the celebratory vibe into winter. It’s a great time to experience cultural festivals without summer’s heat.
Plus, winter is awards season in Hollywood – keep your eyes peeled and you might spot a red carpet movie premiere or even the Oscars (Feb/Mar) action in town. Winter is “rainy” season in LA (meaning occasional showers).
If a storm hits, take advantage of lighter crowds at indoor attractions, or cozy up in one of LA’s many museums and historic theaters. Also, dress in layers – a sunny afternoon can turn into a cool night, especially at outdoor events like parades or light displays.
No matter the season, planning ahead for big events is key. LA’s a sprawling city, so try to stay in a central area if you’ll be hopping between event locations (for example, Hollywood or Downtown can be good bases).
How to Experience L.A. Like a Local
Beyond the headline festivals and major events, part of LA’s magic is discovering how locals engage with their city. Here are some tips to experience Los Angeles’s events like an insider, blending in with the crowd (and even giving back to the community):
- Use Public Transit or Rideshares on Big Event Days: Savvy Angelenos know that driving to a major event can be a headache (think: closed streets and pricey parking). Instead, take advantage of LA’s Metro rail and bus lines.
For example, ride the Metro L (Gold) Line to reach the Rose Parade in Pasadena (the station is a short walk from the parade route), or take the B (Red) Line to Hollywood/Highland for the Hollywood Christmas Parade and Pride Parade. Metro runs late service for some events and it’s often a flat $1.75 ride – a steal versus parking fees.
During something like the LA Marathon, when many roads are closed, hopping on the subway can whisk you between viewing spots with ease. Rideshare apps are also ubiquitous, but expect surge pricing right after events; sometimes hanging out for an extra coffee or dessert before heading home lets the surge die down while you savor the moment. - Volunteer or Participate: One of the best ways to feel like a local is to join in! Many big LA events rely on volunteers and welcome out-of-towners to help. Imagine handing out water to marathon runners at Mile 20, painting kids’ faces at Fiesta Broadway, or scanning tickets at AFI Fest – you’ll meet residents, get behind-the-scenes insight, and often receive perks like a free t-shirt or admission.
Check event websites in advance for volunteer sign-ups. If volunteering isn’t your thing, you can still participate actively: sign up for the LA Big 5K (the fun run held the day before the Marathon) or bring a sign and cheer on runners at a community cheer zone. Join the public dance at Nisei Week’s closing ceremony or the drum circle at a cultural festival. Locals love when visitors embrace the spirit. - Explore Neighborhood Events and Markets: Major festivals are amazing, but don’t overlook LA’s countless smaller happenings – they’re where locals spend their weekends. Drop by the Hollywood Farmers’ Market on a Sunday morning, for instance, and you might catch a cooking demo or live band amid the stalls of fresh produce.
Neighborhoods host art walks (the Downtown LA Art Walk on second Thursdays, or First Fridays on Abbot Kinney in Venice for food trucks and galleries) where you can mingle with residents and see local creativity up close. In summer, find a free outdoor movie screening – from parks in Pasadena to rooftop settings downtown, Angelenos gather with lawn chairs to watch movies under the stars.
These low-key events often aren’t in tourist brochures, but they’re listed on community websites and event calendars (check sites like Time Out or Eventbrite for what’s happening). By mixing a big festival with a neighborhood concert or block party, you’ll taste both the grand and the grassroots of LA culture. - Arrive Early, Stay Late: Locals know that for huge events, the early bird gets the worm and the best parking spot. Showing up a bit early means you can snag a prime viewing location at a parade or be first in line when festival gates open (enjoying the activities without long queues).
On the flip side, linger after the main event wraps. Instead of fighting the immediate crowds leaving, hang back. Take a last stroll through the lantern-lit zoo at closing, chat with vendors winding down at a street fair, or grab a late-night taco nearby while traffic thins.
You might catch spontaneous moments – like performers jamming informally after a show, or organizers giving away leftover goodies. LA’s all about that laid-back attitude, so slowing down to soak up the atmosphere is key. - Blend In and Be Curious: There’s no dress code in LA, especially at events – you’ll see everything from flip-flops to flashy costumes. Wear what’s comfortable, but don’t be afraid to sport some event pride (rainbow gear for Pride, your favorite movie tee at AFI Fest, a cowboy hat at Stagecoach).
Locals appreciate it when you get into the spirit. More importantly, strike up conversations! Ask the person next to you at the parade which float they’re cheering for, or ask a volunteer about the history of the festival. Los Angeles is a city of transplants and travelers; people are often friendly and happy to share tips or the story behind their own traditions.
You might walk away with a new restaurant recommendation, an invite to a smaller community event later in the week, or at least a few new acquaintances made on the Metro ride home.
Finally, remember that Los Angeles is huge and its events are spread out – don’t try to do everything in one trip. Maybe pair a daytime cultural festival with an evening concert, and leave the next day open for serendipitous discoveries like stumbling upon a food truck lot or pop-up craft market.
The Takeaway
Los Angeles is a city that celebrates year-round. From New Year’s parades to summer concerts and winter festivals, every season offers a chance to experience the city’s creative energy and community spirit. Planning your visit around one of these events means you’ll see LA at its most lively, surrounded by locals enjoying food, music, and tradition together.
Whether it’s joining the crowds at LA Pride in June, watching the colorful Día de los Muertos celebrations in October, or singing along at a holiday parade in December, each festival shows a different side of the city. These gatherings bring people from every background together, turning streets and parks into shared spaces of joy and connection.
In a city often known for its movies and palm-lined freeways, Los Angeles’s festivals reveal its real heartbeat, diverse communities celebrating side by side. So, when you plan your trip, make time for one of these events. You’ll see that in LA, the celebrations never really stop, they simply change with the season.
FAQ
Q1: What are the best months to visit LA for festivals?
A: Any season works. Summer packs the most concerts; fall blends film and culture; winter brings lights and parades; spring is ideal for outdoor festivals.
Q2: Are big events free or ticketed?
A: Many parades and street fairs are free curbside; concerts and stadium events are ticketed. Reserve early for high-demand dates.
Q3: How do I avoid traffic on event days?
A: Use Metro rail/bus, rideshare drop zones, or park-and-ride shuttles. Build in time for street closures and post-event crowds.
Q4: Can families enjoy these festivals?
A: Yes. Parades, cultural fairs, Zoo Lights, and daytime street festivals skew family-friendly. Bring ear protection for loud concerts.
Q5: What should I wear?
A: Comfort first. Layers for cool evenings; sunscreen and hats for day events. Festive attire (rainbow for Pride, florals for parades) fits right in.
Q6: How early should I arrive for parades?
A: For curbside viewing, arrive 1–2 hours early; grandstand seats require tickets and assigned times.
Q7: Do events run if it rains?
A: Most do, sometimes with delays or modified programs. Check official channels the morning of.
Q8: Where can I find smaller local happenings?
A: Community calendars and neighborhood BID sites list art walks, farmers markets, and pop-up concerts weekly.
Q9: Any accessibility tips?
A: Review each event’s ADA details. Many offer accessible viewing areas, ramps, and assistive listening; arrive early to secure spots.
Q10: Can I volunteer?
A: Yes. Marathons, film festivals, and cultural fairs recruit volunteers. Perks often include shirts, snacks, or entry.