Holiday lights · CA
In California, Christmas often means palm trees in lights and 70-degree afternoons, though the gardens and zoos still go all out once the sun sets.
Botanical garden lights La Cañada Flintridge, CA
Descanso Gardens turns its oak woodland and camellia forest into a roughly mile-long trail of interactive light installations. Running for about a decade, it has become one of Los Angeles' signature holiday outings.
Visiting: Runs nightly (with a few closures) from mid-November into early January; timed tickets must be bought in advance.Official site →
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Zoo light show San Diego, CA
During Jungle Bells the San Diego Zoo stays open after dark, with lights, animal-themed decorations and holiday entertainment spread across the park. It is included with regular zoo admission rather than sold as a separate light show.
Visiting: Held in the evenings from late December into early January; confirm the schedule on the zoo's site.
Seasons, hours, tickets and prices change every year — always check the official site before you go.
More holiday fun: Christmas events in the U.S. · decorate your own home · family activities
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