As December winds down, the charming cluster of mid-century buildings at SkyPark at Santa’s Village turns into a winter wonderland, complete with Santa sightings, cookie decorating, and festive decorations that keep the holiday spirit alive well past Dec. 25.
SkyPark at Santa’s Village
The mid-century architecture near Lake Arrowhead embraces a Christmassy vibe as late December arrives. Even after Dec. 25, visitors can enjoy Santa sightings, special treats, cookie decorating, fantastic decorations, and activities aplenty. The attraction remains open through Jan. 4, but guests are encouraged to check weather and roads first.
Kwanzaa Celebration
A Dec. 26 parade marks the start of the annual Kwanzaa festivities, honoring the seven principles of unity, self-determination, and purpose. Attendees can join the 11 a.m. start of the 2025 “Kwanzaa Gwaride procession” at Crenshaw and Adams Boulevards. A festival at Leimert Park also takes part in the art-and-music-filled gathering, concluding at 4 o’clock.
Float Decorating in Pasadena
Artists and volunteers prepare a gigantic moving piece of art that will travel down Colorado Boulevard on New Year’s Day. Float decorating officially opens in Pasadena on Dec. 28, giving Rose Parade lovers a chance to observe how these famous on-the-roll wonders come together.
Happy Gray Whale Season
Island Packers, the official Channel Islands concessionaire, observes a specific date each year for its whale-watching excursions. That date is Dec. 26, the kick-off to the boat company’s trips that sail in and around Santa Barbara Channel near Ventura and Oxnard through April. While it is unknown whether visitors will see a whale or two, a day on the sea is always bracing.
Holidays Made at Warner Bros. Studio
The backlot of Warner Bros. Studio in Burbank, a fabled place packed with film lore, has gone full “Gilmore Girls” this season. Fans of the beloved television show can step inside its quaint world, where the gazebo and environs are dressed like Stars Hollow. Photo opportunities abound, and the seasonal experience runs through Jan. 4.
Key Takeaways
- SkyPark at Santa’s Village stays festive through Jan. 4, with Santa sightings and cookie decorating.
- The 2025 Kwanzaa Gwaride procession starts at 11 a.m. on Dec. 26 at Crenshaw and Adams Boulevards.
- Float decorating opens in Pasadena on Dec. 28, showcasing the famous Rose Parade floats.
- Island Packers begins whale-watching excursions on Dec. 26, sailing through April.
- Warner Bros. Studio offers a “Gilmore Girls” themed holiday experience until Jan. 4.
Southern California’s holiday season offers a mix of traditional celebrations, cultural festivals, and unique local attractions that keep visitors entertained well into the new year.
