The Holiday Spirits in California

When most people think of California, they think of the great beaches, the famous Sunset Strip, and of course, the year-round warm weather. If you think warm weather would stop you from enjoying the holiday season in California, then think again! Californians know how to enjoy traditional and not so traditional events to really get into the spirit of the holiday season. Destination Los Angeles shares some of the best activities to partake around the holidays on the West Coast.

Ice Skating Outdoors

Propylene Gycol is what makes skating outside in 60° F possible.  But you don’t need to know the science to enjoy ice skating outdoors; you can just bring a pair of ice skates and go to the many outdoor ice rinks in the Los Angeles area. Most ice rinks open in October and close as late as February. Ice skating is a very Californian thing to do, so here are a few of the many ice rinks in L.A. we recommend:

·       Pershing Square--The Holiday Ice Rink

·       Santa Monica--Ice

·       Queen Mary--Chill

·       Downtown Burbank--The Rink

Mt. Baldy

For those who want real snow for the holiday season, your best chance is to head to a mountain area. Close by to LA, there is the Angeles National Forest. This is where you can find Mt. Baldy, full of activities all year long. There are ski lifts and rentals, as well as a restaurant at 7,800ft. The Top of the Notch serves breakfast, lunch, and a prix-fixe dinner that starts at 6:30 pm

The Polar Express

Now for those who really want to experience the magic of the holidays, look no further than the Polar Express. Based on the book with the same name, you can go to the California State Railroad Museum in Jamestown, CA. For an hour, enjoy sweet treats and meet Santa, who gives out the first Christmas gift of the year: A silver bell. Tickets often sell out quickly, so check availability ASAP.

The Holidays sure are the best time of the year. Let the professionals at Destination Los Angeles help you capture the holiday spirit.