LOS ANGELES — The holidays might look a little different this year, but there are several ways to make memories with your family while following COVID-19 safety guidelines.
Here are some of the holiday events still happening around Southern California.
Discover the neon glow of lights in this drive-thru experience in Norco. Music will set the holiday mood in this contactless experience, starting at Santa's command center and the elf village, with the storyline shared through the radio. Tickets start at $39 per vehicle, and ticket reservations can be made at electricnoel.com. The adventure runs from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday through January 3.
Elf on the Shelf Magical Holiday Journey
The new hour-long holiday event is based on the 2005 children's book The Elf on the Shelf. The show was created with the pandemic in mind, and attendees are told the holiday spirit is low, and they must muster some along the way to help Santa get back to the North Pole. The Elf on the Shelf's Magical Holiday Journey drive-thru experience goes through January 3 at the Fairplex in Pomona. Tickets start at $24.95 for those 13 years and older and $19.95 for children. Watch our Spectrum News 1 coverage of this event.
'Tis the season to celebrate the World Champion Dodgers, and since the pandemic made a parade impossible, the next best thing is a drive-thru holiday experience hosted by the team. Fans will enjoy the drive-thru Holiday Festival that includes a light show, fake snow, and interactive displays. It will be open nightly from 5 to 11 p.m., November 27 to December 24. Admission starts at $55 per vehicle.
South Coast Botanic Garden Glow
The botanic garden will be transformed into a colorful experience that will transport visitors into an oceanic experience for its Garden Lights and Ocean Waters theme. The after-dark walk-through will require visitors to follow safety guidelines, including wearing a mask and social distancing. Visitors will have to purchase timed-tickets starting at $34.95 for non-members, $24.95 for members, and free for children under 4 years old. Note that this experience includes loud music and flashing lights.
Reflections at Descanso Garden
The displays this year at the garden are a little more subdued than their colorful Enchanted Forest with all its lights and music. There are still several Instagram-worthy photo opportunities and also a chance to reflect. Visitors will be greeted by floral arches, a wishing tree, deer sculptures, and more. Reflections runs through January 10, 2021, and visitors will need timed tickets to stroll the garden from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $11 for those 65 and older, $11 for students with ID, and $5 for those 5 to 12 years old.
WonderLAnd Holiday Themed Drive-Thru
Millions of lights, synchronized holiday music, and holiday-themed decor await visitors in Woodland Hills at this drive-thru adventure. Tickets for the event start at $60 for a vehicle with up to eight passengers. The event will run from November 30 through December 23 and December 26 through December 30.
Six Flags Magic Mountain Drive-Thru Experience
While the thrill of roller coasters will have to wait, Six Flags will host a holiday event that is sure to delight. The theme park will be converted into a winter wonderland, including eight different themed areas with festive music. Admission tickets start at $20 per person, and if you hold an annual pass, it can be used as an admission ticket as long as reservations are made before arriving. Santa and his elves will be present, and West Coast Customs show cars will also be on display. Holiday treats and sweets can also be purchase in advance.
Candy Cane Lane
In Woodland Hills at Lubao and Oxnard Streets, residents join forces every year to show their holiday spirit by putting up festive holiday decor and colorful lights on their homes. Note that this is a residential neighborhood, and while you can drive around the block, be mindful of pedestrians and the limited parking. Also, avoid loud music, especially if driving around on a weeknight. Some of these displays also come with music, and visitors shouldn't miss that.
Taste of Merry Farm at Knott's Berry Farm
While the theme park is still closed, foodies can visit to taste more than 60 foods and drinks. The backdrop will be a Knott's Berry Farm decorated with twinkle lights and festive garland. Several days are already sold out because of limited quantities to allow for social distancing requirements. Purchasing tasting cards in advance is recommended and can be done on knotts.com. Tasting cards for those ages 12 and up are $40 and will include five food tastings, and tasting cards for those ages 3 to 11 include three food tastings and are $20.
The Bite LA Holiday Drive-Thru
From a snowman snowball fight to an ugly car sweater contest to a sweets crawl, this El Monte drive-thru event is sure to have something for kids and adults. Tickets start at $38 per person and multiple dates and times are available beginning December 3. All visitors must remain in their vehicles and will have to wear a mask if they lower their vehicle's window.
Christmas in Color at Raging Waters
Millions of lights with synchronized holiday music await visitors at this spot known for its water slides. Advanced tickets are required, and it's $35 per vehicle. The drive-thru event will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas days but otherwise runs daily from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. starting December 4.
There will be distanced photo opportunities at Underwood Farms with Santa, Christmas trees for purchase, tractor-drawn wagon rides, and more. From November 27 to December 24, the admission cost per person is $5 on a weekday and $8 on the weekend. Visitors will be required to wear a mask and social distance while at the farm.
Santa's Village 65th Christmas
From November 21 to January 10, Santa's Village will celebrate its 65th Christmas at a limited capacity. There's so much to do, including socially distanced visits with Santa, ice skating, cookie decorating, and wandering through the Fantasy Forest of Lights. Visitors to Santa's Village must wear a mask or risk landing on the naughty list. Reservations are also required to see the big guy. Tickets start at $49.
This one-mile drive-thru experience at the OC Fair and Event Center will showcase millions of lights, a Christmas tree lighting, and holiday music. Visitors will also get to purchase food, including sweets, tamales, and chicken tenders, online ahead of time. Ticket costs are per vehicle and start at $49.99. Face masks and seat belts are required.
Keep your holiday bright at Ventura County Fairgrounds with more than a million lights and lasers animated to classic holiday tunes. The event runs from November 22 to January 2. Tickets are limited and available only online and in advance. The admission cost starts at $49.