Get ready for some holiday magic as we explore the nine best Christmas lights in Southern California that are all about spreading the holiday cheer. From enchanting winter scenes to mesmerizing illuminations, these displays take festive celebrations to a whole new level. Join me as we dive into the most spectacular and heartwarming holiday light displays in SoCal, setting the stage for a radiant and joyful holiday season.

1. L.A. Zoo Lights, Los Angeles

Step into an enchanting holiday wonderland at L.A. Zoo Lights, where you'll find stunning lantern sculptures, including animals and towering trees, celebrating the beauty of nature. Explore the Winter Wildlands with its majestic pine trees, glowing ice crystals, and captivating "northern lights" views. Enjoy interactive experiences like dancing with motion-sensing cactuses and luminous swings, or challenge your family to holiday hopscotch. Don't forget to warm up with hot cocoa and tasty treats available for purchase during these unforgettable Christmas lights in Los Angeles, CA.

2. Holiday Lights Train Ride, Los Angeles

Hop aboard for a magical evening on the Holiday Lights Train Ride through the festively adorned one-mile track in Griffith Park with Griffith Park & Southern Railroad. You'll be transported to a world filled with delightful and jolly scenes, all illuminated by thousands of lights. But the enchantment doesn't stop there; you can also explore the holiday gift kiosk and three winter-themed open-air photo spots, perfect for creating treasured memories.

3. Descanso’s Enchanted Forest of Light, Flintridge

Experience Descanso's Enchanted Forest of Light, a mesmerizing nocturnal fantasyland in Los Angeles. This interactive nighttime adventure offers a one-mile stroll through the gardens, featuring popular illuminated attractions like a "stained glass" town, geometric installations, Flower Power, and captivating lighting effects. Don't miss this magical, after-dark experience of Christmas lights in Flintridge, CA.

4. Festival of Lights, Riverside

The Festival of Lights has become a cherished tradition, spreading immense joy throughout the Inland Southern California community. The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa's Annual Festival of Lights is a unique and special holiday experience where the mansion gets dressed with 4.5 million twinkling lights showcasing over 400 animated figures, creating a truly spectacular atmosphere. Explore one of the nation's largest holiday light collections and be part of the ever-growing number of visitors that join in the festive spirit and Christmas lights in Riverside, CA.

5. Lightscape, Arcadia

Discover the garden's enchanting winter side with a stroll along the Serpent Trail and Forest Path. Lightscape offers a captivating fusion of nature and art, featuring the mesmerizing Fire Garden, the dazzling Arch of Light, and more stunning installations. The beloved Winter Cathedral is back, and you can enjoy food trucks and a full bar. Plus, keep an eye out for Santa on select Lightscape nights. These are the best Christmas lights in Arcadia, CA.

6. Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, Newport Beach

Don't miss the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, where you can watch a fantastic display of over 100 beautifully decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes as they cruise around Newport Harbor. You can catch the parade from any spot along the bay for five nights, but if you want an even better view, there are seats, dining packages, and cruises available for purchase. It's a joyous tradition of Christmas lights in Newport Beach, CA you won't want to skip.

7. Holiday Road, Calabasas

Prepare for a merry time at Holiday Road's walking trail in King Gillette Ranch, Calabasas. Enjoy a night of twinkling lights, warm drinks, holiday activities, and cherished moments in the heart of Los Angeles. Capture the cheery scenes for Instagram, explore the souvenir shop, indulge in adult beverages at the Holiday Bar, and savor delicious offerings from the best local food trucks. This winter, immerse yourself in larger-than-life holiday displays and thousands of Christmas lights in Calabasas, CA and meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves. Enjoy live carolers, face painting, and the Winter Market for unique holiday gifts. Holiday Road is the destination for unforgettable holiday experiences.

8. Winter Fest OC, Costa Mesa

Winter Fest OC brings the magic of winter to SoCal, offering an immersive experience. Enjoy unforgettable moments with loved ones while surrounded by a million lights, holiday decor, and thrilling activities, including the North Pole Journey, Ice Trail, Snow Play area, ice tubing slide, carnival fun, festive food, and a holiday market. It's a magical celebration with Christmas lights in Costa Mesa, CA you won't want to miss. I love a holiday event with lots of fun activities, don't you?

9. Santa's Speedway Christmas Lights Experience, Irwindale

Gear up for an extraordinary Christmas lights display in California experience at Santa's Speedway, the grandest Christmas light show. You can park your car and walk right up to the massive light exhibits, including the remarkable 11-story Christmas Light Tree and towering ornaments that will exceed your holiday expectations. Explore the Christmas Village, where you can visit the reindeer stables, enjoy dinner and drinks, and even meet Santa for that perfect Christmas photo.

Have you checked out these cool places yet or have they come up when you've searched for the "best Christmas lights near me?" Do you think they rank as some of Southern California's top Christmas lights? Personally, I'm digging the look of Descanso’s Enchanted Forest of Light – how about you? Share your thoughts and any fun recommendations you've got!

And if you're gearing up for a wonderful wintertime road trip to visit these holiday hotspots, don't forget to whip up a handy packing list. It'll make your adventure even better!