Southern California remained abuzz with cultural and entertainment offerings throughout the weekend of December 26, as communities across the region embraced the festive spirit with a rich lineup of events and attractions. From live theater and film screenings to ice skating and holiday light displays, the greater Los Angeles area continued to draw families, visitors, and locals seeking joyful experiences in the days following Christmas.
The post-Christmas weekend has increasingly become an important time for community engagement, particularly in regions like Southern California where the holiday season merges with mild weather and a vibrant cultural landscape. Rather than winding down after December 25, many residents and tourists use this time to explore the area’s unique blend of winter-themed activities and entertainment. This year was no exception, as events on December 26 and the surrounding days showcased the region’s creative energy and commitment to inclusive seasonal programming.
Among the weekend’s standout attractions was a special presentation of Pee-Wee’s Playhouse Christmas Special, which brought nostalgia and holiday cheer to audiences in Glendale. The performance, which paid homage to the beloved 1980s television show, was hosted at The Alex Theatre and included additional entertainment such as DJ sets and guest appearances. The event drew multigenerational audiences eager to celebrate a quirky holiday classic in a festive environment that blended humor, performance art, and community spirit.
Further west in Thousand Oaks, theatergoers packed into venues to enjoy The Wonderful Winter of Oz, a holiday panto from the Lythgoe Family Panto company. Pantos, a British theatrical tradition known for their interactive storytelling and comedic flair, have found a dedicated following in Southern California thanks to their accessible, family-friendly style. This year’s production reimagined the classic Wizard of Oz story with a seasonal twist, complete with musical numbers, colorful costumes, and moments of audience participation. The show exemplified how local theaters are able to blend global traditions with West Coast flavor to create memorable holiday experiences.
Cinema also played a central role in the weekend’s entertainment offerings. In Long Beach and other parts of the region, movie theaters continued to screen holiday classics alongside newer releases, giving families the opportunity to share favorite films or discover new ones together. Independent film enthusiasts had the opportunity to attend a special screening series in Los Feliz, where the 2025 Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour brought a curated selection of short films to Southern California audiences. These screenings often included discussions with filmmakers and industry guests, creating a more immersive and thoughtful cultural experience during the festive season.
Despite the warm December temperatures, outdoor winter activities remained a popular draw. Ice skating rinks, including the ever-popular L.A. Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. Live, gave residents a chance to embrace the season’s charm with skating under the stars. Surrounded by music, lights, and holiday decor, these rinks offered an ideal destination for both casual outings and holiday date nights. Many were located near major attractions, allowing skaters to extend their evening with nearby dining or shopping.
Southern California’s famous holiday light displays continued to illuminate neighborhoods and parks, offering a visually stunning way to celebrate the season. Attractions such as Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena brought families out in the evening to walk or drive along streets adorned with glowing displays and festive decor. Other popular destinations included botanical gardens and outdoor installations where holiday lights were paired with music and seasonal snacks, adding a multisensory element to the experience.
Museums and cultural centers also contributed to the holiday landscape with special exhibitions and family-friendly programming. The USC Pacific Asia Museum and other institutions remained open through the weekend, inviting visitors to engage with immersive exhibits and festive activities. These venues offered educational content alongside seasonal decor, making them attractive destinations for families seeking enriching yet enjoyable outings during the holiday break.
Local venues across the region rounded out the weekend with a variety of live music, comedy shows, and nightlife events that catered to adults looking for holiday-themed social activities. Restaurants and bars hosted special menus, themed gatherings, and musical acts that extended the festive mood well into the night. These gatherings emphasized the community’s desire not only to celebrate but to connect, with many events encouraging attendees to support local artists, businesses, and charitable causes.
What made the weekend particularly special was the way Southern California blended holiday tradition with regional character. While many parts of the country faced snow and freezing temperatures, Los Angeles and surrounding cities offered warm-weather alternatives that still captured the magic of the season. Whether it was skating under palm trees, watching a musical retelling of a classic fairy tale, or strolling through illuminated streets in a hoodie rather than a heavy coat, residents found ways to celebrate in a distinctly Californian way.
The weekend of December 26 proved that the holiday season in Southern California does not simply end on Christmas Day. Instead, it continues to evolve with a diverse range of experiences that reflect the region’s creative spirit, cultural diversity, and emphasis on community engagement. As more families and travelers seek ways to celebrate beyond traditional gatherings, events like these ensure that the final days of the year remain filled with joy, connection, and celebration.
