Top 8 Southern California Neighborhoods for Spectacular Christmas Light Displays
As Christmas approaches, neighborhoods in Southern California showcase impressive holiday light displays. Visitors can stroll or drive through these areas to get into the festive spirit.
Sleepy Hollow Christmas Lights, Torrance
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Experience the Seaside Ranchos neighborhood in Torrance, known for its stunning holiday decorations. The displays honor the L.A. Dodgers, Disney characters, and feature life-sized Santa cutouts. This tradition has been running since 1984, with lights illuminated from the day after Thanksgiving until New Year’s Day. Bring cash; some families sell hot chocolate and churros to support local sports teams.
- Where: 5300 Reese Rd., Torrance, CA 90505
- When: Day after Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day
- Time: Dusk to 10 p.m.
Candy Cane Lane, El Segundo
East Acacia Avenue in El Segundo, known as “Candy Cane Lane,” inspired the holiday movie starring Eddie Murphy. Families decorate their yards with LED lights, garlands, wreaths, and more. This neighborhood has been celebrating together since 1949.
- Where: East Acacia Avenue and California Street, El Segundo
- When: Dec. 14 to Dec. 25
- Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
Candy Cane Lane, Woodland Hills
Since 1952, homeowners on Lubao Avenue and Oxnard Street in Woodland Hills have adorned their homes with lights and decorations. The displays feature animatronic reindeer and carolers that enhance the festive atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to park nearby and walk to see the displays due to increasing crowds.
- Where: Lubao Avenue and Oxnard Street
- When: First Saturday in December to the first Saturday in January
- Time: 6 to 10 p.m.
Christmas Tree Lane, Altadena
Altadena’s Santa Rosa Avenue boasts the country’s oldest Christmas lighting display, recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. Twinkling lights adorn trees planted in the late 1800s, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Where: E Mariposa Street and Santa Rosa Avenue
- When: Trees lit on Dec. 7
- Time: Dusk until midnight
Brea Lights, Brea
In the Eagle Hills neighborhood, over 100 homes display festive decorations inspired by local culture, including beach themes and sports tributes. This festive display runs throughout December.
- Where: Eagle Hills neighborhood, E. Lambert Road and Sunflower Street
- When: Dec. 1 to Dec. 26
- Time: 6 to 10 p.m.
Sparkle Ball Lane, Fullerton
What began with a single “sparkle ball” made from plastic cups has transformed into a neighborhood celebration. Residents create illuminated spheres and festive decorations throughout their yards.
- Where: North Yale Avenue
- When: Dec. 1 to the first weekend in January
- Time: 5 to 11 p.m.
