Holiday Guide 2025

Photo courtesy of Canva

HOLIDAY GIFT AND ACTIVITY GUIDE 2025

Photo courtesy of Canva

Heartfelt Holiday Gifts Moms Will Truly Appreciate As the holidays draw near, many of

spa-inspired skincare sets deliver

us start searching for meaningful

a moment of calm in the midst

ways to show the moms in our lives

of holiday bustle. For moms who

just how much they matter. The best

are always out and about, a well-

gifts often strike a balance between

designed

practicality and delight—pieces that

bag can make errands, quick trips,

feel thoughtful, useful, and a little

or gym days smoother and more

unexpected.

stylish.

Every mom has her own style, so

For something sentimental, digital

choosing something that reflects

photo displays have become a

her personality can make your gift

modern favorite—offering a clutter-

feel all the more special. For those

free way to enjoy a rotation of

who love a seasonal treat, a festive

family memories. And for moms

chocolate collection can add a bit

who appreciate a calming home

of sweetness to her December days.

ambiance, a high-quality candle can

Cozy matching holiday pajamas are

set the perfect tone with its soft

another fun way to bring extra cheer

glow and relaxing fragrance.

to the season, perfect for relaxed

This season, a thoughtful gift—big

mornings or family photos.

or small—can serve as a simple

If she enjoys unwinding with a little

reminder of gratitude, love, and all

self-care, luxurious body creams or

the ways she makes life brighter.

weekender

or

carryall

Photo courtesy of Canva

Upcoming Holiday Activities in the San Gabriel Valley San Gabriel Holiday Tree Lighting (“Taste of San Gabriel”) Date / Time: Thursday, December 3, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 annual holiday tree lighting with fun activities.

Activities Include train rides, ornament decorating, a light tunnel, hot cocoa, and Santa arriving via a vintage fire truck.

Monterey Park Holiday Snow Village Date / Time: Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Location: Barnes Park, 350 S. McPherrin Ave., Monterey Park.

Free snow play, sled runs, a snow play area, photos with Santa, holiday crafts, and a trackless train.

Registration: Required for snow activities (limited slots). montereypark.ca.gov Wristbands: Available for pick-up starting December 1 at Langley Center (400 W. Emerson Ave) or at the event.

Monrovia Holiday Parade Date / Time: Thursday, December 4, 2025, 7:00 PM. Route: Along Myrtle Avenue, from Walnut Ave to Palm Ave in Old Town Monrovia.

Annual community parade featuring floats, local groups, and holiday cheer.

Pasadena Mayor’s Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony Date / Time: December 5, 2025, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Location: Pasadena City Hall, 100 N. Garfield Ave. Live performances by local youth groups, crafts (run by the Armory Center for the Arts), refreshments, Santa, and a special photo booth. The Pasadena Fire Department will be collecting new, unwrapped toys for the Spark of Love Toy Drive.

Pasadena Holiday Lighted Parade Date / Time: December 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Location: Pasadena (parade route runs along Fairmont Parkway).

Over 95 brightly decorated vehicles, festive music, and community holiday spirit.

Santa in the Village & Carriage Rides Dates: December 6, 13 & 20, 2025, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Location: Glendora Village Meet Santa, take photos, and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides on December 13 and 20, lively entertainment, unique shops, and plenty of festive fun.

Photo courtesy of Canva

Travel in Style: Gift Ideas for the Jet-Setter in Your Life If you’re shopping for someone who’s

hardshell collections are built to

sleek, minimalist designs to high-

always catching flights or planning

withstand the inevitable bumps of

end luxury options—continue to

their next getaway, the travel market

travel, while features like 360-degree

be

is full of smart, stylish upgrades that

spinner wheels, TSA-friendly locks,

business travelers, and globetrotters

make time on the road (or in the air)

and

alike.

easier and more enjoyable. One of

smooth movement through airports

comes from a mix of craftsmanship,

the most popular trends this season

and train stations.

smart

is high-quality luggage sets that

Frequent travelers often praise these

details.

blend durability, thoughtful design,

sets for their space efficiency and

Whether your recipient is prepping

and modern aesthetics.

reliability, noting that good luggage

for a work trip or dreaming of their

can make a major difference when

next international escape, gifting

navigating unfamiliar cities or tight

dependable

along with smaller accessory pieces

itineraries.

also

accessories is a thoughtful way to

for toiletries or personal items—ideal

offer a sleek, coordinated look that

make every journey smoother. In the

for everything from weekend trips

tends to turn heads at the terminal.

end, great travel gear lets them focus

to long-haul adventures. Today’s

Plenty of well-known brands—from

on the adventure—not the haul.

A

well-designed

includes

multiple

set

typically

suitcase

sizes,

lightweight

frames

Matching

ensure

pieces

favorites Their

among enduring

organization,

luggage

influencers, popularity and

or

stylish

travel

Photo courtesy of Canva

Celebrate the Holidays in Montrose This Season Saturdays & Sundays: November 29 –

restaurants, cafés, and bakeries.

December 21, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Kick off the festive fun on Friday,

Tree Lighting & Carolers: Friday,

November 28, with a magical evening

November 28, carolers begin at 5:30

featuring strolling carolers, a visit from

PM, tree lighting at 6:15 PM

Santa, and the annual Holiday Tree

Step into a classic holiday scene in

Lighting. Carolers begin at 5:30 PM,

Old Town Montrose! This season, our

followed by the tree lighting at 6:15

Skip the crowded malls and long

charming, locally owned shops are

PM.

checkout lines—Old Town Montrose

decked out for the holidays, offering a

The weekend festivities continue with

offers a warm, festive atmosphere

variety of unique gifts for everyone on

beloved traditions:

perfect for holiday shopping and

your list—from pets and kids to friends

• Horse-drawn trolley rides along

family fun. With plenty of free parking,

and family. When you’re ready for a

Honolulu Avenue (complimentary,

delightful shops, and fantastic food,

Saturdays & Sundays)

there’s something for everyone to

break, enjoy delicious meals, coffee, or sweet treats at the many nearby

• Pony rides for kids on Saturdays

• Photos with Santa on Saturdays and Sundays • Live Christmas music filling the streets • Strolling carolers to keep spirits bright

enjoy this holiday season.

Photo courtesy of Canva

Lifestyle Experts Share Top Gifts for the 2025 Holiday Season As the 2025 holiday season approaches, lifestyle

Food and beverage gifts continue to be crowd-

experts are weighing in on gifts that are both

pleasers. Artisanal chocolates, gourmet coffee

thoughtful and practical. The best presents combine

and tea sets, or holiday-themed cooking kits bring

style, utility, and a personal touch, ensuring they’re

a mix of indulgence and creativity. Sharing these

remembered long after the holidays.

treats adds a festive, social element to gifting.

For tech enthusiasts, smart home devices continue

Experiences also top the wish list for many this

to be a top choice. Sleek speakers, smart lighting,

year. Lifestyle experts suggest giving cooking

and wearable tech provide convenience and modern

classes, wellness sessions, or curated subscription

flair. Experts recommend selecting gadgets that

boxes that offer ongoing enjoyment beyond the

integrate easily into daily life for maximum impact.

holidays.

Self-care and beauty items remain favorites.

Whether it’s a luxurious keepsake, a practical tool,

Curated skincare kits, spa-inspired bath collections,

or an unforgettable experience, the 2025 holiday

and luxury candles help create relaxing moments

season offers plenty of inspiration for gifts that feel

at home. Products with natural ingredients or

modern, meaningful, and memorable. Thoughtful

unique scents are especially appreciated for their

selection with a personal touch ensures your

thoughtful, personal touch.

presents will delight and stand out under the tree.

Hanukkah Events in Los Angeles (2025) Photo courtesy of Canva

Please confirm dates, times, and locations with each venue before attending, as details may change.

Century City Menorah Lighting Fairmont Century Plaza, 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067 Sunday, December 14 | 5:30 PM The annual lighting of a 9-foot menorah, paired with live music, latkes, donuts, and community remarks. Bring your family and friends to enjoy this free event.

Reserve your spot: eventbrite.com

Playa Vista Hanukkah Menorah Lighting RUNWAY Playa Vista, 12775 West Millennium, Los Angeles, CA 90094 Sunday, December 14 | 5:00 PM A free community menorah lighting in partnership with the Playa Vista Jewish community and Rabbi Joseph Greisman.

Registration Required: eventbrite.com

Beverly Hills Menorah Lighting Celebration Beverly Gardens Park, Lily Pond (between Canon Drive and Beverly Drive), Beverly Hills, CA Monday, December 15 | 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM Annual menorah lighting hosted by the Beverly Hills City Council.

Free (public event)

Grand Menorah Lighting at The Culver Steps The Culver Steps, 9300 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232 Sunday, December 14 | 4:30 PM Festivities include live Chanukah music, magic show, caricatures, hot latkes, doughnuts, chocolate gelt, crafts for kids, raffles, and a small gift for children. Free event and free parking provided (1-hour).

Register Here: jewishculvercity.com

“A Very Wicked Chanukah Aglow” Musical at Wilshire Boulevard Temple Wilshire Boulevard Temple, 3663 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010 Sunday, December 7 | Pre-show begins at 4:15 PM, musical starts at 5:00 PM A creative musical retelling of Hanukkah featuring characters like Elphaba, Glinda, and others, blending story, song, and tradition.

Ticket Information: Free–$25, depending on ticket type.

SimpleTix

“Returning the Favor: A Night of Light, Soul, and Song” Concert Wilshire Boulevard Temple – Glazer Campus, 3663 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010 Sunday, December 14 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Join JoDavi (Joshua Washington) for a soulful concert celebrating the first night of Chanukah, featuring his new Hanukkah album.

Tickets Required: ~$20 SimpleTix

Holidayfest! Shop, Dine, Win! on South Lake Avenue in Pasadena Form. Raffles take place live in the

artisan displays.

Saturday,

Macy’s Courtyard at 345 S. Lake

• Music Stage at The Shops on

December 6, 2025, the South Lake

Avenue at 2:00pm, 4:00pm, and

Lake, 345 S. Lake Avenue: Special

Avenue District in Pasadena is

6:00pm. Be sure to be present to

live

hosting Holidayfest! Shop, Dine &

win. Entries do not roll over—play

the day.

Win, presented by Logix Federal

again if you don’t win the first time!

Admission

Credit Union. This festive celebration

Holiday Activities

and

offers

season

in

style!

On

performances is

activities

throughout

complimentary, are

first

come,

everyone

• Santa’s Village at Macy’s, 401 S.

first served. Ample free and paid

with family-friendly activities, live

Lake Avenue: Photos with Santa,

parking is available, and the event

performances, and holiday cheer

music, raffle, and holiday-themed

happens rain or shine. Guests are

throughout the District.

airbrush art.

encouraged to stay home if feeling

something

for

From 12pm to 6pm, visitors can shop

• Holiday

Artisan

Market

at

unwell.

or dine at any South Lake Avenue

The Commons, 140 S. Lake

Celebrate the season, support local

business or restaurant and enter to

Avenue: Artisan goods, cookie

businesses, and enjoy a full day of

win exciting prizes. Simply take a

decorating, and live music.

festive fun at Holidayfest on South

photo of your same-day, in-person

• Winter Workshop at Pasarroyo,

purchase receipt and submit it

251 S. Lake Avenue: Ornament

Visit southlakeavenue.org for more

through the Holiday Raffle Entry

making, sketch artists, and local

details.

Lake Avenue!

Photo courtesy of Canva

Get ready to kick off the holiday

Please confirm dates, times, and locations with each venue before attending, as details may change.

Arcadia Tree Lighting Celebration & Santa Visit Arcadia Transit Plaza, 200 N. First Avenue, Arcadia, CA 91105 Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025, 6:00 p.m.

Join the City of Arcadia as they kick off the holiday season with a tree lighting, hot cocoa, carolers, kids’ crafts—and a special appearance by Santa Claus! He helps the mayor “flip the switch” to light the tree, then poses for photos.

More Information: arcadiaca.gov

Pasadena Holidayfest / Santa’s Village (South Lake Ave) South Lake Ave., Pasadena, CA At Holidayfest on Saturday, December 6, where you’ll find a Santa’s Village for free photos, ornament making, cookie decorating and live music — a lively block-party vibe with many activities great for families.

Visit visitpasadena.com for more details.

Photos with Santa – The Shops at Santa Anita 400 S. Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia, CA 91007 Santa returns to The Shops at Santa Anita starting November 21, 2025, for his annual photo sessions. Bring the family for cheerful holiday pictures in a festive mall setting—with walk-in availability and a classic backdrop set up just for this season.

Reservations and Additional Information: shopsatsantaanita. com

Breakfast with Santa – Arcadia Community Center Arcadia Community Center (address via city website) Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025 (9am-2pm) Combine pancakes, holiday cheer, and quality time with

Photo courtesy of Canva

Where to See Santa in SoCal

Snow Festival complete with sledding, face painting, a photo booth, and more winter-themed fun for the whole family.

Additional Information: arcadiaca.gov

Buena Park Mall – Santa Visit 8308 On The Mall, Buena Park, CA 90620 Take the kids to Buena Park Mall where Santa will be greeting families in the center court. Walk-ins are welcome, and a small $5 deposit (credited toward your photo package) gets you in.

Photo packages start at about $34.99, and you can pick up keepsakes like snow globes or ornaments while you’re there.

Santa will be there on select dates through December 24.

Reserve your spot: Eventbrite

Santa’s House – The Grove The Grove, Los Angeles, CA At The Grove, Santa’s Workshop is open Nov. 18–Dec. 24, 2025. Step into a festive cottage, tell Santa your Christmas wishes, and snap a photo in a beautifully themed holiday setting. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins may be available based on capacity.

Reservations and Additional Information: thegrovela.com

Santa’s Cottage – The Americana at Brand The Americana at Brand, Glendale, CA Santa will be in a charming winter cottage setup at The Americana at Brand through Christmas Eve (Dec. 24, 2025).

It’s a softly lit, cozy backdrop perfect for family photos and sharing holiday wishes.

Reservations and Additional Information: americanaatbrand. com

Santa’s Cottage – The Promenade at Westlake The Promenade at Westlake, Westlake Village, CA From Nov. 22–Dec. 24, 2025, the Promenade at Westlake has Santa in a cottage setting between Farfalla Trattoria and World Market, with a warm village feel.

Reservations and Additional Information: shoppromenade. com

Santa Photos – Ovation Hollywood Ovation Hollywood, Hollywood, CA From Nov. 28–Dec. 24, 2025, Ovation Hollywood offers free

Photo courtesy of Canva

Santa at this seasonal breakfast event. Afterwards, stay for a

photos with Santa. Visit his photo booth on Level 3 — they’ll email you a digital copy, or you can buy a $5 print on-site.

For times and additional information: ovationhollywood.com

Santa Claus at Glendale Galleria Glendale Galleria, Glendale, CA Santa returns to Macy’s Court at the Glendale Galleria from Nov. 21–Dec. 24, 2025. You can book a photo session ahead of time, and they often run “Pet Nights” (check the schedule) where wellbehaved pets can visit Santa too.

Santa’s Winter Wonderland – Santa Monica Place Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, CA Santa parks his sleigh under the 50-foot Christmas tree in Santa Monica Place’s Center Plaza through Dec. 24. The visit is free, but photo packages range around $39.99–$49.99, and they encourage reservations.

Reservations and Additional Information: santamonicaplace.com

Santa’s North Pole Adventure – Westfield Century City Westfield Century City, Los Angeles, CA For a more immersive experience, check out Santa’s North Pole Adventure — a multi-room holiday village where you’ll meet Santa in his bungalow, find Mrs. Claus at her bakery, explore a scavenger hunt, and more. Open most days through Christmas Eve. Tickets and Additional Information: westfield.com

One Colorado — Photos with Santa One Colorado / Courtyard between Sushi Roku & Sage, Pasadena, CA 91103 One Colorado runs a festive Santa set in the courtyard (weekends through Dec. 24); book a time to get polished family portraits or do a quick digital snapshot.

Photo Pricing and Hours: onecolorado.com

Plaza West Covina — Santa & Pet Nights Plaza West Covina, 112 Plaza Drive, West Covina, CA 91790 Plaza West Covina hosts a big seasonal Santa setup with reservation options, pet-photo nights, sensory-friendly hours and a tree-lighting celebration — good for families and pets.

Reservations and Additional Information: amusemattebooksanta

Photo courtesy of Canva

For times and additional information: glendalegalleria.com

Photo courtesy of Canva

Holiday Activities in the San Gabriel Valley this December

Please confirm dates, times, and locations with each venue before attending, as details may change.

Holiday Snow Village – Monterey Park

Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony & Winter Festival

Holidayfest! – Pasadena (South Lake Avenue)

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025,

p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Lighting begins ~6:00 p.m.; Winter

South Lake Avenue transforms into

Festival prior 3:00-9:00 p.m.

a holiday playground for this free,

Date: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, 12:00

Date: Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, 4:00

Location:

Avenue

family-friendly block party. Shop, dine,

p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

between Woodbury Dr & Altadena

and win prizes from local businesses,

Barnes Park (350 S. McPherrin Ave)

Dr, Altadena

stroll through an artisan market, and

in Monterey Park becomes a winter

This

up

visit Santa’s Village for photos with

wonderland with free snow sled runs,

a mile-long stretch of towering

the jolly guy and other characters.

a snow play area, train rides, arts &

deodar cedar trees decorated with

There’s also a Winter Workshop to

crafts, and a chance to meet Santa.

thousands of lights — the display

make ornaments, a cookie-decorating

While snow play is free, you’ll need to

has been active since 1920 and is

area, and live musical performances

register for a time slot; wristbands are

recognized on the National Register

from

required. Warm clothes and closed-

of Historic Places. Begin with the

Fichot, and Buyepongo.

toe shoes are recommended!

Winter Festival earlier in the day

For more details and registration:

(food trucks, local performances)

montereypark.ca.gov

then as twilight falls enjoy the glowing

The Nutcracker – Sierra Madre Dance Center

trees, festive carriage rides or simply

Date: Saturday, December 6 at 5:00

a stroll with cocoa in hand.

p.m.; Sunday, December 7 at 2:00 p.m.

105th Annual Christmas

Santa

storied

Rosa

tradition

lights

Darden

The

Band,

Jessica

Photo courtesy of Canva Location:

Mission

festive cheer for this holiday stroll

Huntington Dr, Arcadia)

Playhouse, 320 S Mission Drive, San

San

Gabriel

through Heritage Plaza (400 N.

Step into a dazzling winter wonderland

Gabriel

Citrus Ave). Participants will walk

as Santa Anita Park is transformed into

Get swept up in the holiday spirit with

through a decorated route with

10 acres of glowing holiday magic! The

this charming rendition of the classic

photo ops, experience a “snowfall”

world’s largest Christmas light maze, a

ballet, featuring over 100 local dancers,

effect, enjoy holiday music (thanks

real ice-skating trail, eight-lane ice slide,

eye-catching costumes and magical

to the Covina Concert Band), and

Santa’s Landing for photo-ops with

choreography. It’s perfect for a cultural

warm up with free hot chocolate

the big guy, festive live entertainment,

outing with family or friends in a

and coffee. There’s a small entrance

a holiday marketplace with artisan

historic theatre setting. After the show

fee ($5/person), and registration is

vendors,

you might stroll through downtown

required.

drinks. With rotating themed nights

San Gabriel for dessert or warm drinks.

Email for Registration Link: citrus5k@

like “Paws & Claus” (for pup-friendly

For Tickets: sierramadredancecenter.

covinaca.gov

visits) and “Ugly Sweater Karaoke,”

com

and

seasonal

eats

and

it’s a great outing for families, friends

“Snowman Stroll” – Covina

Enchant Christmas – Los Angeles

Date: Saturday, Dec. 14, 2025, Check-

Date: November 21 – December 28,

peak weekend hours fill fast!

in at 4:45 p.m., Walk at 5:00 p.m.

2025 (evenings)

Reserve

Covina’s downtown comes alive with

Held at Santa Anita Park (285 W

com

or date nights. Don’t forget to reserve tickets and parking ahead of time as Tickets:

enchantchristmas.

Photos courtesy of Canva

Ultimate Gift Guide for Dads Who “Don’t Want Anything”

Every year, Dad insists he “doesn’t need a thing,” yet

or coffee tasting experience, or tickets to a game, show, or

somehow your holiday gift list still has his name on it.

classic car exhibition. Personalized options also score high —

The key to shopping for the impossible-to-shop-for dad?

think custom photo books, engraved keychains, or a framed

Choose items that make everyday life a little more enjoyable,

map of his hometown or favorite travel spot.

personalized, or fun.

Tech-savvy dads will appreciate a wireless charging dock,

Start with something practical but elevated, like a sleek

noise-canceling headphones, or a smart key finder to keep

leather wallet with RFID protection, a high-quality belt, or

track of those ever-missing keys. For an outdoorsy dad,

a durable thermos for morning coffee. If he loves to grill,

consider a high-quality pocket knife, thermal socks, or a

swap standard tools for a premium BBQ set or a digital meat

compact camping hammock.

thermometer that guarantees the perfect steak every time.

When in doubt, pair a simple gift with a handwritten note.

For the dad who appreciates experiences more than objects,

Sometimes it’s not about finding what he wants — it’s about

consider a gift card to his favorite local restaurant, a whiskey

showing you were thinking of him.

Photos courtesy of Canva

Stocking Stuffers Under $25

Great gifts don’t have to

packets, or locally made honey

come with a big price tag.

and jam. These edible treats

Stocking stuffers are the

add a personal touch while

perfect way to add a little

supporting small businesses if

extra fun (and flair) to the

shopped locally.

holidays without stretching

Beauty lovers will swoon over

your budget. Under $25,

jade rollers, face masks, mini

there are countless small-

perfumes, clear lip glosses,

yet-thoughtful

nail polish, or hair accessories.

items

that

feel big in impact.

For kids and teens, small

For the on-the-go friend or

games, keychains, fidget toys,

family

stickers, or personalized name

member,

consider

items like mini hand creams,

bracelets work perfectly.

lip balms, travel-size candles,

You can also add fun, useful

compact

items

mirrors,

or

fun

like

quirky

mugs,

tumblers,

puzzle

socks in festive prints. Tech

reusable

lovers will appreciate phone

cubes,

grips, screen-cleaning kits,

holiday-themed ornaments.

cord organizers, or mini power

The

banks that can slip neatly into

practical, sweet, and silly items

a bag or glove compartment.

together creates a stocking

Food-based gifts are always a

that feels thoughtfully curated

hit. Think gourmet chocolates,

— proving that it’s the little

flavored

things that can make the

popcorn,

artisan

hot sauces, gourmet coffee

novelty best

pens,

part?

or

Mixing

holidays extra memorable.

Photo courtesy of Canva

Best Gifts for Teens in 2025

Teenagers know what they like, and in 2025, it’s all about

backpacks,

creativity, personalization, and experiences they can

appreciated. Beauty essentials like lip oils, skincare

share online. The best gifts for teens this holiday

starters, UV nail kits, and curling irons also top teen

season tap into self-expression, technology, and

wish lists.

social connection.

Creative teens will love art kits, digital drawing

Must-have tech remains at the top of their list.

tablets, journaling sets, or DIY candle and jewelry-

Wireless earbuds, portable speakers with LED lights,

making

phone tripods for TikTok and Instagram, and phone

PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo, LED light strips, or

cases that double as wallets are all popular picks. Mini

a high-quality gaming headset are guaranteed hits.

instant cameras and photo printers let them capture

And don’t forget experiences. Concert tickets,

and display memories in real time — an analog twist

creative workshops, escape rooms, or amusement

in a digital world.

park passes make for unforgettable memories.

and

kits.

For

statement

gamers,

jewelry

pre-paid

are

always

cards

for

Fashion and beauty continue to be huge. Oversized

Gifting something that reflects their personality

hoodies,

makes it even more meaningful.

trendy

sneakers,

graphic

tees,

mini

Photo courtesy of Canva

Dining Out on Christmas & New Year’s Eve

Whether you're avoiding cooking

feature elegant prix fixe holiday

neighborhood

or looking for a special way to

feasts complete with prime rib,

option for every mood and budget.

celebrate,

many

spots,

there’s

an

restaurants

seafood, and decadent desserts.

Some

throughout Los Angeles and the

For something more casual, diners,

reservation

San Gabriel Valley remain open

cafés, and select brunch spots may

others create ticketed packages

on Christmas and New Year’s Eve,

offer limited hours and special

with

offering festive menus and a warm,

menus.

included.

welcoming atmosphere.

New Year’s Eve dining is even more

ahead of time is essential, as these

On Christmas Day, a wide variety of

expansive, with many restaurants

dates tend to book out quickly.

cuisines are available. Many Asian

hosting celebratory dinners, tasting

Dining out on the holidays isn’t just

restaurants,

seating

pairings

or

Making

offer

with-

only,

while

entertainment a

reservation

Chinese,

menus, and themed experiences.

convenient — it’s an experience.

Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese

Expect champagne toasts, multi-

It allows you to focus on making

establishments, remain open and

course

meals,

memories

offer

and

countdown

From

luxury

full

including

restaurants

menus.

Select

hotels

and fine-dining restaurants also

live

music,

DJs,

celebrations.

rooftops

to

cozy

instead

of

worrying

about cooking or cleanup, which is truly the spirit of the season.

Photos courtesy of Canva

Local Brand Gift Guide: Shop Small in the San Gabriel Valley

This holiday season, support your

these shops collaborate with local

items such as custom mugs, shirts,

local community by shopping small

artists, turning your purchase into

ornaments, embroidered hats, and

in the San Gabriel Valley. The SGV

a meaningful investment back into

photo gifts. These thoughtful details

is home to an incredible range of

the community.

transform a simple item into a

unique, family-owned shops and

For the food lovers on your list,

personal keepsake for the recipient.

creative

offering

explore small-batch bakeries, coffee

Don’t overlook vintage shops, plant

beautifully

entrepreneurs

one-of-a-kind

roasters, boba shops, and specialty

nurseries, bookstores, and record

gifts you won’t find in big box stores.

made,

snack stores throughout the area.

stores scattered across the SGV

Start with locally owned boutiques

Gift boxes of cookies, macarons,

— they’re perfect for finding cozy,

in

and

artisan chocolates, or unique tea

nostalgic, or creative gifts with

Alhambra, where you can discover

blends make perfect hostess gifts or

character.

curated selections of candles, home

dessert add-ons for holiday dinners.

When

décor, crystals, handmade jewelry,

There are also talented small business

purchase tells a story — and that’s

and

makers

the best kind of gift for the holidays.

Pasadena,

custom

Monrovia,

artwork.

Many

of

creating

personalized

you

shop

local,

every

Best Places for a Group Holiday Brunch Photos courtesy of Canva

Holiday brunch is the perfect way to gather friends, family, or coworkers in a relaxed yet festive setting.

In Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley, there’s no shortage of crowd-friendly restaurants offering beautiful spaces, seasonal menus, and shareable dishes ideal for group celebrations.

Restaurants in Pasadena, Monrovia, and Downtown Los Angeles are especially popular for group brunches due to their walkable areas, charming backdrops, and proximity to holiday shopping and attractions. It’s easy to pair brunch with a stroll past decorated storefronts, Christmas markets, or local events afterward.

The best group brunch spots combine ambiance, menu

variety,

and

comfort.

Think

airy

patios

decorated together. Many locations offer prix fixe group menus or large platters designed for sharing, which makes planning a breeze.

Seasonal brunch items often include gingerbread pancakes, eggnog French toast, chorizo and veggie frittatas, cranberry scones, and peppermint lattes.

Bottomless mimosas, spiked cold brew, or festive mocktails help make the experience feel like a true holiday event.

For larger parties, it’s always a good idea to make a reservation early and consider places that offer private or semi-private dining options. Whether you're celebrating with friends, family, or co-workers, a holiday brunch creates memorable moments without the formality of a full dinner.