I spent last night exploring the light displays of DTLA, and they are amazing, and not too crowded.
First up is the skating rinks at Pershing Square, and L.A. Live. There’s something decadent about ice skating in 70 degree weather surrounded by palm trees, and both sites have those. But I prefer the Pershing Square rink to the L.A. Kings rink at L.A. Live. Its less crowded, they have little penguins to stabilize the kiddos, plus you can head in to the Biltmore hotel, and hit the coffee stand for hot chocolate in the ornate lobby, or the lobby bar for something stronger.
Next, and I think most impressive is California Plaza, the Music Center Plaza and Grand Park. These are all close together and walkable. California Plaza has a new display this year called “Illuminations”. It is impressive, with towering “dandelions” emitting a luminous spray, coordinated with an LED Christmas tree. With ample seating, and not many people around, grab a treat at Grand Central Market, and take Angel’s Flight up Bunker Hill and you’re there. Walk North East on Grand Avenue and you’ll be at Music Center Plaza, with its towering tree and giant snow flakes, don’t miss a peak in the Dorothy Chandler Pavillion’s lobby. Just across the street is Grand Park, also with an impressive tree. Have a drink at the Mullin Wine Bar, and take in the glow.
“Sparkle” is back at the Block, an outdoor shopping center on 7th, with a music coordinated light display on the hour.
If you’d like a little more reason for the season tradition, head to Olvera Street and Union Station. Olvera has their beautiful wood carved nativity in the plaza, and nightly Poasada procession on the 9 nights leading up to Christmas. Posada is a re-enactment of Joseph and Mary’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, searching for shelter. Union Station has beautiful holiday lights, programming and large menorah.
You could make a night of it and hit them all in a 3 mile walk from Union Station.