Deck the Halls With Holiday Activities in Los Angeles

Los Angeles may not have traditional seasonal weather, but that doesn’t mean the city lacks sparkle when it comes to getting into the holiday spirit. From ice skating rinks to music to shows for a good cause, Los Angeles has a wide variety when it comes to holiday activities.

The Geffen Playhouse near UCLA is putting on Hershey Felder as Irving Berlin now through mid-December. Irving Berlin may not be as recognizable a name as his music. He has composed some of the most well known songs ever, including “God Bless America,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business” and “White Christmas.” Felder is putting on his best shoes to show his respect to Berlin as he performs a show directed by Trevor Hay that Broadway World has described as “Enriching, humorous and replete with most of the brilliant Berlin tunes … you do not want to miss a delicious moment of it.”

Those looking for something more casual may want to hit up “Bob’s Holiday Office Party.” The play at the Pico Playhouse in Los Angeles is about to head into its 20th year in 2015, pokes fun at the typical holiday party at an Iowa-based insurance company. It follows Bob Finhead and his coworkers as they head to their annual event. It also highlights Bob as a small town guy with dreams larger than his surroundings. It has comedy for the laughs and a bigger picture overall.

Groundlings put on shows on a weekly basis throughout the year down on Melrose in Hollywood, but they offer up something special this time of year, their annual Holiday Show. For two weekends in December, the improv stylings of Groundlings put on a holiday inspired show for only $20. Former Groundlings have been “SNL’s” Taran Killam, Ana Gasteyer and Kristen Wiig, “Community’s” Jim Rash,” Melissa McCarthy and “Friends” Lisa Kudrow. It’s definitely one of the better places in Los Angeles to get a laugh and the current cast is phenomenal.

One cannot get through Christmas without the Los Angeles Ballet production of “The Nutcracker.” In Los Angeles, it’s being performed at various venues throughout the city. Dec. 13 and 14 it will be at the Dolby Theatre, Dec. 20 and 21 the show moves to Royce Hall and then they cap things off down in the Long Beach area at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center.

The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles has been an ongoing part of the city of Angels for over three decades now. This year they’ll be performing their Holiday Spectacular while shining a light on important LGBTQ issues, such as bullying and what steps need to be taken for it to stop around the world. For one weekend only, Dec. 13 and 14, the GMCLA will be taking over the Saban Theatre on Wilshire in Beverly Hills. Patrons will hear the chorus sing songs that range from the small screen of “Glee” to the holiday staples everyone can sing along to and enjoy.

The Getty not only houses some of the best art from all over the world that can be found in LA but it sits atop a hill that lets visitors gaze at the entire city. This time of year, though they do it up special for holidays at The Getty. Usually closing its doors early, they stay open later (9 p.m.) on Saturday nights for those in attendance to sip on complimentary cider and check out their exhibits. The Getty is always a free trip, minus the parking but those arriving after 5 p.m. will bypass that charge. It’s a classy, free event going on Saturdays through January 4, 2015.

Harry Shearer and his singer-songwriter wife Judith Owen are still going strong with their holiday show “Harry Shearer and Judith Owen Present Christmas Without Tears.” Formerly known as “Judith Owen and Harry Shearer’s Holiday Sing-Along,” the show is both a performance from the duo and a sing-along for those in attendance. It’s a way to get the audience involved with the action instead of just watching. Each year the show spreads joy and this year it’s a benefit show for My Friend’s Place, a non-profit that supports homeless youth. Tickets are on sale now for their December 13 and 14 shows at the Largo at the Coronet in Los Angeles.

Street Food Cinema is presenting Yuletide Cinema at the Palace Theatre in Downtown. Coming to LA on Dec. 20, it will be a night filled with a presentation of “The Princess Bride” with a special appearance by Cary Elwes. It’s not just about the movies though. The theater will also have an elf check-in station that allows people to leave “naughty” and “nice” report cards. Once done with that they can drink up some wine or eggnog while taking in roasted chestnuts and gourmet popcorn. In addition, those in their best holiday wear can win prizes; ugly sweaters included.

Los Angeles doesn’t have frozen lakes, so to make up for it they offer a variety of places to ice skate. First up is the Downtown on Ice located in Pershing Square right down the street from Central Library. It’s a quick trip on the Metro and a mere $12 including shoe rental. Another easy trip is to LA Kings Holiday Ice at Nokia Plaza at LA LIVE. It offers the Supper & Skate special that includes dinner at any of the participating LA LIVE restaurant. Those up for the drive can head to Anaheim to Downtown Disney for their special “Frozen” themed ice rink.

Universal Studios Hollywood welcomes back their favorite guest for the holidays, The Grinch. Grinchmas is a tradition at the park and this year starting Dec. 6 through Jan. 3, 2015. The Grinch, the Whos and his canine pal Max will be in attendance. Along with the characters, the park offers cookie and ornament decoration as well as a stunning 60-foot tree that’s all decked out as if it came straight from the pages of the Dr. Seuss classic. The park even adds a special appearance by The Grinch in their backlot tour.

People feeling really giving will want to check out the Laugh Factory’s 35th Annual Free Christmas Dinner and Toy Giveaway.The event is free and held on Christmas. It welcomes those in need as well as humor and comic relief. There are four shows throughout the day from 1 p.m.-7 p.m. Comics in attendance who’ll not only take the stage but also serve up some free food are Dane Cook, Tom Arnold, Tom Dressen, Kevin Nealon and more. Now in its 35th year, Jamie Masada the founder of the Laugh Factory said, “Spending the holidays alone is no laughing matter, especially in today’s economy. Many people have no family here. We create a welcoming atmosphere of family, fun and good cheer.”

The Grove is an all-year attraction but it brings out the magic around the holidays. Decorated in LA’s best, The Grove is one of the most spirited places this time of year. They have a whole Santa’s village set up, so families can come out and enjoy. While kids are taken in by that, everyone can enjoy the 100-foot tall Christmas tree that stands at the base of the mall. Located on Fairfax by the famous Farmer’s Market, people can take in the festive sights while enjoying a meal at one of the many eateries, and do some shopping as well.

For almost two decades, music legend Stevie Wonder has put on his annual House Full of Toys in Los Angeles and this year is no different. The newly rejuvenated Forum in Inglewood will house Wonder and his guests on Dec. 20. The event is not just about the music, but also about giving back. Audience members are asked to bring unwrapped gifts that are to be collected and given to family in need this season. Wonder of course brings his A-game to the stage and has been joined in the past by Alicia Keys, Justin Bieber and Babyface.

The CityWalk at Universal Studios has more to offer than just Grinchmas. Those not heading into the park can take in the free music at their 5 Towers of Entertainment. Fans of Mariachi music can check out the Mariachi Divas for free on Dec. 20. The next night it’s all about Chanukah as Chabad of the Valley celebrates their 13th annual show. Again, both events are free.