Fun Things to Do This Thanksgiving in LA

What's better than Hollywood during the holidays? Los Angeles really comes alive during the holiday season. Thanksgiving week marks the official start of "all things Christmas" in the land where many memorable and classic holiday films have been made. In addition to popular attractions that go "all out" with decorations for the season, Los Angeles hosts a variety of limited-time events and experiences that begin in November each year. Here's a look at the best Thanksgiving activities near Hollywood to check out this year!

Universal Studios Hollywood

There's never a bad time to check out the reality-defying rides and fun experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood. However, things really come alive here during the holidays. You can even spend Thanksgiving at Universal if you're in Los Angeles for the big day. Yes, Universal Studios Hollywood is open 365 days a year, including Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Drumstick Dash L.A.

This fun event in the North Hollywood (NoHo) Arts District offers one of the best ways to make unforgettable Thanksgiving memories in Hollywood this year! Taking place on Thanksgiving morning, Drumstick Dash L.A. is the world's largest Thanksgiving 5k/10k run. The great thing about this race is that it's enjoyed by both serious runners and those looking for a fun and silly morning. The event includes a costume contest, fun giveaways, and more. All the proceeds from this event benefit Hope the Mission, an organization that provides hot meals to over 2 million people.

LA Auto Show

Taking place over Thanksgiving week, this event draws a global audience with more than 1 million square feet of exhibition space! Thousands pour in from more than 50 countries to check out new automobile models, learn about the latest industry tech, and mingle with their peers. This is one of the best Thanksgiving activities near Hollywood, whether you're in the automobile industry or love cars.

Griffith Park

Griffith Park is an absolutely magical place to be during the holidays in Los Angeles! Spanning over 4,210 acres of natural and manicured terrain, this stunning space seamlessly combines urban beauty with the wildness of the towering Santa Monica Mountains. While exploring the park, tourists enjoy visits to the Griffith Observatory, the Greek Theatre, the Autry Museum of the American West, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Hollywood Sign, and many other attractions. While museums and attractions within Griffith Park are closed on Thanksgiving, the general park and surrounding trails are open for walks or picnics.

Hollywood Christmas Parade

The Hollywood Christmas Parade has been going strong for more than 90 years! Taking place on the Sunday after Thanksgiving each year, the parade follows a route from Hollywood Boulevard at Orange Drive to Sunset Boulevard. This unforgettable experience features floats, marching bands, dance groups, and plenty of celebrity guests!

Start the Holiday Season the Right Way in Hollywood

Visiting Hollywood for Thanksgiving ensures that this year's holiday season will be one you'll never forget. Why settle for watching classic Christmas movies at home when you can ring in the season in the place where they were made? If you're lucky enough to be in town for the long weekend after Thanksgiving, it will officially feel like Christmas magic is in the air once you attend the famous Hollywood Christmas Parade.