Dreaming of a winter getaway that swaps heavy coats for sunshine and snow shovels for outdoor strolls? Let’s talk about Glendale, California. Nestled right next to Los Angeles, this city has its own vibrant pulse—a perfect blend of urban energy and cozy neighborhood charm.
When winter rolls around, Glendale truly shines, offering a spectacular mix of festive lights, cultural delights, and culinary gems that will make your season bright.
So, what makes Glendale a top-tier winter destination? It’s all about the vibe. The air is crisp, the crowds are manageable, and the city dresses up in its holiday best without the biting cold. We’ve put together the ultimate list of the 14 best spots to experience in Glendale this winter.
From dazzling light displays to incredible foodie finds, get ready to explore the places that make this city a must-visit. Your unforgettable winter adventure starts right here!
1. Stroll Through a World of Lights at the Inaugural Tianyu Lights Festival
Imagine stepping into a living painting where nature and light perform a silent, spectacular dance. That’s the magic awaiting you at the first-ever Tianyu Lights Festival, held at Camelback Ranch – Glendale.
Running from October 25th through January 5th, this isn’t your typical holiday light drive-through. It’s a fully immersive, walk-through experience designed to leave you in awe.
You’ll meander along paths surrounded by larger-than-life illuminations. Think glowing flowers, radiant animal sculptures, and dazzling tunnels of color that blend artistic vision with cultural storytelling.
It’s the perfect embodiment of a winter visit to Glendale—an opportunity to create magical memories outdoors in the beautiful, mild Southern California weather. This festival is a brand-new reason to make Glendale your seasonal destination.
2. Experience the Ultimate Drive-Through Adventure at ZooLights
Who says you need to bundle up to enjoy a winter wonderland? At the Phoenix Zoo’s ZooLights, you can experience the joy from the cozy comfort of your car.
On select nights like January 18th, you can cruise through a breathtaking 200-foot-long light tunnel and past millions of twinkling lights and dazzling animal sculptures. It’s a fantastic, hassle-free way to enjoy one of the valley’s favorite holiday traditions.
The magic doesn’t stop at the lights. You can enjoy holiday treats, pick up a souvenir photo, and watch the mesmerizing Lake Lights Shows, all without stepping outside.
For families with little ones or anyone looking for a uniquely relaxing yet festive outing, this drive-through spectacle is a top choice for winter activities in Glendale. It’s convenience and Christmas spirit, all rolled into one unforgettable ride.
3. Glide Into the Season at Skate Westgate
There’s something timeless about ice skating under the open sky. At the Westgate Entertainment District, you can do just that at Skate Westgate, a real outdoor ice rink that operates from November 7th to January 12th.
Whether you’re a seasoned skater planning your next pirouette or a beginner clinging to the rail, this rink welcomes all skill levels for a classic winter in Glendale experience.
The setting at Westgate is half the fun. Surrounded by the district’s lively atmosphere, you can glide under the lights with music filling the air.
After working up an appetite, you’re steps away from a huge variety of restaurants and cafes. It’s the perfect recipe for a festive date night or a fun-filled family afternoon, creating those picture-perfect holiday moments you’ll cherish.
4. Discover a Walkable Winter Wonderland at Desert Farm Lights
Ready to wander through a glittering paradise? Make your way to Desert Farm Lights at Justice Brothers Ranch, returning with an expanded lineup of entertainment from November 21st to December 28th.
This family-friendly event is the West Valley’s premier walkable holiday light installation, featuring a stunning display of one million Christmas lights.
But the lights are just the beginning. You can enjoy hands-on activities like ice skating, take a charming wagon or train ride, and savor festive food offerings.
With live entertainment adding to the cheer, it’s a fully immersive experience that feels like stepping into a holiday movie. For a winter destination in Glendale that combines visual spectacle with joyful activities for all ages, this farm is an absolute must-see.
5. Find Cozy Magic Inside a Snow Globe at Snowland
What if you could step inside a snow globe? At Snowland, running from November 25th to January 6th, you can do exactly that.
This unique experience offers private, glittering snow globes where you and your group can enjoy your own hot cocoa bar with all the fixings and a cookie decorating kit. It’s an intimate and incredibly cozy way to celebrate.
Inside your private winter wonderland, you can play festive games and watch a breathtaking 30-minute light show, where dancing holiday lights move in sync with seasonal music. It’s a uniquely personal and magical experience, perfect for creating special memories with loved ones.
For a winter visit to Glendale that feels both luxurious and heartwarmingly festive, booking a session at Snowland is an absolute delight.
6. Savor Explosive Flavor at Bulan Thai Vegetarian Kitchen
Winter cravings often call for something deeply comforting and packed with flavor. Look no further than Bulan Thai Vegetarian Kitchen, a cozy bistro that consistently ranks as one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Glendale.
This spot is famous for its vegetarian and vegan twists on classic Thai dishes, offering a massive menu that will satisfy any appetite.
You simply must try their rich and bubbling curries or the signature snap pea salad, which comes with cashews, onions, and carrots in a chili tamarind dressing, topped with coconut cream and crispy shallots.
The restaurant is small and unassuming, but the flavors are anything but—they pack a serious punch. It’s a top-tier Glendale attraction for winter for food lovers seeking a warm, delicious, and meat-free feast.
7. Bite Into a Legendary Vegan Sandwich at Maciel’s Plant-Based Butcher & Deli
Craving a hearty, savory sandwich but want to keep it plant-based? Your search ends at Maciel’s Plant-Based Butcher & Deli.
This innovative spot is renowned for crafting what many call the best vegan sandwiches in town, using a fusion of Mexican flavors and traditional deli-style cold cuts made entirely from plants. From house-made bacon to pastrami and chorizo, their creativity knows no bounds.
Biting into their famous Reuben or Steak and Gouda sandwich is a revelation. The flavors are robust, the textures are satisfyingly meaty, and the quality is top-notch.
It’s the perfect spot for a hearty lunch during a day of exploring. Whether you’re fully vegan or just eager to try something deliciously different, Maciel’s is a standout place to see in Glendale in winter for an unforgettable meal.
8. Celebrate Community at the 29th Annual Holiday Open House
There’s nothing quite like the charm of a hometown holiday celebration. On November 8th, Downtown Glendale invites you to its 29th Annual Holiday Open House, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This beloved event is the epitome of community spirit, marking the official start of the holiday season in the historic Catlin Court and Old Towne districts.
Stroll along decorated streets as unique local shops and boutiques open their doors with special offers, festive refreshments, and warm welcomes.
It’s a joyful, slower-paced way to find one-of-a-kind gifts and soak in the friendly atmosphere. For a genuine taste of local culture and a break from big-box store chaos, this open house is a wonderful winter activity in Glendale.
9. Enjoy a Family Night Out at The Lot’s Family Fun Festival
As the season gets busier, a dedicated family fun night is a lifesaver. Head to The Lot in Downtown Glendale for their Family Fun Festival & Marketplace on November 29th and December 20th, from 6 to 10 p.m.
This evening event is designed for making merry memories, offering a cheerful marketplace vibe with activities for kids and shopping for adults.
It’s the ideal, low-stress way to enjoy a festive evening out. You can browse artisan vendor booths for last-minute gifts, enjoy live seasonal music, and let the kids burn off some energy in a safe, joyful environment.
For a simple, heartwarming, and authentically local experience, this festival is a fantastic addition to your winter in Glendale itinerary.
10. Step Back in Time at Christmas in Catlin Court & Old Towne
For a dose of pure, old-fashioned holiday charm, you can’t miss Christmas in Catlin Court & Old Towne. This delightful event transforms the historic districts into a storybook scene on several evenings: December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Picture vintage homes adorned with thousands of twinkling white lights, creating a breathtaking “Glitter Gulch.”
Wandering these streets feels like stepping into a living holiday card. You’ll find carolers singing classic tunes, the scent of roasted chestnuts in the air, and a general atmosphere of peaceful merriment.
It’s a free, beautiful, and profoundly nostalgic way to spend an evening, making it a quintessential winter visit to Glendale for anyone who loves tradition and timeless beauty.
11. Cheer on the Community at the Hometown Christmas Parade
Nothing shouts “small-town spirit in the big city” louder than a hometown parade. On December 13th, the community comes together for the Hometown Christmas Parade, kicking off at 11 a.m. on Glendale Ave.
Grab a spot on the curb with a warm drink and get ready to be delighted by marching bands, colorful floats, dance troupes, and, of course, a special guest from the North Pole.
The joy is contagious as neighbors cheer for neighbors and local businesses show off their creativity. It’s a wonderful, family-friendly spectacle that celebrates the heart of Glendale.
For a feel-good morning that captures the innocent excitement of the season, this parade is a can’t-miss Glendale attraction for winter.
12. Taste Fresh, Local Flavors at a Downtown Vegetarian Café
After all that exploring, you’ll need a fresh and flavorful pick-me-up. Downtown Glendale is home to several fantastic cafes that cater to vegetarian and vegan diets with style.
These spots go beyond simple salads, offering inventive dishes like hearty Mediterranean falafel wraps, nutrient-packed gluten-free quinoa bowls, and much more.
It’s the perfect place to refuel during a day of shopping or sightseeing. You can enjoy a leisurely lunch knowing your meal is both delicious and aligned with a plant-based lifestyle.
With convenient pickup and delivery options, it’s also easy to bring these healthy vibes back to your hotel. It’s a tasty reminder that winter destinations in Glendale cater to every kind of eater.
13. Shop Small and Support Local on Small Business Saturday
In the whirlwind of holiday sales, Small Business Saturday on November 29th offers a more meaningful way to shop. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the focus in Downtown Glendale shifts to the unique, the handmade, and the locally owned.
This is your chance to find gifts that have a story behind them, from a local jeweler, a boutique bookshop, or a specialty food store.
Shopping here means your dollars directly support local dreamers and makers. You’ll find incredible quality and customer service you just can’t get at a mall.
Making Small Business Saturday part of your winter activities in Shreveport is a rewarding choice that benefits both you and the vibrant local community.
14. Welcome the New Year at the 2nd Annual Founders Day Celebration
Winter in Glendale doesn’t end with the holidays! Kick off your new year with community pride at the 2nd Annual Founders Day celebration on January 11th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This event honors the history and spirit of Glendale with family-friendly activities, historical exhibits, and local entertainment.
It’s a fantastic, low-key way to get out of the house after the hustle of December and connect with the city’s roots.
Enjoy a relaxed stroll, learn something new, and celebrate the community you’ve been enjoying all season long. It’s the perfect, hopeful note to end your winter visit to Glendale on.
Conclusion
From the moment the first light display twinkles to the final cheers at Founders Day, Glendale wraps you in a season of warmth, wonder, and genuine connection.
This isn’t just a list of places; it’s a blueprint for a winter filled with dazzling sights, incredible tastes, and heartwarming community moments. You’ve got the guide to everything from peaceful historic strolls to flavor-packed vegan feasts.
Now it’s your turn to make the memories. Don’t let this season slip by imagining the magic—come experience it.
Check the official event calendars, make your dinner reservations, and pack your bags for sunshine and celebration. Glendale is ready to show you a winter unlike any other. Start planning your unforgettable getaway today