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HOLIDAY GIFT AND ACTIVITY GUIDE 2025
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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For times and additional information: glendalegalleria.com
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.