Here is a sampling of things to do in the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles area.
EVENTS
Holiday Arts and Crafts Boutique: Clothing, decorations, jewelry, ornaments, paintings, photography and pottery, Dec. 1-14. Hours, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Betsy Lueke Creative Arts Center, 1100 W. Clark Ave., Burbank. 818-238-5397. Details: tinyurl.com/4mas6k7a
Holidays on the Hill: The City of Agoura Hills presents a two-day event that includes sales of artwork and artisan gift items, entertainment and a “Holiday Bar” with beer and wine for sale by Ladyface Brewery, 5-8 p.m. Dec. 1 and, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 2, shopping from artists and artisan vendors, children’s crafts and activities, a letter writing station for wish lists to Santa Claus, sale of sweet treats and the final day to view the “Mayor’s Art Show.” Photos with Santa Claus, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Dec. 2. Free admission to either day. Agoura Hills Recreation and Event Center, 29900 Ladyface Court, Agoura Hills. Flyer: tinyurl.com/44433wy7
Sylmar Tree Lighting: Event includes activities for children and photo opportunities, 6 p.m. Dec. 1. Sylmar Recreation Center, 13109 Borden Ave. 818-485-0600. Flyer: monicarodriguez.org/events
Fuil Wines First Friday Tasting Room: Owner-winemaker Matt Espiro Jaeger discusses and pours the winery’s current releases on a rotating tasting menu, 6-8 p.m. Dec. 1. Tastings $15 (minimum age: 21). Food available for purchase at the restaurant (for all ages). Bodevi Wine and Espresso Bar, 909 San Fernando Road, San Fernando. www.facebook.com/fuilwines. Reservations requested on Eventbrite: tinyurl.com/2r35h9uf
Christmas tree lighting in Granada Hills: Arrive a little early to hear from “Santa True” before the ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 1. The ceremony is sponsored by Granada Hills Chamber of Commerce, the Granada Hills South Neighborhood Council and Granada Hills Rotary. Location, Veterans Memorial Park Triangle at the corner of Chatsworth Street and Zelzah Avenue. prnc.org/granada-hills-tree-lighting
Chili Bowl Festival and Holiday Art and Craft Faire: McGroarty Arts Center presents its 19th annual event, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 2 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 3. The event includes handmade ceramic chili bowls (chili available on Dec. 2 only), local artisan vendors, artwork made by students at the arts center, live music and a bake sale. Santa Claus appearance on Dec. 3. Location, 7570 McGroarty Terrace, Tujunga. 818-352-5285. www.mcgroartyartscenter.org/events
Christmas Tree Lighting and the San Fernando Mall Outdoor Market: The market’s theme for December is “Holiday Market,” 5-9 p.m. Dec. 2. Location, 911 San Fernando Road (between South Brand Boulevard and South Maclay Avenue), San Fernando. www.facebook.com/sfoutdoormarket. www.myvalleypass.com/sf-outdoor-market
Las Posadas at Andrés Pico Adobe: The San Fernando Valley Historical Society presents their 18th traditional Christmas procession, 5:30 p.m. Dec. 2. Gates open, 5 p.m. Event includes caroling, a piñata and Santa Claus appearance. Free/donations appreciated. Location, 10940 Sepulveda Blvd., Mission Hills ((enter the parking lot from Brand Boulevard at the junction of Sepulveda Boulevard). 818-365-7810. www.sfvhs.com. Details: www.facebook.com/SFVHS/
Montrose-Glendale Christmas Parade: The 45th annual event begins, 6:10 p.m. Dec. 2. Route: Honolulu Avenue and Ocean View Boulevard, east on Honolulu to Verdugo Road (the center of the parade is Honolulu and Ocean View Boulevard), Montrose. 818-528-6060. montrosechristmasparade.com/ and www.facebook.com/MontroseChristmasParade
Granada Hills Holiday Parade: This year’s parade theme “Holidays in Cinema,” 1:30 p.m. Dec. 3. The 2023 grand marshal is Wayde Hunter, a civic volunteer. The parade includes marching bands, vintage cars, dance and drill teams, equestrians, floats and community groups. Parade route: on Chatsworth Street at Petit Avenue; west on Chatsworth to Zelzah Avenue. www.facebook.com/granadahillschamber. www.granadahillsholidayparade.org
Pacoima Tree Lighting: Event includes activities for children and photo opportunities, 6 p.m. Dec. 5. Pacoima City Hall, 13620 Van Nuys Blvd. 818-485-0600. Flyer: monicarodriguez.org/events
Mission Hills Tree Lighting: Event includes activities for children and photo opportunities, 5 p.m. Dec. 6. Location, 14353 Fox St., Mission Hills. Flyer: monicarodriguez.org/events
Sunland-Tujunga Tree Lighting: Event includes activities for children and photo opportunities, 6 p.m. Dec. 8. Sunland Recreation Center, 8651 Foothill Blvd., Sunland. Flyer: monicarodriguez.org/events
Pacoima Christmas Parade: The 56th annual parade kicks off, 9:45 a.m. Dec. 9. The parade is scheduled to include marching bands, car and motorcycle clubs, dance groups, equestrians and drill teams. Volunteers needed for parade (sign-up by Dec. 8). Parade route: from Pacoima City Hall (13520 Van Nuys Blvd.); on Van Nuys Boulevard to Herrick Avenue. cd7.lacity.gov/events/free-holiday-community-events
Holiday Family Faire – Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum: The event includes an artisan holiday marketplace, holiday storytelling and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 9. Also, a special screening of “The Muppet Christmas Carol” (1992), 5 p.m.; add-on charge or separate admission for the movie-only. Admission to the faire, $20 ages 16 and older; $10 ages 5-15; add-on $20 to see the film; $25 for only the separate movie (purchase tickets here: tinyurl.com/yscmm6td. Location, 1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga. 310-455-3723. www.theatricum.com
Metrolink’s Holiday Express Train: Family fun aboard decorated trains with carolers, appearance by Santa Claus and elves, Dec. 9. Round-trip excursions: on the Ventura County Line, from Simi Valley Station, 1:15 p.m., to Oxnard Station and return at 2:30 p.m. — and on the Antelope Valley Line, from Burbank-Downtown Station, 4:30 p.m., to Newhall Station and return at 5:35 p.m. Host stations have activities: noon at Simi Valley Station; 3 p.m. at Burbank-Downtown Station. Trains leave on time; arrive early for check. All tickets $25. Purchase in advance. Details: metrolinktrains.com/holidaytrain
Barnyard Light Tour at William S. Hart Regional Park: The tour includes a petting zoo, a holiday craft activity, a raffle and photos with Santa Claus, 5-7:30 p.m. Dec. 9. William S. Hart Regional Park, Hart Barnyard, 24151 Newhall Ave., Newhall. 661-259-1750. Details and flyer: tinyurl.com/2fd7cy5t
Hanukkah Festival at the Skirball Center: The event includes music by the band Mostly Kosher, Hanukkah story retelling (1, 2 and 3:45 p.m.), dance, crafting activities, photo booth, latkes and jelly doughnuts, noon-5:30 p.m. Dec. 10. Hanukkiah lighting, 5 p.m. Admission $18; $15 seniors and full-time students; $13 ages 2-12. Reservations. Location, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. 310-440-4500. skirball.org. Details and to purchase admission: www.skirball.org/programs/hanukkah-festival
Chatsworth Holiday Parade and Festival: The Kiwanis Club of Chatsworth presents the 39th annual parade with the theme “Toys on Parade,” 1 p.m. Dec. 10. Parade includes marching bands, classic cars, equestrians, community groups, drill teams and Santa Claus. Parade route: on Devonshire Street at Topanga Canyon Boulevard; east on Devonshire to Lurline Avenue. Holiday Festival, noon-5 p.m, on Canoga Avenue between Devonshire and Mayall streets. www.chatsworthholidayparade.org/parade-information
Prohibition NYE: A “Roaring Twenties” theme New Year Eve’s party, 9 p.m. Dec. 31 to 2 a.m. Jan. 1, 2024. Entertainment by Chromeo, a DJ set, along with jazz ensemble Lyndsay and the All-Nighters, and burlesque performers from Concrete Entertainment. Minimum age: 21. Required dress code: formal, or 1920s-inspired dress for women (see website). Event includes open bar. Tickets $175 plus $33.22 fee for presale ticket; $205 plus $34.65 fee after presale; $3,500 for a VIP table (see details on VIP table on the Eventbrite link). Reservations required. No refunds. Union Station, 800 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles. www.facebook.com/ProhibitionNewYearsEve. www.prohibitionnye.com. Details and to purchase tickets on Eventbrite: tinyurl.com/49bybkv3
Valley Economic Alliance – Our Region, Our Future: The public is invited to a regional development summit with guest speakers in business, real estate development, healthcare, manufacturing and tourism, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 11. Keynote speaker; Rick Caruso. Dress code: business attire. Admission $79 by Nov. 30; $99 after. Orchard Conference Center at California State University, Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St. (www.orchardconferencecenter.com). Register here: thevalley.net/events/2024-regional-summit/
HOLIDAY SPECIAL EVENTS
Holiday Road: A self-guided walk-through to see holiday-theme light installations plus a holiday bar (ages 21 and older), a “Winter Market” for gifts, a souvenir shop and food trucks. Check the website for selected dates when Santa Claus visits, and also dates when charming, costumed carolers sing holiday songs. Event dates: Dec. 1-3, 8-10, 14-24 and 26-27. Tickets, sold by time and online only, $29.99 and up (depending on date; free for ages 2 and younger). No tickets sold at the door. Purchase parking pass $6.99 at the same time as admission. Details and rules here: holidayroadusa.com/faq. King Gillette Ranch, 26800 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas. holidayroadusa.com
Universal Studios Hollywood’s Grinchmas and Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Holiday fun with “Grinchmas” (bit.ly/3V2XHfW) and on the streets of Hogsmeade (bit.ly/3i2N8Ld), through Jan. 1, 2024. Directions and parking fees: bit.ly/3S1oUy0. General admission online: $109 and up, depending on date (for California residents); check the link for other admission options and passes (purchase here: bit.ly/3i4yUcS). Location, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City. www.universalstudioshollywood.com. Details on Holidays at Universal Studios: tinyurl.com/5e64e356
Lightscape at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden: Step into an after-dark light-up world, a one-mile trail of art installations that celebrates the sparkle of the holiday season at the 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, on selected dates through Jan. 2. Timed entry begins at 5:30 p.m. and last entry time is 8:30 p.m. Santa Claus makes an appearance on selected dates. Tickets $29 and up (timed entry tickets). Parking is $20 (purchase in advance; match parking with the date of your admission ticket; parking is not sold on-site; arboretum.ticketapp.org/portal/product/257). Location, 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. arboretum.org/lightscape
Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens: An interactive walk through display of lights including an area of stained glass creations. Event is rain or shine through Jan. 7. Purchase of a timed-ticket in advance on the website is required for admission (time frame, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; no tickets sold at the door). Admission $45; $30 children (children under age two are free but must also have a ticket). Tickets are not refundable and cannot be rescheduled. Location, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. Details and purchase tickets: www.descansogardens.org/enchanted-tickets
L.A. Zoo Lights – Animals Aglow: The self-guided walking tour returns with dazzling wildlife lantern displays through different landscapes, runs various dates through Jan. 7. New additions this year include “Winter Wildlands,” with snow-loving animals, and “Dazzling Desertscape,” with live roaming entertainment. Hours: 6-10 p.m. Rain does not cancel. Tickets $29 and up for ages 13 and older; $18 and up for ages 2-12 (higher admission on “premium” nights; purchasing in advance online is recommended). Check the website for details on special event nights including “Family New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31 ($90 ages 18 and older; $75 ages 2-17). Location, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles. www.lazoo.org/plan-your-visit/special-experiences/zoolights/
ART
William Grant Still Arts Center: The 43rd annual Black Doll Show, “Conjure: Reclaiming African American Traditions Through Hoodoo and Other Spiritual Dolls,” opening reception and concert, 3-6 p.m. Dec. 2 (see details on the website). The exhibit is curated by Monica Bailey and Jahsun Ifakolade Edmonds. Hours: noon-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday (10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Dec. 24 and 31). Exhibit runs through Feb. 10. Location, 2320 S. West View St., Los Angeles. 323-734-1165. wgsac.wordpress.com/2023/11/16/43rd-annual-black-doll-show-opens-dec-2nd-2/
ONGOING ART
ReflectSpace Gallery: “Hannah Kozak: He Threw the Last Punch Too Hard – A Story of Domestic Violence from a Daughter’s Point of View,” photography. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 1-6 p.m. Sunday. Exhibit runs through Dec. 10. Gallery is inside the Glendale Central Library, 222 E. Harvard St. 818-548-2021. www.hannahkozak.com. reflectspace.org
Shulamit Nazarian: “Ken Gun Min: Sweet Discipline from Koreatown.” Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Exhibit runs through Dec. 20. Location, 616 N. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles. 310-281-0961. www.shulamitnazarian.com/exhibitions/
Nicodim Gallery: “Joshua Hagler: I Would Not Speak of the Mountain.” Also, “Ho Jae Kim: Ode to Joy” (in the annex). “Xinyan Wang: Metamorphosis” (upstairs gallery). Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Exhibits run through Dec. 22. Location, 1700 S. Santa Fe Ave., Los Angeles. 213-265-7166. www.nicodimgallery.com/exhibitions
Beyond the Streets and Control Gallery: “Exhibition 009: Under Pressure,” a group exhibit of contemporary airbrush curated by Mister CARTOON. Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. Exhibit runs through Dec. 23. Location, 434 N. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles. www.mistercartoon.com/about. www.beyondthestreets.com. www.control.gallery
Corey Helford Gallery: “Hikari Shimoda: Questions for Living in the World” (Main Gallery) and “Josie Morway: Course of Empire” (Gallery 2). Gallery hours: noon-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Exhibits run through Dec. 23. Location, 571 S. Anderson St. (enter on Willow Street), Los Angeles. 310-287-2340. www.coreyhelfordgallery.com
Regen Projects: “Glenn Ligon: Double Negative” and “Gillian Wearing: reflections.” Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Exhibits runs through Dec. 23. Location, 6750 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles. 310-276-5424. www.regenprojects.com
Tierra del Sol Gallery: “Taking Up Space,” the third annual exhibition of art work from Tierra del Sol’s Sunland and the Upland studio arts program and the first exhibit in its new gallery space. Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; and by appointment. Exhibit runs through Dec. 23. Location, 7414 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood. 213-625-0935. Email: gallery@tierradelsol.org. tierradelsolgallery.org
Hauser & Wirth: “Allison Katz: Westward Ho!” Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Exhibit runs through Jan. 5. Location, 8980 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood. 424-404-1200. Details: tinyurl.com/bdfzkdfj
Michael Kohn Gallery: “Li Hei Di,” solo exhibit (Gallery 1 and 2) and “Faris Heizer: These days” (Gallery 3). Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. Exhibits run through Jan. 6. Location, 1227 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles. 323-461-3311. www.kohngallery.com/exhibitions-2
L.A. Louver: “Terry Allen: Juarez: Then and Now,” drawings and prints, and “Matt Wedel: Pictures in the Garden” and “Red,” a group show by 15 artists on the color of red. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; and by appointment (call to confirm hours). Exhibits run through Jan. 6. Location, 45 N. Venice Blvd., Venice. 310-822-4955. Terry Allen: tinyurl.com/4cwat22c. www.mattwedel.com. lalouver.com
Lowell Ryan Projects: “Ava McDonough: All I Hear Is the Symphony.” Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; and by appointment. Exhibit runs through Jan. 20. Location, 4619 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles. 323-413-2584. Email: info@lowellryanprojects.com. www.lowellryanprojects.com. www.facebook.com/lowellryanprojects
BOOKS
Book Soup: Kliph Nesteroff discusses “Outrageous – A History of Showbiz and the Culture Wars,” with Laraine Newman, 7 p.m. Nov. 30. Patricia Cornwell discusses “Unnatural Death,” with Jamie Lee Curtis, 7 p.m. Dec. 1 ( ticketed event; all books pre-signed; location at Zipper Hall at the Colburn School, 200 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles; see ticket options and purchase here: tinyurl.com/2zhb6yw5). Douglas Preston discusses “The Lost Tomb – and Other Real-Life Stories of Bones, Burials and Murder,” with explorer and Emmy Award winner for cinematography Steve Elkins, 7 p.m. Dec. 6. Location, 8818 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. 310-659-3110. www.booksoup.com
Autobooks-Aerobooks: Raoul ‘Sonny’ Balcaen discusses and signs “My Exciting True-Life Story in Motor Racing – From Top-Fuel Drag-Racing Pioneer to Jim Hall, Reventlow Scarab, Carroll Shelby and Beyond,” 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 9. Rodney Kemerer discusses and signs “Tales from the Garage,” 1-4 p.m. Dec. 16. Location, 2900 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank. 818-845-0707. www.autobooks-aerobooks.com
CHARITY and VOLUNTEER
Toy Drive, Car and Bike Show: The San Fernando Valley Car and Truck Club Council presents the event, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 2. Free admission. Please bring an an unwrapped toy item (worth $10 and up) to donate. Donations will be given to the Los Angeles Police Department Mission Community Police Station’s Christmas Toy Giveaway. Enter your vehicle or bike for the show on the day of the event. For free entry fee bring a $10 and up toy item (or, $10 fee without a toy). There is no preregistration; register on day of event. Move-in time for vehicles, 7-10 a.m. Location, in the north parking lot at 13325 Roscoe Blvd., Sun Valley. Contact Adam for more information, 818-389-3553. Details on the flyer: www.mhnconline.org/event/20268/
Toy Drive for LA Family Housing: Bring new, unwrapped toys or gift cards (for older children) for admission and be entered into a raffle to win Beatles memorabilia, restaurant gift cards or concert tickets, and bid on Beatles collector’s editions in a silent auction, noon-4 p.m. Dec. 2. The event also includes music by the Beatunes and a surprise guest. Valley Inn Restaurant and Bar, 4557 Sherman Oaks Ave., Sherman Oaks. Information on LA Family Housing: lafh.org. Flyer: www.thebeatunes.com/
Motor 4 Toys – Charity Car Show and Toy Drive: Donate new, unwrapped toy or toys (minimum value $20) and see antique, exotic and one-of-a-kind cars at the 20th annual event, 7 a.m.-noon Dec. 3. Gates open, 6:30 p.m. Also, a donation may be made through PayPal (see the website). Pierce College, use the parking lot entrance on Victory Boulevard at Mason Avenue, Woodland Hills. www.motor4toys.com
Volunteers for the Pacoima Holiday Parade: Have some fun getting involved and helping to make the 56th annual parade run smooth. Minimum age: 16. Sign-up by Dec. 8. Volunteers must be available for shifts, 7 a.m.-noon on parade day, Dec. 9. Contact Melanie Torres, 818-899-2454. See the volunteer flyer for details here: tinyurl.com/242mduxx
Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel’s Holiday Toy Drive: Donate new, unwrapped toys that will benefit the West Valley Food Pantry’s holiday outreach to families in need, 4-6 p.m. Dec. 12. ONEgeneration, 17400 Victory Blvd., Van Nuys. 818-380-2460. asmdc.org/gabriel
Volunteers Cleaning Communities: Join the group for clean-up projects in the San Fernando Valley. Find a list of upcoming projects, and also how to make a donation for clean-up supplies, volunteerscleaningcommunities.com
COMEDY
Josh Thomas – Let’s Tidy Up: The Australian actor-comedian-writer performs a show, co-written with Lally Katz, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30. Tickets $35 and up. Bank of America Performing Arts Center, Scherr Forum Theatre, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. Josh Thomas’ Instagram: tinyurl.com/5b2n5mfc. bapacthousandoaks.com/show-details/josh-thomas-lets-tidy-up
Leslie Jones: 7 p.m. Dec. 3. Tickets $45 and up. Bank of America Performing Arts Center, Kavli Theatre, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. iamlesliejones.com. bapacthousandoaks.com/show-details/leslie-jones
Jason Love’s New Year’s Comedy Bash: Laughs to end 2023 from Love, Cathy Ladman and James Connolly, 7 p.m. Dec. 31. Tickets $30. Bank of America Performing Arts Center, Scherr Forum Theatre, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. bapacthousandoaks.com/show-details/new-years-eve-comedy-bash-
DANCE
American Contemporary Ballet’s The Nutcracker Suite: Created by Lincoln Jones and music by Tchaikovsky. Performances: 8 p.m. Dec. 1; 2 and 5 p.m. Dec. 2; 5 p.m. Dec. 3; 8 p.m. Dec. 7-8; dates through Dec. 24. Tickets $85 and up. Two California Plaza, 350 S. Grand Ave., 28th Floor, Los Angeles. acbdances.com. www.acbdances.com/performances
Debbie Allen’s Hot Chocolate Nutcracker: Performances 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7-8; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9; 2 p.m. Dec. 10. A “Fairy Queen Tea,” 12:30 p.m. Dec. 10 ($45, separate ticket, reservations required). Tickets $50-$135. Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach. www.debbieallendanceacademy.com. Details and to purchase tickets: tinyurl.com/8rcb96s3
DISCUSSION
Culinary Historians of Southern California: Journalist and author Alex Prud’homme (“Dinner with the President – Food, Politics and a History of Breaking Bread at the White House”) discusses “Eureka: How California Shaped the Diet of Three Presidents,” 10:30 a.m. Dec. 9. Free to attend but make a reservation on Eventbrite. Central Library, 630 W. Fifth St., Los Angeles. www.facebook.com/chsocal. www.chsocal.org. Details and to register on Eventbrite: tinyurl.com/t82er59j
FARMERS MARKETS
Old Town Newhall Farmers Market: A certified market, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. Location, 24500 Main St., Newhall. www.facebook.com/OldTownNewhallFarmersMarket/
Canoga Park Farmers Market: A certified market, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturdays. Rain or shine. Location, 7248 Owensmouth Avenue, between Sherman Way and Wyandotte Avenue. www.instagram.com/mainst.canogaparkfarmersmarket
El Nido Farmers Market – Pacoima: El Nido Family Centers and the City of Los Angeles present the market, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. Location, Pacoima Family Source Center, 11243 Glenoaks Blvd. www.elnidofamilycenters.org/farmers-market
Woodland Hills Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. Location, 5650 Shoup Ave. 818-300-3023. Facebook: bit.ly/44cFl0P
Canyon Country Farmers Market: A certified market, 4-8 p.m. Wednesdays. Canyon Country Community Center, 18410 Sierra Highway. www.facebook.com/CanyonCountryFarmersMarket/
MUSEUM
Discovery Cube Los Angeles: New: “The Science of Gingerbread” contest is open for registration; last day to submit a gingerbread house is Dec. 3; see details and to register: (www.discoverycube.org/los-angeles/science-of-gingerbread). Also, Dec. 31: “Noon Year’s Eve Los Angeles,” event includes dance floor and music by a DJ, balloon drop at noon and 3 p.m., a New Year’s Eve activity and apple cider or ginger ale toast, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; tickets $22 for non-members; details and tickets for this event: (www.discoverycube.org/los-angeles/events/noon-years-eve). Ongoing special exhibit: “Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer,” the first-ever museum exhibit using the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, where children will have mental and physical challenges to solve puzzles, learn about balance and reflexes and creative problem solving, through Feb. 19 (tinyurl.com/4zcw78s7). Hands-on exhibits make science fun for children. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission $18 ages 15-61; $17 ages 62 and older; $16 ages 3-14. Location, 11800 Foothill Blvd., Sylmar. www.facebook.com/TheDiscoveryCube. www.discoverycube.org
Los Angeles County Museum of Art: Dec. 3: “Imagined Front: The Great War and Global Media,” through July 7, 2024. Ongoing special exhibits: “Eternal Medium: Seeing the World in Stone,” through Feb. 11. “The World Made Wondrous: The Dutch Collect,” through March 3, 2024. “Painting in the River of Angels: Judy Baca,” through June 2, 2024. Plan your visit information here: bit.ly/2P3c7iR. Admission $21; $16 ages 65 and older and students ages 18 and older with a valid ID; free for ages 17 and younger (reserving/purchasing an advance, timed-entry online is recommended; prices are for residents of Los Angeles County). Location, 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. 323-857-6010. www.lacma.org
Natural History Museum Los Angeles County: Dec. 8: “100 Carats: Icons of the Gem World,” the centerpiece of the exhibit is a display of the 125 carats Jonker I Diamond, the “largest stone cut from the Jonker diamond — the fourth largest diamond in the world when it was found in 1934” — through April 21, 2024 (nhm.org/experience-nhm/exhibitions-natural-history-museum/100-carats). Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Monday (closed on Tuesday). Admission $18; $14 ages 62 and older and students with an ID; $7 ages 3-12. Location, 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles. nhmlac.org
ONGOING MUSEUM
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Ongoing special exhibit: “John Waters: Pope of Trash,” through Aug. 4, 2024 (www.academymuseum.org/en/exhibitions/john-waters-pope-of-trash). Timed advance admission tickets are available (but not required) for the museum that explores the art and science of movies and movie-making. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Admission $25; $19 ages 62 and older; $15 students; free for ages 17 and younger; $15 extra for “The Oscars Experience.” Location, 6067 Wilshire Blvd. (corner of Fairfax Avenue), Los Angeles. 323-930-3000. academymuseum.org
African American Firefighter Museum: Artifacts, fire apparatus, pictures and stories about African American Los Angeles firefighters. Hours: 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Donation. Location, 1401 S. Central Ave., Los Angeles. 213-744-1730. https://aaffmuseumla.org/
Autry Museum of the American West: Ongoing special exhibits: “Sherman Indian School: 100 + Years of Education and Resilience,” through May 2024 (theautry.org/exhibitions/sherman-indian-school). “Imagined Wests,” how Southern California tells stories about the West through the museum’s collection of objects including art, clothing, pop culture and toys (theautry.org/exhibitions/imagined-wests). Museum hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission $16; $12 ages 60 and older, ages 13-18 and students older than 18 with ID; $8 ages 3-12. Location, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles. theautry.org
Bolton Hall Museum: Hours: 1-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Free admission, but a $3 donation is appreciated. Bolton Hall Museum, 10110 Commerce Ave., Tujunga. 818-352-3420. Email: llhs@boltonhall.org. www.facebook.com/boltonhallmuseum; www.boltonhall.org
California African American Museum: Closed due to storm-related damage. Check website or Facebook for re-opening and also for off-site programs. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Free admission. Parking $15 before 5 p.m.; $18 after 5 p.m. (in the blue structure parking lot; entrance to the blue structure is on Figueroa Boulevard at 39th Street.). Location, 600 State Drive, Los Angeles (in Exposition Park). 213-744-7432. www.caamuseum.org and www.facebook.com/CAAMinLA/
California Science Center: Permanent galleries and the space shuttle Endeavor are on view. The Endeavor, however, will be on view only until Dec. 31, 2023, and then off-view for “several years.” Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission is free to the center but there is a charge for special exhibits (bit.ly/3zfD8DA). Location, 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles. californiasciencecenter.org
Craft in America: Ongoing special exhibit: “Influences/Influencers: California Fibers,” group show, through Dec. 2. Hours: noon-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Free admission. Location, 8415 W. Third St., Los Angeles. 323-951-0610. www.facebook.com/CraftinAmerica. craftinamerica.org/page/center
Forest Lawn Museum – Glendale: Ongoing special exhibits: “Reina de Los Angeles,” photography of murals and shrines in Los Angeles that celebrate the Virgin of Guadalupe and Mexican culture from the photo archive of Nydya Mora, through Feb. 11 (tinyurl.com/bde5acsz) and “Shaping Gravity – Abstract Art Beyond the Picture Plane,” through March 10 (tinyurl.com/yk376nne). Free admission. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Location, 1712 S. Glendale Ave. forestlawn.com
Fowler Museum at UCLA: Ongoing special exhibits: “Janyak: Armenian Art of Knots and Loops,” through Feb. 2024. “The House Was Too Small: Yoruba Sacred Arts from Africa and Beyond,” through June 2, 2024. Hours: noon-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Free admission. Parking directions: enter from Sunset Boulevard at Westwood Plaza, turn left into the pay-by-space area of Lot 4 (198 Westwood Plaza). Location, 308 Charles E. Young Drive N., Westwood. https://fowler.ucla.edu/
The Getty Center: Ongoing special exhibits: “Reckoning with Millet’s Man with a Hoe,” through Dec. 10 (www.getty.edu/art/exhibitions/man_with_hoe/index.html). “Finding an Audience: Nineteenth Century Drawings,” through Jan. 7, 2024. “William Blake: Visionary,” on loan from Tate Britain, through Jan. 14 (tinyurl.com/rrat68ej). Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Free admission but a timed-ticket admission is required (bit.ly/2SbTzys). Parking $20 (www.getty.edu/visit/center/parking-and-transportation). Location, Getty Center Drive at North Sepulveda Boulevard, Los Angeles. 310-440-7300. www.getty.edu
The Getty Villa: Ongoing special exhibits: “The Horse and Rider from Albania,” a bronze statuette, from about 500 BCE, found in 2018, and on display through Jan. 29. “The Gold Emperor from Aventicum,” through Jan. 29 (www.getty.edu/art/exhibitions/aurelius). Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Monday. Free admission, but a timed-entry reservation is required. Parking $20. Location, 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades. www.getty.edu/visit/villa/
Grammy Museum: Ongoing special exhibits: “Roxy: 50 and Still Rockin’,” through Jan. 7, 2024 (grammymuseum.org/event/50andstillrockin). “Hip-Hop America: The Mix Tape Exhibit,” through Sept. 4, 2024 “Shakira, Shakira: The Grammy Museum Experience,” through winter 2024. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday-Friday and Sunday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. Admission $18; $15 ages 65 and older; $12 ages 5-17 and college students with ID. Location, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles. 213-725-5700. grammymuseum.org
Holocaust Museum LA: Ongoing special exhibit: “Sweet Home Sweet: A Story of Survival, Memory and Returns,” photographs in the Galicia Museum in Krakow, Poland, that were taken by Richard Ores depicting his family and friends life in Krakow before World War II and in the Krakow Ghetto during the Holocaust. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission $15; $10 ages 65 and older; free for ages 17 and younger. Free admission on Sunday. Admission is by timed admission ticket. Location, 100 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles. 323-651-3704. Email: info@hmla.org. www.holocaustmuseumla.org
Italian American Museum Los Angeles: Ongoing special exhibit: “Louis Prima: Rediscovering a Musical Icon,” through Oct. 13, 2024 (tinyurl.com/mrrb4pbh). Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Admission free; donations requested. Location, 644 N. Main St., Los Angeles. 213-485-8432. www.iamla.org
Japan House Los Angeles: Ongoing special exhibit: “Pokémon x Kogei: Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft,” through Jan. 7. Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Free admission. The museum is at Ovation Hollywood, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. 800-516-0565. www.japanhouse.jp/losangeles
Japanese American National Museum: Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday; closed on national holidays. Admission: $16; $7 ages 62 and older and children; free for ages 5 and younger (timed advance tickets required; no walk-ins). Location, 100 N. Central Ave., Los Angeles. 213-625-0414. Facebook: www.facebook.com/jamuseum. janm.org
La Brea Tar Pits: Museum hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, except closed on the first Tuesday of the month and national holidays. Admission $15; $12 ages 62 and older and students with ID; $7 ages 3-12. Parking $18. Location, 5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. 213-763-3499. tarpits.org/
LA Plaza Cocina: The museum is dedicated to Mexican food and cuisine. The museum has a teaching kitchen and a store with culinary-related ingredients, cookbooks, decorative items and utensils used in making Mexican cuisine. Hours: noon-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday). Free admission. The museum is part of LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes. Location, 555 N. Spring St., Los Angeles. 323-397-8365. Email: cocina@lapc.org. lapca.org/
LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes: Hours: noon-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Free admission. Location, 501 N. Main St., Los Angeles. www.lapca.org
Martial Arts History Museum: The museum is celebrating 24 years this year. Explore the history of martial arts plus exhibits on Asian art, culture, dance and music. Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Admission $10; $8 ages 65 and older; $5 ages 6-17. Location, 2319 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank. 818-478-1722. Email: info@mamuseum.com. www.facebook.com/martialartshistorymuseum. martialartsmuseum.com/
Museum of Contemporary Art: Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday and Friday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission is free but an advance online timed-entry ticket is required. Special exhibits are $18; $10 seniors and students; free for ages 11 and younger. Locations: the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, 152 N. Central Ave., Los Angeles; MOCA Grand Avenue, 250 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. 213-633-5351. www.moca.org/visit
Museum of the San Fernando Valley: Hours: 1-5 p.m. Tuesday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Rancho Cordillera del Norte, 18904 Nordhoff St. (southwest corner of Nordhoff and Wilbur Avenue), Northridge. 818-347-9665. themuseumsfvnow.org/
Petersen Automotive Museum: Ongoing special exhibits: “Hollywood Customs: Modified for the Movies,” the exhibit includes vehicles used in film and television. “Corvettes in Competition – Racing America’s Sports Car.” “Around the World on Two Wheels: Highlights from the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum,” through March 2, 2024. “Inside Tesla – Supercharging the Electric Revolution,” prototypes of Tesla vehicles, historical perspective and design study, through April 2024. “Splendor & Speed: Treasures from the Petersen Collection,” through June 2, 2024. “We Are Porsche.” “Arsham Auto Motive,” life-sized vehicle sculptures and posters (www.petersen.org/exhibits). Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission $19.95; $17.95 ages 63 and older; $12.95 ages 12-17; $10.95 ages 4-11. Location, 6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. 323-930-2277. www.petersen.org
Rancho Camulos Museum: Docent-led museum tours: 1, 2 and 3 p.m. (tours are available on Sunday throughout the year). Donation $10. Rancho Camulos is the only National Historic Landmark in Ventura County. Directions: from the 5 Freeway, take the exit to Highway 126, travel 3.5 miles west of the Ventura County Line. The entrance is on the south side of the roadway. The museum is two miles east of Piru. Location, 5146 E. Telegraph Road. 805-521-1501. Email: info@ranchocamulos.org. ranchocamulos.org
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum: Ongoing special exhibit: “Auschwitz — Not long ago. Not far away.” Minimum age recommendation: 12. Purchase tickets in advance ($29.95; $26.95 ages 62 and older; $22.95 ages 11-17; details on the exhibit and tickets: bit.ly/3ZnnHW1). This special exhibit has been extended to Jan. 28. Regular museum hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Location, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley. www.reaganfoundation.org
Santa Monica History Museum: Ongoing special exhibit: “Coming Out West: LGBTQ+ Elders Share Their Stories,” through Dec. 17. Hours: 3-8 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Admission $5; free for ages 11 and younger. Location, 1350 Seventh St., Santa Monica. 310-395-2290. www.santamonicahistory.org
Skirball Cultural Center: Ongoing special exhibit: “This Light of Ours: Activist Photographers of the Civil Rights Movement,” through Feb. 25 (tinyurl.com/ad63ar52). Hours: noon-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Closed for Jewish and national holidays (www.skirball.org/visit). Admission is by advance time-entry ticket for special exhibits, including “Noah’s Ark at the Skirball.” Admission $12; $9 seniors and students; $7 ages 2-12; www.skirball.org/visit). Location, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. 310-440-4500. skirball.org
Valley Relics Museum: Take a trip down San Fernando Valley memory lane, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 3. Admission $15 and up. The museum is located at 7900 Balboa Blvd., Hangar C3 and C4, entrance is on Stagg Street, Van Nuys. Purchase tickets: bit.ly/3kWHgjx. www.facebook.com/valleyrelics; valleyrelicsmuseum.org
Wende Museum of the Cold War: Ongoing special exhibits: “Darling Godsonny: Ivan the Terrible Advises the Infant Stalin,” and “Visions of Transcendence: Creating Space in East and West,” and “Ceija Stojka and Scenes from Roma Life,” and “Wende Times,” the work of six Los Angeles high school students, from their internships at the Wende Museum, on the topic of social media posts on conspiracy theories and artificial intelligence-generated fake news stories, all four exhibits run through April 7, 2024. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday (wendemuseum.org/about-us/visit). Free admission. Location, 10808 Culver Blvd., Culver City. 310-216-1600. 310-216-1600. Email: visit@wendemuseum.org. wendemuseum.org
MUSIC
Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra: Performs Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos, 8 p.m. Nov. 30. Tickets $49 and up. The Soraya at California State University, Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge. 818-677-8800. Details and tickets: tinyurl.com/24vvrdrw
GMT All-Stars in Concert – A Holiday Benefit: Garry Marshall Theatre presents the concert that includes performers from Broadway shows, films and theater, 7 p.m. Dec. 1. Proceeds go to the youth education programs at the Garry Marshall Theatre. Tickets $100; $150. Location, 4252 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank. 818-955-8101. www.garrymarshalltheatre.org/gmt-all-stars
Los Angeles Zimriyah Chorale: The chorale’s 25th annual Adat Ari El concert salutes composer Nick Strimple, the longtime choral director of the LAZC, who is retiring in May 2024, 8:15 p.m. Dec. 1. Free to attend. Adat Ari El, 12020 Burbank Blvd., Valley Village. www.lazc.org
Paul Stein: A mini-concert, “Great Film Composers,” by the Los Angeles Philharmonic musician, 3:30 p.m. Dec. 2. Granada Hills Branch Library, 10640 Petit Ave. 818-368-5687. Details: tinyurl.com/5b9hrkf2
Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernández – Merry-Achi Christmas: Concert of Christmas music and mariachi favorites, with Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles and DanzArts, 7 p.m. Dec. 2 and 2 p.m. Dec. 3. Tickets $35 and up. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos. 562-916-8500. www.mariachisoldemexico.com. tickets.cerritoscenter.com/7044
Burbank Chorale – Believe: Mikhail Shtangrud directs the chorale in their holiday concert, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2. The chorale was founded in 1920 and, according to a press release, is “the oldest continually performing arts organization in the San Fernando Valley.” Tickets $15 in advance; $20 at the door. The concert is performed at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, 1920 W. Glenoaks Blvd., Glendale. 919-759-9177. Purchase tickets in advance on Eventbrite: tinyurl.com/ye8tu6z5
DGTL Los Angeles: House and techno festival with Mano Le Tough, Parallelle, Henrik Schwarz, Shubostar and WhoMadeWho, 9 p.m. Dec. 2 to 4 a.m. (Dec. 3). Minimum age: 21. Tickets $70.04. Read the festival’s ethics section on the website. Location, 1735 Vine St., Hollywood. dgtl.nl/los-angeles/
Santa Clarita Valley Concert Band: A “Happy Holidays!” concert, with the PPC Bronze Trio, 2:30 p.m. Dec. 3. Free admission. Panorama Presbyterian Church, 14201 Roscoe Blvd., Panorama City. scvconcertband.org
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis: Performances, 3 and 8 p.m. Dec. 3. Tickets $48 and up. The Soraya at California State University, Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge. 818-677-8800. Details and tickets: tinyurl.com/289evtdx
Camarillo Community Band’s Christmas Concert: The band, conducted by John McQuilkin, performs holiday favorites, and Santa Claus is expected to appear, 4 p.m. Dec. 3. Free admission. The concert is presented by the Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District. Community Center, auditorium, 1605 E. Burnley St., Camarillo. www.camarillocommunityband.com. Flyer: tinyurl.com/4n2fzzyn
Samara Joy – A Joyful Holiday: The concert also features the McLendon Family, 8 p.m. Dec. 6-7. Tickets $39 and up. The Soraya at California State University, Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge. 818-677-8800. Details and tickets: tinyurl.com/bdd6zpup
Choir of Clare College, Cambridge – O magnum mysterium: St. Matthew’s Music Guild presents the concert, 8 p.m. Dec. 8. Music guild president Tom Neenan gives a pre-concert lecture, 7:10 p.m. Check the website for program details. Tickets $45. Location, 1031 Bienveneda Ave., Pacific Palisades. 310-573-7422. Email: info@musicguildonline.org. www.clarecollegechoir.com. www.musicguildonline.org. www.musicguildonline.org/event/the-choir-of-clare-college-cambridge/
San Fernando Valley Master Chorale’s Holidays in the Valley – Celebrate the Mystery: Concert includes new arrangements of carols, favorite songs and sing-alongs, 6 p.m. Dec. 9 and 3 p.m. Dec. 10. Tickets $30; $25 seniors, military veterans (with ID) and students; free for ages 6 and younger. Unitarian Universalist Church of Studio City, 12355 Moorpark St., Studio City. 818-738-9955. www.sfvmc.com
Encore Chorale of Santa Clarita: A holiday concert with live musical accompaniment led by conductor Alex Nizzoli, 7 p.m. Dec. 15. Free admission but a ticket is required for entry (Eventbrite for ticket: tinyurl.com/tdzk2fwh). Donations welcome. The chorale is part of Encore Creativity for Older Adults, ages 55 and older, the nation’s largest choral organization for senior adults. Newhall Church of the Nazarene, 23857 The Old Road, Newhall. Details: tinyurl.com/57snss6y
San Fernando Valley Male Chorus – Season of Hope: The group performs a holiday concert, 2:30 p.m. Dec. 17. Tickets $20. Performance at Shepherd of the Valley Church, 23838 Kittridge St., West Hills. Bob Banta, 818-888-8345 or email: buckeyerpb@socal.rr.com. sfvmchorus.com/next-show/
Terron Brooks and Kamilah Marshall – Holidaze Harmony: The duo perform Broadway tunes and pop music with a variety show vibe, 8 p.m. Dec. 21-23. Tickets $85 for the Dec. 21 show (includes a reception); $60-$75 on Dec. 22-23. Garry Marshall Theatre, 4252 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank. 818-955-8101. www.garrymarshalltheatre.org/holidaze-harmony-live
THEATER
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians – The Greatest Story Ever Told: Culver City Public Theatre presents a holiday comedy based on the B-movie classic “Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” written by and adapted for the stage by Trace Oakley, opens 8 p.m. Dec. 1. Show runs 8 p.m. Dec. 2; 7 p.m. Dec. 3; 8 p.m. Dec. 8-9; 7 p.m. Dec. 10; 8 p.m. Dec. 15-16; 7 p.m. Dec. 17. Tickets $25. Sherry Theater, 11052 Magnolia Blvd., North Hollywood. www.ccpt.org
Bob’s Holiday Office Party: A comedy by Joe Keyes and Rob Elk about an Iowa insurance agent’s annual event for his clients and friends, opens 8 p.m. Dec. 1. Minimum age: 16. Tickets $35; $45 VIP (www.onstage411.com/BHOP). Beverly Hills Playhouse, 254 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills. www.bobsofficeparty.com
So Many Stars: Theatre West presents a fall-it’s-almost-winter musical show that emphasizes the “joy of life,” opens 8 p.m. Dec. 2. Show runs 2 p.m. Dec. 3; 8 p.m. Dec. 9; 2 p.m. Dec. 10. Tickets $35 (in advance); $40; $30 seniors, military and students. Location, 3333 Cahuenga Blvd. W., Los Angeles. 323-851-7977. www.theatrewest.org. theatrewest.org/on-stage/2023/so-many-stars
Irish Christmas in America – The Show: Traditions of an Irish Christmas are presented in dance, music, song and storytelling, 8 p.m. Dec. 4. Tickets $75. Garry Marshall Theatre, 4252 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank. 818-955-8101. www.garrymarshalltheatre.org/irish-christmas-2023
Santa’s Circus – Cirque Factory: Santa and Mrs. Claus present a holiday show with acrobatics, comedy, dance, gymnastics and illusions, opens 7 p.m. Dec. 8. Show runs 2, 5 and 8 p.m. Dec. 9; 2 and 5 p.m. Dec. 10; dates through Dec. 23. Complimentary photo with Santa Claus. Tickets $47; $37 ages 12 and younger.The Montalbán, 1615 Vine St., Los Angeles. 323-461-6999. www.themontalban.com. feverup.com/m/144144
A Very Die Hard Christmas – The Stage Musical: Theatre Forty presents a parody of the 1988 film “Die Hard,” written by Jeff Schell and the Habit, with additional dialogue by Sandro Monetti, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10, 17 and 20. Tickets $35. Parking: enter the driveway at the intersection of Durant and Moreno Drives; lot is beneath the theater. Theatre Forty at the Mary Levin Cutler Theatre, campus of Beverly Hills High School, 241 S. Moreno Drive, Beverly Hills. 310-364-0535. theatre40.org
ONGOING THEATER
Lewis and Tolkien: Actors Co-op Theatre Co. presents the world premiere of a play written and directed by Dean Batali about C.S. Lewis (“The Chronicles of Narnia”) and J.R.R. Tolkien (“The Lord of the Rings”) sparring with words in a pub in 1963 Oxford, England. Show runs 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8-9; 2:30 p.m. Dec. 10. Tickets $35; $30 ages 60 and older; $25 students with ID. Crossley Theater, 1760 N. Gower St., on the campus of First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood. 323-462-8460. www.actorsco-op.org
The Talented Tenth: The Robey Theatre Co. presents the drama by Richard Wesley, borrowing a 1903 article title written by W.E.B. DuBois about the “likelihood of one-in-ten Black men becoming leaders of Black people by continuing their education, writing books or becoming directly involved in social change.” Show runs 8 p.m. Nov. 30 and Dec. 1-2; 8 p.m. Dec. 7-9; 3 p.m. Dec. 10. Tickets $40 and $25 seniors, students and veterans with ID. Los Angeles Theatre Center, Theatre Four, 514 S. Spring St., Los Angeles. 213-489-7402. therobeytheatrecompany.org
A Christmas Carol: First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood presents the play based on the Charles Dickens 1843 novella. The play is directed by actor-director Jesse Corti and adapted and choreographed by actor Julietta Corti. Show runs 7:30 p.m. Friday; 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday; dates through Dec. 16. Tickets $25; $20 seniors; $15 children and students; $35 VIP (tickets include refreshments after the play at “Fezziwig’s Christmas party”). Tickets are on sale now. Location, 1760 N. Gower St., Hollywood. 323-928-7452. www.achristmascarolhollywood.com/
Freight – The Five Incarnations of Abel Green: A one-man play written by Howard L. Craft, starring J. Alphonse Nicholson, about five versions of a Black American “everyman” who travels through time in different life roles. Show runs 8 p.m. Dec. 1-2, 8-9 and 15-16. Tickets $40; $45; $35 ages 6s and older (regular seats only); $25 students with valid ID. Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Ave., Los Angeles. 323-663-1525. www.fountaintheatre.com
The Half-Light: The West Coast premiere of a new play written by Monica Wood about a woman who wonders if certain people can be trained to see the dead and her encounters with others in her quest. Show runs 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1-2, 4, 8-9, 11 and 14-16. Tickets $35. Parking: enter the driveway at the intersection of Durant and Moreno Drives; lot is beneath the theater. Theatre Forty at the Mary Levin Cutler Theatre, campus of Beverly Hills High School, 241 S. Moreno Drive, Beverly Hills. 310-364-0535. theatre40.org
70, Girls, 70: The Group Rep begins its 51st season with a musical written by Norman L. Martin and David Thompson, based on the play “Breath of Spring” by Peter Coke, adapted by Joe Masteroff, and with music by John Kander and Fred Ebb. Show runs 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; through Dec. 17. Tickets $40; $35 seniors and students. Lonny Chapman Theatre, main Stage, 10900 Burbank Blvd., North Hollywood. 818-763-5990. www.thegrouprep.com
A Family Business: The world premiere of a comedy written by Matt Chait about a couple who invite their parents over for dinner. Show runs 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday; through Dec. 31. No shows on Dec. 22-24. Tickets $20 previews; $35. Hudson MainStage Theatre, 6539 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Details and purchase tickets: tinyurl.com/mrytxett
Aladdin, the Princess and the Magic Lamp: Storybook Theatre presents a musical for children and their families, book, lyrics and music by Lloyd J. Schwartz. Show runs 1 p.m. Saturdays through Jan. 13, 2024 (no shows on Dec. 23 and 30). Tickets $15. Parking available at a privately-owned lot across the street; credit card-only). Theatre West, 3333 Cahuenga Blvd., W., Los Angeles. 323-851-7977. theatrewest.org. Details and purchase tickets: tinyurl.com/3rtjjkxk
Submit calendar listings at least two weeks in advance to holly.andres@dailynews.com. 818-713-3708.