From toy giveaways to posadas and parades, there are many ways to get into the holiday spirit in your community this month.
We’ve rounded up a list of events happening in and around Boyle Heights this December.
If you’re looking to shop local, check out our guide to holiday markets on the Eastside or browse our gift guide for one-of-a-kind items from neighborhood businesses.
La Virgen De Guadalupe, Dios Inantzin
The Latino Theater Company’s signature holiday pageant, “La Virgen De Guadalupe, Dios Inantzin,” is back. This year’s production will bring together 100 actors, singers, indigenous Aztec dancers, children and seniors from the community. The nonprofit theater company has put on its large-scale performance of La Virgen de Guadalupe and Juan Diego’s story since 2002.
When: Dec. 5 and 6 at 7 p.m.
Where: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels located at 555 W Temple St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
How to attend: General admission is free and no reservation is required. Premium seating can be purchased for $44.50. Doors open one hour before showtime. More info here.
Not Your Tía’s Posada at Las Fotos Project
According to Las Fotos Project, it’s “The only Posada where your Tía won’t ask you why you’re still single.” The inaugural fundraising event will feature cumbia dance lessons, a mini piñata-making workshop, a digital photo booth, raffle prizes and even a “beer and tequila garden” for attendees 21 and over.
“Come dance, eat, and celebrate with us while supporting the next generation of young women and gender expansive artists of color in Los Angeles,” the event website reads.
When: Saturday, Dec. 6, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Las Fotos Project located at 2210 E Cesar E Chavez Ave Los Angeles, CA 90033
Tickets: Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online here.
Community Posada at East Los Tacos
The LA County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH) is hosting a community Posada rooted in Latinx heritage but reimagined to “promote inclusion, emotional healing and community connection,” according to the event’s promotional flyer. The event is free and open to all, but especially fathers, men seeking support, and those navigating mental health challenges, experiencing homelessness or who identify as LGBTQIA+, according to LACDMH.
When: Saturday, Dec. 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: East Los Tacos located at 4500 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90022
Lincoln Heights Holiday Parade
The 20th edition of the Annual Lincoln Heights Holiday Parade and Festival is coming to town on Dec. 7. The parade kicks off on Lincoln Park Avenue and ends at Lincoln Heights Recreation Center, where a holiday festival will offer various activities, including pictures with Santa and a toy giveaway.
When: Sunday, Dec. 7, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: The parade kicks off on Lincoln Park Avenue at 11 a.m. and will travel toward the Lincoln Heights Recreation Center located at 2303 Workman St., Los Angeles, CA 90031
Posada Navideña with Latino Equity Alliance
Join Mi Centro and the Latino Equity Alliance during their Posada Navideña for a night of food, a piñata, karaoke and community.
When: Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Mi Centro located at 553 South Clarence St. Los Angeles CA 90033
Posada Navideña and toy drive at Plaza de La Raza
Celebrate tradition, culture and community with Plaza de La Raza at their annual holiday fundraising event and support the organization’s cultural programs. Plaza de la Raza’s mission is to provide after-school arts education, cultural programs and community engagement for all. To participate in the posada, the organization is seeking a $25 entrance donation and an unwrapped toy that will be given to one of their students.
When: Thursday, Dec. 11, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Plaza de la Raza located at 3540 N. Mission Rd., Los Angeles, CA 90031
Donate gifts on wheels with Midnight Ridazz
For the 19th year, Midnight Ridazz is hosting an all-city, late-night toy drive for cyclists looking to give back to the community. In previous years, the ride has started off at the iconic Placita Olvera and has taken a unique cycling route through the city. Those interested in participating are encouraged to come with an unwrapped toy to donate.
When: Friday, Dec. 12 at 9 p.m.
Where: Placita Olvera located at 125 Paseo de la Plz., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Miracle on 1st Street Toy Giveaway
The “Miracle on 1st Street” toy giveaway at the Hollenbeck Youth Center returns for its 44th year. Those interested in participating must RSVP ahead of the event. Identification is required and children must be present in order to receive a gift. Please note that registration does not guarantee you’ll receive a donation, as toys will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis.
When: Saturday, Dec. 13, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Hollenbeck Youth Center located at 2015 E. 1st St., Los Angeles, CA 90033
How to register: Families can register online here.
Holiday Social at El Gallo Grill
The East LA Maravilla Community Advisory Committee is hosting its holiday social on Dec. 17. Attendees are encouraged to register at mcac.eastla@gmail.com and bring a toy to donate.
When: Wednesday, Dec. 17 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: El Gallo Grill – 4533 Cesar E. Chavez Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90022
Toy Giveaway at Weingart East LA YMCA
The Weingart East LA YMCA is hosting its 19th annual toy giveaway that is open to the community.
When: Thursday, Dec. 18 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: 2900 Whittier Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90023
Holiday Celebration at Plaza de la Raza
Plaza de la Raza is hosting its annual holiday celebration and Santa toy giveaway on Dec. 19.
When: Friday, Dec. 19 from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Plaza de la Raza located at 3540 N. Mission Rd., Los Angeles, CA 90031
“Sueños de Navidad” with King Taco
King Taco’s annual holiday celebration is back this year with giveaways, performances, raffles, and surprises for the whole family
When: Saturday, Dec. 20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 4504 E. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA 90022
Boyle Heights Fiesta Navideña
Take a photo with Santa and enjoy performances by Youth Mariachi, Romance Nocturno and Yuka at Mariachi Plaza for Boyle Heights’ very own holiday celebration. Artist Desiree Contreras will have na activation at the event.
When: Saturday, Dec. 20 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Mariachi Plaza – 1831 E 1st St, Los Angeles, California 90033
Toy giveaway and movie night with The Catalyst LA
The Catalyst LA is currently accepting toy donations for its 2nd annual toy giveaway on Dec. 21. Families can sign up for the toy giveaway and movie night event online. The movie night will start at 4:45 p.m. and toys will be distributed at 7:15 p.m.
When: Sunday, Dec. 21 starting at 4:45 p.m.
Where: The Catalyst LA located at 3921 E Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90023.
How to register: Families can fill out the online registration form here.
East LA Christmas Cruise
Cruise down Whittier Boulevard in your ride or watch as dozens of decorated lowriders and car clubs take to the streets from Ford Boulevard to Atlantic Boulevard.
When: Sunday, Dec. 21 at 5 p.m.
Where: Cruising will start on the corner of Ford Boulevard and Whittier Boulevard.
