Just as some people have already begun to decorate their homes for the holidays, the streets of Los Angeles are also beginning to sparkle. Keep reading for a list of five FREE events that you can reach via Metro: a quick and easy option that will save you time looking for parking. With just one trip, you can see the lights, listen to some carols, join a parade, and take in some music and hot chocolate that will get you in the spirit.

Santa Monica

Downtown Santa Monica will be transformed this week with festive lights and decorations adorning Third Street Promenade for the holiday season. Santa will make a special appearance at the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. There will also be live entertainment from Westside Ballet, Samohi Choir, and Lincoln Middle School’s Madrigals.

• When: The main event is on Thursday, November 16. The decorations will last until the end of December.
• Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Where: 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA
• Go Metro: Take the E Line subway to Downtown Santa Monica
• More information here

Community Festival at Sunset Boulevard

East Hollywood puts up its Christmas lights on Sunday, November 18. Volunteers have dedicated hours to make this festival a memorable experience for the community. There will be live music, hot chocolate, and gifts from Santa. During the family event, children will decorate cookies and have the chance to show their skills on an ice-skating rink.

• When: Sunday, November 19
• Time: 3:30 pm – 8:30 pm
• Where: 4810 Sunset Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90027
• Go Metro: Take the B (Red) Line to Vermont/Sunset
• More information here

Union Station

Visit Union Station for the 8^th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, where you will be able to enjoy live musical performances by Mariachi Los Servidores and The Beverly Belles. Celebrate and count down the lighting of the 30-foot tree as you savor hot cocoa and sweet treats. You’ll have the chance to take a photo with Santa and make some holiday arts and crafts.

• When: The main event will be held on Monday, November 20. The decorations will be in place until Monday, December 25.
• Time: The ceremony on November 20 will be from 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm. After that, the regular schedule will be 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Where: Union Station – South Patio / 800 N Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Go Metro: Take the A (Blue) / B (Red) / D (Purple) Line to Union Station
•  More information here

Jerry Moss Plaza

The halls and theatres of the plaza not only will be decorated in their holiday finest but there will also be a 75-foot-tall, blinged-out Christmas tree.

• When: The main event is on Monday, November 27. The decorations will last until the end of December.
• Time: 5:00 pm
• Where: 135 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles 90012
• Go Metro: Take the B (Red)/ D (Purple) Line to Civic Ctr/Grand Park.
• More information here

Hollywood Christmas Parade

The 91st Hollywood Christmas Parade takes place every Sunday after Thanksgiving along a 3.5-mile route on Hollywood Boulevard. Live music, dangers, floats, balloons, equestrian groups, classic cars, Santa –– you name it –– will be part of the celebration. Curbside viewing is free, but you’ll need to buy a ticket for reserved grandstand seats.

• When: Sunday, November 26
• Time: 6:00 pm
• Where: It starts at the intersection of Hollywood Blvd & N Orange Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90028
• Go Metro: Take the B (Red) Line to Hollywood/Vine OR Hollywood/Highland. Both stations take you to the parade route.
• More information here