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Guide to Holiday Events at LA Theme Parks

At Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights. Photo by David Sprague
(credit: Universal Studios)

The fall and winter holidays bring a brand new level of interest and excitement to Los Angeles theme parks. Even if you've visited LA's theme parks during the summer months, you absolutely must check out these awesome holiday events worthy of the individual ticket prices of admission.

What are your favorite holiday events? Share in the comments below!
Autumn & Halloween:
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights
(credit: Universal Studios)

Halloween Horror Nights
Universal Studios
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
(800) 864-8377
www.universalstudioshollywood.com

This Fall, Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood bring the incredible Hollywood movie magic of horror films alive and on display to daring visitors. Aside from a variety of mazes, including "The Walking Dead" and "Alien vs. Predator," numerous scare zones, and the "Terror Tram," a re-imagined back lot tram tour that features walk-through thrills in some of Hollywood's most iconic fright scenes including Psycho's The Bates Motel will be on display for visitors. The park's most popular rides and attractions will remain open though during the event including "Transformers: The Ride-3D," "Jurassic Park," offered with a special "in the dark" experience, and "Revenge of the Mummy-The Ride." Advance purchase tickets are recommended and Front of the Line ticket options can maximize your frightful time in the park.

frightfest six flags YELP
(credit: Ricardo D./Yelp)

FrightFest
Six Flags Magic Mountain
26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy.
Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 255-4100
www.sixflags.com

Six Flags Magic Mountain's 22nd season of FrightFest promises some of the biggest and scariest thrills ever imagined. Eight mazes, roving "scare-actors," seven scare zones, and an expanded schedule offers the frightening fun for six weekends. Many of the park's coasters will operate in the dark forcing rider's to face their unknown fears even while riding rides. Live interactive shows, a hypnotist, and live dance music offer spooktacular fun. Monster VIP tours include admission and front-of-the-line access to mazes and rides.

Christmas & Winter Holidays:
The Grinch image
(credit: Universal Studios)

Grinchmas
Universal Studios
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
(800) 864-8377
www.universalstudioshollywood.com

Join the merry Whos of Whoville for a Christmas celebration for the whole family at Universal Studios Hollywood each Christmas season where the classic tale of "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas" comes to life at the park. In addition to the fun music, decorations, and spirited cheer of Whoville, visitors can snag pictures with the Grinch himself and his dog Max that will grow the heart of even the most grouchiest holiday grinch in your family.

Santa Waterskis On Potomac River On Christmas Eve
(credit: Brendan Hoffman/Getty Images)

Holiday in the Park
Six Flags Magic Mountain
26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy.
Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 255-4100
www.sixflags.com

Celebrate the holiday season with Six Flags Magic Mountain's Holiday in the Park, running yearly from Thanksgiving through New Years. Strolling carolers, meet and greets with Santa, and a dazzling display of holiday decorations take center stage along with a live holiday show featured daily. The Winter Wonderland Mining Town features holiday treats and crafts on display, and the holiday light show at DC Universe is one of the largest on the West coast.

What are your favorite holiday events? Share in the comments below!

Katie Bodell is the Blog Editor for Trekaroo, the largest family travel website in the U.S. She is also a freelance writer, a happy wife to her best friend, and a mom to three sweet California girls. See more on: Trekaroo | CheapOair | Google+ | Twitter.

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