Signature Events
Celebrating Downtown's Communities
Since our inception, the DTLA Alliance has brought Downtown residents, families, and employees together through vibrant, community-building experiences. Our signature events include Halloween Festival for Kids, Dog Day, and DTLA Summer Camp. We also partner with community organizations to support a wide range of events and experiences that make Downtown an exciting, welcoming place year-round.
Grand Illuminations
DTLA's Biggest Switch-Flipping Ceremony is December 3
Kick off the holiday season as Liquid PXL lights up Downtown LA with a mesmerizing display of color, motion, and magic. From dazzling Electric Dandelions to a towering LED light tree, The Yard at Cal Plaza glows nightly, December 3, 2025 through January 4, 2026.
Picnic with Santa
Meet Santa on Saturday, December 6
Gather the kiddos, pack a picnic, and enjoy a free meet-and-greet with the Jolly Ol' Elf himself! The North Pole's #1 resident is making an official stop in Downtown LA at ASU Grand Hope Park (919 S. Grand Avenue), on Saturday, December 6th, from 11 am - 1 pm. Enjoy arts & crafts, live entertainment, and plenty of festive family fun!
Halloween Festival for Kids
Returns October 31, 2026
Get ready for family fun! For nearly 20 years, this annual celebration has become a cherished tradition, bringing the spirit of Halloween to life in the heart of Downtown. Kids enjoy trick-or-treating at real, decorated doors, meet & greets with costumed characters, live entertainment, carnival games, and, of course, candy galore. Best of all, parents can relax knowing the event is safe, secure, and filled with fun for the whole family.
DTLA Dog Day
Downtown's Biggest Yappy Hour
Paws up, DTLA! For over 15 years, Downtown LA’s favorite canine celebration has brought pups and their people together. Enjoy an evening of sipping and strolling through Maguire Gardens, with more than two dozen vendors offering dog-friendly products and services, fun photo ops, engaging activities, and specialty drinks — all in the company of your four-legged best friend.
DTLA Summer Camp
Celebrate Your Inner Child
Work Downtown? This one’s for you! Our signature summer event for Downtown Center employees is a free, grown-up-only twist on classic camp fun — think archery, water balloon tosses, and friendship bracelets. Every July, we bring coworkers together for free lunchtime activities and after-work happy hours, making summer in the city a season to remember.