Los Angeles in November: What to Expect Around Thanksgiving

November mornings are cool at 11°C (52°F), with sunsets at 4:50 PM. Día de los Muertos continues, and Thanksgiving brings family gatherings and special menus. The Hollywood Christmas Parade kicks off the holiday season, and outdoor ice rinks open. Rain is possible, but most days are mild and sunny. Hotel rates rise during Thanksgiving week but are otherwise moderate. Farmers’ markets feature citrus and late autumn produce. LA feels festive and cozy, with holiday lights and a slower pace before December’s rush. It’s a month for comfort food, shopping, and enjoying crisp, clear days.

• Book Thanksgiving week hotels and restaurant reservations early—demand spikes and many places close on the holiday.
• Head to Olvera Street or Hollywood Forever Cemetery for Día de los Muertos—November 1–2 are peak days for altars and performances.
• Reserve tickets for the Hollywood Christmas Parade—arrive early for the best viewing spots along Hollywood Boulevard.
• Choose Pershing Square or Santa Monica for outdoor ice skating—rinks open in late November and tickets sell out on weekends.
• Go early to Black Friday sales at The Grove or Citadel Outlets—major discounts draw large crowds and parking is limited.
• Avoid driving on parade days—street closures and heavy traffic affect Hollywood and Downtown.
• Check for AFI Fest film screenings—November is prime time for premieres and retrospectives.
• Visit farmers’ markets for winter citrus and late autumn produce—peak season for oranges and pomegranates.