The holiday season in Downtown Los Angeles is reaching its grand finale, and for visitors that want to attend the city’s most vibrant light display, the clock is officially ticking. Sparkle DTLA, the massive multi-colored interactive installation at The Bloc, is entering its final few days.
The event is scheduled to conclude on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday, December 31, making this upcoming Friday and weekend the last opportunity for a post-Christmas visit before the installation is packed away for the season.
Located in the heart of the Financial District at 700 S. Flower St., Sparkle DTLA has transformed the open-air plaza of The Bloc into a high-tech winter wonderland. The display features an incredible 18 million hues of lights that synchronize to festive holiday tunes. Every night, on the hour from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the entire courtyard illuminates in a choreographed show that has become a staple for the local holiday experience.
A major highlight of the installation is the electric tree situated in the center court of the plaza, which is designed so that visitors can actually walk through the structure for an immersive light experience. Alongside this, guests will find the giant Christmas bulb, a massive glowing ornament that serves as one of the premier photo ops in the district. These features, combined with the surrounding illuminated canopy, provide some of the most popular free visual attractions in Downtown.
Premier Dining: Hatch Yakitori and TABL M
To make a full evening of the visit, The Bloc features two standout dining destinations that are essential for any visitor. Hatch Yakitori is the premier choice for those seeking a modern izakaya experience. This restaurant specializes in binchotan charcoal-grilled skewers, with fan favorites like their squid ink karaage. It is the perfect spot to grab a table and enjoy the modern, high-energy atmosphere of the plaza.
For those looking for authentic Mediterranean flavors, TABL M offers a sophisticated Lebanese culinary experience right on the plaza. This restaurant stands out for its traditional approach, serving up vibrant dishes like hummus, freshly baked flatbreads, and perfectly grilled meats that celebrate rich cultural roots. Whether sharing a mezza spread with friends or stopping in for a full dinner, it provides a warm and upscale escape from the winter air.
Movies and Metro Access
If there is a desire to extend the night further, the Alamo Drafthouse on the second level offers a full cinematic experience where additional snacks and drinks are delivered directly to reclining seats.
Getting to The Bloc is simple via the Metro, as the 7th Street/Metro Center Station has a direct entrance into the plaza. Following the signs for the Hope Street exit leads directly into the middle of the courtyard. With Sparkle DTLA ending this Wednesday, this weekend is the final push to enjoy the lights and the food at Hatch Yakitori and TABL M.
