Christmas, Hanukkah Traffic In Southern California: Best, Worst Times

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — With Christmas and the first day of Hanukkah falling on the same date this year, more people are expected to be on the roads, according to the Automobile Club of Southern California.

Overall, AAA predicts that during the 2024 holiday travel period that began Saturday, Dec. 21, and runs through Wednesday, Jan. 1, about 3 million more people are expected to travel compared to last year. In total, AAA projects a record 119.3 million people will travel 50 or more miles from home during the 12-day period.

If you plan on being on Southern California roads in the days and week ahead, AAA and its data partner, INRIX, have forecast the worst and best times to be driving. Here is their analysis (safe travels and happy holidays!):

Wednesday, Dec. 25: Minimal traffic impact expected
Thursday, Dec. 26: 12-5 p.m. (worst) and before 11 a.m. (best)
Friday, Dec. 27: 3-7 p.m. (worst) and before 2 p.m. (best)
Saturday, Dec. 28: 1:30-7 p.m. (worst) and before 2 p.m. (best)
Sunday, Dec. 29: 12-6 p.m. (worst) and before 11 a.m. (best)
Monday, Dec. 30: 5-7 p.m. (worst) and before 2 p.m. (best)
Tuesday, Dec. 31: Minimal traffic impact expected
Wednesday, Jan. 1: Minimal traffic impact expected
Thursday, Jan. 2: 4-8 p.m. (worst) and before 3 p.m. (best)

While the 2024 holiday travel period ends Jan. 1 per the AAA, veteran holiday road warriors know that the days and weekend after New Year's Day won't be a picnic. Additionally, Hanukkah will be celebrated until Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025. Expect delays across Southern California roads as residents come home from their extended out-of-town stays.

More details about peak congestion times can be found here.