Surfin’ Santa
November 30, 12-4 p.m.
Surfin’ Santa will break out his boardshorts and favorite Hawaiian shirt to spread holiday cheer in true SoCal fashion! Bring the whole family and be sure to arrive early to snag a spot on the boardwalk for Santa’s grand entrance, as he cruises in from the San Diego Bay by watercraft and leads a festive parade to the fountain courtyard. Visitors can pose and have a free downloadable picture taken with Surfin’ Santa on his giant surfboard, riding a six-foot wave.
Candlelit Walk Through the Ancient Redwoods
December 6-7, 4-7:30 p.m.
The event, held in partnership with California State Parks and the National Park Service, features a walk through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park’s ADA-accessible Revelation Trail, lit by luminaria. Local storytellers will share winter, holiday, and redwood-themed stories. After the walk, participants can enjoy hot cider and cookies at the visitor center. A silent auction will also be held to support RPC.
Indio International Tamale Festival
December 7-8
The beloved Indio International Tamale Festival is back this year for its 32nd annual celebration, taking place at Miles Avenue Park. This exciting event, recognized by the Guinness World Records as the Largest Tamale Festival, continues to draw food lovers, locals, and visitors from all over to celebrate culture, flavor, and community.
Holiday Fireworks Rooftop Party
December 8
Shade Manhattan Beach invites you to watch the Manhattan Beach holiday fireworks from their gorgeous new Skydeck. Light bites, cocktails and festive holiday cheer will be served!
Christkindlmarkt
December 14
It’s a little German, a little American, and all fun. Big Bear’s Christkindlmarkt takes place during the day featuring last minute holiday shopping, live entertainment with Die Sauerkrauts, several interactive activities including Gingerbread cookie decorating and ornament making, and contests for all ages. The Wishing Tree, a German tradition will offer guests the fun of making a wish and adding their ornament to the tree.
Snowshoe Dinner and Chalet Dinner at Alpine
December 20 and 21
Join a guided snowshoe tour to the Chalet at Alpine where you’ll enjoy a four-course Bavarian-inspired meal. This dining adventure starts at Last Chair Bar in the base lodge with a hot glass of mulled wine. Once everyone checks in, we will begin our ascent to the Chalet. This 15-minute walk goes up a moderately pitched ski trail. All participants must be able to walk to and from the Chalet.
Santa Paddle
December 21
Join Santa as he trades his sleigh for a paddle board! Visitors can rent a kayak, stand-up paddle board, or festive pedal boat from Ventura Boat Rentals (C Dock, below Brophy Bros. and On the Alley). Dress in your most festive holiday attire – Santa costumes, elves, reindeer, or anything that spreads holiday cheer! Paddlers are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy donation to support the Spark of Love Toy Drive.
Christmas Nights at Farm 123
Through December 23
Step into the holiday magic at 123 Farm, where over a million lights transform lavender fields, olive trees and a 1,000-year-old oak into a stunning winter wonderland, complemented by festive food and organic hot cocoa served at their fast-casual restaurant.
