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Weekday Picks: Christmas Tree Lights, Holiday Shopping, Snoopy on Ice November 30 - December 4

11/30/15 - By Jacqueline Stansbury

There is nothing I enjoy so much as a brilliant display of holiday lights. That said, there were quite a few lighting ceremonies on our calendar in November, yet you didn’t hear about them from me. As far as I’m concerned, the acquisition and lighting of Christmas trees belong firmly in the month of December. Anything before that is just a sneaky way to push the holiday shopping agenda. Well, here we are in December, and I’m happy to report that there are still plenty of chances to celebrate the next four weeks of shopping with a lighting ceremony, whether you head west to Santa Monica , east to Downtown LA, or south towards Hermosa or Long Beach.

It is likely that you are well on your way with the toy shopping, but don’t forget that Tuesday and Wednesday are free LEGO days: a perfect stocking stuffer or spoonful of sugar on sock night. For more grown up gift ideas, Montana Avenue’s annual holiday walk in Santa Monica is this week.

Pershing Square outdoor ice rink welcomes Snoopy and friends for a mini preview of Knott’s Merry Farm’s Merry Christmas Snoopy this week. Those Peanuts never get old, especially when they have a new movie. 'Tis the season for many celebrations; there is much more to do on our Daily Events Calendar and in our Holiday Guide.

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

1. Holiday Light Festival Train Ride – Monday
The Christmas train has left the station! Holiday train season is off and running, and this year an old favorite returns to Griffith Park. A Monday evening early in the season is the best way to indulge without the lines.
See all Monday events

2. Snoopy Showcase Sneak Preview – Tuesday
The outdoor rink at Pershing Square hosts the cast of Knott’s Merry Farm’s Merry Christmas Snoopy ice show. This very Peanuts-centric holiday season is a great time to catch the annual ice show, and how great to get a peek without the drive or admission it usually requires! Use the outing as an excuse to check out the newly reopened classic Clifton's Cafeteria just around the corner. Kids will love the giant fake sequoia and dioramas that contribute to its decor. Lines to get in have been circling the block, but maybe you'll get lucky on a Tuesday evening. It's a great place to have some post skating Jell-O.
See all Tuesday events

3. Free First Wednesday at the Aquarium – Wednesday
Don't miss this last chance for free Wednesday admission to the Santa Monica Aquarium.
See all Wednesday events

4. Tree Lighting Ceremonies – Thursday
Tonight’s the night: catch tree lighting in Santa Monica, Hermosa Beach, Monrovia, or downtown at the Biltmore Hotel.
See all Thursday events

5. Montana Avenue Holiday Walk – Friday
Santa Claus heads to Santa Monica for lots of photo ops and shopping, armed with plenty of treats and serenaded by carolers.
See all Friday events

There are always plenty more activities on our Daily Events Calendar and in our monthly GoList. And if you don’t receive our newsletters full of suggestions for family fun, you really should subscribe…it’s free!