NEW DATE City of Santa Monica's Official Tree Lighting Ceremony

Thu Dec 4, 2025
6:00pm to 8:00pm PT
Age: All ages
Price: Free
Location:
Santa Monica Christmas Tree
1300 block of the Promenade, Santa Monica, CA, 90401
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New date!   The snow was expected but the rain lead to a change of plans!  Santa Monica's official tree lighting ceremony is now being held on Deccember 4!

Snow falls as Santa Claus kicks off the holiday season at Santa Monica's official holiday tree lighting ceremony on Third Street Promenade. The annual event features performances by local choirs and the Westside Ballet.

After the ceremony, guests of all ages are invited to take free photos with Santa,

Other merriment includes a photo op with Big Blue Bus' wrapped bus, holiday-themed crafts, and a holiday dance party.

Guests can enjoy holiday goodies and giveaways, including hot cocoa, and shop the Holiday Market for holiday gifts & essentials.  RSVP for this free event.

The fun continues in December with Holiday Thursdays on the Promenade on December 4, 11, and 18.

Photo courtesy of Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. 

 

 

** Activity dates/times are subject to change. Please click through to the activity website to verify.