There’s something magical about the holidays in the South Bay! 🎄✨
While the rest of the country is bundling up for snow, we’re celebrating Christmas with ocean views, decorated piers, festive beachside strolls, holiday boat parades, and some of the most beautiful Christmas light displays in Los Angeles.
Whether you’re a South Bay local, visiting Los Angeles for the holidays, planning a festive date night, or looking for family-friendly Christmas activities, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate.
From the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting and Hermosa for the Holidays to the King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade and Torrance’s famous Candy Cane Lane, I’ve rounded up some of the best South Bay holiday events happening in November and December 2026.
🎄 November 2026 Holiday Events
1. Manhattan Beach Holiday Open House & Pier Lighting
📍 Downtown Manhattan Beach & Manhattan Beach Pier
📅 Wednesday, November 18, 2026
⏰ Santa’s Arrival: 5 PM | Holiday Open House: 6–9 PM | Pier Lighting: 7 PM
One of the most beloved Christmas traditions in Manhattan Beach is the annual Holiday Open House and Pier Lighting.
Downtown Manhattan Beach transforms into a coastal holiday wonderland as local boutiques, restaurants, and businesses welcome the community for an evening of festive entertainment, shopping, and celebration.
Expect holiday music, carolers, seasonal treats, Santa sightings, and plenty of holiday cheer.
The highlight? Watching the Manhattan Beach Pier illuminate with sparkling lights and decorated Christmas trees overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Local tip: Arrive early, grab dinner or a cocktail downtown, and head toward the pier before 7 PM for the lighting ceremony. It’s one of my favorite South Bay holiday traditions!
2. Manhattan Beach Holiday Open House & Pier Lighting
📍 Downtown Manhattan Beach & Manhattan Beach Pier
📅 Wednesday, November 18, 2026
⏰ Santa’s Arrival: 5 PM | Holiday Open House: 6–9 PM | Pier Lighting: 7 PM
One of the most beloved Christmas traditions in Manhattan Beach is the annual Holiday Open House and Pier Lighting.
Downtown Manhattan Beach transforms into a coastal holiday wonderland as local boutiques, restaurants, and businesses welcome the community for an evening of festive entertainment, shopping, and celebration.
Expect holiday music, carolers, seasonal treats, Santa sightings, and plenty of holiday cheer.
The highlight? Watching the Manhattan Beach Pier illuminate with sparkling lights and decorated Christmas trees overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Local tip: Arrive early, grab dinner or a cocktail downtown, and head toward the pier before 7 PM for the lighting ceremony. It’s one of my favorite South Bay holiday traditions!
3. The Nutcracker at the Norris Theatre
📍 Norris Theatre | Rolling Hills Estates, Palos Verdes
📅 November 19–22, 2026
There’s nothing quite like experiencing The Nutcracker during the Christmas season.
The Peninsula School of Performing Arts brings this holiday classic to life at the Norris Theatre with beautiful costumes, enchanting music by Tchaikovsky, and talented dancers.
Follow Clara through the magical Land of Snow and Kingdom of Sweets in this timeless holiday ballet.
2026 performance schedule:
November 19–20: 7 PM
November 21: 2 PM and 7 PM
November 22: 12 PM and 4 PM
This is a wonderful holiday activity for families, couples, and anyone who loves the performing arts.
Local tip: Make it a festive afternoon or evening with dinner in Palos Verdes before or after the performance.
4. Hermosa for the Holidays
📍 Downtown Hermosa Beach & Pier Plaza
📅 November 21–22, 2026
⏰ Festivities begin at 10 AM
Hermosa Beach knows how to celebrate the holidays with a little coastal flair!
Hermosa for the Holidays brings a festive atmosphere to downtown Hermosa Beach with local shopping, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and holiday celebrations.
One of the highlights is the Ferris wheel near Pier Plaza, offering a unique way to experience the holiday season at the beach.
It’s also a great opportunity to support local Hermosa Beach businesses while checking gifts off your Christmas shopping list.
Local tip: Spend the afternoon shopping along Pier Avenue, grab dinner at one of Hermosa’s restaurants, and enjoy the holiday festivities as the sun sets.
5. Tinker Bell’s Neverland: An Illuminated Adventure
📍 South Coast Botanic Garden | Palos Verdes Peninsula
📅 November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027
⏰ 5:30–8:30 PM | Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day
Looking for a magical holiday light experience near Los Angeles?
South Coast Botanic Garden is transforming into an illuminated Neverland inspired by Peter Pan and Tinker Bell.
Visitors can wander through immersive light installations, illuminated gardens, and whimsical scenes featuring familiar locations from the beloved story.
It’s one of the most exciting nighttime holiday experiences in Palos Verdes this season.
Perfect for a family outing, girls’ night, or romantic holiday date.
Local tip: Book tickets in advance and bring a jacket. Even in Southern California, evening temperatures in Palos Verdes can get chilly!
🎅 December 2026 Holiday Events
6. South Bay Babes Mob Wives Holiday Party
📍 Brogino’s | 2423 Artesia Blvd, Redondo Beach
📅 Wednesday, December 2, 2026
⏰ 5–7:30 PM
🎟️ $10 reservation hold fee required
Calling all South Bay Babes! 💋🥂
We’re kicking off the holiday season with a little Mob Wives glam!
If you’re new here, I founded South Bay Babes, a community of over 15,000 women in the South Bay, to bring women together, build meaningful friendships, and create opportunities to connect through fun social events, wellness experiences, and local adventures.
What started as a small beach meetup has grown into an incredible community of women supporting women, and our events are one of my favorite ways to bring people together.
This December, we’re celebrating with a Mob Wives-themed holiday party at Brogino’s in Redondo Beach!
Think faux fur, bold fashion, glamorous holiday vibes, and an evening of laughter, great company, and new friendships.
Whether you’re new to the South Bay, looking to expand your circle, or already part of our incredible community, we’d love to see you!
Important RSVP information: Due to last-minute cancellations and no-shows, a $10 reservation hold fee is required to secure your spot. Since the restaurant has limited seating, an accurate headcount is essential to ensure a great experience for everyone. Please only RSVP if you’re committed to attending. We appreciate your understanding! 💕
Local tip: If you’ve recently moved to the South Bay or want to meet more local women, South Bay Babes is a great place to start!
7. HERmosa Circle: Mingle All the Way
📍 Patrick Molloy’s | Hermosa Beach
📅 Wednesday, December 2, 2026
⏰ 6:30–8:30 PM
🎟️ $10 donation benefiting Anchor’s Holiday Helpers Campaign
Looking for a festive way to meet new people and give back during the holidays?
HERmosa Circle’s Mingle All the Way combines holiday socializing with a meaningful cause.
Gather with the local community at Patrick Molloy’s for an evening of connections and festive fun while supporting a holiday charitable initiative.
A great option for anyone looking for holiday social events in Hermosa Beach.
8. Riviera Village Annual Holiday Stroll
📍 Riviera Village | Redondo Beach
📅 Thursday, December 3, 2026
⏰ 5–9 PM
If you love charming coastal neighborhoods decorated for Christmas, the Riviera Village Holiday Stroll belongs on your calendar.
Riviera Village transforms into a festive pedestrian-friendly celebration with local boutiques staying open late, seasonal refreshments, music, holiday characters, and shopping.
Expect Santa, the Grinch, photo opportunities, a carousel, and a holiday makers market.
It’s one of the best Redondo Beach Christmas events for families, couples, and friends.
Local tip: Make a dinner reservation in Riviera Village and arrive early for holiday shopping. This is also a great opportunity to support locally owned South Bay businesses!
9. Sandpipers Holiday Homes Tour
📍 Neptunian Woman's Club at 920 Highland Ave, Manhattan Beach
📅 December 4-5, 10am-5pm
📅 December 6, 10am-1pm
Love beautiful homes, interior design, and holiday decorating?
The Sandpipers Holiday Homes Tour is one of the South Bay’s most anticipated annual holiday traditions.
Guests have the opportunity to tour beautifully designed and decorated homes while gathering inspiration for their own holiday entertaining and décor.
The event also supports Sandpipers’ philanthropic mission of helping individuals and families in need.
It’s the perfect combination of stunning real estate, holiday inspiration, and community giving.
Local tip: If you love architecture, design, and beautiful South Bay homes as much as I do, put this event on your calendar!
10. Annual Reindeer Romp at Rosie’s Dog Beach
📍 Rosie’s Dog Beach | Long Beach
📅 Saturday, December 5, 2026
⏰ 10 AM
❤️ Fundraiser benefiting Frenchies United Rescue
Calling all dog lovers!
The annual Reindeer Romp at Rosie’s Dog Beach is a fun way to include your four-legged family members in the holiday celebrations.
Dress your pup in their most festive holiday attire, enjoy time at the beach with other dog lovers, and support animal rescue.
As someone who loves dogs and animal rescue, I especially love seeing holiday events that give back to animals in need.
Local tip: Bring your camera because dogs dressed as Christmas trees, reindeer, and Santa are guaranteed to make your day!
11. Tea with Santa 🎅🏻🎅🏻
📍 Sea Sprite’s Surfer Girl Restaurant | Hermosa Beach
📅 December 8, 10, 15, and 17
Add a little holiday magic to your morning with Tea with Santa at Sea Sprite’s Surfer Girl Restaurant in Hermosa Beach! Enjoy a festive, beach-inspired take on traditional high tea featuring tea sandwiches, petite fours, macarons, and fresh seasonal fruit. Adults can sip on bottomless bubbles while the kids enjoy cozy hot chocolate, all with a special visit from Santa himself! Choose from December 8, 10, 15, or 17 and make it a sweet holiday tradition for the whole family.
12. Winter Wonderland at Terranea Resort ❄️🎄
📍 Terranea Resort | 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes
📅 Saturday, December 12, 2026
⏰ 4–8 PM
Who says you need to leave Southern California to experience a winter wonderland?
Terranea Resort is bringing a little holiday magic to the coast with its annual Winter Wonderland celebration, set against the breathtaking ocean views of Rancho Palos Verdes.
This festive evening is perfect for the whole family, featuring seasonal traditions, delicious holiday bites and beverages, special character appearances, and even the rare delight of “snowfall” along the Southern California coastline! ❄️
Imagine celebrating the holidays with twinkling lights, festive music, and a touch of winter magic overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly Christmas activities in Palos Verdes, a memorable holiday outing with friends, or a festive evening at one of the South Bay’s most beautiful resorts, this event deserves a spot on your holiday calendar.
13. King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade
📍 King Harbor | Redondo Beach
📅 Saturday, December 12, 2026
⏰ Paddle Craft Parade: 3:30–5 PM | Holiday Boat Parade: 5:30–7 PM
One of the most unique Christmas traditions in the South Bay is the King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade.
Instead of traditional Christmas floats, beautifully decorated boats cruise through the harbor covered in sparkling lights and festive decorations.
The holiday lights reflecting off the ocean create one of the most beautiful scenes of the season.
It’s a perfect way to experience Christmas in Southern California!
Local tip: Dress warmly, arrive early to find a good viewing spot, and consider making an evening of it with dinner near the Redondo Beach waterfront.
14. Annual Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Festival
📍 Manhattan Beach Pier | Manhattan Beach
📅 Sunday, December 13, 2026
⏰ Festival: 3–8 PM | Fireworks: 7 PM
If there’s one South Bay Christmas event you don’t want to miss, it’s the annual Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Festival!
Now in its 38th year, this beloved holiday tradition brings thousands of people together for a magical evening of festive entertainment and spectacular fireworks over the Pacific Ocean.
Downtown Manhattan Beach comes alive with holiday music, carolers, live entertainment, family activities, and a visit from Santa.
One of the biggest attractions for families is the Skechers Snow Park, where kids can enjoy a little winter magic right here at the beach.
The grand finale begins at 7 PM when fireworks light up the sky above the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier.
There’s truly nothing like watching fireworks over the ocean surrounded by friends, family, and the South Bay community.
Local tip: Arrive early! Downtown Manhattan Beach gets extremely busy for this event. Consider walking, biking, or taking a rideshare, and bring a blanket and warm layers for the evening.
15. Candy Cane Lane Christmas Lights in Torrance
📍 South Torrance | Seaside Ranchos Neighborhood
📅 Traditionally mid-December through New Year’s Day
⏰ Typically beginning around 7 PM
Searching for the best Christmas lights in the South Bay?
Candy Cane Lane in Torrance is a must-see!
Every holiday season, homes throughout the Seaside Ranchos neighborhood come alive with elaborate Christmas light displays, festive decorations, and incredible holiday spirit.
Families have been visiting this South Bay Christmas lights destination for generations.
You can enjoy the neighborhood on foot or drive through to admire the decorations.
Local tip: Walking is my favorite way to experience Candy Cane Lane. Visit on a weekday if you want to avoid the biggest crowds, and please be respectful of the residents.
🎬 Holiday Movie Nights & Unique Christmas Experiences
16. Movies on the Mary
📍 The Queen Mary | Long Beach
📅 November–December 2026
Looking for a unique date night or family activity in Long Beach?
The historic Queen Mary is hosting movie screenings aboard the ship, including several Christmas classics.
November movies:
November 9: The Hunger Games (2012)
November 13: Friday the 13th (1980)
November 30: The Aviator
December movies:
December 7: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
December 14: Elf
December 21: Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
December 28: The Great Gatsby
Showtime: 6:30 PM
There’s something extra special about watching a Christmas movie aboard one of Southern California’s most iconic historic ships.
17. Coastal Holiday Celebrations at Terranea Resort
📍 Terranea Resort | Rancho Palos Verdes
📅 November–December 2026
If you’re looking for an elevated holiday experience with ocean views, Terranea Resort offers one of the most beautiful coastal Christmas settings in Los Angeles.
Throughout the holiday season, Terranea hosts festive dining, family activities, seasonal experiences, and holiday celebrations.
A few 2026 highlights:
November 28: Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 28–January 2: Gingerbread Hut holiday pop-up
December 11: Feast of the Seven Fishes
December 12: Winter Wonderland celebration
December 12, 19 & 23: Gingerbread House Workshops
December 19: Breakfast with Santa
December 24–25: Christmas holiday celebrations and dining
December 31: New Year’s Eve festivities
Whether you’re planning a holiday staycation, romantic date, family outing, or festive dinner, Terranea is a beautiful place to celebrate.
Local tip: Even if you’re not staying overnight, consider visiting for a holiday cocktail or dinner overlooking the Pacific.
✨ Best South Bay Holiday Activities by Occasion
Best for families with kids: Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting, Hermosa for the Holidays, Tinker Bell’s Neverland, Candy Cane Lane, and the King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade.
Best for couples and holiday date nights: A Nutcracker performance, Riviera Village Holiday Stroll, Terranea’s Gingerbread Hut, and Movies on the Mary.
Best for holiday shopping: Manhattan Beach Holiday Open House, Riviera Village Holiday Stroll, Hermosa for the Holidays, and the Sandpipers Holiday Market.
Best for animal lovers: The Reindeer Romp at Rosie’s Dog Beach.
Best for Christmas lights: Torrance Candy Cane Lane, Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting, Tinker Bell’s Neverland, and the King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade.
Why I Love Living in the South Bay
One of the biggest reasons I love living and working in the South Bay is the lifestyle and sense of community.
Where else can you spend your morning walking along the beach, your afternoon exploring locally owned shops and restaurants, and your evening enjoying Christmas lights overlooking the Pacific Ocean?
From the walkable neighborhoods of Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach to the coastal charm of Redondo Beach, the family-friendly communities of Torrance and El Segundo, and the stunning ocean views of Palos Verdes, every South Bay neighborhood has something special to offer.
And it’s not just during the holidays. Throughout the year, our communities come together for beach festivals, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, neighborhood celebrations, and countless local events.
These are the things that make the South Bay more than just a beautiful place to live. They make it a place that truly feels like home.
As a local realtor helping people buy and sell homes throughout the South Bay and Westside Los Angeles, I love introducing people to everything our communities have to offer. Finding the right home is about so much more than square footage and bedrooms. It’s about finding a neighborhood and lifestyle that fit the way you want to live.
If you’re thinking about moving to the South Bay, buying your first home, finding your dream coastal property, or selling your current home, I’d love to help you make your next move.
Whether you’re relocating to Los Angeles or simply exploring a different South Bay neighborhood, I’m always happy to share my local knowledge, real estate market insights, and favorite hidden gems.
Wishing you a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and a little South Bay sunshine! ☀️🎄
Ashley Novak | South Bay & Westside Los Angeles Realtor
Helping you discover not just where to live, but how to love where you live.
Event dates, times, ticket availability, and programming are subject to change. Please verify details directly with the organizers before attending.