Your Complete 2025 Holiday Guide

By Suzanne Dyer | Strand Hill | Forbes Global Properties

December is one of the most festive, joyful, and community-focused months of the year across Palos Verdes and the South Bay. From coastal fireworks to botanical light shows, from tree-lighting ceremonies to Santa strolling the beach, our towns come alive with events that blend small-town charm, coastal lifestyle, and the warmth of our close-knit community.

As a longtime Palos Verdes resident and one of the top real estate professionals in the region, I’m always excited to share the events that make our area so special. Whether you’re looking for family activities, cultural experiences, charitable events, or simply a magical evening out, December in the South Bay has something for everyone.

Astra Lumina — South Coast Botanic Garden

Through December 31 | Various Times
South Coast Botanic Garden | Palos Verdes Peninsula

Astra Lumina returns as one of the most unique holiday experiences anywhere in Los Angeles. This spectacular nighttime walk transforms the South Coast Botanic Garden into a world of glowing lights, cosmic effects, and immersive soundscapes. Guests journey through illuminated pathways designed to feel like stars are landing among the gardens themselves.

What to Expect

• A 60–75 minute self-guided walk through glowing installations

• Celestial projections, fog effects, and music

• A magical atmosphere perfect for families, date nights, or holiday visitors

• Multiple themed zones such as “Stardust Rays,” “Celestial Trail,” and “Falling Star Field”

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes — several paths include gentle slopes and uneven terrain.

Joy Around the World: Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting — El Segundo

December 4 | 3 PM – 8 PM
City Hall Plaza | El Segundo

This beloved community event brings the charm of a small-town holiday celebration together with vibrant multicultural traditions. The festival is packed with global holiday décor, performances, food booths, and family-friendly activities — plus an annual tree lighting that draws hundreds of residents.

Event Highlights

• Tree Lighting at 5:30 PM

• Meet Santa and enjoy free gift giveaways

• Cultural performances celebrating global winter traditions

• Crafts, food, kid-friendly activities, and community organizations

Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure space near the tree for the lighting ceremony and photos.

Holiday Stroll — Riviera Village (Redondo Beach)

December 4 | 5 PM – 9 PM
Riviera Village | Redondo Beach

Riviera Village’s Holiday Stroll is one of the most charming nights of the season. Local shops offer treats, extended hours, specials, live music, festive décor, and even strolling holiday characters.

Event Highlights

• Shop-local promotions from boutique retailers

• Live entertainment throughout the Village

• Outdoor dining and seasonal cocktails from local restaurants

• Family-friendly activities and photo ops

Pro Tip: Parking fills quickly, arrive before 5:30 PM or use a rideshare.

Sandpipers Annual Holiday Homes Tour

December 5–7 | Various Times
Various South Bay Locations

For its 33rd year, the Sandpipers Holiday Homes Tour offers access to beautifully decorated South Bay homes showcasing stunning architecture and interior holiday styling. Guests can shop local artisans at the Sandpipers market and enjoy holiday vignettes at each home.  As a former President of Sandpipers this is one of my favorite events!

Event Highlights

• Tour of four South Bay homes decorated for the holidays

• Sip-Shop-Stroll Market & Café

• Boutique shopping with curated vendors

• A major philanthropic event supporting families in need

Pro Tip: Ticketed entry is required for the home tours, book early, as this event always sells out.

Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop — Manhattan Beach

December 6 | 9 AM – 11 AM
Manhattan Heights Park | Manhattan Beach

A perfect family activity to kick off December! This workshop provides gingerbread kits, candy decorations, frosting, and hands-on guidance from local recreation staff.

What to Expect

• Pre-assembled gingerbread houses

• Creative decorating stations

• Hot cocoa and holiday music

• Great for children and families of all ages

Pro Tip: Bring a box or tray to safely transport your creation home.

Sand Snowman Contest — Hermosa Beach

December 6 | 9 AM – 12 PM
15th Street & The Shoreline | Hermosa Beach

Only in the South Bay can you build a snowman made of sand! This contest is a local favorite, bringing out families, artists, and creative teams ready to sculpt their most imaginative “sand snowmen.”

Event Highlights

• Open-format sand sculpting competition

• Awards for the most creative designs

• Beautiful views right along the shoreline

• Fun for kids, teens, and adults alike

Pro Tip: Bring your own sculpting tools, beach buckets, spatulas, and carving tools work great.

Let It Snow Redondo

December 6 | 12 PM – 4 PM
Seaside Lagoon | Redondo Beach

This coastal holiday celebration brings real snow to Seaside Lagoon! Kids can sled down snow hills, meet Santa, enjoy crafts, and sip warm cocoa all next to the ocean.

Event Highlights

• Real snow play areas

• Sledding hills

• Santa meet-and-greet

• Cookies, cocoa, and holiday crafts

Pro Tip: Dress in layers even though it’s snow, the ocean breeze can get chilly.

Christmas with the Rat Pack — Norris Theater

December 6 | 3 PM
Norris Theater | Rolling Hills Estates

A classy, nostalgic holiday performance featuring music from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. This is a perfect outing for those who appreciate vintage style and timeless holiday hits.

Event Highlights

• Live tribute show with classic Rat Pack tunes

• Holiday arrangements performed with big-band flair

• Beautiful, intimate venue on the Palos Verdes Peninsula

Pro Tip: Plan dinner afterward at a local Palos Verdes restaurant to make it a full evening out.

Peninsula Parade of Lights — Rolling Hills Estates

December 6 | 6 PM
Silver Spur Road | Rolling Hills Estates

A treasured Palos Verdes tradition! The Peninsula Parade of Lights includes marching bands, equestrian groups, illuminated floats, and a festive community atmosphere.

Event Highlights

• Grand Marshal introduction

• Local organizations and equestrian groups

• Lighted floats, music, and Santa

• Perfect for all ages

Pro Tip: Bring chairs this is a popular parade and roadside seating fills early.

Holiday Movie Night: Frozen — Hermosa Beach

December 12 | 5 PM
Community Theater | Hermosa Beach

Bring the kids for a cozy screening of Frozen at the community theater. A fun, relaxed event perfect for families.

Event Highlights

• Popcorn and concessions

• Kids encouraged to dress up

• Special winter-themed crafts

Pro Tip: Arrive early for good seating family movie nights often fill quickly.

7th Annual Santa Stroll — Hermosa to Manhattan Beach

December 13 | 9 AM – 12 PM
Hermosa Beach Pier to Manhattan Beach Pier

Hundreds of participants dress as Santa and stroll (or jog!) along The Strand between the piers. This event is both festive and iconic — a scene you can only find in the South Bay.

Event Highlights

• Festive group stroll along the ocean

• Photo ops with dozens of Santas

• Fun, casual exercise with friends or family

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes it’s a beautiful but lengthy walk.

Holiday Celebration — Redondo Beach Fisherman’s Wharf

December 13 | 2 PM – 4 PM
Fisherman’s Wharf | Redondo Beach

A cozy, charming holiday celebration full of nostalgic décor, carolers, and waterfront views.

Event Highlights

• Victorian carolers

• Holiday lighting along the waterfront

• Family photo opportunities

• Small-town holiday atmosphere

Pro Tip: Afterward, stroll the pier for sunset it’s spectacular in December.

Holiday Boat Parade — King Harbor, Redondo Beach

December 13 | 5:30 PM – 7 PM
King Harbor | Redondo Beach

King Harbor shines during this glittering boat parade featuring vessels decorated with lights, inflatables, music, and more.

Event Highlights

• Dozens of decorated boats

• Music and themed floats

• Great viewing from the marina or shoreline

Pro Tip: Bring jackets it gets windy along the water.

Holiday Parade — El Segundo

December 14 | 1 PM – 3 PM
Main Street | El Segundo

El Segundo’s long-running holiday parade features marching bands, local organizations, vintage cars, and festive floats.

Event Highlights

• Community groups and performers

• Santa riding through Main Street

• A nostalgic, family-friendly atmosphere

Pro Tip: The best viewing areas are between Grand and Mariposa.

Chanukah Celebration — Hermosa Beach Pier

December 14 | 3 PM
Hermosa Beach Pier

A beautiful outdoor celebration featuring menorah lighting, music, children’s activities, and holiday treats set right along the ocean.

Event Highlights

• Lighting of a large menorah

• Community singing and festivities

• Dreidels, chocolate gelt, and treats for kids

Pro Tip: Arrive a little early to get a spot with a good view of the menorah lighting.

Holiday Fireworks Festival — Manhattan Beach

December 14 | 3 PM – 8 PM
Manhattan Beach Pier

One of the biggest holiday events in the South Bay, the Manhattan Beach Fireworks Festival attracts thousands each year.

Event Highlights

• Fireworks finale over the ocean

• Live music and holiday entertainment

• Snow park, sledding, and family activities

• Neighborhood block-party atmosphere

Pro Tip: Bring chairs or blankets and arrive early for a great spot  this is one of the most popular events of the season.

Holiday Lights Train — Wilson Park, Torrance

December 19 & 20 | 5 PM – 8 PM
Wilson Park | Torrance

A magical miniature train ride through beautifully decorated holiday light displays, perfect for younger kids.

Event Highlights

• Holiday-themed railroad

• Twinkling lights and inflatables

• Festive music and photo ops

Pro Tip: Lines can get long  arrive right at 5 PM for the shortest wait.

Palos Verdes Ballet: The Nutcracker — Rolling Hills Estates

December 20 & 21 | Various Times
Norris Theater | Rolling Hills Estates

A treasured Peninsula tradition, the Palos Verdes Ballet performs a graceful, charming production of The Nutcracker each year featuring talented local dancers and stunning costumes.

Event Highlights

• Full-length Nutcracker ballet

• Beautiful staging and choreography

• Ideal for families or an elegant holiday outing

Pro Tip: These shows often sell out book tickets early for prime seating.

Final Thoughts

December in Palos Verdes and the South Bay is truly magical.
Whether you're attending the Peninsula Parade of Lights, watching fireworks in Manhattan Beach, strolling Riviera Village, or experiencing the wonder of Astra Lumina, this is a month filled with connection, tradition, and community joy.

As someone who deeply loves this community and who has helped families buy and sell homes across the South Bay for more than 25 years I’m always here to be a resource for local insights, real estate guidance, and everything that makes living in Palos Verdes so special.

If you ever need help navigating the Palos Verdes or South Bay real estate markets or if you're just looking for recommendations on the best local events, I’m here for you.

Warmest holiday wishes,
Suzanne Dyer
Strand Hill | Forbes Global Properties

www.suzannedyer.com

Top Selling Palos Verdes Realtor!  Selling more homes in Rolling Hills Estates than any other Realtor!