OB Crooked Holiday Tree & Santa Experience
Visitors can gather on the sand to watch the raising of Ocean Beach's crooked holiday tree and join in the decorating festivities. Along the boardwalk in front of the tree, families can meet Santa Claus in person, pose for photos, and deliver their holiday wish lists.
What to Expect
Annual beachside crooked tree celebration and boardwalk meet-and-greets with Santa.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and beachy
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Tree raising starts at 7am on December 1; tree decorating is 7am–5pm that day; Santa visits are 7am–12pm on December 5, 12, and 19.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at 7 a.m. on December 1 to watch the tree raised, then stop by during the day as decorating continues.
- Visit Santa on December 5, 12, or 19 between 7 a.m. and noon, since those are the scheduled visit dates.
- Bring a Christmas list if you want to hand it to Santa during one of the boardwalk visits.
- Choose footwear suited to sand and boardwalk surfaces, since the tree celebration and Santa visits take place outdoors.
- Dress for an outdoor visit so you can comfortably spend time by the beachside tree.
Special Events & Promotions
- The tree raising and decorating take place on December 1.
- Santa visits the boardwalk on December 5, 12, and 19.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the tree event?
The crooked holiday tree is raised on the sand and decorated during the day, with visitors welcome to stop by.
Can children give Santa their Christmas lists?
Yes, visitors can bring Christmas lists to give to Santa and take family photos.
Can I help decorate the tree?
Visitors are welcome to stop by and join the decorating festivities on December 1.
How can someone offer a tree for a future celebration?
The tree should resemble a pine, be approximately 25 to 45 feet tall, be in or near Ocean Beach or Point Loma, and be easily accessible. Email the foundation with your name, phone number, and the tree’s address.
More Christmas Events near Chula Vista
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.