Hermosa for the Holidays
Hermosa Beach transforms into an open-air coastal winter wonderland featuring an oceanfront Ferris wheel on Pier Plaza and artisan pop-up shopping. Visitors can write wish lists at the Letters to Santa station, take photos with Santa in his sleigh, and attend hourly story sessions under the holiday tent. The festivities also feature live musical performances, a Giving Village showcasing local nonprofits, and an evening tree lighting ceremony.
What to Expect
Beachside holiday festival with an ocean-view Ferris wheel and tree lighting.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Pier Plaza
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau
Food & Drink
The Giving Village offers hot cocoa and cookies.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive, beachside, community-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: One Ferris Wheel ticket is $8. Tickets are available at the on-site ticket booth, which accepts cards only and no cash.
- Parking: Downtown parking is mostly paid and time-limited, using public lots like Lot A on Hermosa Ave, the Lot C structure and street meters. It fills quickly on event days.
- Accessibility: The local artisan pop-up and most retailers are at grade level; for shops with a step up, ask shop staff for assistance.
- Pets: Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome in public places, but dogs are not allowed on carnival rides or inflatables.
Tips & Advice
- Bring a card for the Ferris wheel, because the on-site ticket booth near the end of the pier takes cards only and no cash.
- Arrive by the start of Sunday's Tree Lighting Ceremony, because Santa arrives and lights the tree soon after it begins on Pier Plaza.
- Get downtown early on event days, since parking near the pier and beach is paid, time-limited and fills quickly at peak times.
- For the scavenger hunt, write in at least 22 of the elves' names, because postcards with fewer don't qualify for the prize drawing.
- Check the shops' hours before you go on the scavenger hunt, since the elves are hidden inside businesses that open and close at different times.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sunday evening: Tree Lighting Ceremony on Pier Plaza, with Santa arriving to light the tree.
- Sunday: the Rock for Tots charity concert on Pier Plaza.
- Sunday: the Giving Village on Pier Plaza has local nonprofits, hot cocoa, cookies and activities.
- Saturday: the Kids Creationz Market on the Upper Pier Ave sidewalk sells creations by young entrepreneurs in TK through 8th grade.
- The Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt at downtown businesses continues beyond the main weekend.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can pets take photos with Santa?
Yes, furry pals are welcome to join family and friends for photos with Santa in his sleigh.
How can I access Santa photos after the event?
Free digital photos will be available one week after the event.
Can adults participate in the Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt?
Yes, all ages are welcome to participate, and prizes are available for adults as well as children.
What is required to enter the Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt raffle?
You must identify a majority of the hidden elves' names (at least 22) and submit your completed postcard at a designated drop-off location.
Can I bring my dog to the event?
Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome in all public places, but they are not allowed on carnival rides or inflatables.
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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.