Manhattan Beach Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

The Pier Lighting and Holiday Open House is the largest annual Christmas event, marking the official start of the holiday season with live music, illuminated streets, and extended shopping hours downtown.

Manhattan Beach is known for lighting 90 Christmas trees along the pier, a tradition that brings the community together for a festive evening stroll. The city also partners with Hermosa Beach for the Beach Cities Toy Drive, collecting gifts for local children in need.

Downtown Manhattan Beach, especially around the pier and along Manhattan Avenue, is the heart of the city’s holiday light displays, with snowflake lights and festive banners lighting up the streets. Residential areas also feature neighborhood displays worth exploring.

Local shops and restaurants participate in the Holiday Open House, offering unique gifts and food samples—this is the closest Manhattan Beach comes to a traditional Christmas market. For larger artisan markets, consider nearby cities in the South Bay.

Enjoying the Pier Lighting, strolling downtown to see the holiday lights, and participating in the Beach Cities Toy Drive are all free activities. Many local businesses offer specials and samples during the Holiday Open House, adding to the budget-friendly fun.

Families will enjoy the Pier Lighting event, with its festive atmosphere, live music, and the chance to see the pier aglow with holiday lights. The Holiday Open House also offers a safe, walkable environment for kids to experience the season with their parents.