By Lookout Staff

December 3, 2025 -- Santa Monica kicks off its holiday celebrations with a Tree Lighting Ceremony on the Promenade Thursday evening that features live music and a special appearance by Santa.

The event -- which takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. on the 1300 block of the Promenade -- also features a holiday market by Mosaiq Creative and festive treats as the famous walk street "transforms into a dazzling holiday display," Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM) officials said.

After the ceremony, guests of all ages can take free photos with Santa, who will illuminate the official City of Santa Monica holiday tree.

Guests are invited to create holiday crafts and "indulge in complimentary hot chocolate while experiencing 'snow' just blocks from the beach!"

A DJ will provide festive music, complemented by performances from the Westside Ballet, Lincoln Middle School Madrigals, Santa Monica High School Choirs, AcaPali Choir from Palisades High School and the SMC Emeritus Concert Band.

The tree lighting is part of a lineup of beloved traditions and new festivities -- from the return of the Ice Rink at Santa Monica presented by Disney+ and Hulu to Holiday Thursdays and Hanukkah in Santa Monica.

Holiday Thursdays take place on December 4, 11 and 18, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and "bring a festive celebration" that features live music and activities for all ages.

"Guests can delight in the lively tunes of Toyland Brass, participate in holiday-themed crafts and warm up with free hot cocoa" as they "experience the festive atmosphere created by thousands of twinkling lights."

The holiday celebration continues with Hanukkah in Santa Monica from December 14 to 21, featuring nightly menorah lightings at sundown on the Promenade.

"This event invites community members to enjoy a festive celebration of lights," Downtown officials said. "Each evening will be hosted by a different local congregation, honoring this long-standing tradition."

Every holiday season, the Ice Rink at Santa Monica at the corner of 5th Street and Arizona Avenue turns balmy Southern California into a winter wonderland that welcomes "families and friends to glide under the stars."

Throughout the season, the Ice Rink, which is open through January 19, features "a lineup of themed and musical events designed to make every visit memorable."

For details on all holiday happenings in Downtown Santa Monica, visit downtownsm.com/holidays.