The following is a submission from the Pier Corporation.
This holiday season, the Santa Monica Pier will sparkle with festive cheer, creative spirit, and community joy as “Holiday Cheer on the Pier” returns for a final magical evening on Thursday, December 18—offering free, all-ages programming filled with wonder by the waves.
Presented by Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, this year’s “Holiday Cheer on the Pier” is a family-friendly celebration packed with music, art, storytelling, entertainment, and holiday photo ops. The Pier’s historic Merry Go-Round building and surrounding spaces will be transformed into a coastal holiday village full of lights, laughter, and seaside spirit.
Activities and Schedule
Letters to Santa and Ornament Painting with Paint:Lab
3:30–7 p.m. | Merry Go-Round Building
Step inside the historic Merry Go-Round building to write heartfelt Letters to Santa—yes, they’ll be mailed straight to the North Pole! Kids can also create festive take-home crafts and ornaments with help from local creative studio Paint:Lab.
Books & Cookies Musical Storytime
3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. | Patio 66 at Pacific Park
Celebrate the season through story and song! Join Books & Cookies for two rounds of joyful, interactive musical storytime right behind Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.
Bob Baker Marionette Theater
5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. | Patio 66 at Pacific Park
– A timeless holiday delight for all ages! The Bob Baker Marionette Theater brings their legendary puppetry to the Pier for whimsical performances sure to dazzle kids and adults.
– Festive refreshments including hot cocoa, churros, popcorn, and other holiday treats will be available for purchase throughout the evening’s entertainment at Patio 66.
Sandy Cane Lane: Photos with Santa, Music & More!
4–9 p.m. | Merry Go-Round Building and Pier Parking Deck
The holiday festivities culminate with Locals’ Night and dazzling Sandy Cane Lane celebration.
– Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus
– A special holiday sand sculpture
– Winter Art Mart
– Sounds by local DJs with Jamma Dee, Xica Soul, Tavish DJ and Aiden Ramos
– Fan-favorite Car Decorating Contest – where participants compete for cash prizes by decking their rides in holiday lights and flair!
Despite popular misconception, the Santa Monica Pier Corporation is not fully funded by the City of Santa Monica, but rather operates as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Community support is essential to maintain the Pier’s charm, programming, and cultural legacy.
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