Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting and Annual Holiday Open House
Join the festive celebration at the Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting and Annual Holiday Open House. The Roundhouse Aquarium extends its hours for a magical evening of holiday cheer, featuring live music from local choirs and complimentary hot cocoa. Witness the iconic pier lighting ceremony and explore the vibrant downtown shops and restaurants open late for a perfect start to the holiday season.
What to Expect
Annual pier lighting and holiday open house with marine life exhibits.
Event Details
Duration
Aquarium hours 3:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Pier lighting at 7:00 PM
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Manhattan Beach
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Manhattan Beach Middle School (MBMS) Choir
- Mira Costa High School (MCHS) Choir
- Michael Holmes (Guitar)
- Dallas Greene (vocals)
- The Lucky Ones Band
- Matt Kalin (Saxophone)
- Harmony Carolers
- A Holiday Affair
Organizer
Roundhouse Aquarium / Downtown Business Association / City of Manhattan Beach
Food & Drink
Free hot cocoa available starting at 6:00 PM until supplies last. Restaurants in downtown Manhattan Beach will be serving their menus.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and community members
Vibe
Festive and community-oriented
Energy Level
Low to moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (outdoor lighting and performances)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $
- Parking: Parking available near the pier. Information available at Manhattan Beach Parking Info.
- Accessibility: The Roundhouse Aquarium recommends visitors respect individual choices regarding mask-wearing and asks that visitors do not enter if they are not feeling well. Hand washing is recommended before touching animals in the touch tank.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a spot for the pier lighting ceremony at 7 PM, as crowds are expected.
- Take advantage of the MB Wave Rider service to avoid parking hassles and easily navigate between the aquarium and downtown shops.
- Bring a reusable mug for the complimentary hot cocoa, available from 6:00 PM while supplies last.
- Check the event schedule for specific performance times and locations of choirs and musicians throughout downtown.
- Consider donating unwrapped new toys to the Beach Cities Toy Drive booth located in the Police/Fire station lobby.
Special Events & Promotions
- Pier lighting ceremony
- Extended aquarium hours
- Free hot cocoa
- Downtown merchant open houses
- Beach Cities Toy Drive
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the pier lighting ceremony begin?
The pier lighting ceremony is scheduled to take place at 7:00 PM.
Are there any special activities for children?
Yes, there will be face painters, a balloon twister, and Santa's Sleigh for family pictures at the Metlox Fountain Plaza.
What are the aquarium's hours during the event?
The Roundhouse Aquarium will be open with extended hours from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM on November 18, 2026.
Where can I find information about street closures?
A PDF map detailing the street closures for the event can be downloaded from the City of Manhattan Beach website.
Is there a cost to attend the Holiday Open House?
Admission to the Roundhouse Aquarium is free, though donations are suggested. The event itself is free to attend.
More Christmas Events Near Manhattan Beach
More Christmas Events near Manhattan Beach
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.