Manhattan Beach Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Manhattan Beach and nearby
The Hollywood Christmas Parade winds through the city, a grand spectacle that sets the tone for the holiday season across the South Bay. Beyond parades, the area around Manhattan Beach offers a rich tapestry of seasonal celebrations, from bustling holiday markets brimming with unique gifts to enchanting theatrical performances and dazzling light displays that transform neighborhoods.
Visitors can explore the expansive Holiday Festival in Torrance or immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Holidays Made Here in Burbank. For a more local touch, the Manhattan Village Holidays provides a charming experience right in Manhattan Beach, while the Manhattan Beach Santa Float brings cheer directly to residents.
Browse Christmas Near Manhattan Beach by Category
Christmas Shows
Christmas carols performed by a string quartet by candlelight.
Christmas Parties
West Coast's largest free New Year's Eve celebration.
Christmas Markets
Support for Torrance Memorial Medical Center
Christmas Lights
Enchanted night walk with celestial light installations
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Annual family gingerbread house decorating and holiday craft workshops.
Editor's Picks
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Manhattan Village Holiday Happenings
Upscale shopping and dining destination
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Manhattan Beach Santa Sleigh
Santa's Sleigh traveling through local neighborhoods
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Outdoor Movie Night ft. Elf
Outdoor screening of the holiday movie 'Elf'.
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Holiday Crafts Night and Picture with Santa
Annual family gingerbread house decorating and holiday craft workshops.
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Giant Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Giant Menorah Lighting Ceremony
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Holiday Fireworks in Downtown Manhattan Beach
Holiday fireworks over the ocean
Manhattan Beach Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Bigger holiday scenes worth the drive
Manhattan Beach Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Manhattan Beach?
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.
What holiday traditions are unique to Manhattan Beach?
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.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Manhattan Beach?
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.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Manhattan Beach?
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.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Manhattan Beach?
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.
What are good picks for families with kids in Manhattan Beach?
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.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
Magic of Lights Ottawa
📍 Nepean , ON , Canada
Two-kilometer drive-through light display with interactive Holiday Village.
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