A 75-year Palisades tradition HO!HO!HO! continues on Saturday, December 7, when Santa Claus Comes to town. This free community event, which began in 1949, will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. in Simon Meadow, at the corner of Sunset Boulevard and Temescal Canyon Road.
Enter into the magic of the YMCA Christmas Tree lot and enjoy entertainment, food and meeting Santa Claus.
After parking their reindeer on Fire Station 69’s roof, the Claus family will be transported to Simon Meadow atop 69’s hook and ladder truck. Once seated in the meadow, they welcome all kids to take a photo (there is no charge), so be sure to bring your phone or camera.
If you have little ones, who might be starstruck at seeing the “big man,” take them over to the craft table, first. Friend of the Library will sponsor making Christmas or Hannukah ornaments, which can be taken home. Or try craft art that will be displayed at a holiday community board, which the Friends will display at a December book sale.
There will also be face painting.
After seeing Santa, stay for the entertainment that features dancers from Fancy Feet Dance Studio and the Palisades Studio – Performing Arts and Fitness Dance Studio. Young artists will take to the stage with jazz, ballet, hip hop and tap.
The music will be phenomenal as singers from the Bluecat Music Voice studio and Palisades Charter High School perform.
Gymnasts from New Vibe Gymnastics will amaze guests. And always a favorite, students from Gerry Blanck Martial Arts will demonstrate their prowess.
While watching the performances, enjoy free hot chocolate, courtesy of the Garden Café. There will also be cookies and popcorn.
This community event is aided by the L.A.F.D. Station 69, Friends of the Palisades Library, Pacific Palisades Historical Society, Palisades High Ambassadors, Palisades-Malibu YMCA and Resilient Palisades.
Head HO!HO!HO! Elf Lou Kamer said, “This year, we need a little financial help! In the past, sales of raffle tickets for a firetruck ride with Santa helped fund the event. Unfortunately, that raffle and the income it produced are no longer available. While the local YMCA generously provides the space and sponsorship, we need additional donations to cover costs for craft supplies, face painting, food and decorations. Every contribution makes a difference! You can make a tax deductible donation directly to the Palisades-Malibu YMCA. Please indicate that it’s for HO!HO!HO! Thank you in advance!