Holiday Open HOuse 2021
It's the most wonderful time of the year!
Wednesday, November 17, 2021
Downtown Manhattan Beach celebrates the beginning of the Holiday Shopping Season with a night full of family-friendly holiday festivities. It’s our way of kicking off the holidays and welcoming you into our house!
5:00 pm
Metlox Plaza Entertainment
Santa Danny
Balloon Artist
Nicole Face Paints
Jack Tracy Ukelele
Picture with Santa provided by Ralf's Photography
Treats for purchase by Original Kettle Corn Company
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
ALl streets in Downtown Manhattan Beach
Holiday Open House, brought to you by the 300+ Business Owners in Downtown Manhattan Beach
LIVE ReindeeR
Located in front of {pages} a bookstore
Live Music + Carolers
A Holiday Affair, Carolers
Dietz Bros. Band - located at 10th + Manhattan Ave.
Harmony Carolers (Dickens style)
Hyperion Outfall Serenaders - located in front of Chase Bank
Matt Jazz, Saxophone - located at 12th + Manhattan Ave.
Michael Holmes, Guitar - located in Metlox Plaza
7:00pm
Pier Lighting
Living Christmas Trees
Musical entertainment begins at 6:00pm, the Mayor flips the switch promptly at 7:00pm
MChS ChoiR + Band
Window Decorating Contest
Every year, the business owners pull out all the stops to WOW the community and add to the holiday magic! Take a look at past windows!
Voting Information will be posted on November 18th.
Let's Get Social
@downtownmanhattanbeach | #downtownmanhattanbeach | #holidayopenhouse
#pierlighting | #holidaysinmanhattanbeach
Take a peek at Holiday Open House (Past)
You'll Go Down in History
The history of Holiday Open House in Manhattan Beach started with a couple of business owners (Wright’s, LuLu’s, Manhattan Coolers to name a few) deciding to throw a holiday party in their stores and restaurants and agreeing to send their guests to each other’s business. Fast forward 24 years and now 10,000+ people attend this annual holiday tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where are the Reindeer?
The reindeer come from an animal rescue in Tehachapi. They are well taken care of all year and make just a few special appearances throughout the holiday season. The rescue is compensated for their time and these funds help many lost, abandoned, and wounded animals throughout the year.
2. Where is Lost + Found
If you lose a child or any other valuable, please advise the nearest security officer or go straight to the MBPD Command Post, located in the upper pier parking lot, just west of The Strand House Restaurant.
3. I heard the trees on the pier are REAL
YES! Each year “Scotty Claus”, Nutmeg and the elves deliver over 100 fresh “living” trees. They are only on the pier for ONE week, November 18-25. They smell amazing and make for an amazing photo opportunity.
4. Metlox Decorations Info
Local mother-daughter artist duo, Sue and B Kneisley, have created a peaceful holiday installation in the trees of Metlox Plaza. Please stop by to view the marbleized balls representing planet earth, interspersed with white doves holding olive branches in their beaks. There is also a participation aspect of the installation where you can write your wish for the world and tie it to the trees.
5. Hyperion Outfall Serenaders Band History
Nicknamed the Official Band of Manhattan Beach.
Leader and 58 year Manhattan Beach resident Bob White and his friends can be seen in all the best spots, from the Hometown Fair, to Holiday Open House, to the annual Fireworks Show to an impromptu at Ercoles or the corner outside. Bob and his buddies provide Dixieland band-style of music and fun.
6. What happened to the Holiday hunt?
Holiday Open House has become so popular that the Holiday Hunt was getting lost in the crowd. Every store has treats and special offers. Enjoy!
7. Where Can I find Santa?
Santa, the sleigh and family entertainment is located on the back side of Metlox Plaza. Santa arrives at 5pm. The line usually starts forming at 4:30pm. Arrive early and expect to wait in line. Food & drink are offered in the area.
8. where are the public restrooms?
Public restrooms are located at Metlox Plaza, inside the Police Station, and at the Manhattan Beach Pier.
9. Where is the best place to park?
As we prepare for the entertainment and to keep guests safe, streets in Downtown start closing at 2:00pm. Parking is full by 5pm! We suggest you walk or utilize ride-share options.
10. Where are the ride-share drop-off zones
Ride-share drop off zones are located on Valley Drive in front of VONS, 15th street/Highland, 15th street/Valley, 8th/Manhattan Ave. ARRIVE EARLY!