Annual HoHoHo! Returns to Simon Meadow

By LILY TINOCO | Assistant Editor

A beloved community tradition for over 70 years, this year’s holiday HoHoHo! will return to Simon Meadow on Saturday, December 9, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Santa Claus and his team have visited Pacific Palisades each holiday season during HoHoHo! since December 1949.

Organized by the YMCA FUN Committee, this year’s event will kick off with Santa riding down the streets of town aboard Los Angeles Fire Department Station 69’s fire truck—culminating at the YMCA Simon Meadow Christmas Tree Lot—followed by a lineup of entertainment and performances, activities, local food offerings, and more.

“Generously donated by neighbors for neighbors, all the entertainment, food and services contribute to the communal spirit of the event,” according to a press release.

This year’s lineup includes Sven and the Reingoats, Fancy Feet, hot chocolate and toppings from Palisades Garden Cafe, Motley Ukes, Palisades Studio, Theatre Palisades Youth, New Vibe Gymnastics, a demonstration by Gerry Blanck Martial Arts, special guests, surprises, and more.

“After decades, [HoHoHo!] remains one of the most heartwarming Palisades traditions—a free holiday family festival built for the community by the community,” Palisadian Lou Kamer said to the Palisadian-Post. “It exists to watch kids jump up and down when Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on the Station 69 fire truck, or when proud parents watch their kids dance and sing on an outdoor stage amidst a Christmas tree forest.”

One Palisadian family will also have the opportunity to ride atop LAFD Station 69’s fire truck with Santa Claus and local firefighters during this year’s event. Event organizers invited the community to enter the raffle for a chance to win.

Raffle tickets, which are $40, can be purchased in-person at Palisades Branch Library or at the YMCA Christmas Tree Lot at Simon Meadow by Thursday, December 7. All proceeds will directly benefit the YMCA Food Distribution Program.

“Join us in making memories and spreading joy as Santa and Mrs. Claus bring their magical touch to Pacific Palisades once again on December 9,” the press release concluded.