Photo by Steve Galluzzo
By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief
The Lowe Family YMCA will open its annual tree lot at Simon Meadow—with community events planned to take place at the lot this December.
“The holiday season is almost here and we’re excited to share that the Lowe Family YMCA Christmas Tree Lot will be taking place,” Executive Director Jim Kirtley said.
It serves as one of two fundraisers hosted by Lowe Family YMCA (previously Palisades-Malibu YMCA) during the year, following the Halloween-time pumpkin patch.
Kirtley said there are four types of trees this year: Noble, Nordmann and Fraser firs, as well as vintage Nobles.
Kirtley said they hope to have the lot open by Friday, November 28. Updates will be posted online.
The lot will remain open through Friday, December 19. This year’s lot hours are Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m.
Events set to take place this year at the lot include the Santa Monica College Holiday Glass Sale Fundraiser and the 2025 Pacific Palisades Holiday Ho!Ho!Ho!
Santa Monica College Art Department will host a Holiday Glass Sale Fundraiser on Sunday, December 7, from 12 to 5 p.m. at the tree lot. The sale will include “handcrafted vases, jewelry, platters and other artworks created by SMC glass artists.”
“Each piece is a unique work of art that can add seasonal home and office decor, as well as take care of holiday, anniversary, birthday and other gift needs,” read a description.
Proceeds from the sale will benefit Lowe Family YMCA, SMC Art Department and local artists.
The next weekend—with more than seven decades of history in the community—the annual Ho!Ho!Ho! will take place on Saturday, December 13, from 1 to 4 p.m.
“With the theme Return to Joy, we warmly welcome every family, neighbor, friend and community member—of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs—to share in an afternoon created to lift the spirit, offer comfort and celebrate joy,” read a statement. “Expect moments of wonder, connection and true holiday magic.”
Organizers are planning an “extra-special family celebration for the community,” including food, entertainment and “activities for everyone.” The event will feature visits from Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and the elves.
There will be performances by Fancy Feet Dance Studio, Gerry Blanck’s Martial Arts Center and local singers. Palisades Garden Cafe and Cinque Terre West will also be present.
New this year, area schools, organizations and churches are invited to host a table, activity or interactive experience to help “make this a truly community-powered celebration.”
“Also debuting is the heart-centered Gratitude Wish Project, offering a chance to reflect, share blessings and set intentions for the season ahead,” the statement continued. More details were expected to be available soon.
Simon Meadow is located at 15551 Sunset Boulevard.
For additional information and updates, visit instagram.com/palimaliymca.
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