HO!HO!HO! Celebrates Joy December 13

Cookie decorating and other crafts will be available at HO!HO!HO!
Photo: Rosalie Huntington

Neither the “Grinchy” Chamber, nor a Covid epidemic, nor the Palisades Fire could stop the Pacific Palisades annual HO!HO!HO! from coming. And just as regular as Christmas, the 76^th event will happen this Saturday, December 13 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Lowe Family YMCA at Simon Meadow.

This year’s theme “Return to Joy” reflects what the community has strived for since the January 7 fire destroyed so much. Organized by the community for the community and powered entirely by “Elves” (volunteers) and supported by the YMCA the afternoon promises to be spectacular celebration, but most importantly FUN.

This year even snow will be in the meadow because of a “snow miracle.” Barely a week before the event the YMCA approved snow for the meadow. Everyone said it would be impossible to book a snow company in less than two weeks’ time. But the Elves refused to give up and called company after company.

Then a miracle happened, The Acton Ice Company rearranged their schedule, just to make snow happen in the Palisades, to make this year’s HO!HO!HO! extra special. But who would pay for the snow? Another small miracle, the Pacific Palisades Community Council stepped up immediately and covered half the costs. ” Elf” Chase Holiday, told CTN “It has truly been a community-wide effort to bring joy back to the Palisades.”

The event is free, and all are welcomed. Come meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. The entertainment this year will be a major highlight.  Serving as emcee is Jimmy Dunne, a past Citizen of the Year. He will introduce Palisades co-honorary mayors Ted McGinley and Gigi Rice. Performers will include Fancy Feet dancers, Palisades Dance Studio, Theatre Palisades Teens, an Amazing Music Holiday Band and a special demonstration by Gerry Blanck’s Martial Arts.

There will be face painting, craft tables for kids and adults, free hot chocolate (courtesy of Saint Matthew’s), cookies, popcorn, cotton candy and surprises.

More than 25 local Palisades organizations will be available with information. and this year the Elves are receiving help from Troop 223.

And if you haven’t purchased a Christmas Tree yet, walk through the rows of lovely trees and make a selection.

The event will be at the Lowe Family YMCA Christmas Tree lot at Simon Meadow, 15551 Sunset Boulevard at the corner of Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset.

Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus greet children at the Ho!Ho!Ho celebration in Simon Meadow.