November & December 2026 in the South Bay: 11 Local Events Worth Adding to Your Calendar
October 26, 2026
October 26, 2026
There's something special about the South Bay as the year winds down. Coastal sunsets arrive a little earlier, downtown streets begin to glow with holiday lights, and familiar community traditions return to our favorite neighborhoods.
Whether you're planning a family outing, a weekend with friends, or simply looking for something new to experience close to home, November and December offer plenty of reasons to explore.
From Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach to Torrance, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and San Pedro, we've rounded up 11 local events worth adding to your calendar.
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 | 6–9 PM
Location: Downtown Manhattan Beach & Manhattan Beach Pier
Few events capture the South Bay holiday season quite like the annual Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting.
The iconic pier transforms into a coastal holiday landmark, while downtown Manhattan Beach comes alive with festive decorations, holiday music, shopping, and dining.
The evening offers an opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying one of the community's most recognizable seasonal traditions.
Don't miss: The pier lighting at 7 PM.
Friday, November 20 – Sunday, November 22, 2026
Location: Downtown Hermosa Beach & Pier Plaza
Hermosa Beach brings its own coastal personality to the holidays with a three-day celebration featuring a Ferris wheel, local shopping, live entertainment, family activities, and a community tree lighting.
Explore the local vendors, enjoy the festive atmosphere along Pier Avenue, and make time for the Ferris wheel overlooking the beach.
Don't miss: The community tree lighting and Santa's arrival on Sunday, November 22, around 6 PM.
Sunday, December 13, 2026 | 3–8 PM
Location: Manhattan Beach Pier
One of the South Bay's most anticipated holiday traditions returns with an evening of entertainment and fireworks over the Pacific Ocean.
The 38th Annual Skechers Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks brings together families, friends, and neighbors for live music, seasonal activities, and a spectacular nighttime display.
With the illuminated pier and ocean as the backdrop, it's one of the most memorable holiday experiences along the coast.
Don't miss: Fireworks at 7 PM.
Saturday, November 28, 2026 | 4:30–7 PM
Location: Terranea Resort, Rancho Palos Verdes
Celebrate the start of the holiday season at one of the Palos Verdes Peninsula's most beautiful oceanfront destinations.
Terranea's annual tree lighting features a towering 30-foot Christmas tree, holiday performances, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, seasonal refreshments, and family-friendly activities.
It's a festive way to experience the Peninsula during the holidays, with the resort's coastal setting adding something special to the evening.
Good to know: Advance registration is required, and tickets are available for purchase.
Saturday, November 21, 2026 | 4–8 PM
Location: Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance
Santa isn't arriving by sleigh this year. He's arriving by helicopter.
The Santa Takes Flight celebration kicks off the Torrance Santa Float season with a memorable helicopter arrival, a European-inspired holiday market, food trucks, live entertainment, local school choirs, and activities for children.
It's a fun twist on a traditional holiday celebration and a particularly memorable experience for families.
Good to know: Admission is free, with event registration available online. Guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the holiday toy drive.
Event details and registration
November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027
Location: South Coast Botanic Garden, Palos Verdes Peninsula
Step into an illuminated outdoor adventure inspired by the world of Peter Pan.
South Coast Botanic Garden becomes a nighttime experience filled with glowing installations, whimsical environments, and colorful scenes inspired by Neverland.
The experience includes settings inspired by London rooftops, Mermaid Lagoon, Skull Rock, and Captain Hook's pirate ship.
For families looking for something different from traditional holiday lights, this is an imaginative way to spend an evening on the Peninsula.
Good to know: This is a ticketed nighttime attraction. Check available dates and entry times before visiting.
Thursday, November 5, 2026 | Evening
Location: Downtown San Pedro Arts District
San Pedro's First Thursday ArtWalk is one of the area's longstanding creative traditions.
Downtown galleries, studios, shops, and restaurants welcome visitors for an evening celebrating local artists, culture, and community.
Explore original artwork, discover neighborhood businesses, enjoy live entertainment, and experience the energy of San Pedro's growing arts scene.
It's a reminder that some of the South Bay's best experiences aren't necessarily seasonal. They're part of what makes our communities interesting year-round.
Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 5–9 PM
Location: McNerney's Mortuary, 570 W. 5th Street, San Pedro
Celebrate the meaning of Día de los Muertos with a community gathering centered on remembrance, family, and tradition.
The evening includes a candlelight vigil honoring loved ones, an outdoor screening of Disney Pixar's Coco, and an opportunity for neighbors to gather and celebrate cherished memories.
Don't miss: The candlelight vigil from 6:30–7:30 PM, followed by Coco from 7:30–9 PM.
Sunday, November 1 & Saturday, November 21, 2026
Location: Wilson Park, 2200 Crenshaw Boulevard, Torrance
One of Torrance's charming family activities is tucked inside Wilson Park, where the Southern California Live Steamers operate miniature trains along a scenic outdoor track.
The rides offer a fun outing for young children, train enthusiasts, and families looking for an easy weekend activity.
Whether it's your first visit or a favorite local tradition, it's a unique way to spend an afternoon in Torrance.
Good to know: Ride dates follow the club's regular operating calendar and may change. Check the operator's schedule before visiting.
November 27–29, 2026 | Starting at 8 AM
Location: Manhattan Heights Park, 1600 Manhattan Beach Boulevard
Looking for something active after Thanksgiving?
The annual Manhattan Beach Pickleball Turkey Tournament brings players together for a weekend of friendly competition and community fun.
With divisions scheduled across three days, the tournament is a great opportunity to enjoy one of the South Bay's favorite recreational sports.
Whether you're participating or cheering from the sidelines, it's a fun way to spend the holiday weekend.
Good to know: Registration requirements, divisions, and fees are available through the City of Manhattan Beach.
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | 9–11 AM
Location: Ken Dyda Civic Center, Rancho Palos Verdes
The City of Rancho Palos Verdes invites the community to come together in recognition of the men and women who have served our country.
The annual Veterans Day Breakfast and Ceremony includes a community breakfast, music, and remarks honoring local veterans and their service.
It's a meaningful opportunity to recognize the people who have contributed so much to our community and country.
Good to know: Breakfast is complimentary for Palos Verdes Peninsula veterans. Admission for other attendees is $10, payable in cash. Advance RSVP is required by October 30.
One of the things we love most about living in the South Bay is the variety of experiences available right in our own neighborhoods.
Within a short drive, you can spend an evening exploring art galleries in San Pedro, watch the Manhattan Beach Pier light up for the holidays, take the family to a festive celebration in Hermosa Beach, or enjoy seasonal traditions overlooking the Pacific in Palos Verdes.
These are the experiences that turn neighborhoods into communities and make the South Bay such a special place to call home.
Save this guide, share it with a friend, and make the most of the season ahead.
For more local recommendations, neighborhood guides, South Bay real estate insights, and community happenings, explore the Accardo Real Estate Associates blog.
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Event details are subject to change. Check with event organizers for the latest schedules, registration requirements, and availability.
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