Palisades Y Christmas Tree Lot Opens — Here's The Schedule, Events And Offerings

PACIFIC PALISADES, CA — As the holiday season kicks off, a long-running community tradition is set to return Dec. 1: The Palisades-Malibu YMCA's Christmas Tree Lot.

The lot, located at the Y's Simon Meadow, has over 1,200 trees to choose from — from tabletop trees to 14-foot behemoths. Delivery is available, as are garlands, wreaths and more, and there's a full slate of activities planned for the month.

"We've been doing this since the 80s," YMCA Executive Director Jim Kirtley told Patch. "The YMCA is a nonprofit organization ... the support that the community gives through buying their Christmas trees here goes right back into the community."

Christmas tree sales are a major fundraiser for the Y, supporting programs including its weekly food distribution effort, which provides over 100 bags of food to those in need who live or work in the Palisades, Kirtley said.

Here's a lineup of some of the lot's events:

• A tree lighting ceremony will be held Friday, the lot's opening day, at 5:30 p.m.
• On Dec. 9 from 1 to 4 p.m., the lot will host its HoHoHo event featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus along with performances and family activities.
• In partnership with Santa Monica College's Art Department, glass ornaments will be on sale Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• The lot's scenic location coupled with props throughout the property make it a popular spot for family photos annually.

The YMCA's Christmas tree lot is located at 15551 Sunset Blvd. and is open from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends.