With the holidays just around the corner, it’s time to get into the spirit the best way we know how: Island-style! Catalina Island offers many different ways to celebrate during the season. Events such as the Tree Lighting, Shop Catalina, a Holiday Concert, and New Year’s celebrations that will bring the whole family holiday joy. Enjoy these events in sunny California right on the beaches of Catalina Island!
Shop Catalina
Avoid the craziness of the malls this season with unique gifts you can only find on Catalina. Join locals for a day of fun at the 29th Annual “Shop Catalina” Holiday Kick Off that is held on December 3 from 12pm to 8pm. This Catalina tradition is an event that supports the local small businesses on the Island while bringing in the holiday spirit with different festivities held throughout the day. A full schedule of events can be found on the Shop Catalina website.
Community Tree Lighting
Once you’ve checked off everyone on your shopping list at the Shop Catalina event, it’s time to light up the night with the Community Tree Lighting. Santa Claus will begin the tree lighting ceremony by arriving in on a vintage City of Avalon Fire Truck. The lighting of the Christmas tree will begin at 5pm followed by a chance to get pictures with Santa from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, which will be located on the Wrigley Stage.
Holiday Concert
Leading up to the holidays, the Catalina Museum for Art & History presents a Holiday Concert featuring a performance by the Loyola Marymount University Choir on December 17, 2022. This concert is free of charge for all museum members, island residents, and weekend visitors. Before an amazing performance by the LMU Choir, attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the museum’s galleries and gift shops in case you need a last-minute gift. For more information regarding the Holiday Concert and to register for the event, please visit the Catalina Museum for Art & History website!
New Year’s 2023
To ring in the New Year, the Catalina Casino will host the 49th Annual New Year’s Eve Gala on December 31, 2022. Come dressed to impress for this black-tie optional event that is held in the famous Casino Ballroom! Dance the night away with a live band and a champagne split to toast while the balloon drops at midnight. The glorious night also includes a gourmet dinner with dessert and party favors. For reservations and further information, visit the Annual New Year’s Eve Gala website!
Polar Bear Swim & Plunge
Looking to make a splash at the start of 2023? Join the City of Avalon and the Catalina Swim Club at the Polar Bear Swim & Plunge on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2023 at 7:30am or 11am. The Polar Bear Swim is approximately 1 mile starting at the Casino Dive Park for swimmers looking for a challenge! If you just want to join in on the fun, then the Polar Bear Plunge will be located at the Middle beach at 11am.
Photo Credit: Love Catalina
