By Lookout Staff

December 8, 2022 -- The Miramar Hotel is inviting residents and guests to spread the holiday cheer on Sunday at the annual "Meet Me Under The Fig Tree" holiday celebration.

The gathering will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. under the Miramar’s iconic 140-year-old Moreton Bay Fig Tree, which will be adorned with festive holiday lights.

The celebration -- which has become a Santa Monica holiday tradition -- includes complimentary festive drinks, small bites and holiday activities.

KTLA Hosts, Wendy Burch and Eric Spillman, will MC the event, which features a special performance by Grammy award-winning jazz artist Bill Cunliffe.

Guests can "dance to live music, decorate festive cookies, enjoy a kid-friendly bounce house, arts & crafts, and experience a Fire Truck showcase," event organizers said.

Santa will be back this year after a two-year hiatus during to the coronavirus emergency and will be posing for photos once again in the Miramar’s winter wonderland

Held in partnership with local non-profit Santa MoniCARES, the Westside Food Bank, and Chrysalis, the annual event is the cornerstone of the hotel's month-long charitable food and clothing drive.

Last year, the drive generated more than 3,750 pounds of non-perishable food items and hundreds of pieces of clothing for those in need.

Guests are encouraged to bring canned food, new or gently worn clothing, or monetary gifts for donations, organizers said.