By Lookout Staff
November 6, 2025 -- Those who long for gliding on ice outdoors will have their holiday wish granted when Downtown Santa Monica kick's off its annual ice skating rink near the Ocean on Friday.
It'll be the closest to a winter experience as temperatures hit the 70s for the opening weekend of ICE at Santa Monica, which by its 17th year has become a Southern California holiday tradition.
Presented this year by Disney+ and Hulu, the annual event produced by Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM, Inc.) takes place from November 7 through January 19, 2026 at 1324 5th Street, just blocks from the beach.
During Friday's Grand Opening Celebration from 6 to 10 p.m., guests can enjoy free ice skating (available on a first-come, first-served basis), a live DJ, on-ice skating performances, giveaways and a magical “snow” surprise, Downtown officials said.
ICE at Santa Monica will host themed events throughout the holidays, including a New Year’s Eve East Coast Countdown on Tuesday, December 31 from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m.
Every Tuesday features rotating themed programming inspired by Disney+ and Hulu favorites, from a Home Alone Night to a Die Hard Night, with more exciting themes to be announced, event organizers said.
Admission to the Ice at Santa Monica skating rink is $22 for a 60-minute session, including skate rental. The rink will be open daily through January 19, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Throughout the season, visitors can also indulge in rink-side fire pits, rent private party tents and participate in themed events.
In addition to ICE at Santa Monica, DTSM will offer a holiday tree lighting, menorah celebration and family-friendly New Year’s festivities.
The official City of Santa Monica Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place Thursday, November 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. on the 1300 Block of the Third Street Promenade.
The event features Santa’s arrival, live performances by local choirs and dance groups and a snowfall finale. Santa will also offer free photos following the ceremony.
Holiday Thursdays on Third Street Promenade -- which takes place December 4, 11 and 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. -- features hot cocoa, local shopping, holiday crafts, live music and “snow” on the 1300 Block of the Promenade.
During Hanukkah in Santa Monica, from December 25 to January 2 on the Promenade, there will be nightly menorah lightings during the Festival of Lights, each evening hosted by a different community group with festive programming beginning at sundown.
For more information on Ice at Santa Monica, visit iceatsantamonica.com or call 310-807-4822. For details on all holiday happenings in Downtown Santa Monica, visit downtownsm.com/calendar