The City of the Christmas Story’: Nativity Scenes Unveiled on Main Street

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — The cherished Santa Monica Nativity Scenes officially reopened at their new location on Sunday, December 8, 2024, bringing a sense of holiday nostalgia to the community. The event, hosted at 2311 Main Street, featured live music, refreshments, and a warm celebration of the 70-year-old tradition that has become synonymous with the city’s holiday season. Five of the eleven booths were on display, showcasing the enduring craftsmanship and community effort behind the iconic scenes. This year’s event highlighted the history of the Nativity Scenes, which date back to 1953, when Herb Spurgeon, a local businessman and civic leader, collaborated with Santa Monica churches to create the original displays. The booths, initially situated at Palisades Park, became a symbol of Santa Monica’s identity as “The City of the Christmas Story.” A variety of community leaders and churches, including St. Monica, Vintage Church, and the First United Methodist Church, have supported the tradition over the decades. The displays, originally featuring detailed dioramas and contributions such as Santa Monica College’s “Singing Cross,” reflect the spirit of unity and faith among residents. The displays were relocated to Main Street following logistical challenges and rising costs in recent years. Organizers have emphasized the importance of continued community support to refurbish and preserve the booths. Donations can be made at santamonicanativityscenes.org to ensure the longevity of this all-volunteer effort. The Nativity Scene remains open to visitors throughout the holiday season, continuing to spread joy and the story of Christmas to locals and tourists alike. Visit the Santa Monica Nativity Scenes to learn more at: santamonicanativityscenes.org.

Santa Monica Pier Honors Día de los Muertos with Indigenous Blessing and Procession

Santa Monica, CA — November 2, 2024 — The Santa Monica Pier resonated with cultural reverence on Saturday as members of the indigenous community came together to offer a profound blessing, leading a Día de los Muertos procession in a celebration of life and memory. The event, part of a two-day series of activities, honored the holiday's deep significance with family-friendly events and art installations paying tribute to loved ones and memories cherished by the Santa Monica community. Clad in vibrant traditional dress, the Danza Azteca Kalpoli Atlachinoli dancers mesmerized onlookers as they gracefully led the procession from the pier’s west end to the historic Merry Go-Round building. Their ceremonial movements and authentic attire brought the spirit of Día de los Muertos to life, captivating attendees with a display of cultural heritage and respect. The procession concluded at the Merry Go-Round building, where visitors experienced an art installation adorned with marigolds, papel picado, and community-created altars, each honoring the essence of Día de los Muertos. This immersive space invited attendees to celebrate and remember loved ones, while installations by local artists highlighted personal connections to Santa Monica’s stories and traditions. With free performances and activities, the Santa Monica Pier’s Día de los Muertos celebration fostered a sense of unity, offering an opportunity for families, residents, and visitors to come together in honoring and preserving the beauty of cultural heritage.

Santa Monica Pier Embraces Día de los Muertos with Art, Dance, and Community Altar

Santa Monica, CA — November 1, 2024 The Santa Monica Pier rang in Día de los Muertos on Friday, marking the first of two days dedicated to honoring the traditional Mexican holiday. The celebration, which runs through Saturday, offers a family-friendly experience with a series of vibrant activities held inside the iconic Merry Go-Round building.

Beginning at 5:00 p.m., the event welcomed visitors with free face painting, communal altars, and a Pan de Muerto decorating class presented by Northgate Market, where children took home masks and goodie bags. The evening’s entertainment included spirited performances by Ballet Folklórico dancers, showcasing the heritage of the holiday. The crowd gathered to witness Jade Morales and Ballet Folklórico de Santa Monica perform traditional dances that honored the community’s Mexican roots. The building’s decor transformed the 100-year-old carousel into a colorful homage to Día de los Muertos, draped in marigold flowers and papel picado banners. Art installations by local artists Sylvia Sanchez and Yolanda Medina added depth to the tribute, with a large communal altar inviting attendees to contribute personal photographs of loved ones, fostering a sense of community remembrance. Supported by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and in collaboration with Northgate Market, Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA, and Mariasol, the Santa Monica Pier’s Día de los Muertos celebration provided a communal space for reflection and festivity. Soda Jerks, a local favorite, offered cups of hot chocolate, adding a warm touch to the chilly evening. The festivities will continue on Saturday, November 2, with extended hours from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., allowing more visitors the opportunity to engage with this cherished cultural tradition.

Blessing of the Animals: Santa Monica Community Celebrates Faith and Fur

On Saturday, October 5, 2024, the First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica held its 17th annual "Blessing of the Animals" service, a cherished tradition that celebrates the bond between pets and their human companions. The event, presided over by Senior Pastor Rev. Greg Batson and Pastoral Associate Keri Olsen Paget, drew a heartwarming turnout of local residents and their beloved pets. Rev. Batson highlighted the importance of the event, stating, "We do so because all of these creatures are part of God's creation and bring us great joy. We pray for their health and their happiness, and give thanks for their gift." Pets of all shapes and sizes—from dogs and cats to rabbits and even a turtle—received blessings and special prayers for their well-being. The service, a beloved annual gathering for both the congregation and the wider community, offers an opportunity to celebrate the deep connection between animals and people while reaffirming a commitment to caring for all of God's creatures. This year's ceremony included an art exhibit showcasing animal-themed artwork created by congregation members, Sunday School, and Preschool children, adding a creative element to the day. In a further show of compassion, attendees were encouraged to bring donations of pet food for local shelters, extending the event's positive impact beyond the church walls. Additionally, a Memorial Board provided an opportunity for attendees to honor pets that have passed, with photos shared both physically and digitally. Rev. Batson and Pastoral Associate Paget, welcomed each pet with open arms, offering words of comfort to owners and affection to their animal companions. The ceremony was a powerful reminder of the healing power of love and community, underscoring the enduring bond between humans and their pets. As the service came to a close, participants left with hearts full of joy, a renewed sense of connection to their pets, and a shared commitment to protect all living creatures. The "Blessing of the Animals" remains a touching tradition that unites the community and highlights the love and gratitude shared between people and their pets. Rev. Batson concluded with words of gratitude: "We’re glad to be part of this community effort, and we’re glad to have everyone here. God bless." The First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica looks forward to continuing this heartwarming tradition for years to come, creating a space where faith, love, and the unbreakable bond with animals come together in unity and joy.

Prayers for Peace and Redemption Echo at Santa Monica Pier as Rabbi Levitansky Leads Rosh Hashanah Service

In a heartfelt gathering at the Santa Monica Pier on September 3, 2024, more than a dozen members of Chabad in Simcha Monica came together to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Rabbi Levitansky led the ceremony, beginning with a powerful shofar blast, marking the start of the Ten Days of Repentance between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. The shofar, a ram's horn, is a symbolic call to reflection, prayer, and repentance, with the sound echoing across the ocean, uniting the community in faith and tradition.

"This year, we've experienced events that none of us could have imagined," Rabbi Levitansky said, addressing the congregation. "Our minds and hearts are with our brothers and sisters in Israel. The energy created by our unity here affects the world at large, especially the land of Israel and its people."

The group also offered prayers for the safe return of hostages and for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces. "May God have mercy on them and bring them from distress to comfort, from darkness to light, from slavery to redemption," Rabbi Levitansky recited, with the crowd responding in unison, "Amen."

The ceremony continued with the Tashlich service, where participants cast pieces of bread into the ocean, symbolically casting away their sins. "This ancient custom comes from a verse in the prophets," Rabbi Levitansky explained, "which says, 'I will cast away in the depths of the sea all of their sins.' This symbolic act reminds us that we are starting the new year fresh, casting away our misdeeds."

During the Tashlich, Rabbi Levitansky reflected on the significance of gathering near water, particularly where fish swim. "Fish never close their eyes, and we pray that God's eyes never close on us. Fish multiply in great numbers, as we hope to see blessings multiply in our lives, and they cannot be seen, which protects them from the evil eye—just as we ask to be protected."

As the shofar’s notes faded and the bread disappeared into the waves, the community shared a sense of renewal and hope. The ceremony closed with the singing of prayers for peace. Rabbi Levitansky also offered a wish for the new year, "May this year bring the wonders of the Messianic Redemption, and may we all return to the land of Israel and live in peace together."

The Rosh Hashanah ceremony at the Santa Monica Pier was a deeply meaningful event, creating a space for reflection, unity, and hope, as the Jewish community welcomed the new year of 5785.

 

Vibrant Celebrations at Venice Beach: The 48th Annual Festival of the Chariots

 

The vibrant spirit of Indian culture takes center stage at Venice Beach during the 48th Annual Festival of the Chariots on August 4, 2024. The event kicks off with a parade where Hare Krishna devotees hand-pull three fully decorated, 40-foot tall “chariots” along Main Street in Santa Monica. Hosted by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), the festival brings together thousands of eager attendees who are treated to a mesmerizing display of free entertainment, cultural exhibits, and captivating booths. The festival serves as a vivacious celebration of Lord Jagannatha, revered as the cosmic Lord of the Universe, and pays homage to its roots tracing back an astonishing five thousand years to the holy city of Jagannatha Puri, India. The festival's allure is magnificently embodied by the resplendent parade, a cherished tradition that now unfolds in countries around the globe. Participants unite in jubilation as they chant the revered 16-word Vaishnava Mahā-mantra, "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare / Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare," infusing the atmosphere with a deep sense of spirituality and unity. A highlight of the festival is the site at Venice Beach, which features a stage with cultural performances and kirtan, a free feast, Govinda's Gift Shop, plenty of prasadam (sanctified food) offerings, and activities for children. Attendees can enjoy captivating performances of traditional Indian dance and music, participate in interactive workshops, and explore a bustling marketplace offering a variety of arts, crafts, and literature. Numerous food stalls serve delicious vegetarian cuisine, providing a feast for the senses. The Festival of the Chariots not only pays tribute to ancient traditions but also fosters a sense of community and cultural exchange. Attendees revel in a sumptuous free feast, indulging in a rich array of delectable Indian cuisine. Throughout the event, a diverse array of exhibits and booths showcase the finest aspects of Indian culture, enriching the experience for all those who attend. The event's prominence underscores the profound influence of ISKCON, which works tirelessly to spread the message of devotion and spiritual connection across the world. The Festival of the Chariots, a manifestation of this dedication, has transcended boundaries to become a universal celebration that harmoniously blends ancient rituals with contemporary enthusiasm. As the radiant chariots glide through Santa Monica's streets, accompanied by the resonant echoes of the Vaishnava Mahā-mantra, the 48th Annual Festival of the Chariots leaves an indelible mark, reiterating the enduring importance of cultural preservation and shared spiritual heritage.

Vibrant Colors and Joyful Chants: Santa Monica Hosts 48th Festival of the Chariots

SANTA MONICA, CA — Hare Krishna devotees hand-pull three fully decorated, 40-foot tall “chariots” along Main Street in Santa Monica today, August 4, 2024, during the 48th Annual Festival of the Chariots parade. 

This grand spectacle, hosted by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), brings together thousands of eager attendees who are treated to a mesmerizing display of free entertainment, cultural exhibits, and captivating booths. The festival serves as a vivacious celebration of Lord Jagannatha, revered as the cosmic Lord of the Universe, and pays homage to its roots tracing back an astonishing five thousand years to the holy city of Jagannatha Puri, India.

The festival's allure is magnificently embodied by the resplendent parade, a cherished tradition that now unfolds in countries around the globe. Participants unite in jubilation as they chant the revered 16-word Vaishnava Mahā-mantra, "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare / Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare," infusing the atmosphere with a deep sense of spirituality and unity.

The Festival of the Chariots not only pays tribute to ancient traditions but also fosters a sense of community and cultural exchange. Attendees revel in a sumptuous free feast, indulging in a rich array of delectable Indian cuisine. Throughout the event, a diverse array of exhibits and booths showcase the finest aspects of Indian culture, enriching the experience for all those who attend.

In addition to the parade, the festival site at Venice Beach features a stage with cultural performances and kirtan, a free feast, Govinda's Gift Shop, plenty of prasadam (sanctified food) offerings, and activities for children. Attendees can enjoy captivating performances of traditional Indian dance and music, participate in interactive workshops, and explore a bustling marketplace offering a variety of arts, crafts, and literature. Numerous food stalls serve delicious vegetarian cuisine, providing a feast for the senses.

The event's prominence underscores the profound influence of ISKCON, which works tirelessly to spread the message of devotion and spiritual connection across the world. The Festival of the Chariots, a manifestation of this dedication, has transcended boundaries to become a universal celebration that harmoniously blends ancient rituals with contemporary enthusiasm.

As the radiant chariots glide through Santa Monica's streets, accompanied by the resonant echoes of the Vaishnava Mahā-mantra, the 48th Annual Festival of the Chariots leaves an indelible mark, reiterating the enduring importance of cultural preservation and shared spiritual heritage.