Holidays in Whittier

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🎄 City of Whittier 2025 Holiday Guide

Get ready for a sleigh full of festive fun! The City of Whittier is thrilled to bring the community together for a season filled with joy, celebration, and holiday magic. Browse our lineup of family-friendly events below and mark your calendars for a truly wonderful winter in Whittier. 🌟


✉️ Letters to Santa

November 17 – December 12
Various Locations

Santa is ready to hear from Whittier’s youngest residents! Drop off your letter at one of our Santa Express Mailboxes and receive a handwritten response from Santa himself.

How it works:

  • Write your letter (templates are available here or at City facilities).
  • Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
  • Drop it off at any Santa Express Mailbox located at:
    • Palm Park, 5703 Palm Ave.
    • Whittier City Hall, 13230 Penn St.
    • Whittier Community Center, 7630 Washington Ave.

Letters must be received by December 12th.

Questions? Call (562) 567-9430.


🎄 Whittier’s Holiday Tree Lighting

Monday, December 1
Whittier City Hall

Kick off the holiday season at Whittier’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting at City Hall! Join us for a magical evening filled with twinkling lights, festive music, community cheer, and a special visit from Santa as we illuminate the City’s official holiday tree.

This beloved tradition is the perfect way to celebrate the start of December with family, friends, and neighbors.


🍪 Cookies with Santa

Saturday, December 6
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Whittier City Hall
FREE!

Bring the whole family for a morning of unforgettable holiday fun! Enjoy:

  • Photo ops with Santa and The Grinch
  • Snow sledding
  • Cookies & crafts
  • Train rides
  • And more festive surprises!

No registration required—just bring your holiday cheer!


🎅 Uptown Whittier Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 13, 2025
Parade begins at 10:00 AM
Greenleaf Ave., between Hadley St. & Mar Vista St.

Celebrate the season at the 71st Uptown Whittier Christmas Parade! Enjoy floats, music, and holiday magic as the community comes together to celebrate the warmth of home this Christmas season.

This event is presented by the Whittier Uptown Association. For more information, please visit the Uptown Whittier Association’s website or social media pages.


🌹 Pasadena Rose Parade Trip

Thursday, January 1, 2026

Registration begins Monday, December 8 at 9:00 AM

Ring in the New Year with a stress-free trip to the world-famous Pasadena Rose Parade! Enjoy transportation and reserved bleacher seating as you experience one of Southern California’s most iconic events.

Trip details:

  • Open to all ages
  • $80 per person
  • Bus departs from Whittier Community Center (7630 Washington Ave.) at 5:30 AM
  • Parade begins at 8:00 AM

Space is limited—register early at WhittierRec.com.

Questions? Call (562) 567-9470.