You don’t have to fly to Europe to experience the charm of a traditional Christmas market this winter. The Santa Monica Pier is getting its own Alpine-inspired village, complete with wooden chalets, Swiss specialties and an ice skating rink overlooking the Pacific.
A Swiss-inspired Christmas village by the ocean
Running from November 18, 2026 until January 3, 2027, the Swiss Winter Village will make its Santa Monica debut by transforming the pier’s Event Deck into a holiday market inspired by Switzerland’s renowned Christmas traditions.
The outdoor market will feature more than 60 wooden chalets selling handcrafted gifts, jewelry, holiday decorations and products from local makers and artisans. Food will be another major draw: expect Swiss raclette (the melted cheese specialty traditionally scraped over potatoes or bread) alongside other seasonal dishes, sweets and drinks.
18 November 2026 17:00 + more dates
Event Deck at the Santa Monica Pier
For thrill seekers, there’s an ice rink for anyone who wants to add skating to their holiday plans, too. Families can also visit Santa’s alpine-style headquarters for professional holiday portraits, available Thursday through Sunday from November 27 to December 20, between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
When to visit Santa Monica’s Swiss Village
The market is scheduled to operate Monday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Special holiday hours apply on Christmas Eve, when it closes at 6 p.m. On New Year’s Eve, it will stay open until 1 a.m.
General admission starts at $12.90 for adults ages 13 and older, $8.90 for children ages 4 to 12, and $10.90 for seniors, students, military members, and Santa Monica residents with valid identification. Children 3 and younger enter free.
