Christmas Tree Lane In San Marino: A Holiday Tradition

Christmas Tree Lane in San Marino is a beloved holiday tradition that has been enchanting visitors for over 60 years. Located in the picturesque city of San Marino, California, this festive event transforms a tranquil neighborhood street into a winter wonderland, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Every year, the residents of Christmas Tree Lane, also known as the 700 block of San Marino's Huntington Drive, come together to create a dazzling display of lights, decorations, and holiday cheer. The event is a labor of love, with homeowners spending countless hours and dollars to create their own unique and elaborate displays.

The tradition began in the 1950s, when a few neighbors decided to decorate their homes with lights and wreaths to get into the holiday spirit. Over the years, the event has grown in popularity, and today it is one of the most popular holiday attractions in Southern California. Visitors can stroll along the street, taking in the sights and sounds of the season, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

The Magic of Christmas Tree Lane

So, what makes Christmas Tree Lane so special? For starters, the sheer scale of the decorations is awe-inspiring. The street is lined with towering trees, each one adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, ornaments, and garlands. The houses themselves are transformed into winter wonderlands, with elaborate displays of lights, inflatables, and animated scenes.

As visitors walk along the street, they are treated to a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds. There are animated scenes, complete with moving figures and music, as well as interactive displays that allow kids (and kids at heart) to get in on the fun. And, of course, no trip to Christmas Tree Lane would be complete without a visit with Santa Claus himself.

A Community Effort

One of the things that sets Christmas Tree Lane apart from other holiday events is the sense of community that goes into creating it. The residents of the street work together to plan and execute the event, which is entirely volunteer-driven. Homeowners spend countless hours designing and building their displays, and local businesses donate goods and services to help make the event a success.

The event is also a major fundraiser for local charities, with donations collected at the gate going to support organizations such as the San Marino Rotary Club and the San Marino Community Church.

A Holiday Tradition for the Ages

Christmas Tree Lane is a holiday tradition that has been enchanting visitors for generations. Whether you're a local or just visiting from out of town, this event is a must-see. So why not make it a part of your holiday tradition? Gather your friends and family, and come experience the magic of Christmas Tree Lane for yourself.

Practical Information

If you're planning to visit Christmas Tree Lane, here are a few things to keep in mind:

The event typically runs from late November to early January.
The street is closed to cars during the event, but there is plenty of parking available in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Admission is free, although donations are gratefully accepted.
There are plenty of food and drink vendors on site, offering everything from hot chocolate to festive snacks.

Getting There

Christmas Tree Lane is located in the city of San Marino, California, which is about 10 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles. If you're driving, the easiest way to get there is to take the 210 freeway east, then exit at Huntington Drive. If you're using public transportation, you can take the Metro Gold Line to the Allen Avenue station, then transfer to the San Marino Municipal Bus.

Accommodations

If you're planning to visit Christmas Tree Lane from out of town, there are plenty of great places to stay in the San Marino area. Here are a few options to consider:

The Langham Huntington, Pasadena: This luxurious hotel is located just a few miles from Christmas Tree Lane, and offers stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
The Westin Pasadena: This modern hotel is located in the heart of Pasadena, and offers easy access to Christmas Tree Lane.
The San Marino Motel: This cozy motel is located just a block from Christmas Tree Lane, and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

A Holiday Event for the Ages

Christmas Tree Lane is a holiday event that is fun for the whole family. Whether you're a local or just visiting from out of town, this event is a must-see. So why not make it a part of your holiday tradition? Gather your friends and family, and come experience the magic of Christmas Tree Lane for yourself.