What to KnowShop Catalina Holiday Kick-offDec. 6, noon to 8 p.m.The lighting of the Avalon Christmas Tree on the Wrigley Stage, Santa’s arrival, and caroling will add joy to the dayA treasure hunt will be afoot, and discounts from local businesses
SPYING A FOREST… in a holiday movie or TV show when December dawns? It’s a festive, fir-fun sight, the sort of visual signifier that the story is about to get chilly, snowy, or even take a trip to the North Pole. But there’s a different sort of forest we do love, and you won’t find at the top of a snowflake-covered peak; rather, it is filled with kelp and located near Catalina Island. And while Catalina’s holiday events won’t take place out in the kelp — given that this forest is underwater, well, the celebrating would get mighty soggy — it’s a reminder that California has a variety of forest-close festivities. One of those parties will pop up steps from the ocean in Avalon Dec. 6, with a cameo by Mr. Claus, caroling, and the lighting of the pretty community tree at the Wrigley Stage.
IT’S THE COLORFUL KICK-OFF… to Shop Catalina, an event that is merrily marking its 32nd year. The Dec. 6 happening will feature discounts at local shops, and a bevy of giveaways, too. There’s a treasure hunt afoot, too, so prepare to gather code words from area shops for a chance to maybe win a gift certificate. Find other December-inspired diversions in the “winter wonderland by the sea,” including craft activities for the youngsters, the Catalina Island Art Association’s Holiday Boutique, and decorations aplenty. Even if you won’t be wondering through a forest, kelp or otherwise, the palm trees, surf, and sand add to the scenic sparkle of the island holiday atmosphere. Details? Sail this way for more.