The Santa Monica Pier’s famous and historic carousel will re-open this weekend, just in time to celebrate the holidays.
A major grand re-opening party complete with holiday activities is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 1 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Loof Hippodrome Carousel Building at the pier.
Hundreds of children and their families are expected to attend the opening to take part in making holiday crafts, visiting Santa, listening to holiday stories and riding the newly refurbished vintage carousel. The carousel has been closed for two months while it was being overhauled.
At 2 p.m., the first 100 riders receieve a free gift as part of the carousel’s inaugural run. From 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., crafts, a visit from Santa and holiday stories in English and Spanish will be offered. At 5 p.m., a special performance by the Jazzappella Carolers will occur with the lighting of the pier. All events are free to the public, including carousel rides all day.
For more information, call (310) 458-8900 or visit www.santamonicapier.org.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on November 27, 2002. Read the original PDF.