Alpine Tradition Meets the Pacific: The Swiss Winter Village Arrives on the Santa Monica Pier

CAMPBELL WELLMAN SANTA MONICA PIER CHRISTMAS SWISS MARKET 2026

PHOTO Courtesy Swiss Winter Village 

There is a unique magic to the Southern California coast during the holidays (too soon to get excited for the holidays??). While winter elsewhere is defined by biting frost and indoor retreats, our Westside winter features cool ocean breezes, brilliant sunset skies, and iconic landmarks reimagined for the season.

This November, one of Southern California's most historic oceanfront destinations is getting a very festive European touch. Opening Wednesday, November 18, 2026, the Santa Monica Pier will officially transform its historic Event Deck into the Swiss Winter Village—bringing an authentic, Alpine-style Christmas market complete with an oceanfront ice rink to the edge of the Pacific.

A Century-Old Landmark Meets the Swiss Alps

The Santa Monica Pier has been a cornerstone of Westside coastal life since its opening in 1909, evolving from a humble municipal utility pier into a beloved playground for generations of Angelenos and visitors. Today, as home to the solar-powered Pacific Wheel and the historic Looff Hippodrome carousel, the Pier serves as an iconic spot for global traditions.

Created by the masterminds behind established holiday markets in Switzerland, the Swiss Winter Village bridges European heritage with quintessential Southern California culture. Running through January 3, 2027, the experience replaces snow-capped mountains with panoramic ocean views, marrying timeless holiday nostalgia with the relaxed elegance of the Westside.

What to Expect: Chalets, Raclette, and Seaside Skating

  • Over 60 Artisanal Chalets: The Event Deck will host more than 60 traditional wooden chalets showcasing handcrafted gifts, bespoke jewelry, holiday decor, and European artisan goods.

  • Alpine Culinary Experiences: Food is central to the Swiss winter tradition. Approximately 30 specialized chalets will serve authentic winter fare, ranging from traditional Swiss raclette (melted cheese scraped tableside over potatoes and cured meats) to international street food, seasonal sweets, and steaming cups of mulled wine.

  • Oceanfront Ice Skating: Visitors can lace up and skate on an open-air ice rink situated directly above the Pacific, offering rare views of the coastline as the sun dips below the horizon.

  • Family & Festive Programming: Alongside daily shopping and dining, the village features storytelling, face painting, creative workshops, live music, and a dedicated children's activity area. Plus, Santa Claus will host professional portrait sessions in an Alpine chalet from Thursdays through Sundays (1 p.m. to 7 p.m.) between November 27 and December 20.

Essential Details for Your Visit

  • Dates: November 18, 2026 – January 3, 2027 (Opening night runs 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.).

  • Hours: Monday–Wednesday (11 a.m. to 9 p.m.); Thursday–Sunday (11 a.m. to 10 p.m.). Special holiday hours apply on Christmas Eve (closing at 6 p.m.) and New Year’s Eve (staying open until 1 a.m.).

  • Location: SM Pier Event Deck (200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica).

  • General Admission: $12.90 for adults (13+); $8.90 for children (4–12); children 3 and under enter free. Discounted tickets ($10.90) are available for seniors, students, military personnel, Metro riders, Santa Monica residents, and groups of 8+.

  • Ice Skating Packages: Standard skating-and-entry bundles start at $20.90 per person, with family packages starting at $18.90. Premium tiers include Pacific Park ride bundles.

The Campbell Wellman Take

"The best Westside traditions are the ones that take a familiar landmark and give it a fresh, elevated perspective. Bringing an authentic Swiss Christmas market to the Santa Monica Pier proves that coastal living isn't just about summer sun—it's about creating vibrant, walkable community experiences all year round."