Downey is alive with the holiday spirit, offering plenty of family-friendly events and activities to celebrate the season! From giving back to the community through toy drives to enjoying magical moments with Santa, here’s a guide to this year’s must-see events.
Holiday Toy Drive – Now Through December 11
Spread holiday joy by participating in Downey’s annual Holiday Toy Drive. This is a wonderful opportunity to teach your kids about giving back while supporting local families in need. Donate new, unwrapped toys for children ages 0-18 and help make this season brighter for everyone.
Drop-Off Locations:
•Downey Unified Schools/District Office
•Barbara J. Riley Community Center - 7810 Quill Dr.
•Downey City Hall - 11111 Brookshire Ave.
•Fire Station #1 - 12222 Paramount Blvd.
•Fire Station #2 - 9556 Imperial Hwy.
•Fire Station #3 - 9900 Paramount Blvd.
•Fire Station #4 - 9349 Florence Ave.
Donations will be accepted through December 11, so don’t miss your chance to give back this season!
Santa’s Hideout Downey
Where: 11402 Old River School Rd., Downey, CA 90241
When: Thursday–Sunday, 5 PM–2 AM (Family-friendly from 5–9 PM; Adults 21+ only after 9 PM)
Visit the largest holiday pop-up bar in Downey! This spot is decked out with stunning holiday decor and photo opportunities. Enjoy food, drinks, and a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for families early in the evening and adults later in the night. No tickets or reservations are needed for entry. See menu below.
Jolly Holiday Event at the Promenade at Downey
Where: Promenade at Downey
When: Sunday, December 8, 3 PM–6 PM
Kick off the holiday season at this free, family-friendly celebration! Enjoy music, kid’s activities, and photo opportunities with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and even the Grinch. Activities include:
•Dancing with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
•Caroling performances
•Ornament crafts
•Face painting
•Samples from local restaurants
•Photos with holiday decor
•Candy cane stilt walkers and magical snowfall
This event is packed with festive fun you won’t want to miss!
Downtown Downey Night Market: Santa’s Holiday Fest
Where: Downey Avenue, Downtown Downey
When: [Insert Date & Time]
The Downtown Downey Night Market is transforming into a holiday wonderland with Santa’s Holiday Fest! Explore over 70 vendors, 10+ food trucks, and family-friendly activities.
Highlights include:
•Photos with Santa (5 PM–9 PM, printout included – must purchase photos)
•Photos with the Grinch (6 PM–8 PM, printout included – must purchase photos)
•Kid activities and carnival games
•Pet-friendly atmosphere
This is the perfect event for family and friends to enjoy together!
Take your child to Holiday Event at Stonewood Center
When: December 14, 1 PM–3 PM
Bring the kids to this fun-filled holiday event at Stonewood Center! Keep the season bright with kid-friendly crafts, music, and surprises.
Watch The Nutcracker Ballet at Downey Theatre
Introduce your family to the magic of The Nutcracker. This classic ballet tells the enchanting tale of Clara’s magical Christmas journey, featuring Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. From the epic battle between mice and toys to the dreamy Kingdom of Sweets, this performance is a holiday tradition worth experiencing.
Tickets:
•Under $40: $3.75 facility & internet processing fee
•Over $40: $4.75 facility & internet processing fee
For infants needing tickets, call the box office at 562-861-8211.
Downey has something for everyone this holiday season! Whether you’re giving back, visiting Santa, or making magical memories at a community event, these festivities are sure to bring joy to your family. Mark your calendars and make this holiday season one to remember!
