Santa Claus is coming to town with Santa Monica's police officers & firefighters leading the way. Santa and his public safety helpers will be distributing good cheer and thousands of candy canes as part of this year’s 33rd Annual "Candy Cane Drive.”

Everyone is invited to join in the festivities sponsored by the Santa Monica Police Officers Association and Santa Monica Firefighters, Local 1109 .

To ensure everyone has the opportunity to visit with Santa, this year’s scheduled stops include one per police beat.

Saturday, December 6, 2025:

10:00 – 10:45 am Douglas Park - 2400 California Ave (Beat 4)

11:00-11:30 am Christine Reed Park California Ave & 7th Street (Beat 1)

1:00 – 1:45 pm Virginia Avenue Park - 2200 Virginia Ave (Beat 3)

2:00 – 2:45 pm Clover Park - Ocean Park & 25th St (Beat 2)

Santa Monica children are encouraged to look and listen for the lights and sirens of the public safety vehicles, while parents are encouraged to bring their cameras.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Caltrans will close a 3.6-mile stretch of Topanga Canyon Blvd between PCH and Grand View Dr TODAY, Thursday, Nov. 13, 10 PM ahead of heavy rain expected overnight and through the weekend.

The closure will remain in place until conditions improve, likely through the Friday morning commute and possibly into the weekend. The National Weather Service forecasts 2–4 inches of rain, with peak rainfall rates up to 0.7 inches per hour, raising the risk of debris flow in burn scar areas.

Caltrans crews are securing the area with k-rail, sandbags, and stabilization work as part of ongoing Palisades Fire recovery efforts.

Drivers should use alternate routes, expect delays, and avoid travel during heavy rain, especially near burn areas. Motorists should keep headlights on, and watch for workers and work vehicles in the road. Never touch downed power lines - stay back, warn others, and call 911.

For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.

Twins & Violins - Santa Monica Street Performers

Jennifer Train, a now well known Venice Beach homeless woman, is seen on the ground screaming for an ambulance. She states she was hit by a guy she knows. He allegedly threw a glass bottle at her back, hitting the area where she had spinal work done.

EVACUATION WARNING for possible debris flows in effect from 6pm Thursday- 11am Sunday. Prepare for possible evacuations in the Palisades Fire area due to a storm with heavy rain. High risk houses in the warning area will be visited by LAPD with protective info.

A deceased whale drew public attention on the sand in Santa Monica on Monday, November 10, 2025, after the animal washed ashore and was later moved farther up the beach by city crews.

The carcass — estimated at roughly 20 feet in length — showed clear signs of advanced decomposition. According to observers at the scene, the whale appeared to have been dead for some time before surf and tide carried it in.

Multiple Southern California agencies collaborated on site to examine the animal and prepare it for transport. Officials said the effort involved California Wildlife Center, Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles, Pacific Marine Mammal Center, and Santa Monica agencies including Beaches and Harbors, maintenance crews, police, fire, and lifeguards.

Santa Monica Pier pays tribute to the cultural tradition of Día de los Muertos – Day of the Dead

A work truck carrying porta potties was stolen from the Travis Barker "Run Travis Run" 5K event on Ocean Ave. It sped south on Ocean from Arizona Ave till it hit a car at the corner of Moomat Ahiko Way. Ot then plowed the car out of it's way, turning into the crowded crosswalk. One lady jumped off her bike and the truck ran over it, dragging it underneath as it drove down the ramp to Pacific Coast Highway.

The truck crashed again in near Big Rock on PCH in Malibu. Highway Patrol and Sheriiff reponded to that crash, The suspect fled on foot, running into the ocean where he was taken into custody. Reports said he appeared to be naked.

Community Soil Testing Day! Residents can bring soil samples to be tested, and volunteers are welcome to help make the event a success. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about soil health, contribute to local environmental research, and connect with your community.

📅 Date & Time: Sunday, November 16th, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Free soil health event with expert guidance, easy sample collection, plus refreshments, music & activities. Fires

can impact the soil in our communities — but testing it is simple, free, and helps keep our families and neighbors safe.

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.