Holiday Family Faire Lights Up Topanga With Crafts, Carols, and a Live Radio Play

On December 13, the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga will host a Holiday Family Faire that blends crafts, music, and a live radio rendition of “It’s a Wonderful Life”.

Event Overview

The faire opens at 11 a.m. and runs until 5 p.m., offering visitors a full six hours of seasonal activities in the Botanicum’s sun‑soft amphitheater. After the faire closes, the same venue hosts a radio play of “It’s a Wonderful Life” that begins at 5 p.m. The play is presented by Joe Landry and features a cast that includes Beau Bridges, Joe Mantegna, Wendie Malick, Rory O’Malley, and Missi Pyle in the roles of George Bailey and his companions.

Admission and Pricing

General admission to the faire costs $20. Children ages five to fifteen enter for $10, while children four and under enter free of charge. A family ticket that covers two adults and two children is available for $50. If attendees wish to stay for the radio play, an additional fee of $25 is required. The ticket for the play is an add‑on to the faire admission, so both must be purchased separately if one wants to experience the full day and evening program.

The Botanicum Setting

The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum sits in a hillside forest of mature oaks and pines. The amphitheater’s stage is framed by natural foliage, and the sunlight filters through the branches, creating a warm, dappled atmosphere. This setting reinforces the event’s forest‑y, festive theme and provides a backdrop for the carols and madrigals that will fill the air.

Activities for All Ages

Visitors to the faire can explore an artisan‑filled marketplace where local vendors display holiday crafts, handmade gifts, and seasonal treats. The market stalls also offer opportunities for children to participate in simple craft projects, while adults can browse unique decorations and gifts. Live carols performed by community singers and centuries‑old madrigals played by local musicians add an extra layer of holiday charm to the experience.

A Whimsical Cameo

A special highlight of the day is the cameo appearance by Mrs. Claus and her sleigh‑driving honeybun. This playful moment is designed to delight families and add a touch of holiday magic to the already festive atmosphere.

The Radio Play Experience

At 5 p.m., the amphitheater transforms into a listening space for the radio play of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Presented by Joe Landry, the production features a talented ensemble cast. Beau Bridges, Joe Mantegna, Wendie Malick, Rory O’Malley, and Missi Pyle each portray characters from the classic story, bringing warmth and holiday spirit to the performance. The play is performed in a radio‑style format, allowing the audience to imagine the scenes while the actors deliver their lines.

Ticketing and Planning

Tickets for the faire and the optional radio play are available through the Botanicum’s official website. Because the evening play is a separate event, attendees must purchase an additional $25 ticket if they wish to stay after the fair concludes. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, particularly for the play, which may sell out due to its popularity.

Community and Tradition

The Holiday Family Faire is a longstanding community event that brings families together in a shared celebration of the season. By offering crafts, music, and a beloved radio play, the event encourages families to gather, enjoy local talent, and create lasting memories in a natural, festive setting.

What to Bring

Attendees are encouraged to bring comfortable outdoor clothing, a small blanket or chair for the radio play, and any items they may need for their children. Because the venue is outdoors, guests should also consider sunscreen and hats for daytime activities.

Accessibility

The Botanicum’s amphitheater is accessible to visitors with mobility needs. The venue provides ramps and seating options throughout the event space. Guests with specific accessibility requirements should contact the Botanicum’s ticket office for assistance.

Enjoy the Holiday

With its blend of crafts, music, and storytelling, the Holiday Family Faire offers a unique opportunity for families to experience the spirit of the season in a natural, community‑focused setting. Whether you arrive for the daytime market or stay for the evening radio play, the event promises warmth, joy, and a memorable holiday experience in Topanga.

Key Takeaways

• The Holiday Family Faire runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 13 at the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum.
• Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for children 5–15, free for children 4 and under; a family four‑pack costs $50.
• An additional $25 fee is required to attend the radio play of “It’s a Wonderful Life” that starts at 5 p.m.
• The play features Beau Bridges, Joe Mantegna, Wendie Malick, Rory O’Malley, and Missi Pyle as George Bailey and company.

The Holiday Family Faire offers a full day of holiday cheer, and the evening radio play provides a heart‑warming conclusion to a festive afternoon in Topanga.