On Christmas Eve and the night of Christmas, a giant snowman lights up the side of Santa Monica’s Pacific Wheel. The attraction draws visitors who wish to see a festive display that blends technology and holiday spirit. The snowman stands tall, its shape defined by thousands of LED lights that glow against the evening sky. This display is not made of actual snow, so it will not melt even when temperatures rise. Instead, the lights create a realistic winter scene that stays bright throughout the holiday season. The Pacific Wheel, located at Pacific Park, offers this spectacle to all who pass by. The event begins at sunset and concludes at midnight each evening.
LED Snowman
The snowman is illuminated by 174,000 LED bulbs, a staggering number that ensures uniform brightness. These bulbs are arranged in patterns that mimic snowflakes and the contours of a traditional snowman. Thousands of individual LEDs work together to form the figure’s head, torso, and base. The lights are powered by the wheel’s solar panels, allowing the display to run without additional electricity. The solar power system is a key feature of the Pacific Wheel, which has earned a reputation for environmental friendliness. The combination of solar energy and LED technology keeps the snowman visible even during cloudy nights. This setup demonstrates how renewable energy can support large public attractions.
Solar Power and Color Combinations
The Pacific Wheel’s solar panels generate electricity that powers both the Ferris wheel and the holiday lights. This renewable source reduces the attraction’s carbon footprint during a time of increased energy demand. The wheel’s team revealed that 16.7 color value combinations are used to give the snowman its illuminated splendor. These color combinations allow subtle shifts in hue that mimic the natural glow of snow under different lighting conditions. The choice of colors enhances the visual experience for viewers from all angles. The team’s use of color theory demonstrates a sophisticated approach to festive design. The result is a dynamic display that changes slightly as the sun sets.
Seasonal Symbols
As Christmas approaches, the Pacific Wheel’s side becomes a canvas for seasonal symbols. Snowflakes of various sizes appear around the snowman, enhancing the wintery feel. The reindeer, rendered in LED light, stand out against the dark backdrop of the ocean. These additions are part of a broader effort to celebrate the holiday season in the park. Visitors can enjoy the display during the day, but the lights truly shine at night. The park’s management encourages families to visit during the holiday period for the full experience. The display remains on the wheel until December 30, allowing many to witness it.
Viewing Experience
Watching the snowman and its companions is free for anyone who visits the park. Visitors can view the display in person, standing along the beachfront promenade. For those who cannot travel, a live webcam captures the entire scene for remote viewing. The attraction is part of Pacific Park’s lineup of seasonal events, drawing crowds each holiday night. While the viewing is free, riding the Pacific Wheel requires a fee, as the Ferris wheel is a separate attraction. The cost of a ride varies depending on the ticket package chosen by the visitor. The park’s website provides detailed pricing and scheduling information. The show begins at sunset, allowing visitors to enjoy the transition from daylight to twilight. It wraps at midnight, marking the end of the holiday display for that evening. This schedule is consistent each night from December 1 through December 30. The timing ensures that families can incorporate the visit into their holiday routines. The park’s management coordinates lighting cues to match the sunset’s changing colors. The display’s longevity is a testament to the durability of the LED system. The attraction remains a highlight of Santa Monica’s holiday offerings.
New Year’s Celebration
On December 31, the Pacific Wheel’s side transforms into a new display celebrating the upcoming year. A shimmering program appears, displaying the words ‘Happy New Year’ in several languages. This program replaces the snowman and other seasonal symbols for the night. The multilingual greeting reflects the diverse community that visits Pacific Park. The lighting system is reprogrammed to accommodate the new message. The transition occurs seamlessly, maintaining the park’s festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the new display from the same viewing spots as the holiday show. The new program runs for the duration of the New Year’s Eve celebration. It is designed to create a sense of anticipation for the coming year. The display is synchronized with the park’s existing lighting schedule. The programming team ensures that the colors remain consistent with the overall theme. The event concludes at midnight, marking the start of the new year. The park staff prepare the lights in advance to guarantee a smooth transition. The New Year’s display adds a festive touch to the end of the holiday season.
Key Takeaways
- The Pacific Wheel features a giant LED snowman illuminated by 174,000 bulbs.
- Solar power and 16.7 color combinations provide a dynamic, energy-efficient display.
- Seasonal symbols such as snowflakes and reindeer enhance the holiday theme.
- The show runs nightly from sunset to midnight through December 30, free to view.
- December 31 features a multilingual ‘Happy New Year’ program.
Final Thoughts
The Pacific Wheel’s holiday display showcases how modern technology can bring classic winter imagery to life. The combination of LED lighting, solar power, and thoughtful design creates a memorable experience for visitors. The free viewing option ensures that families and tourists alike can enjoy the spectacle without cost. The transition to a New Year’s message keeps the attraction relevant throughout the holiday season. The attraction’s longevity and energy efficiency demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Santa Monica residents and travelers can look forward to this nightly event from December 1 through December 30. The Pacific Wheel continues to be a shining example of festive creativity and community celebration.
