The Ocean Beach Community Foundation has announced the arrival of the OB Christmas tree on Dec. 3 and the eagerly awaited 45th annual OB Holiday Parade down Newport Avenue on Saturday, Dec. 7 starting at 5 p.m. This year’s parade, themed “Hippie Holiday Hoedown,” is set to be a groovy celebration of community spirit and creativity.

OB Christmas tree installation: On Tuesday, Dec. 3, the Ocean Beach community will welcome this year’s Christmas tree, generously donated by a local neighbor. Carefully selected from trees already slated for removal, it will be established on the beach at the corner of Newport and Abbott. The official tree lighting is set for 5:05 p.m. on Dec. 7 igniting the start of the Ocean Beach Holiday Parade.

“The OBCF is honored to continue this beloved, local tradition bringing together neighbors, San Diegans, and visitors from all walks of life to celebrate the magic of the holidays in our beach town,” said Shelly Parks, OBCF president. “The crooked tree and eclectic parade truly embody the spirit of OB. This year’s ‘Hippie Holiday Hoedown’ theme perfectly captures our community’s free-spirited and inclusive nature.”

Hippie Holiday Hoedown: Locked in for Saturday, Dec. 7, the parade will feature an array of vibrant floats that are always unique including local bands, community organizations like the OB Woman’s Club celebrating their 100th anniversary, local businesses, scout troops, and eclectic golf cart groups. The VIP Deck, hosted at the Ocean Beach Hotel, will offer premium parade viewing, hosted cocktails, and appetizers. Tickets for $70 are available at obcommunityfoundation.org

VIP Deck volunteer opportunities: The parade is a testament to the power of an engaged community, and enthusiastic volunteers are needed to help make this event a success. Interested individuals can sign up to volunteer for the parade and other holiday events at obcommunityfoundation.org/volunteer.

Community-powered parade: The OBCF extends a big thank you to this year’s sponsors and grantmakers: Submerge Church, Northside Tavern, Ocean Beach MainStreet Association, and the City of San Diego. Partnership with nonprofit organization Love Thy Neighborhood to plan and execute the parade has been instrumental in making this year’s parade top-notch. The dedication of countless community members contributing time, talent, and resources, is the backbone of the holiday initiatives.

Additional festivities: Don’t miss the Holiday Party & Auction at The Harp on Dec. 12, which includes music, live and silent auctions, delicious food, drink specials, and more. Also, be part of the Food & Toy Drive from Dec. 16-21 spreading holiday cheer on Dec. 21. Learn more about OBCF and getting involved in all the holiday initiatives at www.obcommunityfoundation.org.

OCEAN BEACH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Since 2000, the nonprofit Ocean Beach Community Foundation has been a catalyst for bringing people together for the greater good in the vibrant community. OBCF is led by a board of up to 15 community-elected directors, five committees including community members and directors, sponsors, donors, and hundreds of volunteers who truly bring this community-led work to life. The organization thrives on listening to the voices of Ocean Beach residents and passionately meeting the needs of the beloved OB community.

Whether it’s providing food and toys during the holidays to families and individuals in the community who appreciate a helping hand, connecting community members with local leaders and elected officials, or engaging residents in the uniquely quirky annual community events that define OB, the dedicated volunteer board of directors is here to bring everyone together and keep the spirit of OB vibrant, joyful, and thriving. Join in celebrating the beauty and strength of the community, where every voice matters and every action makes a difference.

Defining Community Values

At the Ocean Beach Community Foundation, these values are the essence of what it stands for:

• Community: The power of coming together, fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity among all residents. The community thrives when you support and uplift one another.
• Collaboration and Inclusivity: Celebrate the rich tapestry of backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives that make OB unique. The commitment to inclusivity ensures that everyone feels welcome and valued.
• Respect: Treat each other with kindness and understanding, fostering a culture of mutual respect and empathy. Actions are guided by a deep sense of care for one another.
• Creativity and Innovation: Embrace the eccentric and the extraordinary, encouraging creative expression and innovative ideas that keep the community vibrant and dynamic.
• Civic Engagement: Empower residents to actively participate in the democratic process, ensuring that the voices of OB are heard and that the community’s needs are met.