The inaugural Spyder Snow Fest, which replaces and expands Hermosa Beach’s defunct holiday tree lighting ceremony, brings 30 tons of human-made snow to the western reaches of upper Pier Avenue for community disc-sledding and professional snowboard demos Dec. 11.
Using a snow-covered scaffolding and an assortment of snowboard rails and “fun boxes” from Mammoth Mountain, the snow will be shaped and sculpted into a snowboard terrain park that will welcome the public after pro and amateur riders demonstrate tricks.
Snow industry brands and technical reps will host free games next to the snow hill, on Pier Avenue between Manhattan and Hermosa avenues.
The Snowboarding will begin with local dignitary runs at 3 p.m. From 4 to 5:45 p.m. professional snowboarders and top local amateurs will compete in a best trick contest.
At 6 p.m. the focus will shift to the Pier Plaza, where Santa will arrive aboard a city fire engine and officials will light the oversized Hermosa Beach Christmas tree. The ceremony will feature music from local acts and school groups, children’s activities, hot chocolate and seasonal baked goods.
At 6:30 p.m. the focus will return to “Mt. Hermosa,” where public sledding will begin with discs provided by Spyder Surfboards. At about 9 p.m. firefighters will wash the snow slope away. ER
