Roundhouse Aquarium In Manhattan Beach Hosts Holiday Lights Event

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — A Manhattan Beach nonprofit is hosting a way to "Light Up the Beach Cities!" during what has been an unusual year. The Oceanographic Teaching Stations, Inc., which manages and operates the Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier, invites Beach Cities residents and businesses to join a holiday decorating contest designed to raise critical funds to support the Roundhouse Aquarium’s education programs on marine science.

“In this extraordinary year, we wanted to find a safe way to celebrate the holidays where the community could also come together to support the Roundhouse Aquarium,” said Grace Adams, OTS executive director. “We hope to be able to continue and expand our education programs on ocean science into 2021 and beyond. We need the community’s help to ensure that programs that inspire people of all ages to care for the oceans, tidelands and beaches continue. OTS pivoted its operations to convert our in-person programs at the Roundhouse Aquarium to virtual classes and distance learning initiatives to meet the needs of students and teachers who are learning and teaching from home. There is a continued need for our programs, whether they are in-person or virtual. We certainly hope to welcome everyone back to the Roundhouse once restrictions are lifted, but until then we are ready to continue serving students and our community through our distance learning initiatives,” she added.

Sponsored by Edison International, all proceeds from the “Light Up the Beach Cities” fundraiser will support OTS’ science-based education programs on the ocean, tidelands and beaches. Residents and businesses may participate by paying a $30 fee, completing an online application and a photo to enter holiday decorating handiwork. Information, instructions and an application may be found online on the Roundhouse Aquarium website.

Applications and photos must be completed and submitted by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 10. Prizes will be awarded to the "Best" in each of the following entry categories:

• Magical Winterland – Best at bringing the winter spirit to SoCal
• Holiday Whimsy – Brings laughter, humor and whimsical vibes
• Let It Sparkle – Best use of lights
• Jingle Jangle Wheels – Best and most festive vehicle (golf cart, car, any vehicle)
• Merry and Bright Business – Best overall business
• Holly Jolly Residence – Best overall residence

After the submission period has closed, the voting period will being on Sunday, Dec. 13 and last through Saturday, Dec. 19. Voting will be done online and a $10 donation is requested to cast a vote. Winners will be announced on Monday, Dec. 21.

For more information, please call (310) 938-2682 or email Grace Adams at grace@roundhouseaquarium.org.

Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach residents and businesses in other Southern California communities are also invited to participate so spread the word.

- Patch Editor Liz Spear contributed to this report.