As December rolls in with its festive energy, the Monterey Park and Alhambra communities are filled with holiday spirit. Many people celebrate Christmas, but it’s not the only holiday celebrated at this time of year.

From traditional Christmas lights to red lanterns wishing good fortune, the Alhambra community’s variety highlights the distinctive fusion of customs as local residences and shops along Atlantic Boulevard and Main Street are decked out in vibrant decorations which is a joy to see every year. 

Local festivals tend to highlight this cultural diversity even further. Each year, Santa appears for the holiday tree lighting ceremony at Barnes Park in Monterey Park, much to the delight of the local children. To show how many residents see this time of year as more than just Christmas, the Alhambra Lunar New Year Festival Committee is already preparing for the January festivities.

Diversity in religion and culture is also important. Numerous Buddhist temples can be found in Monterey Park, and around the holidays, they host charity drives and peaceful meditation sessions. To help people in need, the Islamic Center at Alhambra hosts a food drive every winter. The traditions of individuals who do celebrate Christmas are just as diverse as the local population. Mexican American families celebrate Las Posadas, a recreation of Mary and Joseph’s flight for safety, while Filipino families celebrate Noche Buena, a midnight feast on Christmas Eve.

The holiday season in Monterey Park and the Alhambra is ultimately about community, compassion, and accepting the various ways that people gather to celebrate. It’s not only about presents and decorations. In this community, the joy of the season is evident whether it’s the tree with a shiny star on top, bright lights hung up around peoples homes, the inflatable floaties on the yard, or the sharing a meal with loved ones.