Top Community Events Happening in San Marino This Year
From neighborhood picnics to cultural gems, here's what's filling the calendar in our charming city.
Living in San Marino means more than beautiful streets and top-tier schools, it’s also about being part of a tight-knit, family-focused community that knows how to gather and celebrate. Whether you're a Valentine or Carver parent, have kids at Huntington Middle or San Marino High, or live right near Clairbourn or Southwest Academy, these events bring everyone together.
As a longtime resident, here are my favorite San Marino events you won’t want to miss in 2025:
📌 Prefer a quick read? Scroll down for the short summary version!
1. San Marino Schools Foundation Gala
When: Spring
A highlight of the season, this elegant evening supports our local schools: Valentine, Carver, Huntington Middle, and SMHS. Parents and neighbors come dressed up to raise funds and toast to academic excellence.
Why go? It’s a beautiful way to support education while meeting fellow families.
2. Family Days at The Huntington Library
When: Ongoing (monthly weekends)
Yes, it’s world-renowned but for locals, The Huntington is like a shared backyard. They host Family Days filled with hands-on activities, garden tours, and mini art workshops that delight all ages.
Tip: Pack a blanket and enjoy a slow afternoon on the lawn afterward.
3. Ice Cream Socials & PTA Carnivals
When: Spring & Fall (at Valentine and Carver Elementary)
Think lawn games, face painting, and cones from local favorites like Carmela or Fosselman’s. These family-friendly gatherings are sweet traditions and a chance to see your neighbors off the school drop-off line.
Bonus: Middle schoolers often volunteer, it’s adorable and chaotic in the best way.
4. Lunar New Year Festival at Clairbourn School
When: February
This beautiful celebration blends culture, tradition, and community, with lion dances, food booths, and activities for the kids. Though Clairbourn sits just on the San Marino border, many of us attend (or have friends there!).
Highlight: It’s a joyful reminder of the city’s vibrant heritage.
5. San Marino 5K & Fun Run
When: Fall
Whether you’re running or cheering from the sidewalk with a coffee, this event brings energy and pride to the neighborhood. Held near Lacy Park, it’s a true community classic.
Pro tip: Sign up as a family. It’s not about speed, it’s about spirit.
6. Holiday Tree Lighting & Lacy Park Festivities
When: Early December
Twinkling lights, local choirs (shoutout to Huntington Middle School), hot cocoa, and the joy of seeing the whole town in one place. You’ll want to grab a photo by the tree and stay for the music.
Tradition: Our kids grow up with this, one of San Marino’s most nostalgic nights.
Short Version (for the quick readers):
Top San Marino Events in 2025 You Shouldn’t Miss:
San Marino Schools Foundation Gala
Family Days at The Huntington
PTA Ice Cream Socials & Carnivals
Clairbourn’s Lunar New Year
San Marino 5K Fun Run
Holiday Tree Lighting at Lacy Park
Local schools, family fun, culture, and charm all year round.
Summary:
From elegant fundraisers to backyard-style school events, San Marino’s community calendar is full of heart and heritage. These moments remind us why so many families plant deep roots here. Whether your child is at Valentine, Carver, Huntington, SMHS, Clairbourn, or Southwest Academy you’ll find events that make you feel truly at home.
See you around the neighborhood?