The 12th annual Christmas Woodie Parade rolled through Malibu on Sunday afternoon. Woodies of various years and colors, all decked out with holiday decorations, started at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe and toured the city before heading into Serra Retreat, where they were joined by a classic horse-drawn carriage led by Geoff and Sharon Gee.
Originally from New York, Woodie Parade organizer and 40-year Malibu resident John Zambetti says he had a romantic vision of Malibu.
“I’ve always felt that Malibu was a place where you could create your fantasy and then live it,” Zambetti said. “Woodies always make people of any age smile. They’re not intimidating like some other classic cars or some expensive sports cars. There’s something familiar, welcoming and inclusive about them. I feel the same way about Malibu, so instead of having a Macy’s-type Christmas parade with floats and celebrities, why not have a Christmas Woodie Parade?”
After the parade, a party took place at Malibu Village. Woodie cars lined the parking lot, while attendees, locals and visitors joined the fun. Festivities for the afternoon included live performances by The Hodads and Malibu High School cheerleaders. “It’s a time to get together with friends and family and enjoy a uniquely Malibu community Christmas event,” Zambetti shared about the event. “Young and old alike love to see the old woodies lit up and decorated. It takes us all back to a time when things moved a little slower and simpler things would bring a lot of joy.”
Zambetti expressed a special thanks to Sandi Turner and Malibu Village for sponsoring the party.
