Torrance’s Santa Float is scheduled to return for a 22-night neighborhood tour beginning Sunday, November 29, with organizers planning to reach every residential neighborhood in the city.

The October 22 announcement confirms the tradition’s 2026 plans and continues a partnership among the Torrance Police Officers’ Association, Torrance Police Foundation, Robinson Helicopter Company, and Van Lingen Group.

How the neighborhood visits endured

The police association traces its Santa Float tradition to 1969. In 1992, officers rebuilt the float on a new trailer, creating a safer version for visiting families.

Its history includes a dramatic setback: vandals severely damaged the float in November 1993, just a week before its scheduled departure. Officers and residents rallied, raised repair money, and got it back on the road in time.

Keeping it moving has required more than decorations. Towing, maintenance, staffing, and financial support all matter.

Robinson’s November 2025 announcement described a multiyear partnership to restore the full neighborhood route after pandemic and staffing disruptions. This year’s news builds on that arrangement rather than announcing a rescue for the first time.

A helicopter arrival starts the season

The celebration begins before the street tour. The second annual Santa Takes Flight kickoff is scheduled for Saturday, November 21, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive.

Organizers advertise Santa’s helicopter arrival, photos, school choirs, live entertainment, children’s activities, food trucks, and a Christmas market. Admission registration is free.

The Police Foundation is also inviting vendors and sponsors to participate. Families attending the kickoff are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the police and fire departments’ holiday toy drive.

When will Santa reach your neighborhood?

Organizers expect detailed route maps and dates to become available in mid-November. Until then, mark the November 29 tour start without assuming a particular street’s visit date.

The neighborhood tour and the November 21 kickoff are separate occasions. One launches the festivities; the other brings the float into Torrance neighborhoods over the following weeks.

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