Winter wonderland created in sunny California

Can it be snow in sunny California at Christmas? Not very likely but, it's true! A winter wonderland emerges at the 6-hundred-thousand-square-foot, 160 million dollar fantasy enclave, "The Grove." In this entertainment-retail centre, Santa grants wishes for a month each year. And the holiday season gets underway in the proper mood, even in the warm climate.

It's Christmas in California!

An elaborate holiday spectacular brings the Christmas spirit into full swing in Los Angeles. It begins with the grand, annual tree-lighting ceremony and stage extravaganza at "The Grove" in West Hollywood.

The tree is the largest on public display in the United States. This year it is decorated with 10,000 ornaments.

Jennifer Gordon, marketing spokesperson of "The Grove", said, "We have 15 thousand lights on our holiday tree and Santa will be here every single evening day and night to visit with all the kids and have their photos taken."

At the Grove, Santa makes his appearance. Snowmen visit shoppers and life-size decorations adorn the outdoor walkways. The setting attracts 20 thousand visitors from far and near each year.

The multi-act free stage show included Los Angeles resident, Emmy Rossum. The star of the film Phantom of the Opera treated the audience to renditions of Christmas songs.

Also performing, 4-time Grammy nominated and multi-platinum selling rock band, Goo Goo Dolls and 17-year old reggae sensation Sean Kingston.

For the third year in a row, The Make-A-Wish Foundation, in partnership with The Grove, granted a Los Angeles child a wish on stage.

The highlight of each celebration is the snow-man fashioned from the wet snowflakes that fall twice nightly during December.

Editor:Liu Fang