The annual Sand Snowman Contest returns to Hermosa Beach on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 15th Street and the shoreline. Pictured is an entry at last year’s contest. (photo courtesy of A Little Warm ...

There is a snowman made of sand. A tree made of crab traps. Christmas parades — by boat. The traditions are few of many on an endless December calendar. Here are the stories of how the Coast’s ...