Toluca Lake, CA – December 2023 – The Toluca Lake community celebrated its 100th anniversary with a dazzling Holiday Open House on December 1, 2023. This memorable event combined festive cheer and strong community bonds, showcasing a rich tapestry of joy, entertainment, and shared memories.
The celebration began with holiday music, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The John Burroughs High School Muse Choir’s performance set a joyful tone for the evening. Fritz Coleman, Toluca Lake’s Honorary Mayor and an Emmy© Award-Winning Stand-Up Comedian, served as the emcee, introducing various dignitaries, community leaders, and celebrities. Attendees included Gabriela Agarie, representing U.S. Congressman Tony Cardenas, L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Assemblymember Laura Friedman, Ret. Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian, and Los Angeles City Council President Paul Krekorian.
The evening’s highlights included appearances by Warner Bros. Discovery’s Looney Tunes character Bugs Bunny, Santa Claus, and a photo pop-up from NBC/Universal for their new film ‘Migration’. The Christmas Tree Lighting and a centennial car parade by The Road Kings added to the festivities.
Over a hundred local businesses along Riverside Drive joined the celebration, offering food, gifts, and entertainment. The Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce and Beautification Partners played pivotal roles in organizing the event, with special acknowledgments to Former Chamber President Tim Hawkins and the Garry Marshall Theatre for their artistic contributions.
The event also featured legendary DJ Rick Dees, and appearances by Emmy® Award-Winning Actress Carolyn Hennesy, Emmy® Nominated Actress Patrika Darbo, and Actor Jeremy Miller. It honored the contributions of the Toluca Lake Homeowner’s Association, the Greater Toluca Lake Neighborhood Council, and other local leaders.
Sponsors like Kevin Dees, the Office of City Council President Paul Krekorian, Compass Realty, Hampar Properties, Toluca Lake Magazine, and Warner Bros. Discovery supported the event. The night continued with performances from the John Burroughs Muse Choir, the Toluca Lake Elementary School Spirit Squad, and The Jingle Singers, culminating in a lively dance party with DJ Lord Anthony Advincula.
Special thanks were given to Jackie Lewis Media, Astro Audio and Video, and the Road Kings of Burbank for their roles in the event’s success. Red Maple Restaurant, now on Riverside Drive, also contributed significantly, known for their unique beverage offerings.
This centennial celebration was more than an event; it symbolized the enduring spirit and unity of Toluca Lake, marking a century of growth and resilience. The Toluca Lake community looks forward to another century of shared success and community spirit.
ABOUT TOLUCA LAKE: Toluca Lake’s centennial reflects its historical significance in Los Angeles’ cultural and entertainment history. Having attracted Hollywood legends like Bob Hope and Frank Sinatra, it remains a vibrant community dedicated to preserving its rich heritage and fostering unity. The centennial not only honors its past but also celebrates its ongoing resilience and spirit.