A group of 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrids drive down the Santa Monica Pier during the ‘Think Blue. World Championship 2012’ competition on Tuesday, November 27, 2012. The drivers competed in a fuel efficiency challenge from San Francisco to Santa Monica. Driver who completed the run with the lowest fuel consumption was the winner. There were 17 countries competing in the race. Germany took first place with a mileage of 49.9 miles per gallon. The Volkswagen fuel saving championship shows that environmentally aware driving is just as challenging as any other driving competition – but much better for the environment. More conscious driving can cut fuel consumption by up to 25%.

Ken Reilly and his brother Keith decorate the 14-foot Christmas tree at the California Heritages Museum  on Monday, November 26, 2012. The Tree-lighting ceremony will be on Saturday Dec. 1, and will feature caroling by  the Samohi Choir and music by Off Their Jingle Bell Rockers and Green Brooms Music Academy.

The Living Christmas Company rents live, potted trees for the holidays at the Santa Monica Farmers Market on Sunday, November 25, 2012. After Christmas they will pick up your tree and return it to their nursery until next year. You can even watch your tree grow as your family grows by adopting the same tree year-after-year.

The Creating Arts Company's  Wizard of Oz  cast walk through the Third Street Promenade after performing at Promenade Playhouse & Conservatory on Saturday, November 24, 2012. The show runs through December 16.

Gobble Wobble - Images by Fabian Lewkowicz

Participants run on California Ave during the 4th annual Santa Monica Gobble Wobble 5K on Saturday, November 24, 2012.

Santa Monica Pier Maintenance Personnel Robert Griffin (right) and Anthony Zepeda install an 8 foot Christmas Tree at the Santa Monica Pier on Wednesday, November 21, 2012.

Maintenance crew install a no smoking sign at the Santa Monica Pier on Monday, November 19. 2012.