For Immediate Release: December 12, 2025
Join the City of Malibu for the “Palisades Fire Remembrance: Finding Strength in Community,” a Healing Moment to Mark One Year Since the Palisades Fire
(Malibu, CA) — December 12, 2025 — On January 7, 2026, the City of Malibu will mark one year since the Palisades Fire devastated our community, with “Palisades Fire Commemoration: Finding Strength in Community,” a time to reflect on the profound impact the fire had on all of Malibu.
“The one-year mark reminds us of both the pain we experienced and the strength we discovered in one another,” said Mayor Marianne Riggins. “Through loss, uncertainty, and recovery, our community has shown extraordinary resilience. As we look ahead, we remain focused on supporting every resident, honoring what we’ve overcome, and building a future rooted in hope and long-term restoration.”
This commemoration is a time to recognize the challenges and traumatic losses we have endured, and reaffirm our shared commitment to healing, rebuilding and moving forward.
The Palisades Fire stands as the greatest disaster the City of Malibu has ever endured. It tore through the community, destroying more than 700 structures, displacing families, and leaving entire neighborhoods reduced to smoldering ruins. It was part of a historic regional disaster that took many more lives and thousands of homes, and we stand in solidarity with our fellow communities that experienced this tragedy.
In the wake of the Palisades Fire, the City was left traumatized, its landscape transformed and its collective heart wounded. Yet even amid the ashes, the resilience of Malibu’s people began to take shape, as neighbors supported one another and the long, difficult path toward healing and recovery quietly began.
Wednesday, January 7, 4:00 to 6:00 PM
Malibu City Hall (23825 Stuart Ranch Road)
Live streamed on the City’s YouTube Channel
No RSVPs needed
A formal program will take place from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM offering space for remembrance and reflection. The program will include a native Chumash blessing, a moment of silence for the three community members who lost their lives, and a remembrance poem written for the occasion by Charlotte Ward, Malibu Poet Laureate. A reception will follow with light food, a memorial space, and an art gallery paying tribute to first responders and community members.
