December Nights began in 1978 as "Christmas on the Prado," a modest event focused on showcasing the unique museums and cultural institutions of Balboa Park. Over the years, it has grown into a two-day extravaganza attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors with its dazzling light displays, global cuisine, live performances, and family-friendly activities.
This year, December Nights offers several exciting additions, including the reopening of the Balboa Park Botanical Building. After years of renovation, this historic structure will welcome visitors with limited hours on Friday, December 6, from 3 to 7pm, and Saturday, December 7, from noon to 6pm.
A 45-foot Ferris wheel makes its debut in the family zone, offering free rides for all. The area will also feature a SeaWorld animal show, ensuring fun for visitors of all ages. Returning this year is the popular half-pipe skateboarding exhibition, adding an adrenaline rush to the holiday cheer.
For music lovers, the House of Pacific Relations will host live performances, with Grammy-winning band Ozomatli headlining on Saturday. Visitors can also enjoy holiday movie screenings of Elf and Home Alone on the lawn outside the Comic-Con Museum, as well as music and dance performances at the Palms Stage and Plaza de Panama Stage.
Foodies will have no shortage of options, with over 200 food and beverage vendors spread across Balboa Park. The House of Pacific Relations' international cottages will showcase the flavors of 33 countries, offering global delicacies, unique drinks, and one-of-a-kind shopping. Food trucks will also set up near the Morton Bay Fig Tree, serving a variety of casual dining options to satisfy any craving.
For music lovers, the House of Pacific Relations will host live performances, with Grammy-winning band Ozomatli headlining on Saturday. Visitors can also enjoy holiday movie screenings of Elf and Home Alone on the lawn outside the Comic-Con Museum, as well as music and dance performances at the Palms Stage and Plaza de Panama Stage.
Foodies will have no shortage of options, with over 200 food and beverage vendors spread across Balboa Park. The House of Pacific Relations' international cottages will showcase the flavors of 33 countries, offering global delicacies, unique drinks, and one-of-a-kind shopping. Food trucks will also set up near the Morton Bay Fig Tree, serving a variety of casual dining options to satisfy any craving.
Don’t miss the tree lighting ceremony at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, scheduled for Friday at 6pm. Another must-see is the Christmas Tree Story production, taking place at the Pavilion from 8:30-10pm on both nights.
Free parking is available at nearby lots, including the San Diego Zoo and San Diego City College. Paid parking ranges from $27.95 to $45 in advance, with additional options at Roosevelt Middle School for $40 per space. Free shuttle services will run between Balboa Park and key locations, including stops at Third Avenue and Beech Street, 16th and B streets, and the San Diego Zoo. Public transportation via the MTS bus routes 3, 7, and 120 provides a convenient alternative, with fares at $2.50 one way, while youth aged 18 and under ride free with a Pronto card or app. There will also be designated storage areas available for those biking or scootering to the event.
For detailed event schedules, maps, and FAQs, visit decembernights.org.
Free parking is available at nearby lots, including the San Diego Zoo and San Diego City College. Paid parking ranges from $27.95 to $45 in advance, with additional options at Roosevelt Middle School for $40 per space. Free shuttle services will run between Balboa Park and key locations, including stops at Third Avenue and Beech Street, 16th and B streets, and the San Diego Zoo. Public transportation via the MTS bus routes 3, 7, and 120 provides a convenient alternative, with fares at $2.50 one way, while youth aged 18 and under ride free with a Pronto card or app. There will also be designated storage areas available for those biking or scootering to the event.
For detailed event schedules, maps, and FAQs, visit decembernights.org.
