San Diego will host a mix of returning favorites and exciting new additions this year, making it the perfect destination to soak up the holiday spirit. From outdoor ice skating under the stars to savoring festive treats at local markets, there's no shortage of ways to make this holiday season memorable. Below is a comprehensive list of holiday events and attractions all around San Diego County to help you plan your perfect holiday experience.
Surfin' Santa at Seaport Village (Saturday, November 30, 2024, 12–4pm) - Kick off the holidays with Surfin’ Santa at Seaport Village! The festive afternoon includes Santa’s arrival via watercraft, a parade along the boardwalk, photos, live music, entertainment, and a snowfall finale at Malibu Farm. Free to attend.
Julian Country Christmas Tree Lighting (Saturday, November 30, 12-7pm), Head to Julian Town Square to kick off the holiday season with a small town joy-filled Christmas tree lighting in the beautiful Cuyamaca mountains. Guests can enjoy music and holiday performances throughout the afternoon, a Christmas market, along with greetings from Santa. Free to attend. 
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Tree Lighting Celebration at The Forum Carlsbad (Friday, December 6, 6-9pm) - Don't miss this celebration featuring live entertainment by Crown City Bombers, festive characters, Santa's grand entrance, the official Christmas tree lighting, a spectacular light show, magical snowfall, and photo opportunities with Santa.
San Diego Opera Making Merry Holiday Concert (Saturday, December 7, 7:30pm) San Diego Opera will be accompanied by special guest stars for a heartwarming holiday concert, showcasing music that spans centuries and styles. The performance, Making Merry, will feature an array of seasonal songs, carols, modern hits, and timeless holiday classics at the historic Balboa Theatre. Tickets required. 
Gaslamp Pet Parade & Pups in the Pub Party (Saturday, December 14, 11am-4pm) - Adorable pets dressed in holiday attire parade through the Gaslamp Quarter, with photo ops, vendors, and games. After the parade, head to Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter for a festive pup-friendly party. Parade registration: $25.
Surfin' Santa at Seaport Village (Saturday, November 30, 2024, 12–4pm) - Kick off the holidays with Surfin’ Santa at Seaport Village! The festive afternoon includes Santa’s arrival via watercraft, a parade along the boardwalk, photos, live music, entertainment, and a snowfall finale at Malibu Farm. Free to attend.
Leslie Odom Jr. Christmas Tour at Jacobs Music Center (Saturday, November 30, 7:30pm) - Leslie Odom, Jr. brings a night of holiday hits to Jacobs Music Center – including selections from his release The Christmas Album, which Broadway World said "infuses love, joy, and merriment into the holiday season."
East Village Tree Lighting & Holiday Market (Saturday, November 30, 4-8pm) - Families and friends can experience the joy of the Christmas tree lighting led by the East Village Association and San Diego’s elected officials. Guests can experience a festive evening featuring a curated holiday market by San Diego Markets, live music, delicious foods, fun activities for the kids, and photos with Santa.
Chula Vista Tree Lighting & Holiday Market (Sunday, December 1, 3-6pm) - Celebrate the season with a tree lighting ceremony, live carolers, and extended Farmers Market hours offering unique shopping and holiday treats. Free to attend.
Red Ribbon Gala (Friday, December 1) - Join Impulse San Diego for the Red Ribbon Gala in honor of World AIDS Day 2024. Hosted by drag queen Chad Michaels, the evening will focus on reducing AIDS-related stigma, honoring those affected by HIV, and supporting efforts to end the epidemic. Enjoy live music, auctions, and gourmet dining, with all proceeds benefiting POZabilities.
Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Fairmont Grand Del Mar (Monday, December 2, 5-10pm) - Celebrate the magic of the season with a tree lighting ceremony, featuring a stunning 25-foot holiday tree. $20 adults and children, ages 3 and younger complimentary.
32 Annual Ramona Christmas Tree Lighting (Monday, December 2, 5-9pm) - Celebrate the season with the Ramona Chamber of Commerce, featuring a tree lighting at 7 pm, holiday decorations, late shopping, live music, vendors, kids crafts, dancing, carolers, and Santa photo ops. Free to attend.
Bucket Blitz by The Salvation Army (Sunday, December 3) - The Salvation Army hosts its annual fundraising event with a goal of raising $10,000 to support its programs. Festivities include activities and performances by the Salvation Army Brass Band. Morning events will take place at Peterson’s Donut Corner in Escondido, followed by an afternoon event from 12 to 6 p.m. at Belmont Park in Mission Beach.
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Andrea Bocelli at Pechanga Arena (Wednesday, December 4, 7:30pm) - One of the world's most famous opera singers, Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli will take the stage at Pechanga Arena for one night only, performing his extensive repertoire, including music in honor of the Holiday Season. Tickets required.
Holiday Open House and Tree Lighting at Cape Rey (Thursday, December 5, 5:30-8 pm) - Celebrate the season at Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach Resort with a tree lighting, stroll through the Kris Kringle Market, and snap family photos with Santa. The evening features live performances, crafts, cookie decorating, and complimentary cocoa and cider. Plus, a portion of Chandler’s dining proceeds benefits the Carlsbad Education Foundation. Tickets are free and available online.
Oceanside Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony & Market (Thursday, December 5, 5-9pm) - Celebrate the holiday season in Oceanside with a festive Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 pm and family-friendly activities, followed by Holiday Sunset Markets every Thursday in Downtown Oceanside throughout December. Free to attend.
Jingle and Mingle (Thursday, December 5, 5:30-7:30pm) - Support the Community Resource Center at Jingle and Mingle, hosted at Lomas Santa Fe Country Club. This festive evening offers an opportunity to raise funds for those facing hunger, homelessness, and trauma this winter while connecting with the community over holiday cheer.
Balboa Park December Nights (Friday, December 6, 3-11pm; Saturday, December 7, 11am-11pm) - This is one of San Diego's most iconic annual events and features free museum access, live music, light displays, and international foods. Join 350,000 annual attendees at one of the city's most amazing holiday attractions. Admission is free.
Fallbrook Tree Lighting Festival (Friday, December 6, 5-7:30pm) - Join The Friendly Town of Fallbrook for entertainment, shopping booths, local non-profits, community outreach groups, food, and much more! Free to attend.
Coronado Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting (Friday, December 6, 6-7pm) - Celebrate the holidays on Coronado Island with a festive parade down Orange Avenue, sing-alongs, and the lighting of a 120-foot tall Christmas tree adorned with 18,175 twinkling lights at Rotary Plaza. The parade features over 1,400 enthusiastic participants and thousands of spectators lining the streets. Free to attend.
30th Annual Lighting of the Encinitas Heritage Tree (Friday, December 6, 4-6pm) - Celebrate the 30th Annual Lighting of the Encinitas Heritage Tree at Moonlight Beach, featuring a performance by Hall of Fame songwriter Jack Tempchin, holiday carols, local choirs, and a festive arrival by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Free to attend.
Carols by Candlelight (Saturday, December 6 & Sunday, December 7, 8 pm) - Experience the magic of Carols by Candlelight at California Center for the Arts Escondido Since 1990, this festive event has featured country stars singing Christmas carols and hits, with net proceeds benefiting Rady Children's Hospital San Diego. Tickets required.
SnowSide: A Family-Friendly Winter Festival (Friday, December 6 through Sunday, December 8, 5-9pm) - PierClub and Emerald Isle Golf Course in Oceanside invite the community to celebrate the holiday season at SnowSide, a 3-day family friendly winter festival. Experience this one-of-a-kind holiday event never seen before in North County. There will be real snow and sledding, Santa Claus, Christmas trees, live entertainment, silent disco, food, drinks and much more. Tickets start at $20.
Earth Day in the Garden (Saturday, December 7) - Join GroundWork San Diego for Earth Lab Day in the Garden to explore sustainable gardening and environmental education. Learn about planting and invasive species removal while participating in hands-on projects to support the Earth Lab’s mission.
Scripps Candlelight Ball (Saturday, December 7) - The exclusive Scripps Candlelight Ball returns to the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. This black-tie event features cocktails, dinner, and a program supporting the Scripps Health Foundation.
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade (Saturday, December 7, 2024, 5pm) - Enjoy a quirky holiday parade down Newport Avenue featuring floats, bands, classic Woodies, and festive fun. Free to attend.
South Park Winter Walkabout (Saturday, December 7, 5-9pm) - Enjoy a fun evening of festive food, live music, shopping and other specials to kick off the holidays. The night will start with a special marquee sign lighting ceremony in front of Native Poppy in Grape Street Square. Free to attend.
Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village (Saturday, December 7, 4-8pm) - India Street transforms into a festive wonderland featuring a Christmas Village, holiday market, live music, kids’ crafts, and photos with Santa. At 6:30pm, enjoy the iconic tree lighting ceremony at Piazza Della Famiglia. Free to attend.
8th Annual Makers Market at Carlsbad Village (Saturday, December 7, 9am-4pm) - Shop for one-of-a-kind holiday treasures at the 8th Annual Holiday Makers Market in Carlsbad Village at St. Michael's by-the Sea Episcopal Church. This outdoor event features nearly 50 talented Southern California artisans offering handmade, upcycled, and vintage creations, from woodworking and leatherwork to artisan foods. Free to attend.
San Marcos Tree Lighting (December 7, 5:35pm) - Attend the annual tree lighting event featuring free festive crafts, activities, vendors, snacks, and courtyard entertainment, culminating in a magical 'snow' experience right after the tree lighting. There will also be a market with local vendors selling gifts.
Creativity in Motion Encinitas Holiday Parade (Saturday, December 7, 5-7:30pm) - Thousands of people will be on floats and in bands with tens of thousands more cheering them on as the Encinitas Holiday Parade rolls along Coast Highway 101. The parade begins at 5:30pm, preceded by a 5pm tree lighting ceremony with a brief appearance by Santa at the Lumberyard Shops courtyard. Free to attend.
43rd Annual Fallbrook Christmas Parade (Saturday, December 7, 5pm) - Themed "Festival of Lights," this parade features Santa, lighted floats, music, marching bands, dancers, and classic cars along Main Street in downtown Fallbrook. Free to attend.
Vista Holiday Parade (Saturday, December 7, from 1-3pm) - The Vista Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its 66th Annual Vista Christmas Parade. Attendees can decorate their floats and enjoy the Christmas cheer with this year's theme being "Christmas at the Movies."
Winter Wonderland (Saturday, December 7 & Sunday, December 8, 1-5pm) - Experience the magic of the holidays at the California Center for the Arts with real snow, festive crafts, and a visit with Santa. Browse local vendors for holiday shopping, and warm up with delicious food and drinks. Admission is free, and donations help keep this community tradition alive.
Holly Jolly Holiday Market in North City (Sunday, December 8, 10 am-4 pm) - Get into the holiday spirit at the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce's Holly Jolly Holiday Market in North City. With over 150 stalls, you can shop for unique gifts and decorations while enjoying hot chocolate, live music, food, craft beer, and mini-horses. Don’t miss out on “Rescue Row” for pet adoptions, and keep an eye out for a special guest - Santa himself. Free to attend.
Del Mar Village Winter Taste & Sip (Sunday, December 8, 1-4pm) - Savor the season’s flavors at Del Mar’s Winter Taste & Sip event! Stroll through festive streets, sampling delicious dishes from top Del Mar Village restaurants. Enjoy refreshing drinks at “Sip Stops” across downtown, while live music and holiday activities add to the charm. Tickets are $50.
Makers & Shakers Small Business Holiday Market (Sunday, December 8, 11am-4 pm) - Head to Rancho Guejito Vineyard in Escondido to explore local treasures with 70+ vendors, free Santa photos, family and pet-friendly fun, including face painting, DIY crafts, giveaways, dog rescue, mini golf, bounce house, vineyard hay rides, live music, and a variety of goods like clothing, home decor, candles, skincare, art, desserts, and more. Free to attend.
Solana Beach Holiday Tree Lighting at Fletcher Cove Park (Sunday, December 8, 4:30-7pm) - Experience the annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Fletcher Cove, a free family-friendly celebration with sweets, treats, and Santa's arrival by fire-truck escort at 5:20pm against the beautiful ocean backdrop.
San Marcos Holiday Parade (Sunday, December 8, 1pm) Celebrate "A BEARY Merry Christmas" with floats and entries commemorating 120 years of Teddy Bears, supported by 12 local Kiwanis Division 37 clubs, and enjoy the 2.5-mile parade route from Palomar College to the Civic Center. Free to attend.
SoNo Fest & Chili Cookoff (Sunday, December 8, 11am-5pm) - This annual event combines chili tastings from dozens of local restaurants, holiday shopping, a beer garden and live entertainment in North Park. Admission is free with tastings starting at $25.
La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival (Sunday, December 8, 1:30pm) - Enjoy holiday entertainment, photos with Santa, and a parade themed "Palm Trees and Poinsettias - A California Christmas." Free to attend.
Del Mar Village North Pole by the Sea and Tree Lighting (Sunday, December 8, 1-5pm)
Delight in a tree lighting ceremony, photos with Santa, carolers, holiday crafts, and free parking for holiday shoppers in Del Mar Village. Free to attend; photos with Santa require tickets.
Delight in a tree lighting ceremony, photos with Santa, carolers, holiday crafts, and free parking for holiday shoppers in Del Mar Village. Free to attend; photos with Santa require tickets.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights (Sundays, December 8 & 15, 2024, 5:30-9pm) - Watch over 80 private boats decorated with dazzling holiday lights sail along San Diego Bay. Best viewing spots include Shelter Island, Coronado Island Marriott Resort, Coronado Ferry Landing and along San Diego's Embarcadero. Free to watch.
Hillcrest Taste 'N' Tinis (Thursday, December 12, 5–9pm) - Enjoy holiday-inspired sip and stroll through participating Hillcrest restaurants and bars and retail stores. Tickets required and include beverages and a mini martini cup.
Queen Bee's Gala (Thursday, December 12) - Celebrate community and culture at Queen Bee’s Arts and Cultural Center. This gala fundraiser includes live performances, a silent auction, and a buffet dinner. Proceeds will help cover moving costs and preserve the historic venue at 3925 Ohio Street.
Tinsel and Tails: The Animal Pad's Holiday Extravaganza (Friday, December 13) - Celebrate the season with TAP at the 4th Annual Tinsel & Tails Holiday Extravaganza at BRICK in Liberty Station. This free, family- and dog-friendly event features holiday fun for all ages, including festive activities for pups.
Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular Del Mar (December 13-26, 4-9pm) - Experience a magical holiday at the Del Mar Fairgrounds with a dazzling light display, eco-friendly skating rink, Holiday Market, Frosty’s Fun Zone, free Santa photos, festive lounges, and seasonal treats.
Poway's Christmas in the Park (Friday, December 13, 5:30-8:30pm, and Saturday, December 14, 3:30-8:30pm) - Old Poway Park hosts an old-fashioned Christmas celebration with Santa visits, live music, theater performances, crafts, and treats. Admission is free, with shuttle service available from local parking lots.
Santa's Sleigh Ride (Friday, December 13, 2:30-5pm) - Join the City of Solana Beach and the Solana Beach Parks and Recreation Commission as Santa rides with local fire, sheriff, and marine safety personnel. The sleigh ride will start and end at the Solana Beach Fire Station. Check the map to see when Santa will be near you.
Christmas in Valley Center (Friday, December 13, 4-8pm & December 14, 9 am-3 pm) Head to Bates Nut Farm to join in for Santa's arrival by fire truck, a Polar Express hayride, and festive fun including free crafts, bounce houses, inflatable slides, and more. Enjoy food vendors, holiday treats, and special activities like free pony rides. Don’t miss the Children’s Entrepreneur Market, where kids run their own stalls on Saturday from 10am–3pm.
San Diego Symphony's Noel Noel Concert (December 13-15, 7:30pm) - Experience the San Diego Symphony's holiday tradition, Noel Noel, inside at the new Jacobs Music Center. Featuring favorite songs including "I'll be Home for Christmas, "Silent Night" and "Slight Ride", the evening will be full of Christmas classics, sing-alongs, holiday cheer and jolly spirit, featuring Mrs. Claus.
Love Thy Neighborhood Joy Drive (December 13–16) - The Joy Drive expands the OB Holiday Food and Toy Drive, spreading holiday spirit across the Ocean Beach community. Participate in joyful activities by donating, volunteering, or registering for these festive events in partnership with Love Thy Neighbor.
Pacific Beach Holiday Parade (Saturday, December 14, 1pm) - Celebrate the holidays in Pacific Beach with a parade featuring marching bands, local community groups, floats, businesses and dancing groups. The parade route is on Garnet Ave from Haines to Bayard Streets. Free to watch.
Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights (Saturday, December 14, 7-9pm) - Fishing boats, yachts, and kayaks dressed in holiday lights parade through Oceanside Harbor. Best viewing areas are near the fishing dock and police station. Free to watch.
Santa Run (Saturday, December 14, 8am & 10am) - Don your best Santa suit and join thousands of other St. Nicks at this fun 5k run along the beach, complete with festive activities. Pre-registration is required.
La Mesa's Holiday in the Village (Saturday, December 14, 2024, 12-9pm) - Downtown La Mesa transforms into a Victorian wonderland with live music, craft vendors, fire pits, photos with Santa, and synthetic ice skating. Free to attend.
Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights (December 14, 5:30pm) - Organized by the Mission Bay Yacht Club for decades, this dazzling event showcases a spectacular display of creativity and holiday spirit as boats adorned with brilliant lights glide across the sparkling waters of Mission Bay. Many area hotels and properties also offer fun actives during the event and SeaWorld holds a spectacular fireworks display that same night.
Escondido Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival (Saturday, December 14, 10am-5pm) - Start off with the Jaycees Christmas Paraded then head to Grape Day Park for a holiday festival, featuring live performances, music, craft vendors, tasty treats, and Santa Claus spreading cheer with toy giveaways in our close-knit community. Free to attend.
Holidays at Hotel del Coronado (November 21-January 5) - The historic Hotel del Coronado hosts a variety of activities, including Skating by the Sea, gingerbread house decorating, and holiday movies on the beach. This year's theme, "Lights, Camera, Holiday!," showcases Old Hollywood-style decorations. While this is usually a top tier destination for San Diego holiday decor, we have been informed that this year is a bit underwhelming due to ongoing renovations of the exterior of the property. Activity reservations are recommended. Costs vary by activity.
SantaCon Festival (Saturday, December 14) - All things Santa come together at Belmont Park for this third annual music festival, featuring a full blown Christmas Winter wonderland, tons of live music and much more. Tickets required.
Toys for Joy (Saturday, December 14) - Southwest High School hosts the 28th annual Toys for Joy event, providing free toys, groceries, and more to families in need. Volunteers and donations help bring holiday cheer to thousands.
The Red Nose Run (Saturday, December 14) - Join the festive Red Nose Run for a 3K or 5K to support Semper Fi & America’s Fund and the San Dieguito River Park. Suit up in your holiday gear and enjoy a run that gives back to the community.
Faces with Purpose: 7th Annual "A Lupus Christmas" - (Sunday, December 15) - Attend a panel discussion raising awareness about Lupus and its impact on individuals in San Diego. Proceeds support Lupus Awareness initiatives and the Inspire SD Youth Winter Camp.
Cruising Into The Holidays Fiesta Navidad at The Rady Shell (Sunday, December 15, 5pm) - San Diego Symphony presents a free holiday celebration at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. To begin the festivities, concertgoers can view lowrider cars and bikes on display in the parking lot outside Gate 2 and in the venue’s Sycuan Community Plaza. Mariachi Los Camperos and Ballet Folklórico Chiquina Palafox will take stage at 5pm and perform a 90-minute set of Christmas songs along with dance. At around 6:45pm, the 54th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights will cruise past The Shell. This is a free event, however, tickets are required in order to attend.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet (Monday, December 16, 7pm) - Give the gift of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet! to the whole family. Celebrate America’s favorite Christmas tradition at Jacobs Music Center with an international all-star cast that blends world class ballet with whimsical puppets, lavish costumes and stunning acrobatics. Share the tradition of pure Holiday magic and Tchaikovsky's timeless score with friends and family of all ages. Tickets required.
Jingle Jets Fundraiser (Wednesday, December 18, 6pm) - The USS Midway in downtown San Diego will host a dazzling winter wonderland party for Jingle Jets, a festive event dedicated to supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This family-friendly celebration invites attendees aboard the iconic aircraft carrier for an evening of holiday magic and charitable giving. Tickets required.
Voctave "It Feels Like Christmas" Holiday Concert (Thursday, December 19, 7:30pm) - Head to the beautiful Jacobs Music Center in downtown San Diego to enjoy Voctave’s holiday spectacular "It Feels Like Christmas". This concert includes a stocking full of holiday favorites from their chart-topping album and is sure to be a magical evening of music for the whole family. Jazz Weekly raves, "Voctave brings a cappella music to a new dimension." Tickets available online.
Vista Cowboy Christmas (Friday, December 20, 5-9pm) - Discover Vista will be hosting its very first Cowboy Christmas event, featuring line dancing, bull riding, county BBQ, live country music, and more. So put on your best boots, grab your honey, and mosey on down to Downtown Vista.
Ohana Holiday Run and Toy Drive (Saturday, December 21) - This family-friendly 5K and 1K fun run benefits children in need through a toy drive. The race begins and ends at De Anza Cove in Mission Bay.
The Nutcracker Ballet by City Ballet (December 20–23) - Watch a magical journey to the Land of Sweets at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. Tickets required.
Elf in Concert (Saturday, December 21 & Sunday, December 22) - Experience your favorite Christmas film transformed with the music of a live symphony orchestra in Elf in Concert at Jacobs Music Center in Downtown San Diego. For the first time ever, audiences can rediscover the magic of this holiday classic while a live symphony orchestra performs John Debney's wonderful score and Santa Claus soars across the big screen in high-definition.
The Salvation Army Annual Christmas Meal (Wednesday, December 25) - Join The Salvation Army in providing holiday meals to those in need. Volunteers can assist with meal preparation, decoration, serving, or delivery. Donations are also welcome to support local families.
Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Bash + Bowl Parade (Thursday, December 26, 5-8pm and Friday, December 27, 10am) - University bands face off in the Gaslamp Quarter with live music, food, games, and family fun. Then, America’s largest balloon parade returns, featuring floats, balloons, and marching bands along San Diego Bay. Free to watch; registration required for the accompanying 5K run.
San Diego Bay Cruises (Various dates in December 2024) - City Cruises in Downtown San Diego, Bahia Belle in Mission Bay, and San Diego Bay's Flagship Cruises all offer festive holiday dining cruises on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. Check their calendar online for pricing and availability.
Winter Wonders Tour in Bonsall (December 14, 21-23, 28, and 30-31) - Explore the enchanting Winter Wonders and Holiday Lights tour at Wild Wonders Bonsall animal refuge, where nocturnal creatures come to life amidst festive decorations on a 5-acre facility. Price is $42 for Adults 12+ years and $22 for children 5-11 years.
Jingle Terrace Live (December 6-21, 5:30-8:30pm) - The City of Vista and Moonlight Amphitheatre's free holiday event features light shows, refreshments, festive displays, live entertainment, photo opportunities, and other special surprises. Admission, parking, and all activities are free.
Holiday Market at Petco Park (December 5-27, 2024, select dates) - Experience a Christmas wonderland with light displays, a 40-foot tree, a Christmas Train, Santa, reindeer, and live entertainment. Enjoy festive treats and shop for unique gifts at artisanal vendors. Tickets are $12 for kids, $15 for adults.
Lakehouse Winter Wonderland (December 6-29) - Experience the magic of the season at Lakehouse Resort's Winter Wonderland in San Marcos. Kids can enjoy the Frozen Fun Zone, complete with a train ride, s'mores, and Santa photos (Saturdays only). For a more exclusive experience, enjoy dining in a Grand Igloo or intimate Igloo. The event has a $5 entry fee for guests 10 years and older. Hotel guests enjoy complimentary admission.
Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo (December 12-January 4, during regular Zoo hours) - Experience colorful light displays, Santa's acrobatic elves, and holiday entertainment. Included with Zoo admission.
San Diego Trolley's Holiday Lights Tour (December 1-23 & 26-30) - Hop on the trolley for a guided tour of San Diego’s best holiday light displays. Enjoy festive music and seasonal cheer along the way. Ticket prices vary.
Holiday Lights at AGSEM (Weekends December 6-21, 5-9pm) - Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum's Holiday Lights. Enjoy a dazzling display of twinkling lights, charming vintage exhibits, and festive decorations. Take a hayride or train ride through the illuminated pathways.
North Pole Limited Train Ride (Fridays & Saturdays, November 29-December 21) - Departing from Campo Depot, this magical train ride includes hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Ticket prices are up to $50 per person.
SeaWorld San Diego-s Christmas Celebration (November 15-January 5, during regular park hours) - Celebrate the season with Santa, Rudolph, light tunnels, and over a million Christmas lights. Included with park admission.
Holidays at LEGOLAND California (November 23-January 5, during regular park hours) - Enjoy a 30-foot LEGO Christmas tree, holiday décor, live entertainment, and the Kids’ New Year’s Eve ball drop. Included with park admission.
Liberty Station's Salute the Season (Various dates, November-December) - This celebration includes events like the Holiday Tree Lighting (November 29), Nutcracker Tea Party (December 22), Hannukah Menorah Lighting (December 26), and the Rady Children’s Ice Rink. Ice skating proceeds benefit Rady Children’s Hospital. Check Liberty Station's website for specific event dates and costs.
Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park (November 15-January 5, during regular park hours) - Stroll through colorful light displays, sip hot cocoa, and enjoy live performances and holiday cheer. Included with park admission.
A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place San Diego (November 9-January 5) - Celebrate with your favorite Sesame Street characters, tree lightings, and holiday-themed shows. Included with park admission.
Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden (November 15-January 5) - Stroll a mile-long trail of illuminated art installations and light displays. Tickets required.
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (November 6-December 31) - See the whimsical musical at The Old Globe Theatre. Tickets available in advance.
Cygnet Theatre's A Christmas Carol (November 29-December 24) - Enjoy the timeless magic of Charles Dickens’ tale of hope and redemption with exciting new elements, including fresh original music, an expanded storyline, and a revitalized script. Tickets required.
Jingle Jets on the USS Midway (November 22-December 23) - Experience the magic of the season at the USS Midway Museum's 2nd Annual Jingle Jets Holiday Lighting Celebration. The iconic aircraft carrier transforms into a festive wonderland on the sea, illuminated with 750,000 sparkling lights from bow to stern. Enjoy whimsical holiday music, delicious treats, and festive fun for the entire family in this unique holiday experience.
Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story Told by Jefferson Mays - (December 12-22) - The Old Globe Theater is offering 10 performances of the beloved Charles Dickens story, starring Tony Award winner Jefferson Mays. Tickets required.
Visit a Decked-Out San Diego Bar or Restaurant - Restaurant, bars and hotels across San Diego transform into festive holiday havens with over-the-top décor, themed cocktails, and plenty of holiday cheer. Our recommendations include The Lafayette Hotel in North Park, Queenstown Public House in Little Italy, Barbarella in La Jolla Shores, Draft in Mission Beach, InsideOut in Hillcrest, Aero Club in Middletown, and Nolita Hall in Little Italy, to name a few, but check out our full list here.
Outdoor Ice Skating in San Diego - Skate under the stars, by the beach or in the mountains at venues like Hotel del Coronado, Viejas Outlet Center, Julian and Liberty Station's Rady Ice Rink. Prices and dates vary.
Christmas Light Displays - There are several San Diego neighborhoods that go all-out for the holiday season. Plan a visit to one or more of the following to see homes that even Clark Griswold would envy:
- Candy Cane Lane (Poway) - A North Pole-themed cul-de-sac with homes featuring over 50,000 lights each. Location: Hickory Court and nearby streets.
- Christmas Card Lane (Rancho Penasquitos) - Homes along Ellingham, Renato and Oviedo Streets feature giant illuminated Christmas cards and elaborate light displays.
- Belardo Lights (Tierrasanta) - A single home offers an incredible light show synced to music (tune into FM 106.1). Location: 5306 North Belardo Drive.
- Christmas Circle (Chula Vista) Heat to Whitney and Mankato Streets in San Diego's South Bay city of Chula Vista for a neighborhood light display.
- Garrison Street (Point Loma) - Walk or drive through this upscale neighborhood where homes are densely decorated with colorful lights. Location: Garrison Street near Chatsworth.
- Christmas Park (Clairemont) - Location: Lana Drive and Jamar Drive.
- Merry-tage Court (Scripps Ranch) - Location: Merritage Court and Stonebridge Parkway.
- Fairway Village (Carmel Mountain Ranch) - Location: Stoney Gate Place.
- Forward House( Bankers Hill) - Location: 108 Ivy Street.
- Jingle Bell Hill (El Cajon) - Location: Pepper Drive.
- Tinsel Town (Lakeside) - Location: 10248 Paseo Palmas Drive.
- Starlight Circle (Santee) - Location: Tomel Court.
San Diego is also home to many organizations making a difference in our communities, and they rely on volunteers like you to continue their impactful work. Whether you're passionate about helping underserved youth, protecting the environment, or supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, there's a cause that needs your support. Explore opportunities to get involved and make a meaningful impact this season through the KPBS Everyday Heroes volunteer series, which showcases the incredible efforts of volunteers across the region and provides a comprehensive resource to find ways to give back and connect with causes you care about.
Make this holiday season unforgettable by exploring the magic of San Diego's festive attractions. But most importantly, embrace gratitude and enjoy the time spent with loved ones.
If we're missing any events, send us an email to [email protected] and we'll update this list.
Originally published on November 28, 2024.
