With the holidays in full swing, the city of San Diego is bursting with Christmas cheer. Although San Diego can’t offer you a white Christmas, there are numerous ways to experience the warmth of the holidays at San Diego Christmas events. From dazzling Christmas light displays, holiday parades, and seasonal events around the city, there are plenty of things to do in San Diego at Christmastime. Keep reading to find out the best places to ring the holidays from a San Diego local!
Christmas Celebrations at the Hotel Del Coronado
Without question, one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in San Diego is at the Hotel Del Coronado. What’s better than visiting the iconic red and white San Diego landmark transformed into a winter wonderland? It’s complete with Christmas lights, ice skating rink, and cozy beachside igloos with firepits and s’mores.
Hotel Del Coronado Address: 1500 Orange Avenue Coronado, CA 92118
The festivities at the Hotel Del typically begin November 17 until January 1st. They include:
- Skating by the Sea– beachfront ice skating even if the weather is sunny. General admission costs $40 and includes skate rental for 90 minutes. Check the link for more information.
- The Frostbite Lounge– reserve space for up to 8 people with rinkside food and drink service.
- “All That Jazz” holiday light show, snow flurries and jazz music. It opens November 21.
- Beachside igloos are available November 21-January 5th.
- Photos with Santa available on weekends in December starting December 6th.
- Experience a classic Victorian Tea December 18-20th.
- Christmas Eve dinner
- Christmas Day brunch
Seeking Stamps Tip: Reserve your spot online because they fill up quickly during Christmas in San Diego!
Check Out These Helpful Holiday Travel Tips Before Your Next Winter Vacation!
The Holiday Market at Petco Park
Next, visit the home of the San Diego Padres at the Petco Park Holiday Market. Shop for unique artisanal goods, Christmas presents, and handicrafts at the newly renovated Gallagher Market in Petco Park. Purchase your tickets for the Holiday Market at Petco for specific times before you visit this fantastic Christmas market.
Petco Park Address: 100 Park Blvd San Diego, CA 92101
Petco Holiday Market opens December 5th until December 27th. Events include:
- Impressive Christmas lighting displays and 40 foot Christmas tree
- Visits with Santa Claus and holiday characters
- See live reindeer
- Tickets are $18.48 for adults and $14.98 for children ages 1-14
- Prepaid parking is an additional $24.29
Find Some Unique Holiday Gifts For Travelers In This Blog!
San Diego Holiday Bowl & Parade
The Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade brings holiday spirit every year. With the largest balloon parade, floats, and marching bands you will be wowed from your seat in the grandstand.
Address for the Holiday Bowl Parade: North Harbor Drive between West and Midway Place.
The Holiday Bowl Parade is on Friday December 27th from 10-11:30 am
- Buy your Holiday Bowl Parade tickets here for $30. Children under 3 are free.
- You can also watch from the street for free.
Then watch the rivalry unfold between the PAC-12 and ACC in the big Holiday Bowl football game at 5:00 pm in Snapdragon Stadium! The fun continues in the Gaslamp for the Snapdragon Bowl Bash after party.
Jingle Jets at the U.S.S. Midway Museum
One of the newest San Diego Christmas events is Jingle Jets at the U.S.S. Midway. The beloved San Diego warship is decked out from bow to stern in holiday cheer. Visitor’s will enjoy twinkling lights, decorations, dj’s and Christmas carolers singing your holiday favorites. Best of all, you have the chance to spread joy by writing letters to military service members during your visit.
USS Midway Museum Address: 910 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
The event typically takes place November 24th to December 23rd. Check website for details.
- Jungle Jets is open on select dates from 5:30-9:30 pm
- Admission to Jingle Jets is $18–$25 for adults and $18 for youth ages 6–12.
- Children 5 and younger are free.
- Purchase tickets at the museum’s ticket booth on Navy Pier.
See “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” on Stage
Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is everyone’s favorite classic Christmas movie, right? For the perfect family Christmas event in San Diego, go see the Grinch on stage at the Old Globe Theater in Balboa Park. Buy your Grinch tickets online starting at the end of September.
Old Globe Theatre Address: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
Performances typically run November 6th through December 31.
- Tickets start at $41 for adults and $33 for children 3 and up.
- Only the 10:30 am performances are open to all ages, including small children.
- Check the website for rules and restrictions.
Balboa Park December Nights
Another favorite San Diego Christmas event among locals is the annual December Nights at Balboa Park. Set among a historic San Diego landmark, this FREE event offers STEAM activities for all ages, holiday light displays, free photos with Santa, live entertainment and more!
Address for December Nights: 1549 El Prado, Suite 12. San Diego, CA 92101 (by El Prado and the Cabrillo Bridge)
December Nights takes place December 6th from 3:00-11:00 pm & December 7th from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm.
San Diego Zoo and Safari Park Events
Both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park offer holiday celebrations among thousands of adorable animals!
San Diego Zoo Address: 2920 Zoo Drive San Diego, CA 92101
San Diego Safari Park Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
Holidays at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park events run on select dates between November 24th-December 31st and include:
- Festive light displays
- Photo opportunities at the giant safari-themed Christmas tree
- The Bridge of Lights
- Visits with Santa
- Holiday musical performances and story times
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
You don’t have to be a boat owner to soak up the holiday cheer at the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. Watch as boats drift by, decorated with a variety of holiday themed lights and decorations. This popular nighttime holiday event in San Diego only happens on two occasions, so make sure to mark your calendars for this one-of-a-kind boat parade.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights takes place around various San Diego locations and is free. Here is the approximate route:
- Shelter Island (start of parade) 5:30 p.m.
- Harbor Island 6:15 p.m.
- The Embarcadero 6:45 p.m.
- Seaport Village 7:15 p.m.
- The Pier at Cesar Chavez Park 7:30 p.m.
- Ferry Landing on Coronado 7:45 p.m.
Seeking Stamps Tip: This event draws crowds of over 100,000 people, so arrive early to get the best viewing spot.
Mission Bay Parade of Lights
For a smaller scale parade, check out the Mission Bay Parade of Lights. The festivities begin with fireworks from SeaWorld San Diego, followed by a slew of holiday themed boats sailing by cheering onlookers.
Address for the Mission Bay Boat Parade: Park near Mission Boulevard and Clara Place
Check the calendar for the Mission Bay Parade of Lights dates this year.
Soak Up the Holiday Cheer at Liberty Station
Complete with an 88 foot tall Christmas tree and the Rady Children’s Ice Rink, Liberty Station is the perfect place to deck the halls. This family friendly event offers pictures with Santa, live music, food and more. Salute the season at Liberty Station!
Seaworld San Diego Christmas Events
Next, check out SeaWorld San Diego. Over the holidays, the park is adorned with decorations and lights, plus an ocean-themed Christmas tree. You don’t have to visit the North Pole- visiting Santa’s Village will make the whole family jolly!
SeaWorld San Diego Address: 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego, CA 92109
SeaWorld San Diego Christmas events are open November 15-January 5th and your entrance ticket includes:
- Heart-warming Christmas shows and animal encounters with holiday themes
- Meet Santa and Rudolph
- Festive holiday parades
- Music activated tunnel of lights
Old Town Trolley Holiday Sights & Festive Nights Tour
Make your way to the historic area of Old Town, San Diego for an amazing holiday trolley tour. Deck the halls aboard Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour. Enjoy the journey through Old Town with stops at Old Town Market for shopping, and visits to Little Italy, Banker’s Hill and Garrison Street.
Address for the Old Town Trolley Tour: 4010 Twiggs Street San Diego, CA 92110
Holiday Sights & Festive Nights Tour runs November 30 – December 23 and December 26-30. Check online for specific times.
- Book reservations in advance.
- Arrive 30 minutes prior to departure
- Parking is free in Old Town, but tends to be extremely crowded (especially on weekends)
- Tickets cost $37 for adults and $25 for children
Explore Another Old Town San Diego Attraction in This Article- The Whaley House!
Winter Wonder at Belmont Park
Belmont Park’s Winter Wonder is making spirits bright this year! The fun includes amusement park rides such as the Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster, games, whimsical photo areas, and the “Miracle at Draft” cocktail pop-up for adults. Don’t miss the fun at this seaside spot!
Belmont Park Address: 3146 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109
Winter Wonder at Belmont Park opens November 22nd!
Christmas Lights at Candy Cane Lane
You might not have heard about the locally famous Candy Cane Lane in Poway, but San Diego locals know this neighborhood is the place to go for spectacular Christmas lights. This entire neighborhood is packed with houses decorated with lights and holiday inflatables. Local vendors selling hot cocoa, and high school bands contribute to the lively atmosphere. Due to its popularity, plan to park outside the neighborhood and walk to admire the houses.
Candy Cane Lane Address: Use Google Maps for Hickory Street in Poway 92064
- The best time to see these Christmas lights is the second week in December.
- Lights remain on until approximately 10:00 p.m. each night
Seeking Stamps Tip: Bathrooms are located across the street at Starridge Park.
Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular
Another festive place to spend Christmas in San Diego is the Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Del Mar Fairgrounds Address: 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard Del Mar, CA 92014
Coastal Christmas Holiday event is open 4:00-9:00 pm on select dates starting on December 13th until December 26th. Check the website for more information. The event includes:
- A holiday light trail with millions of twinkling lights
- “Glice” skating (skating on an eco-friendly ice alternative)
- Photos with Santa
- Holiday Wine Walks
- Igloo & fire pit reservations
- Frosty’s Fun Zone play area for kids
- Tickets cost $25.94 for adults and $20.94 for children ages 4-12.
- Purchase tickets, advanced parking and make igloo reservations before you visit.
San Diego Botanic Garden Lightscape
Another mesmerizing way to celebrate the holidays is Lightscape at the San Diego Botanic Garden. Admire this holiday art installation as you wander along the mile-long garden trail filled with dazzling Christmas lights and sounds.
San Diego Botanic Garden Address: 300 Quail Gardens Drive at Ecke Ranch Road Encinitas, CA 92024
Lightscape is open on select dates November 15th-January 5th 2025.
- Hours of operation are 5:00-10:00 with last entry at 8:45 pm. Tickets are staggered in 15 minute intervals.
- Non-member adult tickets cost $26-34 (based on value, off-peak and peak pricing)
- Youth tickets for ages 3-12 cost $16-20.
- Parking costs and additional $10-25.
- Flex tickets allow entry from 5:30-8:00 and include parking for $60.
- Members and military discounts are available.
- Go to the designated arrival window for your ticket time.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the mile walk. This is outdoor, so I recommend dressing in layers.
Family Fun for the Holidays at Legoland California
For kid-friendly fun, check out the events at local San Diego theme parks over the holidays. At Legoland California there are plenty of special San Diego holiday events the whole family will love.
Legoland California address: One Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008
These events are included in your ticket price during the end of November and December:
- Seasonal shows including “Bennie’s Ugly Sweater Party” and “Jingle Jamboree”
- Photo opportunities with holiday LEGO characters such as Lucy, Emmett, Gingerbread Man and Reindeer Girl
- A giant LEGO Christmas tree
Find the Best Things to Do in Carlsbad in This Blog . . .
Rancho Carrillo Park Holiday at the Rancho
Another family-favorite San Diego Christmas event is Holiday at the Rancho. This takes place annually at Leo Carrillo Ranch in Carlsbad. Everyone will delight in plush “snowball” fights, crafts, cookie decorating, live entertainment, face painting, visits from Santa and a giant 14 foot Christmas tree lighting ceremony. This is one of the best holiday events for San Diego children.
Rancho Carrillo Park Address: 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane Carlsbad, CA 92009
This one day event takes place in December.
- Tickets are available for presale until the Friday before the event, or until sold out.
- Event is outdoor, and subject to modification or cancellation due to weather.
- Food & drinks are available for an additional fee.
- Parking is located at Rancho Carrillo Elementary School
- For more information email the Special Events Coordinator- Rachael.shay@carlsbadca.gov.
Learn More About the Pros and Cons of Living in Carlsbad in This Post!
Take Holiday Photos With Santa
If you are searching for a spot on Santa’s lap, there are several locations to find him in San Diego.
- The Forum at Carlsbad Shopping Center
- The Carlsbad Premium Outlets
- Surfin’ Santa Selfies at Seaport Village November 30-December 22nd
- Santa’s Treehouse Ever After Photography offers family portrait sessions in an adorable Christmas setting. Reservation must be booked in advance. See website for details.
You Might Also Enjoy Reading About Christmas Markets in Berlin & Visiting Prague in These Articles. . .
Escondido Center of the Arts
Last but not least, explore the offerings at Escondido Center of the Arts during the winter holidays. From moving “Christmas Carols by Candlelight” to jolly stage performances such as “Mannheim Steamroller Christmas”, you can find all types of ways to get in the holiday spirit! Check the events page for details and tickets.
Address for Escondido Center of the Arts: 340 North Escondido Boulevard
Escondido, CA 92025
Seeking Stamps Tip: The San Diego Symphony at the Rady Shell is another fabulous Christmas performance.
Spending the Holidays in San Diego? Check Out These Articles About Things to Do in Carlsbad for Thanksgiving and the Best Thanksgiving Restaurants in Carlsbad, CA!
San Diego Christmas Events: Final Thoughts
As you can see, San Diego has so much to offer during the holiday season. With theme parks, traditional parades and Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The city truly comes alive with the spirit of Christmas, making it a magical time to visit San Diego. So grab your favorite ugly sweater and get ready to make some merry memories at these San Diego Christmas events!
