The holiday season in San Diego is a magical time, with events and activities offering something for everyone - from traditional tree lightings to spectacular light displays, iconic performances, charitable fundraisers and unique local traditions, the city transforms into a festive wonderland. Whether you're looking to take your family to meet Santa, experience dazzling holiday lights, or attend a beloved local holiday festival, San Diego County has it all, so check out our list of more than 90 area events.
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.
(Saturday, November 30, 2024, 12鈥�4pm) - Kick off the holidays with Surfin鈥� Santa at Seaport Village! The festive afternoon includes Santa鈥檚 arrival via watercraft, a parade along the boardwalk, photos, live music, entertainment, and a snowfall finale at Malibu Farm. Free to attend.
(Saturday, November 30, 2024, 12鈥�4pm) - Kick off the holidays with Surfin鈥� Santa at Seaport Village! The festive afternoon includes Santa鈥檚 arrival via watercraft, a parade along the boardwalk, photos, live music, entertainment, and a snowfall finale at Malibu Farm. Free to attend.
(Saturday, November 30, 7:30pm) - Leslie Odom, Jr. brings a night of holiday hits to Jacobs Music Center 鈥� including selections from his release The Christmas Album, which Broadway World said "infuses love, joy, and merriment into the holiday season."
听(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.听听(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鈥檚 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.听
(Sunday, December 1, 3-6pm) -听Celebrate the season with a tree lighting ceremony, live carolers, and extended Farmers Market hours offering unique shopping and holiday treats. Free to attend.
(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.
(Monday, December 2, 5-10pm) -听Celebrate the magic of the season with a tree lighting ceremony, featuring a stunning 25-foot holiday tree.听$20 adults and children, ages 3 and younger complimentary.
听(Monday, December 2, 5-9pm) -听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.
(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鈥檚 Donut Corner in Escondido, followed by an afternoon event from 12 to 6 p.m. at Belmont Park in Mission Beach.
(Wednesday, December 4, 7:30pm) -听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听extensive repertoire, including music in honor of the Holiday Season. Tickets required.
听(Thursday, December 5, 5:30-8 pm) -听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鈥檚 dining proceeds benefits the Carlsbad Education Foundation. Tickets are free and .听
听(Thursday, December 5, 5-9pm) -听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.听
(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.
听(Friday, December 6, 3-11pm; Saturday, December 7, 11am-11pm) -听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.
听(Friday, December 6, 5-7:30pm) -听Join The Friendly Town of Fallbrook for entertainment, shopping booths, local non-profits, community outreach groups, food, and much more! Free to attend.听
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. 听The parade features over 1,400 enthusiastic participants and thousands of spectators lining the streets. Free to attend.
听(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.听(Friday, December 6, 4-6pm) -听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.听
听(Saturday, December 6 & Sunday, December 7, 8 pm) -听Experience the magic of Carols by Candlelight at California Center for the Arts Escondido Since 1990, this festive event has featured听country stars听singing Christmas carols and hits, with net proceeds benefiting听Rady Children's Hospital San Diego. Tickets required.听
听(Friday, December 6 through Sunday, December 8, 5-9pm) -听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.听
听(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.听 (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鈥檚 mission.
(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.
听(Saturday, December 7, 2024, 5pm) -听Enjoy a quirky holiday parade down Newport Avenue featuring floats, bands, classic Woodies, and festive fun. Free to attend.
(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.听
听(Saturday, December 7, 4-8pm) - India Street transforms into a festive wonderland featuring a Christmas Village, holiday market, live music, kids鈥� crafts, and photos with Santa. At 6:30pm, enjoy the iconic tree lighting ceremony at Piazza Della Famiglia. Free to attend.
听(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.听
听(December 7, 5:35pm) -听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.听
听(Saturday, December 7, 5-7:30pm) -听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.听
听(Saturday, December 7, 5pm) -听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.听
听(Saturday, December 7, from 1-3pm) -听The听Vista Chamber of Commerce听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."
听(Saturday, December 7 & Sunday, December 8, 1-5pm) -听Experience the magic of the holidays at the听California Center for the Arts听with听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.
听(Sunday, December 8, 10 am-4 pm) -听Get into the holiday spirit at the听San Marcos Chamber of Commerce's Holly Jolly Holiday Market in听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鈥檛 miss out on 鈥淩escue Row鈥� for pet adoptions, and keep an eye out for a special guest - Santa himself. Free to attend.听
听(Sunday, December 8, 1-4pm) - Savor the season鈥檚 flavors at Del Mar鈥檚 Winter Taste & Sip event! Stroll through festive streets, sampling delicious dishes from top Del Mar Village restaurants. Enjoy refreshing drinks at 鈥淪ip Stops鈥� across downtown, while live music and holiday activities add to the charm. Tickets are $50.听
听(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.听
听(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.
听(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.听
(Sunday, December 8, 11am-5pm) -听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.
(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.
(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.
(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.
(Thursday, December 12, 5鈥�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.
(Thursday, December 12) - Celebrate community and culture at Queen Bee鈥檚 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.
(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.
听(December 13-26, 4-9pm) -听Experience a magical holiday at the Del Mar Fairgrounds with a dazzling light display, eco-friendly skating rink, Holiday Market, Frosty鈥檚 Fun Zone, free Santa photos, festive lounges, and seasonal treats.
听(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.
听(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.
听(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鈥檛 miss the听Children鈥檚 Entrepreneur Market, where kids run their own stalls on Saturday from 10am鈥�3pm.
(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.
(December 13鈥�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.
(Saturday, December 14, 1pm) - Celebrate the holidays in Pacific Beach with a parade featuring marching bands, local community groups, floats, businesses and dancing groups. 听The parade route is on Garnet Ave from Haines to Bayard Streets. Free to watch.
(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.
(Saturday, December 14, 8am & 10am) -听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.
(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.
(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. (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.听
听&补尘辫;听听(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.听
(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.
听(Saturday, December 14) - All things Santa come together at Belmont Park for this third annual music festival, featuring听a full blown Christmas Winter wonderland, tons of live music and much more. Tickets required.
(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.
(Saturday, December 14) - Join the festive Red Nose Run for a 3K or 5K to support Semper Fi & America鈥檚 Fund and the San Dieguito River Park. Suit up in your holiday gear and enjoy a run that gives back to the community. 听
- (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.
(Sunday, December 15, 5pm) -听San Diego Symphony presents 听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鈥檚 Sycuan Community Plaza. Mariachi Los Camperos and Ballet Folkl贸rico 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.听
(Monday, December 16, 7pm) - Give the gift of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet! to the whole family. Celebrate America鈥檚 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.听
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.
(Thursday, December 19, 7:30pm) - Head to the beautiful Jacobs Music Center in downtown San Diego to enjoy Voctave鈥檚 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.听
听(Friday, December 20, 5-9pm) -听Discover Vista听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.听
(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.
(December 20鈥�23) -听Watch a magical journey to the Land of Sweets at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. Tickets required.
(Saturday, December 21 & Sunday, December 22) -听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. 听
(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.
+ (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鈥檚 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) - 听in Downtown San Diego, in Mission Bay, and San Diego Bay's 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.
听(December 14, 21-23, 28, and 30-31) -听Explore the enchanting Winter Wonders and Holiday Lights tour at听Wild Wonders听Bonsall animal refuge, where nocturnal creatures come to life amidst festive decorations on a 5-acre facility. Price is听$42 for Adults 12+ years and $22 for children 5-11 years.
(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.
(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.
听(December 6-29) -听Experience the magic of the season at听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.
听(December 12-January 4, during regular Zoo hours) -听Experience colorful light displays, Santa's acrobatic elves, and holiday entertainment. Included with Zoo admission.
(December 1-23 & 26-30) - Hop on the trolley for a guided tour of San Diego鈥檚 best holiday light displays. Enjoy festive music and seasonal cheer along the way. Ticket prices vary.
听(Weekends December 6-21, 5-9pm) -听Experience the magic of the holiday season at the听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.
(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.
(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.
(November 23-January 5, during regular park hours) - Enjoy a 30-foot LEGO Christmas tree, holiday d茅cor, live entertainment, and the Kids鈥� New Year鈥檚 Eve ball drop. Included with park admission.
(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鈥檚 Ice Rink. Ice skating proceeds benefit Rady Children鈥檚 Hospital. Check Liberty Station's website for specific event dates and costs.
(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.
(November 9-January 5) - Celebrate with your favorite Sesame Street characters, tree lightings, and holiday-themed shows. Included with park admission.
(November 15-January 5) - Stroll a mile-long trail of illuminated art installations and light displays. Tickets required.
(November 6-December 31) - See the whimsical musical at The Old Globe Theatre. Tickets available in advance.
(November 29-December 24) - Enjoy the timeless magic of Charles Dickens鈥� tale of hope and redemption with exciting new elements, including fresh original music, an expanded storyline, and a revitalized script. Tickets required.听
(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.
-听(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.听
Visit a Decked-Out San Diego Bar or Restaurant -听Restaurant, bars and hotels across San Diego transform into festive holiday havens with over-the-top d茅cor, themed cocktails, and plenty of holiday cheer. Our recommendations include The Lafayette Hotel in North Park, in Little Italy, in La Jolla Shores, in Mission Beach, in Hillcrest, in Middletown, and in Little Italy, to name a few, but check out our full list here.听
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.听
- Christmas Card Lane (Rancho Penasquitos) - Homes along Ellingham, Renato and Oviedo Streets feature giant illuminated Christmas cards and elaborate light displays.听
- 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.听
- 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.听
- Merry-tage Court (Scripps Ranch) - Location: Merritage Court and Stonebridge Parkway.听
- Fairway Village (Carmel Mountain Ranch) - Location: Stoney Gate Place.听
- 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. 听Explore opportunities to get involved and make a meaningful impact this season through the , 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.听
If we're missing any events, send us an email to [email protected] and we'll update this list.听
Originally published on November 28, 2024.听
