Beyond lights and markets, San Diego offers unique coastal seasonal experiences throughout the county. From ice skating at Hotel del Coronado with ocean views to zoo events and harbor celebrations, the region provides diverse holiday fun. Explore beach-side festivities, theme park celebrations, and family-friendly attractions taking advantage of San Diego's beautiful winter weather.
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade
Location: San Diego
Dates: First Saturday in December
Cost: FREE
The Ocean Beach Holiday Parade takes place on Newport Avenue, featuring a vibrant procession of festive floats and community participants. This beloved local tradition brings the holiday spirit to life with colorful decorations and lively performances as the parade winds through the streets. Spectators can enjoy the festive atmosphere and celebrate the season with their community.
Highlights:
- Experience a beloved community tradition celebrating the holiday season.
- See the festive decorations and holiday spirit come alive in Ocean Beach.
- Witness a vibrant holiday parade featuring festive floats and community participants.
Old Town Trolley's Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour
Location: San Diego
Dates: November 29, 2025 – January 3, 2026. No tours December 25 (closed on Christmas), and December 31 (due to safety concerns on New Year’s Eve.)
Cost: $$
The Old Town Trolley's Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour offers a unique trolley experience filled with holiday cheer, guided by engaging 'Elf' conductors who share holiday trivia and lead sing-alongs. Participants can enjoy a narrated tour highlighting the festive decorations throughout Old Town and surrounding areas. This experience combines sightseeing with interactive entertainment, making it a fun outing for all ages.
Venue: Old Town Market
Address: 4010 Twiggs Street, San Diego, CA
Phone: (866) 754-0966
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A unique trolley tour experience filled with holiday cheer and festive sights.
- Engaging "Elf" conductors who share holiday facts, trivia, and lead sing-alongs.
- Sing along to festive carols with "Elf" conductors.
Coronado Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
Location: Coronado
Dates: Friday, December 5, 2025
Cost: FREE
The Coronado Annual Holiday Parade features community floats and participants celebrating the holiday season, culminating in a ceremonial tree lighting. Attendees can enjoy vibrant displays and decorations along the parade route as it makes its way through town. The event is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together to mark the start of the holiday festivities.
Venue: Coronado
Address: 1125 Tenth Street, Coronado, CA 92118
Phone: (619) 435-9260
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- The annual Holiday Parade brings festive cheer with community participation.
- The ceremonial tree lighting officially kicks off the holiday season for Coronado.
- Witness a festive holiday parade featuring community floats and participants.
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San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Location: San Diego
Dates: December 14 and December 21, 2025
Cost: FREE
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is an annual illuminated boat parade featuring over 80 creatively decorated boats following a unique theme. In 2023, the event will take place on December 10 and December 17, showcasing the theme 'An Out of This World Christmas.' Spectators can enjoy the vibrant display from various waterfront locations along the bay.
Highlights:
- The 55th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, a cherished holiday tradition.
- Two nights of spectacular illuminated boat parades on December 14 and December 21, 2025.
- A unique 'An Out of This World Christmas' theme for 2025, promising creative and imaginative boat designs.
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San Diego Santa Run
Location: San Diego
Dates: December 13, 2025
Cost: $$
The San Diego Santa Run, recognized by USA TODAY as the 'Best Fun Run in the US', features a festive 5K run and a 1-mile run for children. Participants receive a complete 'Sunny Santa Suit' upon registration, including sunglasses and a drink ticket. The event is a fun way to celebrate the holiday season while engaging in physical activity.
Highlights:
- Experience the 13th Annual San Diego Santa Run, recognized as the 'Best Fun Run in the US' by USA TODAY.
- Receive a complete 'Sunny Santa Suit' with registration for the 5K, including sunglasses and a drink ticket.
- Participate in the festive 5K run, choosing between an early morning or a later start time.
Skating by the Sea
Location: Coronado
Dates: November 21 – January 4
Cost: $$
Skating by the Sea offers a unique beachfront ice skating experience at the Hotel del Coronado, featuring stunning ocean views. The rink provides skate rentals, including options for children, and an ADA-compliant area for wheelchair skating. Visitors can also reserve the Frostbite Lounge for a cozy experience with food and drinks, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Make-A-Wish® San Diego.
Venue: Hotel del Coronado
Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Phone: 1-619-435-6611
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Ice skating on a beachfront rink with ocean vistas.
- Optional Frostbite Lounge reservations for a cozy, festive experience with libations and bites.
- A portion of proceeds benefits Make-A-Wish® San Diego.
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Rady Children's Ice Rink at Liberty Station
Location: San Diego
Dates: November 21 – January 5
Cost: $$
Rady Children's Ice Rink at Liberty Station is an outdoor ice skating venue that supports children's hospital programs, specifically the Thriving After Cancer Program. The rink offers public skating sessions daily, including special hours on holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. Visitors can enjoy a festive atmosphere while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Venue: Rady Children's Ice Rink at Liberty Station
Address: 2875 Dewey Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
Phone: 858-966-7878
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Glide across the ice at the Rady Children's Ice Rink, a beloved holiday tradition.
- Support a great cause, as proceeds benefit the Thriving After Cancer Program at Rady Children's Hospital.
- Enjoy public ice skating sessions throughout the day and into the evening.
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San Marcos Tree Lighting Ceremony
Location: San Marcos
Cost: FREE
The San Marcos Tree Lighting Ceremony is an annual event celebrating the holiday season with the lighting of the community Christmas tree. Attendees can gather to witness the tree lighting and enjoy festive decorations around San Marcos City Hall. This event marks the beginning of the holiday festivities in the area.
Venue: San Marcos City Hall
Address: 1 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069
Phone: 760-744-1050
Website: Visit Website
Salute the Season Holiday Tree Lighting at Liberty Station
Location: San Diego
Cost: FREE
The Salute the Season Holiday Tree Lighting at Liberty Station is an annual ceremony that marks the beginning of the holiday festivities. Participants can enjoy the festive atmosphere and admire the beautifully decorated holiday tree, which serves as a central symbol of the season's celebrations.
Venue: Liberty Station
Address: 3555 Rosecrans St., #114-210, San Diego, CA
Phone: 619.756.7992
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Join Liberty Station for their cherished Salute the Season holiday traditions, kicking off with the spectacular Holiday Tree Lighting.
- Experience the festive atmosphere of the annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony.
- Admire the beautifully decorated holiday tree, a central symbol of the season's festivities.
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The Red Nose Run
Location: Del Mar
Dates: December 13, 2025
Cost: $
The Red Nose Run at Del Mar Beach features a family and dog-friendly 3K and 5K fun run and walk, supporting local charities. Participants can choose their preferred distance along the scenic beach, which has been a community event for over 30 years. This volunteer-organized event is designed to raise funds while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.
Highlights:
- A family and dog-friendly fun run and walk event supporting local charities.
- The Red Nose Run has been a volunteer-organized community event for over 30 years, raising significant funds for non-profits.
- Participate in a 3K or 5K fun run or walk along the scenic Del Mar beach.
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Encinitas Holiday Parade
Location: Encinitas
Dates: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Cost: $$
The Encinitas Holiday Parade takes place along South Coast Highway 101 and showcases a vibrant community celebration of the holiday season. Participants include nonprofit organizations and local businesses competing for awards with creatively decorated floats and lively performances. This annual event draws large crowds who cheer along the parade route.
Venue: South Coast Highway 101
Address: South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA
Phone: 760.633.2600
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience a vibrant community parade celebrating the holiday season.
- See a wide array of participants, from nonprofit groups to commercial businesses, all vying for awards.
- Participate as an entry in the parade by decorating a float, vehicle, or walking group.
Night of Christmas
Location: San Diego
Dates: December 6, 2025
Cost: $$
Night of Christmas at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park is a spectacular event featuring a live orchestra, beloved carols, and a dazzling fireworks display. This celebration is designed for families to create lasting traditions, including storytelling and a toy drive for foster children. Guests can also enjoy a VIP experience with wine and commemorative glasses.
Venue: The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
Address: 222 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (858) 300-2581
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- San Diego's most spectacular Christmas celebration, perfect for creating new family traditions.
- An unforgettable evening featuring beloved carols, fireworks, and a live orchestra.
- An all-inclusive VIP table experience with wine and commemorative glasses.
A Very Furry Christmas
Location: Chula Vista
Dates: November 9 - January 5, select dates
Cost: $$$
A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place San Diego invites families to meet their favorite Sesame Street characters dressed in holiday attire. Enjoy festive rides, interactive games, and the Christmas Wish Show, while capturing unique holiday photos throughout the park. The event features thousands of twinkling lights and a 24-foot tall Christmas tree, creating a festive environment.
Venue: Sesame Place San Diego
Address: 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, CA 91911
Phone: 619-943-ELMO
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Meet and take photos with beloved Sesame Street characters, including Cookie Claus, all dressed in their holiday best.
- Watch Elmo's Christmas Wish Show in the Sesame Street Theater.
- Capture unique holiday photos with Sesame Street friends.
Starlight Parade and Festival
Location: Chula Vista
Dates: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Cost: FREE
The Starlight Parade and Festival is an annual tradition along Third Avenue, showcasing a dazzling display of floats and performers for its 61st year. Attendees will enjoy live music, a festive holiday market, and photo opportunities with Santa. The parade route transforms into a glowing wonderland filled with creativity and community spirit.
Highlights:
- The 61st Annual Starlight Parade and Festival is a beloved South Bay tradition.
- A dazzling parade route along Third Avenue featuring creative floats and performers.
- Festive holiday market and Santa photo opportunities.
Poway Christmas in the Park
Location: Poway
Dates: December 13-14, 2025
Cost: Free
An old-fashioned holiday celebration at Old Poway Park featuring festive activities for all ages including caroling, live music, crafts, model train displays, Santa visits and photos, holiday goodies, a craft boutique, and the Poway Midland Railroad night-time ride. The event culminates with a magical tree lighting ceremony and Santa's grand entrance by train.
Highlights:
- Tree lighting ceremony with Santa arriving by train
- Model train displays
- Poway Midland Railroad night-time ride
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Encinitas Holiday Street Fair
Location: Encinitas
Dates: November 23, 2025
Cost: Free to attend
The Encinitas Holiday Street Fair is an annual event bringing together local artisans, businesses, and entertainers to celebrate the holiday season with crafts, food, and live music. It features over 450 vendors, multiple live music stages, kid rides, and a family-friendly beer garden along South Coast Highway 101 in downtown Encinitas.
Venue: South Coast Highway 101
Address: South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Over 450 food, arts and crafts vendors
- Four live entertainment stages throughout the day
- Kids rides and a kid/dog-friendly beer garden with live music
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Snapdragon Bowl Bash
Location: Gaslamp Quarter
Dates: January 2, 2026
Cost: Free
The Snapdragon Bowl Bash is a free family-friendly street party in downtown San Diego featuring live music, food specials, giveaways, and a unique Battle of the Bands performance between the competing university bands. It serves as a festive lead-up event to the Holiday Bowl college football game at Snapdragon Stadium.
Venue: Gaslamp Quarter, Downtown San Diego
Address: Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, CA
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Live Battle of the Bands by competing universities
- Photo booths and interactive street games
- Food and drink specials from participating downtown restaurants
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Frosty’s Fun Zone - Coastal Christmas Del Mar
Location: Del Mar
Dates: December 12-14, 18-23, 26, 2025
Cost: Included with general admission; some activities may require separate purchase
A dedicated play area for young children featuring festive activities and entertainment designed to engage and delight the little ones during the Coastal Christmas event.
Venue: Del Mar Fairgrounds
Address: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Festive play area for children
- Holiday-themed games and activities
- Safe and family-friendly environment
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18th Annual Alpine Holiday Home Tour
Location: Alpine
Dates: Saturday, December 13, 2025, 10:00am – 3:00pm
Cost: $35.00
The 18th Annual Alpine Holiday Home Tour allows guests to explore beautifully decorated homes in Alpine, showcasing festive decor and holiday cheer. Visitors can also shop at the Holiday Marketplace for unique gifts and crafts. This beloved tradition encourages community engagement and holiday spirit.
Venue: Alpine Woman’s Club (Alpine Historic Town Hall)
Address: 2156 Alpine Blvd, Alpine, CA 91901
Phone: (619) 379-0393
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience the charm of the Alpine Holiday Home Tour, a beloved annual tradition.
- Discover the Holiday Marketplace for festive shopping and local artisan goods.
- Explore beautifully decorated homes showcasing festive holiday decor.
Balboa Park December Nights
Location: San Diego
Dates: December 5, 2025 (3 p.m. - 11 p.m.) and December 6, 2025 (11 a.m. - 11 p.m.)
Cost: FREE
Balboa Park December Nights is San Diego's largest free holiday festival, transforming the park into a vibrant holiday wonderland. The festival features a variety of live entertainment across multiple stages, along with food, drinks, and shopping opportunities. Community involvement is highlighted with a sock drive to benefit local unsheltered clients.
Highlights:
- Experience the magic of Balboa Park transformed into a holiday wonderland.
- Enjoy a wide array of festive food, drinks, and shopping opportunities.
- Connect with the community at this cherished San Diego holiday tradition.
Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights
Location: Mission Bay, San Diego
Dates: December 13, 2025
Cost: Free
An annual festive boat parade on Mission Bay featuring brilliantly decorated boats, SeaWorld fireworks, and family-friendly viewing areas with food, music, bonfires, and Santa visits.
Highlights:
- SeaWorld spectacular fireworks kickoff
- Holiday-themed decorated boats parade
- Family-friendly spectator areas with food, music, bonfires, and Santa
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Parade of Lights Dinner & Viewing - Maritime Museum of San Diego
Location: San Diego
Dates: 2025-12-142025-12-21
Celebrate the holiday season with a festive dinner and prime viewing of the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights from the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Enjoy the best vantage point aboard the Star of India or Berkeley for a unique maritime experience.
Venue: Maritime Museum of San Diego
Address: 1492 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Prime viewing of the Parade of Lights from historic ships
- Festive dinner options available
- Official judging platform for the parade
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San Diego Children's Discovery Museum Holiday Lights - Escondido
Location: Escondido
Dates: December 1-31, 2025
Cost: Included with museum admission
Holiday light displays and festive activities at the San Diego Children's Discovery Museum, featuring interactive exhibits and seasonal decorations designed for families and children.
Venue: San Diego Children's Discovery Museum
Address: 320 N Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025
Phone: (760) 233-7755
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Interactive holiday-themed exhibits
- Festive light displays
- Family-friendly activities
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Festive at The Grand
Location: San Diego
Dates: November 28 - January 1
Cost: $$
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar hosts the Festive at The Grand event, featuring a variety of enchanting holiday activities from tree lighting ceremonies to special dining experiences. Guests can enjoy eco-friendly Glice skating on a synthetic ice rink, meet Santa Claus every weekend, and indulge in seasonal dining options, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day menus.
Venue: Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, CA 92130
Phone: 1 858 314-2000
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Celebrate the holiday season with a variety of enchanting events, from tree lighting ceremonies to special dining and family activities.
- Experience a luxurious holiday escape with festive decorations, seasonal culinary delights, and unique entertainment options.
- Enjoy eco-friendly Glice skating on a synthetic ice rink, with optional cabana rentals featuring firepits for a cozy experience.
La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival
Location: La Jolla
Dates: December 7, 2025
Cost: Free
Annual festive event featuring a Christmas parade with marching bands, community groups, drill teams, vintage vehicles, horses, and a camel, followed by a holiday festival and tree lighting ceremony in Downtown La Jolla.
Venue: Downtown La Jolla
Address: Girard Ave & Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Christmas parade with marching bands and community groups
- Vintage vehicles and horses in parade
- Holiday festival and tree lighting ceremony
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San Diego Christmas Boat Parade - Shelter Island
Location: Shelter Island
Dates: December 17-21, 2025
Cost: Free to watch from shore; some paid boat viewing options available
The San Diego Christmas Boat Parade is a festive annual event featuring elaborately decorated boats parading along the San Diego Bay near Shelter Island, attracting thousands of spectators.
Venue: Shelter Island
Address: 2801 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
Phone: (619) 224-4900
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Spectacularly decorated boats with holiday lights
- Parade route along San Diego Bay
- Festive atmosphere with music and community spirit
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Christmas at the Ranch - Barona Resort & Casino
Location: Barona
Dates: December 2025 (specific dates not available)
Christmas at the Ranch at Barona Resort & Casino offers festive holiday entertainment including live music, holiday-themed activities, and special dining experiences in a ranch-style setting.
Venue: Barona Resort & Casino
Address: 1932 Wildcat Canyon Rd, Lakeside, CA 92040
Phone: (619) 443-2300
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Live holiday music and entertainment
- Festive ranch-style holiday atmosphere
- Special holiday dining options
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Holiday Wonderland at Petco Park
Location: San Diego
Dates: December 5-23, 2025
Cost: $$
Petco Park's Gallagher Square transforms into Holiday Wonderland featuring a 40-foot Christmas tree, carousel, Christmas train, new playground, live entertainment, festive treats, and photos with Santa, reindeer, and holiday characters.
Venue: Petco Park - Gallagher Square
Address: 100 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-795-5000
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- 40-foot Christmas tree and carousel
- New playground and Christmas train
- Santa, reindeer, and character photos
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Camp Christmas Pine Valley
Location: Pine Valley
Dates: December 19, 2025
Cost: $$
Camp Christmas in Pine Valley offers a Christmas spectacular with immersive holiday experiences in San Diego's mountain backcountry. This fifth-year event provides unique mountain holiday celebration outside the city.
Highlights:
- Mountain backcountry Christmas spectacular
- Immersive holiday experiences
- Fifth annual event
International Ballet Stars at Escondido
Location: Escondido
Dates: December 6-7, 2025
Cost: $$
California Center for the Arts Escondido presents International Ballet Stars featuring world-renowned dancers in new Nutcracker production elements as part of Winter Wonderland Festival. This special performance showcases elite ballet talent.
Venue: California Center for the Arts
Address: 340 N Escondido Boulevard, Escondido, CA 92025
Phone: 760-839-4138
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- World-renowned ballet dancers
- New Nutcracker production elements
- Winter Wonderland Festival
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Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in San Diego.