One of our favorite San Diego luxury hotels, Fairmont Grand Del Mar, celebrates the season in spectacular style by transforming this beautiful coastal canyon into a magnificent winter wonderland. Twinkling palms and a dazzling 25-foot Christmas tree immediately set the festive mood.
From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, this resort is an essential spot for enjoying San Diego’s holiday season. Whether you’re gliding around the Glice rink, savoring a refined Nutcracker Tea with the kids, or toasting 2026 at a sophisticated New Year’s Eve party, the resort has a luxurious holiday event for everyone.
Here is a look at the spectacular holiday events you can enjoy this season, whether you’re a hotel guest or a local San Diego resident looking for a memorable family activity.
Key Event Takeaways
1. Celebrate Thanksgiving in Grand Style
Fairmont Grand Del Mar kicks off the season with two distinct Thanksgiving dining options in its renowned venues: Amaya and The Grand Ballroom.
Amaya: Three-Course Feast
A festive and traditional Thanksgiving feast will be served in the hotel’s elegant Amaya restaurant. Featuring a three-course tasting menu, this gourmet all-day event will include the unique flavors of autumn. Alcohol is not included in the price.
The celebrations take place from 12–8 p.m. Tickets cost $175 per adult and $75 per child (ages 3-12) and can be purchased online.
Ballroom and Solana: Family Buffet
The Thanksgiving Family Buffet in The Grand Ballroom and Solana is a fantastic, worry-free way for the whole family to gather and give thanks. This option includes beer and wine for the adults.
The event takes place from 2–6 p.m. Tickets cost $195 per adult (which includes beer and wine) and $85 per child (ages 3-12), and can be purchased online.
Note: A $50 deposit per person is required for both Amaya and Ballroom bookings, and a 72-hour cancellation policy applies.
2. Experience Winter Wonderland on the Glice Skating Rink
The Grand’s popular outdoor skating experience is a core part of their winter wonderland charm and is back for another year! The eco-friendly Glice Skating Rink is a family favorite for both visitors and locals, and it is a festive reason to visit this luxury San Diego resort.
After you enjoy skating, I highly recommend reserving a rink-side cabana complete with a fire pit to relax tired feet. You can purchase holiday-themed beverages and savory treats, and, of course, roast the classic s’mores.
- Passes: Locals or long-term guests can purchase a monthly skating pass for $150 per person (plus tax).
- Dates & Hours: Open select dates from November 27, 2025, through January 1, 2026.
- Typical Hours: Mondays–Saturdays, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sundays, 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Price: $45 per adult and $25 per child (plus tax). This includes skate rental and one hour of skating.
3. Take Part in Festive Christmas Activities
The Fairmont offers plenty of Christmas festivities and workshops that the whole family will enjoy.
Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
The resort’s spectacular 25-foot Christmas tree will come alive in a stunning lighting ceremony at the Grand Social area.
- Details: December 1, 2025
- General Admission: $25 per person, children ages 3 and younger are complimentary
Meet Santa Claus
Old Saint Nick visits the Grand Social every weekend from November 28, 2025, through January 24, 2025, to delight children.
- Times: Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Special Reading: Santa also sits by the holiday tree on Christmas Eve (December 24) for a special reading of “The Night Before Christmas” at 6 p.m.
Brunch with Santa Claus
For an extra-special event, enjoy a delicious brunch with a visit from Santa at Amaya. A festive brunch is served as Santa does his rounds and visits the little ones.
Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, December 6–21, 2025, starting at 11 a.m. (Price TBD – check the website for updates.)
Creative Workshops
Get creative and take home a beautiful, festive craft:
- Holiday Cookie Decorating: This sweet workshop is also drop-in style and great fun. It costs $30 for a set of three cookies. Available on select Saturdays in December from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Wreath Decorating: Drop-in classes cost $45 per wreath. Available on select Sundays in December from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
4. Enjoy a Holiday Afternoon Tea
The resort’s elegant Lobby Lounge hosts a special festive tea on select dates in November and December. The menu includes delectable holiday scones, savory finger sandwiches, and sweet treats, all served in the lobby’s sophisticated setting.
- Price: $125 per adult and $65 per child (ages 6–12).
- Details: Every Saturday and Sunday from November 29 through December 28, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., plus select weekdays in December.
5. Book a Nutcracker Holiday Tea
For a unique and enchanting experience, reserve your spot for the Nutcracker Tea at The Grand Ballroom.
This luxurious event includes a traditional holiday afternoon tea followed by a special narrated, abridged performance of the timeless ballet, The Nutcracker, beautifully brought to life by the talented dancers of the Scripps Performing Arts Academy.
Details: December 22 and December 23, 2025
Price: $175 per adult, $90 per child (ages 2-10)
6. Experience Festive Christmas Dining
From a refined Christmas Eve dinner to a spectacular Christmas Day buffet, The Grand offers multiple dining options so you can skip the cooking.
Christmas Eve at Amaya
Experience an opulent four-course dinner in Amaya.
- Details: December 24, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Price: $210 per adult and $75 per child (ages 3–12). Alcohol not included.
Christmas Day Dining
- Amaya: Savor a fantastic all-day, four-course dinner. Available Thursday, December 25, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. $210 per adult and $75 per child.
- Grand Ballroom & Solana Buffet: This festive Family Buffet with Appetizer and Desserts, complete with live entertainment, is a marvelous dining experience for the family. Available Thursday, December 25, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. $195 per adult and $85 per child.
Note: All Christmas dining requires a $50 deposit per person and is subject to a 72-hour cancellation policy.
7. Ring in 2026 at the New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026 with an unforgettable celebration at The Grand.
New Year’s Eve at Amaya
Step into a world of sophistication as you bid farewell to the old and welcome the new. This celebration features a sumptuous culinary journey with an elegant five-course tasting menu.
- Details: Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Price: $295 per adult and $95 per child (ages 3–12), exclusive of tax and gratuity.
- Toast: A complimentary Champagne toast is offered in the Lobby Lounge at midnight for adult guests.
The Lobby Lounge Celebration
Welcome the new year in style right in the heart of the resort. This soirée combines the finest Champagne and an exquisite à la carte menu, along with the harmonious melodies of live music.
Enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere with live entertainment throughout the evening.
- Late Seating Countdown: As the clock strikes midnight, join fellow guests for a collective countdown, complete with a burst of confetti and cheers.
- Price: $95 per person, inclusive of a split of Champagne.
Booking Note: Early and late seatings are available for the Lobby Lounge celebration. Book your spot now for an evening of Champagne and celebration!
8. New Year’s Day Champagne Brunch
Start 2026 in glorious style with a sumptuous three-course brunch in Amaya. Each booking includes a glass of sparkling wine.
- Price: $125 per adult and $65 per child.
- Details: Thursday, January 1, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
9. Stay Overnight — With VIP Benefits
Fairmont Grand Del Mar is one of the hotels that I recommend when people ask me where to stay in San Diego.
The best way to enjoy all the magic of this Winter Wonderland is to check in as an overnight guest. We can book you in with value-added amenities at no cost to you that include:
When booking Fairmont on Virtuoso.com use only the number of adults traveling to get the correct rates. Kids may otherwise be priced as adults. We will add them after we follow up to collect your arrival details.
*When searching rates, do not input children ages 17 and under as they will be priced as adults. I’m notified when you book and will add them after I contact you about your reservation.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a truly special way to celebrate the holidays in San Diego, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is simply one of the best choices. The resort has perfected the concept of a high-end San Diego winter wonderland, delivering a memorable experience for both families and couples.
The most important tip? Always check the Grand Del Mar’s website for the latest ticket releases, as the most popular dining and tea events sell out quickly.
Remember that booking your stay with us guarantees those incredible VIP perks—like daily breakfast and resort credits—to make your already luxurious holiday getaway even better.
It may be San Diego, but remember, it does get chilly in the evenings, especially for those on the outdoor ice skating rink. Remember to bring layers! See what to pack for San Diego and San Diego in December if you need more advice.
Katie Dillon
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