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San Diego Christmas events and holiday activities in 2025 feature the return of popular annual traditions and some new festive fun. Things to do include opportunities to see Santa Claus, festive lights, Christmas tree lightings, and iconic holiday performances like The Nutcracker and How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
I’ve celebrated Christmas in San Diego every year for the last three decades and have created this list with dozens of festive events at San Diego hotels, theme parks, neighborhoods, and other attractions around the county to help get you in the holiday spirit.
Top San Diego Christmas Activities (A Resident’s Quick Picks)
San Diego Holiday Events at Theme Parks & Attractions
Before visiting any San Diego theme park, museum, or other attractions during the holiday season, I highly recommend checking their event schedule. You’ll often find extra family-friendly festivities that can make your day even more memorable.
Balboa Park’s December Nights — Top Pick
When: December 5 (3–11 p.m.) & 6 (11 a.m.–11 p.m.), 2025
Cost: Free
The crown jewel of San Diego Christmas events is Balboa Park’s December Nights, a beloved local tradition that transforms the park into a vibrant winter wonderland. For two nights, the air fills with the scent of international foods and the sounds of carolers as families wander through the twinkling Balboa Park Christmas lights.
The park’s renowned museums also open their doors free of charge, making it an unforgettable (and crowded!) celebration of culture, community, and holiday spirit.
Local’s Tip: Plan Parking Ahead of Time
Parking is the biggest challenge for this event. The lots fill up hours before the start time. I strongly recommend using one of the free shuttle services or taking a rideshare to avoid the stress. Visit the event website for details on lots, shuttles, drop-off points, bike valets, public transportation, and other tips. Keep in mind the park will charge for parking starting in October 2025.
Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo — Top Pick
When: December 19, 2025–January 4, 2026, during regular park hours
Cost: Included with Zoo admission (grab our discount below)
Spend your December nights on the wild side at the annual Jungle Bells at San Diego Zoo. This San Diego Christmas celebration includes an opportunity to visit Santa, colorful light displays, Santa’s acrobatic elves, and much more in the evenings to complement your already amazing Zoo visit. You’ll want to arrive in daylight to see as many animals as possible before the evening events start.
1-Day Pass— Use My Exclusive 2026 Promo Code
Skip the ticket line and go straight to the gate with a mobile or printed ticket. Valid for one year from the purchase date.
Final price (after my discount): $70/ages 12+ and $60/ages 3–11
Use promo code lajollamom to save $8!
See also: How to Buy Discounted Tickets to the San Diego Zoo
SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration
When: November 7, 2025–January 2, 2026, during regular park hours
Cost: Included with regular park admission (we have discounted tickets)
Join SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration for a whole host of fun activities. Meet Santa and Rudolph, enjoy the spectacular Mrs. Claus Christmas parade, skip along the tunnel of lights to music, or snap a photo under SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas tree.
In addition to the special holiday-themed animal Christmas shows, the park overflows with yuletide cheer, and you can even take photos with Santa Claus. All the festivities can be enjoyed among more than one million low-energy Christmas lights glistening throughout the park. I also like the seasonal desserts and drinks that change annually.
A Few Tips from My Last Visit
I really like this event. Most of the holiday activities are in the late afternoon or evening so you may not want to come first thing in the morning. The lines for food can be long so you’ll want to order through the app or plan ahead a little to minimize wait time.
See also: How to Buy Discounted Tickets to SeaWorld San Diego
BREAKING NEWS
Sesame Place San Diego theme park announced that they will close until Spring 2026. They usually have a Christmas event but they will not this year.
Holidays at LEGOLAND California
When: Select dates between November 22, 2025–January 4, 2026, during regular park hours.
Cost: Included with regular park admission.
San Diego holidays are super special at LEGOLAND California, where you’ll find the world’s largest LEGO Christmas tree, festive decor, and magical “snowfall.”
Key highlights you should look for:
- Meet-and-greets with LEGO Santa and other holiday characters.
- Live seasonal shows like “Once Upon a Brickmas.”
- Holiday fireworks on select nights in December.
- Kids’ New Year’s Eve: On December 31, celebrate an early, kid-friendly “midnight” (usually around 6 p.m.) with a countdown and a giant LEGO brick drop, capped off with a spectacular fireworks display
Tip: We have lots of advice for buying discounted LEGOLAND California tickets
Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
When: November 28–30; December 19–23; and December 26–January 4, 2026 (the park will stay open until 8 p.m.)
Cost: Included with regular park admission (grab our discount below)
The Wild Holidays celebration transforms the San Diego Zoo Safari Park into a glowing winter wonderland with twinkling lights, music, and festive performances across themed zones. Guests can stroll illuminated trails like the Bridge of Lights and Nairobi Lantern Walk, enjoy live entertainment from carolers and musicians, and snap photos in dazzling light displays such as the Forest of Color and Enchanted Lagoon.
Kids will see Santa at Safari Base Camp while everyone enjoys cheerful tunes on the park’s own holiday radio station, Safari Park Radio 197.2 FM. Of course, there are seasonal treats like peppermint bark, gourmet hot chocolate, and craft cocktails available throughout the park.
1-Day Pass — Use My Exclusive 2026 Promo Code!
Skip the ticket line and go straight to the gate with a mobile or printed ticket. Valid for one year from the purchase date.
Discounted price: $70/ages 12+ and $60/ages 3–11
Use promo code lajollamom for $8 off!
See also: How to Buy Discount San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets
Lightscape — San Diego Botanic Garden
When: November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (closed November 27 and December 24 & 25)
Cost: You’ll need to purchase a specific Lightscape entry time.
Lightscape at the San Diego Botanic Garden is one of the top Christmas events in San diego. This internationally acclaimed show features a one-mile walking trail with illuminated art sculptures, a holiday music-activated tunnel, fire, and other artistic installations.
After selling out in London, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, it returns for its fourth year in San Diego on select dates.
My Tips for the Walk
Wear walking shoes. There are a couple of slight inclines to navigate but it’s not too bad. I love walking here for exercise.
Winter Wonder at Belmont Park
When: Select dates between November 15, 2025–January 4, 2026
Cost: Admission to Belmont Park is free. To ride and play, you’ll need to purchase tickets or a wristband.
Our seaside amusement park has a lot going on to celebrate Christmas in San Diego. It starts with over a million twinkling lights and continues with weekend DJ Jingle Jams in the afternoon, plenty of festive treats, holiday face paint, and a Christmas-themed cocktail pop-up that I am going to! I like that it’s free to explore.
Jingle Jets at USS Midway Museum
When: Select dates between November 28–December 30, 2025 | 5:30 p.m.–9 p.m. (last entry at 7:30 p.m.)
Cost: Get Jingle Jets admission ASAP as they do sell out quickly.
Our iconic aircraft carrier transforms into a sparkling wonderland during Jingle Jets, when more than 750,000 holiday lights illuminate the flight deck and museum. Guests enjoy festive music and pick up seasonal treats from local vendors. It’s one of the most unique holiday light experiences in the city, where you can literally celebrate Christmas on an aircraft carrier overlooking the bay.
My Tips for Your Visit
Dress warmly because the flight deck can get windy once the sun goes down. And you’ll need to buffer time for downtown parking or take a rideshare.
Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular (Del Mar Fairgrounds)
When: December 12–14, 18–23, and 26, 2025 | 4–9 p.m.
Cost: Purchase in advance online (no on-site ticket sales)
Coastal Christmas turns the Del Mar Fairgrounds into a seaside winter wonderland. Stroll a holiday light trail shimmering with millions of lights, cozy up in igloos or fire-pit seating, enjoy live music, shop at a holiday market, or glide across the eco-friendly Glice rink. Santa appears nightly (except December 26), and you can expect plenty of food and drink vendors, a kid-friendly “Frosty’s Fun Zone,” and other festive experiences.
Holiday Wonderland at Petco Park
When: December 5–23, 2025 | 4–9 p.m.
Cost: Buy timed tickets online.
Experience San Diego’s festive wonderland at the Petco Park Christmas market this December. Wander through dazzling light displays, a towering 40-foot Christmas tree, and a lively holiday market filled with artisan gifts and seasonal treats.
Kids can ride the Christmas Train through Gallagher Square, hop on the grand carousel, and explore the new play area. Meet Santa, real reindeer, and holiday characters for photo ops, and catch live entertainment on select nights.
Popular Holiday Musicals & Shows that Locals Love
Get into the spirit of the season with San Diego December events that hit all the right notes. Here are all the fun musicals belting out the festive tunes we all love.
Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas! — Top Pick
When: November 5–December 31, 2025
Cost: Buy tickets in advance.
Go to The Old Globe Theatre for the beloved annual performance of Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The whimsical musical is back for its 27th season, featuring favorite songs like “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” and more. I have seen this many times and highly recommend it. Many locals make it an annual tradition to see this famous play.
San Diego Symphony Noel Noel at Rady Shell Family Concerts
When: December 19–21, 2025
Cost: Buy tickets in advance
Join the San Diego Symphony in the perfect holiday event as they perform their annual Noel Noel family-friendly concert at the Rady Shell, decked out with boughs of holly and sparkling lights. I really enjoy concerts here and feel this is a uniquely San Diego experience, as the venue is on the bay with gorgeous views.
Dining & Holiday Events in San Diego Hotels
Most of our hotels will have some holiday festivities and decor on tap, especially our luxury hotels and resorts. Whether you’re a tourist or a resident, they’re excellent places to get into the Christmas spirit. Be it a quick stop to take a family photo in front of a massive tree or an afternoon spent enjoying the festive decorations, these San Diego hotels have much to offer.
Holidays at Hotel del Coronado
When: November 21, 2025–January 4, 2026
Cost: Make activity reservations ASAP. (Trust me, things sell out)
We love the holiday season at the Hotel del Coronado as it bustles with holiday fun and Christmas activities for everyone. It is the most booked hotel in our local portfolio, partially because they do such an amazing job with seasonal activities.
The events at the Hotel del Coronado include a lively mix of activities such as Skating by the Sea, Gingerbread House decorating, photos taken with Santa, and holiday movies on the beach. Gather your friends and family and rent a beachside fire pit for a Jingle Roast of s’mores. Or go all out and rent one of their amazing Beachside Igloos for the ultimate holiday experience by the Pacific Ocean.
This year, the whole resort has A Holiday in Oz theme as a nod to L. Frank Baum’s time in Coronado. I’ve been this year already and spoken about it as a fantastic Thanksgiving destination with Travel + Leisure.
Contact Me if You Want to Stay Overnight
Did you know that I’m the top referrer to the hotel? I know A LOT about it and you should read my Hotel del Coronado reviews and book in using our VIP benefits that we can add at no extra cost to you. I am personally booking the same way!
See also: Things to Do at the Hotel del Coronado During the Holidays
Holidays at The Grand
When: Select dates between November 27, 2025–January 1, 2026
Cost: Depends on the event, so check the schedule
Come to Fairmont Grand Del Mar for Holidays at The Grand, a festive San Diego Christmas event. It features memorable dining experiences, seasonal cuisine, a 25-foot Christmas tree, outdoor Glice skating (artificial ice), a Holiday Tea, s’mores around a fire pit, brunch with Santa, and much more for residents and hotel guests.
Contact Me if You Want to Stay Overnight
Did you know that I’m one of the top referrers to the hotel? I know A LOT about it and you should read my Fairmont Grand Del Mar reviews and book in using our VIP benefits that we can add at no extra cost to you.
See also: Where to Have Christmas Dinner in San Diego & 10 Things to Do at Fairmont Grand Del Mar During the Holidays.
Tree Lighting & Events at La Valencia in La Jolla
When: December 4, 2025 | 4:30–9 p.m.
A tree lighting ceremony will be held at La Valencia San Diego in their La Sala Lounge with warm holiday beverages, a Christmas carol or two, homemade cookies, and crafts for kids.
Their holiday tea sells out every year, so make reservations ASAP to enjoy DAMMANN Frères teas paired with scones, tea sandwiches, assorted mini pastries, a glass of bubbly (one is included), and more.
And, of course, you’ll be able to enjoy special multi-course Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners.
Neighborhood Parades, Tree Lightings, and Other Family-Friendly Events
Nearly every neighborhood will have things to do for Christmas in San Diego that are free to attend. These are the most popular.
San Diego’s Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village
When: December 6, 2025 | 4–8 p.m.
The Little Italy Association will close down India Street from W. Cedar to W. Grape Street for a Christmas celebration. The event will feature a Christmas Village, holiday decorations, a pop-up holiday market, live music, kids’ arts and crafts, and visits with Santa Claus.
At 4 p.m., take the kids to take photos and chat with Santa. At 6:30 p.m., a Christmas tree lighting will occur at the Piazza Della Famiglia on W. Date and India Streets.
India Street will be decked out in sparkling lights throughout the season, in addition to 10-foot nutcrackers on street corners.
Surfin’ Santa at Seaport Village in Downtown San Diego
When: November 29, 2025 | 1–4 p.m.
It’s not Christmas in San Diego without visiting Surfin’ Santa at Seaport Village for an afternoon of holiday cheer and merriment.
The meet-and-greet with Surfin’ Santa starts with his arrival via watercraft, a festive parade along the boardwalk to the fountain courtyard, followed by photos, live music, and entertainment.
Liberty Station’s Salute the Season
When: Select dates between November 20, 2025–January 4, 2026 (check the schedule below)
The annual Salute, the Season at Liberty Station, features several San Diego events throughout the holiday season.
Salute the Season events include the Holiday Tree Lighting, the Nutcracker Tea Party, the Hanukkah Menorah Lighting, the Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station, and the Marine Band San Diego Holiday Concert.
Ice skating net proceeds benefit the Thriving After Cancer program in the Rady Children’s Hospital’s Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (more on this below).
Coronado Holiday Parade and Open House + Santa
When: December 5, 2025 | 7 p.m.
Kick off Christmas in San Diego with the 50th annual Coronado Holiday Parade and Open House. Start at Ferry Landing, walk down Orange Ave to Hotel del Coronado, watch the Parade, participate in holiday sing-a-longs, and watch the traditional lighting of a Christmas tree in Rotary Park.
North Pole by the Sea — Del Mar Village And Tree Lighting
When: December 7, 2025 | 1–5 p.m.
Cost: Get tickets for photos with Santa
This annual Del Mar Village Association event, North Pole by the Sea, delights San Diego families with a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, pictures with Santa, carolers, and arts and holiday crafts.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights — Top Pick
When: December 14 and 21, 2025 | 5:30–9 p.m.
Cost: Free to watch
The 55th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights features more than 80 private boats decorated with holiday lights and sailing along the waters of San Diego Bay. This year’s theme is An Out of This World Christmas.
The Coronado Island Marriott Resort and Coronado Ferry Landing (a charming collection of gift shops, art galleries, and restaurants) offer excellent shore viewing. No matter where you view, don’t miss the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights.
Parade Route Arrival Times
For the best viewing, head to these spots at the approximate times below:
- 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.
Oceanside San Diego Parade of Lights
When: December 13, 2025 | 7–9 p.m.
Fishing boats, sailboats, yachts, kayaks, and dinghies will dress for one of the most authentic holiday events San Diego offers during the Oceanside Parade of Lights.
The best viewing point is along Oceanside Harbor, near the fishing dock and police station.
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade
When: December 6, 2025 | 5 p.m.
Attendees at the annual Ocean Beach Holiday Parade will see marching San Diego bands, motorcycles, gorgeous floats, the VW Beetle club, classic Woodies, and more cruise down Newport Avenue.
La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival
When: December 7, 2025 | Christmas Village from 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. and Parade starts at 1:30 p.m.
The La Jolla Christmas Parade marches down Girard Avenue to Prospect Street and ends at the La Jolla Recreation Center. This year’s theme is “There’s No Place Like Home (for the Holidays).”
The Holiday Festival with entertainment and photos with Santa, occurs before the parade at the Christmas Village in front of the Athenaeum. I live in La Jolla and have seen this parade many times and it never gets old.
Plan La Jolla Visits Accordingly
Due to the sheer magnituted of these La Jolla Christmas events, there are street closures so getting to some of the nearby hotels on this day is a little challenging but worthwhile for the fun. We always go to this cheerful Christmas parade.
La Mesa’s Holiday in the Village
When: December 13, 2025 | 12–9 p.m.
Cost: See the vendors and activities.
The delightful downtown of La Mesa is transformed into a Victorian wonderland during its old-fashioned Holiday in the Village.
The family-friendly event takes place along La Mesa Boulevard in downtown La Mesa. Little ones can play in the large kids’ area, get photos with Santa, and the whole family can enjoy craft vendors, fire pits, and live music entertainment.
Starlight Parade, Market, & Tree Lighting in Chula Vista
When: December 6, 2025 | 3–6 p.m.
Downtown Chula Vista’s biggest holiday event brings the community together for an afternoon filled with music, lights, and local spirit. The Starlight Parade & Festival features festive floats, marching bands, and performances along Third Avenue, leading into the annual tree lighting ceremony at Memorial Park.
The Downtown Chula Vista Farmers Market will stay open with extended hours, offering holiday-inspired foods, drinks, and gifts from local vendors. It’s one of South Bay’s most joyful traditions and a great way to kick off the season.
Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Bash + Parade
Holiday Bowl Bash
When: January 2, 2026
Where: 5th and Market
If you love bands, you’ll want to check out the Snapdragon Holiday Bowl Bash, where two university bands face off in the streets of the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego in the ultimate battle of bands. In addition to fantastic live music, there will be food, giveaways, games, and fun for the entire family.
Insider tip: Jump on one of the Old Town Trolley Tours while you’re there!
Holiday Bowl Parade
When: January 2, 2026 | 10 a.m.
Where: The Embarcadero
America’s largest balloon parade is back at the Holiday Bowl Parade! Floats, balloons, and marching bands are just some of the offerings in this colorful holiday parade along San Diego Bay in downtown San Diego. The parade kicks off with the annual Holiday Bowl 5K Run/Walk along San Diego’s harbor front (and every participant receives a medal upon completing).
Gaslamp Pet Parade & Pups in the Pub Party
When: December 13, 2025, from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Parade check-in starts at 11 a.m.
Cost: Get more details and register your pet ($25)
This is one of my favorite Christmas events San Diego hosts annually! Get ready for some seriously cute pets (mostly dogs) to walk the Gaslamp Quarter in their finest holiday gear. There will be loads of vendors, free photos with Santa and friends like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Frosty.
Then head over with your dogs to Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter for a party with games and much more from 2–4 p.m.
Poway’s Christmas in the Park
When: December 12–13, 2025 | 3:30–8:30 p.m.
Old Poway Park is the location of this traditional Christmas celebration. At Poway’s Christmas in the Park, guests can enjoy a visit from Santa, live music, theater performances, food, treats, crafts, and even a chance to get on board the Poway Midland Railroad for a nighttime ride around the park (Saturday only).
A free shuttle is also available to and from the event from the Poway City Hall parking lot and the Poway Adult School parking lot. Admission is also free.
San Diego Christmas Markets
Every year, holiday markets find their way onto the list of the best things to do in San Diego during Christmas, and for a good reason. Here are the ones I recommend.
San Diego Made Holiday Market
When: November 15 (10 a.m.–5 p.m.) and November 16, 2025 (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Cost: $5 entry fee; children under 10 are free
This family-friendly holiday shopping festival at Liberty Station is one of the city’s premier artisan markets, featuring over 125 curated local makers. It’s the perfect place to find unique, handmade gifts while enjoying an outdoor marketplace with live music, gourmet food trucks, and craft cocktails.
Makers Arcade Holiday Fair
When: December 13 and December 14, 2025 | 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Cost: Tickets required; purchase online.
This two-day artisan market on the Broadway Pier features over 140 local makers, live music, and food trucks. The final day offers a truly magical San Diego experience, as it coincides with the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, allowing you to shop from local vendors while watching the beautifully decorated boats glide by.
Encinitas Holiday Street Fair
When: November 23, 2025 | 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend.
This massive one-day street fair takes over the scenic South Coast Highway 101 with hundreds of vendors selling unique crafts and gifts. It’s a lively, bustling atmosphere with a craft brewery beer garden, international food, and multiple live music stages, making it a perfect way to spend a full day soaking in the holiday spirit.
Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks
Lacing up your skates and gliding into the season is a staple American tradition. It’s no different here, as ice skating is a favorite among the many holiday activities Sna diego has to offer. Best of all, the following rinks support great causes.
Hotel Del Coronado’s Skating by the Sea — Top Pick
When: November 21, 2025–January 4, 2026 (times vary by day)
Cost: Reserve your skates
Go ice skating steps from the beach for the quintessential experience of Christmas in San Diego at the Hotel del Coronado. Skating by the Sea partially benefits Make-A-Wish San Diego.
Rady Children’s Ice Rink
When: November 20, 2025–January 4, 2026 | 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Cost: Get tickets and details (you can also buy them on-site)
The Rady Children’s Ice Rink is located at Liberty Station, where you can also skate under Southern California sunshine. All proceeds from this event benefit the Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Rady Children’s Hospital of San Diego. Skate rentals and helmets are included in your admission price.
Cruises and Train Rides for the Holidays
Hop on festive cruises and fun train rides to celebrate the holidays in San Diego enjoying light displays, joyous décor, and delicious food while creating lasting memories. Here are some popular options:
San Diego Bay Cruises
City Cruises offers a wide range of holiday cruises, including special dining cruises on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. I suggest checking out the calendar online to see if one piques your interest.
North Pole Limited Train Ride
When: Fridays and Saturdays from November 28–December 21, 2025
Cost: Business class and coach tickets are available ($15–50+ per person)
Take a magical journey from Campo Depot to the North Pole on this festive train ride. Passengers will enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and holiday stories while traveling through the backcountry to pick up Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will greet every passenger as the train travels back to Campo Depot.
My Local’s Tip
Do not wait to book this experience as it sells out quickly.
Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Lights Tour
When: November 29, 2025–January 3, 2026
Cost: Buy tickets
Hop on the San Diego Trolley for a narrated tour of the city’s best holiday lights and decorations. With holiday music playing in the background, this tour is a fun and festive way to experience San Diego’s holiday cheer.
Coaster Holiday Express Train Ride
When: December 6, 7, 14, and 14, 2025
Cost: Ticket sales begin Friday, November 14 at 6 p.m.
Board the Coaster in Oceanside for a 60-minute ride to Solana Beach and back with Santa and carolers. T
My Local’s Tip
Like the North Pole Limited, the Holiday Express sells out almost instantly. The official 2025 dates and on-sale information are typically announced in the fall. Monitor the official GoNCTD website closely and be prepared to book as soon as tickets become available.
Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet Cruise
When: December 24, 2025
Cost: Buy tickets
If your family’s in the mood for something a little more upscale, spend Christmas Eve in San Diego on the water, enjoying a gourmet buffet. Step aboard the seasonally styled yacht to enjoy a gourmet plated meal, festive music, and a stunning skyline that includes the Coronado Bridge and Hotel del Coronado, all lit up for the season.
Jingle Belle Christmas Cruise
When: December 22–25, 2025
Cost: Buy tickets
Hopping on the Jingle Belle Family Cruise is a Mission Bay holiday tradition and one of the San Diego holiday activities made for the entire family. The 90-minute cruise kicks off with a cup of hot cider, setting the tone for the rest of the evening. Enjoy live Christmas carolers, photo ops with Santa, face painting, balloon art, and interactive holiday crafts that keep the kids entertained.
After the little ones meet Santa, head to the cash bar for holiday treats and seasonal sips as twinkling lights reflect off the bay. Best of all, a portion of the proceeds supports Mama’s Kitchen, a local nonprofit that delivers medically tailored meals to those facing critical illness.
Where to See The Nutcracker in San Diego
The Nutcracker is a cherished holiday tradition, and San Diego is home to several wonderful productions. From the grandeur of the symphony to charming local ballets, here’s where to catch the perfect performance with your family.
Golden State Ballet & San Diego Symphony
- Where: San Diego Civic Theatre
- When: December 12–21, 2025
- Highlights: Performed live with San Diego Symphony, elaborate sets and costumes
- Tickets: Golden State Ballet
City Ballet of San Diego
- Where: California Center for the Arts, Escondido
- When: December 20–23, 2025
- Highlights: Known for its sweeping sets and elegant choreography. I’ve seen this many times.
- Tickets: City Ballet of San Diego
World Ballet Company
- Where: Balboa Theatre
- When: December 6–7, 2025
- Highlights: Features a large cast of international professional dancers.
- Tickets: World Ballet Company
San Diego Ballet
- Where: The Magnolia & Liberty Station (Nutcracker Tea Party)
- When: December 20, 2025 (1 p.m. & 5 p.m.) and December 21, 2025 (1 p.m.)
- Highlights: A major production featuring a large local cast of over 100 dancers.
- Tickets: San Diego Ballet
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
- Where: Jacobs Music Center
- When: December 16, 2025
- Highlights: A whimsical and unique touring show that incorporates puppetry and fantasy elements.
- Tickets: Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
San Diego Civic Youth Ballet
- Where: Casa del Prado Theater, Balboa Park
- When: December 10–21, 2025
- Highlights: A cherished and accessible community favorite performed by talented young dancers.
- Tickets: San Diego Civic Youth Ballet
Take Pictures at the Mall with Santa
Snapping pictures with Santa remains one of the top things to do in San Diego for Christmas. Head to one of the many shopping malls in the city, and Santa will be there during regular mall hours for photos and cheer through Christmas Eve. Here are several popular places to go:
- Westfield UTC
- Fashion Valley (in the mall and also usually at JCPenney)
- Grossmont Center
- Parkway Plaza
- The Forum Carlsbad
Festive Holiday Dining & Meals with Santa
Creating holiday memories with Santa is a cherished tradition for many families. Beyond the typical mall photo-op, several San Diego restaurants host special dining events where kids can meet Santa in a fun and festive setting. From elegant breakfasts to casual lunches, here are the best opportunities for a special meal with the big man himself.
Breakfast with Santa at Neiman Marcus
- When: December 6, 2025 | 9 a.m.
- Details: A festive breakfast feast with a balloon elf and a photo with Santa. Mimosas are included for adults. Tickets are required.
- My tip: I’ve been to the event multiple times with my family. Professional photos are taken in front of one of the ornate store Christmas trees and are very high quality.
Breakfast with Santa at Malibu Farm
- Location: Seaport Village
- When: December 24, 2025 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Details: A special Christmas Eve opportunity for one last visit with Santa. This event is first-come, first-served.
Breakfast with Santa at Shorebird
- Location: Seaport Village
- When: December 21, 2025 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
- Details: Enjoy a festive breakfast with Santa right on the water. Reservations are required for this event.
San Diego’s Best Christmas Pop-Up Bars for 2025 (Verified)
Holiday pop-up bars have become a full-blown phenomenon, and for good reason. These spots go all-out, transforming into immersive winter wonderlands with over-the-top decor and creative, festive cocktails.
From kitschy, retro-themed wonderlands to elegant, life-sized snow globes, here are my must-visit pop-ups for the 2025 season as they get announced.
Miracle Popups
- Locations: Coaster Saloon (Mission Beach) & Botanica Bar (North Park)
- When: TBD but confirmed here
- Vibe: The quintessential Christmas pop-up with kitschy, wall-to-wall holiday decor and signature cocktails in collectible mugs. Kids are welcome in the restaurant section.
Sippin’ Santa at The Grass Skirt
- Location: Pacific Beach
- When: TBD but confirmed here.
- Vibe: A tropical tiki-themed Christmas escape inside a speakeasy. Expect festive lights and a unique menu of holiday-tiki cocktails.
More San Diego Holiday Dining
For a comprehensive list of the best restaurants serving special menus on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, see our complete guide to Christmas Dinner in San Diego.
Where to Find the Best Christmas Lights San Diego Locals Love
Take a drive through these San Diego County neighborhoods to see houses decked out in lights, turning parts of the county into a dazzling Christmas town. This is a short list of many places to celebrate Christmas in San Diego — and it’s free to do, thanks to generous residents wishing everyone who visits a Merry Christmas.
Candy Cane Lane (Poway)
It’s a cul-de-sac themed like the North Pole, except right here in San Diego. Each house here is estimated to have over 50,000 lights.
Christmas Card Lane (Rancho Penasquitos)
This San Diego neighborhood display is known for larger-than-life illuminated Christmas cards and other lights adorning the homes.
Belardo Lights (Tierrasanta)
It’s just one house, but it’s well worth seeing. The idea started in 2006 as a way for the Schmika family to provide a light show for their two autistic sons. If it is raining, check the website to see if the lights will be off. The lights are set to music you can listen to on FM 106.1.
Garrison Street (Point Loma)
These high-end San Diego homes are dense with brightly-colored Christmas lights. Drive through or walk around … it’s your choice. Walking around here is a tradition for many San Diego families (including mine).
Things to Do on Christmas Day in San Diego
If you’re wondering what is open on Christmas Day in San Diego, you’ll find some answers here. In addition to various restaurants, movie theaters, and the local hotel holiday activities, several attractions, parks, and activities will be open. These include:
- San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Both parks are open on Christmas Day with special animal encounters and festivities.
- LEGOLAND California: It’s open for Christmas LEGO building and rides.
- SeaWorld San Diego: The Christmas events will be in full swing.
- Cabrillo National Monument: It’s open every day of the year between about 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Plus, it’s usually sunny on Christmas Day, so this would be an excellent place for a post-brunch walk.
- Maritime Museum of San Diego: You can explore the historic ships on the Embarcadero.
Local’s Tip
Most major museums in Balboa Park are closed on Christmas Day, so be sure to check their schedules before you go. However, the park grounds are open for a festive stroll.
Final Thoughts on Christmas in San Diego
One thing that I tell clients is that you can start experiencing Christmas activities in San Diego during Thanksgiving week (and sometimes the week before). This week is a great way to get the best of both holidays.
It’s the time of year when I feel very lucky to live in San Diego, because we can still enjoy the outdoors in winter (sometimes wearing shorts).
See also:
- Top Things to Do in San Diego with Kids
- Best Family-Friendly Hotels in San Diego
- 15 San Diego Discounts: Experience the City for Less
What are some of your favorite holiday activities in San Diego? Please leave a comment with anything missing from this list! And don’t forget that we have Lunar New Year San Diego events to look forward to shortly after the winter holidays. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your families!
Katie Dillon
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