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San Diego Christmas events and holiday activities in 2024 feature the return of popular annual traditions and some new festive fun. They 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 live in here and have listed over 60 festive events to celebrate Christmas in San Diego at San Diego hotels, theme parks, neighborhoods, and other San Diego attractions around the county to help get your holiday spirit on. I can’t wait to attend!
San Diego Christmas Events at Theme Parks & Attractions
Before visiting any San Diego theme park, museum, or other attraction during the holiday season, check their event schedule to see what might be happening on the day you go. There’s a lot of festive fun in store.
Balboa Park’s December Nights (Top Pick)
The crown jewel of San Diego Christmas events is Balboa Park December Nights. The largest San Diego holiday celebration is full of food, entertainment, and fun. The numerous museums and cultural institutions in Balboa Park, the nation’s largest urban cultural park, also open their doors free of charge during the event.
December Nights festivities in the park include carolers, live music, holiday light displays, theater and dance performances, and delicious foods from around the world for a true Christmas in San Diego celebration.
Plan Parking Ahead of Time
December Nights parking is not challenging if you plan for it. Visit the event website for details on lots, shuttles, drop-off points, bike valets, public transportation, and other tips.
Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo
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.
1-Day Pass— Use My Exclusive 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): $68/ages 12+ and $58/ages 3–11
Use promo code lajollamom to save $8!
Get All San Diego Discounts by Email
You can also receive my San Diego Zoo promo code and list of theme park, tour, and sightseeing pass discounts to be sent to you. Request by email.
See also: How to Buy Discounted Tickets to the San Diego Zoo
SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration
Join SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration to complete your San Diego holiday and meet Santa and Rudolph, enjoy the Christmas parade, skip along the tunnel of lights to music, or snap a photo under the 30-foot Christmas tree.
In addition to the special holiday-themed animal shows, the park will be brimming 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 throughout the park.
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. If you see a short line, you will want to duck rather than wait!
See also: How to Buy Discounted Tickets to SeaWorld San Diego
Holidays at LEGOLAND California
Christmas in San Diego is super special at LEGOLAND California, where you’ll find the world’s largest LEGO Christmas tree. Standing at 30 feet tall, it’s constructed out of thousands of forest green DUPLO® bricks and has 400+ LEGO ornaments.
The entire resort will be decked out in holiday décor and more during Holidays at LEGOLAND California. Fun Town transforms into a winter wonderland full of holiday spirit with LEGO Christmas characters like life-size LEGO models of Santa and his reindeer. Events will include live entertainment and ‘snowfall’.
This year’s special holiday events also include the sing-and-dance show Jingle Jamboree, Benny’s Ugly Sweater Party, and Once Upon a Brick-Mas with the Bagsy and Sweeps characters. Also, don’t forget about Kids’ New Year’s Eve, where the LEGO ball drops at 6 p.m.
Tip: We have lots of advice for buying discounted LEGOLAND California tickets
Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
You’ll want to stay at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park after dark to sip gourmet hot chocolate while you walk through colorful light displays. Holiday entertainment, including music, live performances, storytelling, stilt walkers, and more round out the holiday cheer. Wild Holidays takes place on select dates from the end of November through the end of December 2024.
1-Day Pass — Use My Promo Code For the Best Deal!
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: $68/ages 12+ and $8/ages 3–11
Use promo code lajollamom for $8 off!
Get All San Diego Discounts by Email
You can also receive my San Diego Zoo Safari Park promo code and list of theme park, tour, and sightseeing pass discounts to be sent to you. Request by email.
See also: How to Buy Discount San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets
A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place San Diego
Sesame Place San Diego transforms into a festive wonderland with your favorite characters for A Very Furry Christmas. Highlights include Elmo’s Christmas Wish Show, the Sesame Street Christmas Cavalcade, and special dining with Elmo & Friends.
Each evening sparkles with the Grand Illumination Ceremony of the park’s 24-foot Christmas tree. Guests will also enjoy vibrant displays of Christmas lights, fun photo opportunities with Santa, and unique activities such as the Golden Gift Hunt as well as holiday-themed shows and dance parties.
Lightscape — San Diego Botanic Garden
This is definitely one of the best of all the San Diego Christmas events. The internationally acclaimed show Lightscape, is back at the San Diego Botanic Garden for the third year running, and for good reason.
A one-mile walking trail will weave throughout the garden with gorgeous illuminated art sculptures, a holiday music-activated tunnel, fire, and artistic installations.
This limited engagement sold out entirely in London, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, so don’t miss out! The show runs on select dates.
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
Our seaside amusement park has a lot going on in celebration of 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 called Miracle at Draft.
Jingle Jets at USS Midway Museum
Our famous floating museum gets decked out in 750,000 holiday lights during the Jingle Jets celebration. There will also be music, treats, and more.
Holiday Season Ballets and Christmas Shows
Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas!
Come 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.
San Diego Symphony Noel Noel at Rady Shell Family Concerts
Join the San Diego Symphony in a perfect holiday event as they perform their annual Noel Noel family-friendly concert at the Rady’s Shell, decked out with boughs of holly and sparkling lights.
The Nutcracker Ballet by City Ballet
This Christmas season, City Ballet dancers will take guests on an extraordinary journey to the magical Land of the Sweets with Clara and her Nutcracker Prince. Performances will take place at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido.
Dining & Holiday Events in San Diego Hotels
Most of our San Diego hotels will have some holiday events 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, whether it’s just a quick stop in to take a family photo in front of a massive tree and other festive decorations.
Holidays at Hotel del Coronado
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 (starting November 21), Gingerbread House decorating, photos taken with Santa, and holiday movies on the beach. Gather your friends and family and rent a beachside firepit 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 ‘Lights, Camera, Holiday!’ theme and will be decked out in Old Hollywood style.
Contact Me if You Want to Stay Overnight
Did you know that I’m the top referred to the hotel? That means 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.
See also: Things to Do at the Hotel del Coronado During the Holidays
Holidays at The Grand
Come to Fairmont Grand Del Mar for Holidays at The Grand, a festive San Diego Christmas event featuring memorable dining experiences, seasonal food, a 25-foot Christmas tree, outdoor Glice skating (artificial ice), a Nutcracker Tea, s’mores around a firepit, and much more for residents and hotel guests.
Contact Me if You Want to Stay Overnight
Did you know that I’m the top referred to the hotel? That means 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 (2024 TBD)
These are 2023 details. 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
And nearly every neighborhood will have some activities during the holiday season that are free to attend. These are the most popular.
San Diego’s Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village
The Little Italy Association will close down India Street from W. Cedar to W. Grape Street for a Christmas celebration featuring 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
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 followed by photos, live music, and entertainment. At the end of the event, he’ll walk guests over to Malibu Farm for some snowfall.
Liberty Station’s Salute the Season
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, Hannukah 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
Kick off Christmas in San Diego with the 49th 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
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.
Plus, you’ll enjoy free parking in Del Mar Village should you shop there during the holiday season.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
The 54th 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 Peace On Earth.
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
Fishing boats, sailboats, yachts, kayaks, and dinghies will dress up for the holidays for an authentic Christmas in San Diego while circling Oceanside Harbor for the Oceanside Parade of Lights.
The best viewing point is along Oceanside Harbor, near the fishing dock and police station.
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade
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
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 “Palm Trees and Poinsettias – A California Christmas”
The Holiday Festival with entertainment and photos with Santa, occurs before the parade at the Christmas Village in front of the Athenaeum.
Plan La Jolla Visits Accordingly
There are street closures so getting to some of the La Jolla hotels on this day is a little challenging but worthwhile for the fun.
La Mesa’s Holiday in the Village
The delightful downtown of La Mesa is transformed into a Victorian wonderland during its old-fashioned Holiday in the Village.
The family-friendly takes place along La Mesa Boulevard in downtown La Mesa. Little ones can play in the huge kids’ area, get photos with Santa, and all the family can enjoy craft vendors, fire pits, and live music entertainment. This year will also feature synthetic ice skating.
Chula Vista Tree Lighting
Start the holiday season in Chula Vista with the annual tree lighting ceremony at Memorial Park on Third Avenue. Join city officials and community leaders for an evening celebrating the start of the season. The event features remarks from local leaders, the lighting of the iconic Christmas tree, and live carolers adding to the holiday atmosphere.
Guests can also explore the Downtown Chula Vista Farmers Market, which will have extended hours from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., offering holiday bites, drinks, and unique shopping from local vendors.
Starlight Parade & Festival (Also in Chula Vista)
The Starlight Parade & Festival will take place along Third Avenue. Watch local groups in holiday floats, wear your favorite festive sweater, and enjoy Chula Vista’s seasonal celebration.
It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy the holiday spirit in South Bay’s lively neighborhood.
Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Bash + Parade
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
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
This is one of my favorite Christmas in San Diego traditions! 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 Rudlph 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
Old Poway Park is the location of this traditional, old-fashioned 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 night-time ride around the park.
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, it seems that Christmas in San Diego includes big and small holiday markets.
Holiday Market at Petco Park
This December, experience the Holiday Market at Petco Park—a family-friendly Christmas wonderland featuring enchanting light displays, a 40-foot Christmas tree, and plenty of holiday cheer. Kids can enjoy rides on the Christmas Train through Gallagher Square, a grand carousel, and an all-new playground and play area.
Meet Santa, live reindeer, and other holiday characters for festive photo opportunities (included in admission), and enjoy live entertainment on select nights on the Sycuan Stage. It’s also a holiday shopper’s paradise, with artisanal vendors offering unique stocking stuffers and handcrafted gifts. For those craving festive treats, there’s hot cider, mulled wine, shortbread, and other seasonal favorites.
Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in San Diego
Hotel Del Coronado’s Skating by the Sea
Go ice skating just steps from the beach in the quintessential Christmas in San Diego experience at the Hotel Del Coronado. Skating by the Sea partially benefits Make-A-Wish San Diego.
Viejas Ice Rink
The largest outdoor rink in Southern California is here in San Diego at the Viejas Outlets’ outdoor rink — it’s even bigger than the one at Rockefeller Center in New York City.
Rady Children’s Ice Rink
The Rady Children’s Ice Rink is located at Liberty Station. 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 onboard festive cruises and fun train rides to celebrate the holidays in San Diego to enjoy light displays, decorations and delicious food while creating lasting memories. Here are some popular options:
San Diego Bay Cruises
City Cruises offers almost too many holiday cruises to count 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
Take a magical journey from Campo Depot to the North Pole on this festive train ride. Passengers will enjoy hot chocolate, 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.
San Diego Trolley’s Holiday Lights Tour
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 see San Diego’s holiday cheer.
Coaster Holiday Express Train Ride (Sold Out)
Board the Coaster in Oceanside for a 60-minute ride to Solana Beach and back with Santa and carolers. It’s sold out, but bookmark it for next year.
Take Pictures with Santa for Christmas in San Diego
Shopping Malls
If you head to one of many San Diego shopping malls, Santa will be there until Christmas Eve during mall hours.
- Westfield UTC
- Fashion Valley (in the mall and also at JC Penney)
- Grossmont Center
- Parkway Plaza
- The Forum Carlsbad
And there are many others.
Visit Santa at Neiman Marcus
Even Santa Claus can’t resist a great breakfast, so meet him at Fashion Valley Mall for a breakfast feast and holiday treats in the ultimate holiday event on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 10 a.m.! Enjoy mimosas, hot chocolate, brioche French toast, scrambled eggs with creme fraiche, and more at Neiman Marcus. We have been to the event in the past. Professional photos are taken and usually included in the cost of breakfast.
Santa at Other Places Mentioned in this Post
Santa will make appearances at other events and places on this list, but here are a few reminders:
- San Diego Zoo
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Seaport Village
- SeaWorld San Diego
Neighborhood Christmas Lights in San Diego County
Take a drive through these San Diego neighborhoods to see houses decked out in lights beyond belief. 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 (not updated for 2024 yet so check before you go) 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).
What’s Open on Christmas Day in San Diego
If you’re looking for things to do on Christmas Day in San Diego, you’re in luck. 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.
- Balboa Park: Many of Balboa Park’s museums, gardens and attractions are open on Christmas Day, including the San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum.
- San Diego Botanic Garden: The gardens and evening lightscape of holiday lights and decorations is open on Christmas Day. Just remember you need a timed ticket.
- USS Midway Museum: Visit the USS Midway Museum on Christmas Day for the usual exhibits and activities, plus a holiday-themed scavenger hunt.
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 is your favorite thing to do in San Diego during the holidays? 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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