Looking for the best Festive Holiday and Christmas events in San Diego for families?
Youโve come to the right place! Our Ultimate Guide to the Holidays in San Diego is your go-to resource for everything merry and bright โ from family-friendly holiday events and annual Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, to festive Santa photo ops and the best places to see Christmas lights (special thanks to San Diego Family Magazine for their light list!).
Whether youโre searching for magical experiences, local holiday markets, or unique gift ideas in our Holiday Gift Guide, weโve got you covered all season long. Donโt forget to tag us in your festive fun โ weโd love to see your memories! ๐โจ #SDMoms
Use the buttons below to navigate to that section of the guide.
Ultimate Guide to the Holidays Presenting Sponsor
Christmas Trees
Central San Diego
Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 4pmโ8pm
Little Italy San Diego, 2155 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Little Italy transforms into a festive winter wonderland with sparkling lights, giant nutcrackers, and two stunning Christmas trees. Families can enjoy live music, holiday treats, seasonal vendors, and photos with Santa. Donโt miss the traditional Italian tree lighting ceremony in this joyful, family-friendly celebration.
The 20th Annual Globe Christmas Tree Lighting
Sunday, November 9, 2025 | 6:00pm
Globeโs Copley Plaza, Balboa Park
Kick off the season with The Old Globeโs whimsical tree lighting before a performance of Dr. Seussโ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!. Enjoy a live performance by the cast and a magical snowfall on the plaza. Admission is free, but reservations are required.
Liberty Station Tree Lighting & Holiday Festivities
Friday, November 28, 2025 | 5pmโ9pm
North Promenade and Building 177: Liberty Station
Celebrate the season with Liberty Stationโs iconic 88-foot pine tree lighting, festive entertainment, and free photos with Santa. Enjoy holiday movie screenings, firetruck rides, and seasonal fun for the whole family.
Coronado Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
Friday, December 5, 2025
Orange Avenue, Coronado
Watch Coronado light its magnificent 120-foot Christmas tree at Rotary Plaza during a beloved holiday parade featuring over 1,400 participants. This festive community tradition includes live entertainment and thousands of cheerful spectators lining Orange Avenue.
Paradise Point Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 4th, 2025 | 5:00 pmย –ย 7:00 pm
Paradise Point: 1404 Vacation Road San Diego, CA 92109
Join us on the bay as we welcome the Holidays island style! Bring your family and friends over to Paradise Point for our festive tree lighting ceremony where you can roast sโmores over the bonfire, enjoy caroling, tasty treats, holiday cocktails and activities for kids of all ages. There will also be a special visit from Santa!
East Village Tree Lighting & Holiday Market
Saturday, November 30, 2025 | 4pmโ8pm
Quartyard and 13th Street: 1301 Market St, San Diego
Join the East Village community for a festive evening of shopping, music, food, and holiday cheer. Families will enjoy a curated holiday market, kidsโ activities, photos with Santa, and a magical tree lighting ceremony.
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 6th, 2025 | 5pm-8pm
Newport Avenue and Sunset Cliffs Blvd,ย Newport Ave & Sunset Cliffs Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107, USAย
Get ready for one of San Diegoโs most beloved community traditions โ the annualย Ocean Beach Holiday Parade!ย Each year, thousands of locals and visitors line the streets of OB to celebrate the season, beach-style. From dazzling floats and marching bands to classic cars, surfing Santas, and neighborhood golf carts decked out in lights, the parade perfectly captures the quirky, creative spirit of Ocean Beach.
This yearโs theme,ย โGalactic Holiday Beach Bash,โ invites participants to blast off into a festive universe of imagination โ think cosmic Christmas trees, out-of-this-world costumes, and neon holiday vibes under the stars.
East County San Diego
27th Annual Spirit of Christmas โ Lakeside
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 3pmโ7:30pm
Maine Avenue, Lakeside
This small-town celebration offers an old-fashioned Christmas experience with holiday sights, sounds, and scents. Enjoy local vendors, entertainment, and a festive tree lighting for all ages.
South County San Diego
Chula Vista Starlight Parade & Festival
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 5:30pmโ9pm
Third Avenue:ย Chula Vista (Tree Lighting at 5:45pm)
Start the evening with a festive tree lighting in the heart of Third Avenue at 5:45 p.m., followed by live music and the 61st annual Starlight Parade. Enjoy holiday shopping, food vendors, and over 100 parade entries lighting up the night.
Julian & Temecula
Country Christmas Tree Lighting – Julian
Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 12pmโ7pm
Julian Town Square
Julianโs holiday celebration begins at noon with craft vendors and live music all day. Santa arrives at 6:00 p.m. to help light the townโs Christmas tree in this charming mountain tradition.
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony – Temecula
Sunday, November 30, 2025 | 5pmโ8pm
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Every year South Coast Winery Resort & Spa delights the community with its holiday festivities including Santa Claus meet and greet, petting zoo, face painting, horse drawn trolley and tractor rides, carolers, winter crafts for kids and most exciting and beautiful of all โ the Tree Lighting Ceremony. For refreshments the admission includes hot chocolate, cider and dessert bar, and there are additional purchase food options available along with a selection of beer, wine and special holiday-themed cocktails. Donate an unwrapped toy for the official Toys for Tots giving initiative. Admission is $45 for adults; $20 for children ages 4 to 12; complimentary for children 3 and under. Ticket pricing is inclusive of gratuities.
North County San Diego
The 69th Annual La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival
Dec. 7th, 2025 | 11:30 AMโ4 PM and Santaโs Village runs 1:30โ4:30 PM. Parade: The Christmas Parade kicks: 1:30 PM
Downtown La Jolla
The event includes marching bands, community groups, drill teams, vintage vehicles, horses, and yes, a camel. There is also a holiday festival and tree lighting ceremony.
San Marcos Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Market
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 1pmโ7pm
San Marcos Civic Center: 1 Civic Center Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069
Enjoy photos with Santa, festive entertainment, and local holiday shopping throughout the day. The tree lighting takes place at 6:00 p.m., followed by a magical snowfall.
North Pole by the Sea โ Del Mar Village
Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 1pmโ5pm
Del Mar Village: 1442 Camino Del Mar
Celebrate in coastal style with Santa photos, hot cocoa, roaming carolers, and festive characters. The day ends with the beloved Del Mar tree lighting at 5:00 p.m. in the Jim Watkins Amphitheater.
Holiday Tree Lighting in Carlsbad Village
Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 2pmโ4:30pm
Carlsbad Village: 300 Carlsbad Village Drive
Families can enjoy visits and free photos with Santa, who arrives on an antique fire truck courtesy of Carlsbad Fire Department. Candy canes and holiday fun fill the afternoon leading up to the official tree lighting.
23rd Annual Tree Lighting Celebration at The Forum Carlsbad
Friday, December 5, 2025 | 6pmโ8pm
The Forum Carlsbad: 1923 Calle Barcelona
The Forum lights up with a festive tree lighting, live music by Woodie and The Longboards, magical snowfall, and Santaโs grand arrival. Families will enjoy entertainment, holiday characters, and photo opportunities throughout the night.
Oceanside Annual Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 5pmโ9pm
Regal Plaza: 401 Mission Ave, Oceanside
Oceansideโs annual celebration features live entertainment, carnival rides, crafts, and free cookies and milk for kids. The tree lighting begins at 6:00 p.m., with Santa arriving on a vintage fire truck and staying for photos afterward.
La Valencia Hotel Annual Tree Lighting
December 4th, 2025 | 4:30 PM – 9:00 PMย
La Valencia Hotel: 1132 Prospect St La-Jolla, California, 92037
Guests will enjoy holiday beverages, homemade treats, live music, carolers, and children’s crafts while counting down to the tree lighting at 5:45 p.m. Festivities begin at 4:30 p.m. For those looking to make the evening even more special, dining reservations are strongly encouraged through OpenTable for seating in Mediterranean Room and the Ocean View Terrace.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar Annual Tree Lighting
Monday, December 1st, 2025 | 6:30pm
One Paseo: 5300 Grand Del Mar Ct, San Diego, CA 92130
Experience the enchantment of the holiday season as Fairmont Grand Del Mar illuminates their holiday tree at Grand Social. The outdoor lounge will open its doors from 5:00 pm – 10:00 p.m. to celebrate the magic of the season with a tree lighting ceremony, featuring a stunning 25-foot holiday tree (6:30pm). $25 adults and children, ages 3 and younger complimentary. Cabana reservations available. OpenTable
One Paseoโs annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 5:30pm – 7:30pm | Tree will be lit at 6:30pm
One Paseo: 3725 Paseo Place, San Diego, CA 92130
Kick off the holiday season in style at One Paseoโs annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! Step into a magical evening as our 26-foot holiday tree sparkles to life, surrounded by twinkling Christmas dรฉcor, live musical performances, and snow cascading from the rooftops. Bring the whole family and soak up the festive spirit – an enchanting celebration you wonโt want to miss!
Christmas in the Park
Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 3:30 PMโ-โ8:30 PM
Old Poway Park: 14134 Midland Road Poway,ย CAย 92064
Old Poway Park transforms into a nostalgic holiday village during its beloved Christmas in the Park celebration, where families can enjoy caroling, live music, visits with Santa, childrenโs crafts, and model train displays. Guests can savor festive treats, shop for handmade gifts at the craft boutique, and take a magical ride on the Poway Midland Railroad beneath the twinkling lights. This cherished community event captures the warmth and wonder of the season, bringing old-fashioned holiday charm to life.
The tree lighting ceremony, followed by Santaโs arrival by train, will ONLY be held on Friday, December 12 at 6 p.m.ย Christmas in the Park also takes place on Friday, Dec. 12 from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m.ย
The Encinitas Holiday Street Fair
ย ย 101 Coast Highway along downtown Encinitas
The Encinitas Holiday Street Fair is a cherished tradition that brings the community together to revel in the magic of the holiday season. Stretching along the picturesque 101 Coast Highway along downtown Encinitas, the fair is a collaboration of local businesses, artisans, and entertainers, all coming together to provide residents and visitors with over 450 unique food, arts and crafts vendors, four entertainment stages, childrenโs rides, bike valets, a kid/dog-friendly beer garden with live music, and more! Take advantage of free family fun and entertainment, hosted by Encinitas 101 MainStreet Association. This event is a reflection of our town’s commitment to fostering community spirit and celebrating the holidays in style.
Balboa Park December Nights
Friday, December 5th from 3pm-11pm & Saturday, December 6th from 11am-11pm
Balboa Park
Balboa Park December Nights transforms San Diegoโs cultural heart into a sparkling celebration of holiday joy. This two-day festival fills the park with twinkling lights, music, and the aromas of global cuisine as museums and cultural institutions open their doors free of charge. Visitors can enjoy carolers, live performances, dazzling displays, and festive traditions that make this one of San Diegoโs most cherished holiday events.
Winter Wonderland Festival
December 6 and 7, 2025 | 1:00 to 5:00 PM
California Center for the Arts, Escondido
The California Center for the Arts, Escondido Foundation hosts its beloved Winter Wonderland Festival, transforming downtown Escondido into a twinkling holiday village filled with snow, music, and merriment. Families can experience the joy of real snow play, meet Santa and storybook characters, enjoy live performances by Victorian carolers, and create festive crafts together. With a charming holiday market featuring local artisans, delicious seasonal food and drinks, and countless photo-worthy moments, this free community event has become a treasured North County tradition that captures the true spirit of the season.
Port of San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
December 14th and 21st, 2025 | 5:30pm
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a time-honored holiday tradition brought to San Diego by the boating community. Continuing its long-standing San Diego tradition, the 55th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights promises to dazzle and entertain bayfront crowds during 2 evenings on December 14 and December 21, 2025. Participants in this yearโs highly anticipated holiday boat parade will decorate their boats to fit this yearโs theme.
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights brings more than 100,000 San Diego residents and visitors to the shores of San Diego Bay each year. The procession of approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats has become one of the most iconic events in the region. There is no cost to view the parade.
La Mesa Village Associationโs Holiday in the Village
Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 12 – 9 pm
La Mesa Blvd. btwn. Spring St. – 4th St. in the heart of downtown La Mesa
The La Mesa Village Associationโs Holiday in the Village celebrates its 10th year with a festive lineup of holiday traditions and activities that capture the heart and charm of downtown La Mesa. Guests can enjoy a magical mix of family-friendly fun, including โiceโ skating, mini golf, photos with Santa, Mrs. Clausโs Reading Nook, and a sparkling Winter Wonderland experience. This cherished community celebration brings together local businesses, joyful entertainment, and seasonal spirit for a truly memorable holiday weekend.
Gaslamp Pet Parade
Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 11 AM โ 4 PM
Downtown San Diegoย
The Gaslamp Pet Parade & Pups in the Pub Party returns to the historic Gaslamp Quarter in Downtown San Diego! Register your pet for justย $30ย and let them strut their stuff in San Diegoโs most festive holiday pet parade โ or enjoy the fun forย FREEย from a Gaslamp patio and soak in the holiday cheer.
All pets are welcome โ dogs, cats, and every fur baby in between! Dress them in their holiday best and celebrate withย marching bands, festive floats, eight holiday costume contest categories, and free photos with Santa, Rudolph, and Frosty.
Pups in the Pub Party Post Parade Party
Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 2:00 PM โ 4:00 PM
Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter: 401 K Street
The Pups in the Pub Party at the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter keeps the holiday celebration going with a pet- and family-friendly afternoon of festive fun. Guests can enjoy free holiday photos with Santa, Rudolph, and Frosty, custom caricatures, seasonal drinks, and plenty of treats and games for furry friends. With lively music, cheerful vibes, and a spirited costume contest awarding โBest in Show,โ this post-parade party is a tail-wagging holiday highlight in the heart of the Gaslamp.
Oceanside Parade of Lights
December 13th, 2025 | 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Oceanside Harbor: Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside, CA 92054
Bring a blanket, some hot chocolate and pick a comfortable spot to watch this years Parade of Lights celebration in the quaint Oceanside Harbor. Fishing boats, sailboats, yachts, kayaks and dingys will all be dressed-up in holiday swag and circling Oceanside Harbor enchanting onlookers along the harbor and at the neighboring restaurants. Many of the boats even feature people dressed up like Santa waving to the crowd! One of the best viewing spots is along the side of the Oceanside Harbor near the fishing dock and police station. From this vantage point, you can see the parade twice! The concrete walkway that surrounds much of the harbor is also good for viewing the parade.
Mission Bay Parade of Lights (Plus TOP Viewing location and Parties below)
December 13, 2025 | 5:30PM
The Mission Bay Parade of Lights is a dazzling holiday tradition that transforms the bay into a sea of shimmering color and creativity. Organized by the Mission Bay Yacht Club, this beloved event delights families with beautifully decorated boats, festive music, and sparkling reflections dancing across the water. Spectators can enjoy the show from designated viewing areas featuring holiday treats, bonfires, kid-friendly entertainment, and visits from Santa โ all capped off with SeaWorldโs spectacular fireworks display for a night of pure coastal holiday magic.
Winter Wonderland & Mission Bay Parade Viewing Party
December 13, 2025 | 4PM โ 6:30PM
The Dana Mission Bay: 1710 West Mission Bay Drive San Diego , CA
Experience the magic of the holidays at The Dana on Mission Bay with a festive evening of fun, food, and sparkling bay views. The Winter Wonderland celebration sets the stage for the Mission Bay Parade of Lights, featuring lively music, and themed food and drink specials. Plus, special appearances from beloved holiday characters like Princess Elsa, Buddy the Elf, and The Grinch from 4PM โ 5:30PM.
After the parade, stick around for the Falling Snow Party โ a magical finale to a night of cheer! Upgrade your evening with VIP Parade Viewing, which includes heated seating for up to four guests, four chairs,ย cocktail table, unlimited hot apple cider and cocoa, and a prime spot to enjoy the dazzling boat parade.
Parade Viewing Party at The Catamaran Resort & Spa
December 13, 2025 |ย 4PM โ 9PM | North Lawnย
Celebrate the season at the Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa with a festive holiday gathering on the North Lawn. Enjoy a cozy outdoor boozy hot chocolate bar featuring hot cider, mulled wine, coffee, and a selection of liqueurs. Light bites, including sandwiches, snacks, and sweet treats, will also be available. Bring your own blankets and chairs and gather with friends and family to sip, savor, and soak in the holiday spirit by the bay.
Parade of Lights Dinner Experience at Tidal at Paradise Point
Saturday, December 13th | Parade begins at 5:30 PM
The Parade of Lights Dinner Experience at Tidal offers guests a front-row seat to one of San Diegoโs most enchanting holiday traditions. Guests are welcomed with champagne or a signature cocktail before indulging in a seasonal three-course prix-fixe menu crafted by Chef Charlotte Guerrero, perfectly paired with breathtaking waterfront views. As illuminated boats glide across Mission Bay, diners can savor the flavors of the season and the magic of the moment during this unforgettable holiday evening. Reservations required. $100 per person, includes service charge and tax.
Mission Bay Beach Club Holiday Market + Parade Viewing
Saturday, December 13thย
Mission Bay Beach Club: 2688 E Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109
Experience holiday magic by the bay at Mission Bay Beach Club. From the Holiday Market and Santa meet-and-greet to festive drinks, sparkling dรฉcor, and live music, itโs the perfect pre-Parade destination for family fun and seasonal cheer.
- Holiday Market:ย 9 AM โ 5 PM
- Meet Santa:ย 3 PM โ 5 PM
- Live music:ย 2 PM โ 5 PM (pending jazz band)
Holiday Special Events
Books & Art: Storytime in the Library
FIT4MOM North County Inland โ 2 Year Anniversary Bash
Santa Experience Session
Disneyโs Moana Live-To-Film Concert
Once Upon a Mattress
Once Upon a Mattress
San Diego Made Holiday Market
Grand Opening Celebration ~ Bach to Rock Carlsbad
Turkey Tot Trot & Feast Play Date
Once Upon a Mattress
Fun Animal Friday: Alpacas
Once Upon a Mattress
Once Upon a Mattress
Nick Cave: A Conversation on Art and Identity
California Pacific Ballet Academy presents The Nutcracker at Oceansideโs Star Theatre, Nov 22โ23
Once Upon a Mattress
Flow in Concert with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra
California Pacific Ballet Academy presents The Nutcracker at Oceansideโs Star Theatre, Nov 22โ23
Once Upon a Mattress
California Pacific Ballet Academy presents The Nutcracker at Oceansideโs Star Theatre, Nov 22โ23
Thanksgiving Digital Art & Illustration Workshop
Santa Holiday Portrait experience
Bountiful Thanksgiving Buffet at South Coast Winery
Thanksgiving Dinner at Amaya
Thanksgiving Family Buffet at The Grand
Thanksgiving at Bonne Vie
Surfin’ Santa Arrival
Magical Tree Lighting Festivities Hosted by South Coast Winery
Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
FIT4MOM La Mesa + Lake Murray’s 2nd Birthday Bash!
Holiday Photos or Photo Experiences
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