The Ultimate Guide to the Holidays in San Diego

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nikijones
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Our Ultimate Guide to the Holidays in San Diego has you covered this holiday season!

From family-friendly Holiday Events, where to see the best Christmas Lights with thanks to San Diego Family Magazine, Santa Photos and so much more! And don’t forget about our Holiday Gift Guide!

Tag us in your instagram pics this holiday season. #SDMoms

Use the buttons below to navigate to that section of the guide.

Holiday Events

Holiday Festivals & Experiences (Multi-Day)

Christmas Lights presented by San Diego Family

Holiday Break Camps

Photos with Santa

Christmas Trees

Holiday Movies In Theaters

Holiday Gift Guide

Ultimate Guide to the Holidays Presenting Sponsor

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omas family farm
Oma's Family Farm
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14950 El Monte Road, Lakeside, CA, 92040
Christmas at Oma’s brings the delight of the holiday season to the farm. From special visits by Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause, to heavy equipment that is decorated with holiday spirit, Oma’s offer a wonderful opportunity for families to celebrate together. For families, there are delightful activities for all ages. Children can partake in holiday crafts and games. The farm’s Christmas event space has quickly become a cherished tradition, offering a perfect escape into a world of holiday magic and farm charm.

Tis' the Season to Give Back!

holiday gift drive

Holiday Gift Drive Benefiting Voices for Children Hosted by Learning for All 

Learning for All provides educational therapy in a 1:1 setting for children to adults with various learning challenges. They specialize in working with learners with Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, ADHD, Auditory Processing, and Executive Functioning difficulties. 

They are collecting items this holiday season to donate to Voices for Children. VFC supports kids (birth until they age out at 18 or 22) in the foster system and provides them with volunteer court-appointed advocates (CASA). Learning for All will match all cash or gift card donations 100% up to $5,000. Let’s give back to a wonderful cause this holiday season! 

Questions? Please get in touch with Assistant Director Gizelle Navarro – at gizelle@learningforallsd.com. For questions regarding our programs and how we support learners, please complete a contact form on their website: www.learningforallsd.com.

 Learning for All has put together a holiday gift guide based on our favorite games and books on Pinterest.

Featured Holiday Festivals (Multi-Day Experiences)

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Jingle Jets
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22 Navy Pier, San Diego, CA, 92132
This holiday season, enjoy a magical evening at the USS Midway Museum's 2nd Annual Jingle Jets Holiday Lighting Celebration! Come see Midway transform into a festive holiday wonderland on the sea, dazzling from bow to stern with 750,000 twinkling lights! Whimsical music, tasty treats, and festive fun for the whole family await! 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. PDT (Last entry is at 8:00 p.m.) Runs on Select Dates: Nov. 22 - Dec. 23, 2024 November 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, & 30 Dec […]
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Christmas at SeaWorld San Diego
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500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA, 92109
Bring your family together for the eye-catching spectacles, heartwarming traditions, and joyful surprises of SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration. The holidays are meant to be merry and bright, and that’s exactly what you’ll find as this beloved event returns with more wondrous moments than ever. A Spectacular Holiday Event Full of Lights, Cheer & Magic See dazzling new Christmas shows or meet Santa and Rudolph. Feel enchanted by snowfall in Southern California and watch our […]
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Coastal Christmas
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3.01
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2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard, Del Mar, CA, 92014
Welcome to Coastal Christmas a Holiday Light Spectacular – where the holiday spirit meets the coast! Get ready to embark on a festive journey, as we transform the iconic Del Mar Fairgrounds into a winter wonderland by the sea. With twinkling lights, holiday cheer, and delicious snacks and drinks, Coastal Christmas promises to be your family's best holiday tradition. 8 Days of Holiday FUN! Del Mar Fairgrounds | 4 PM - 9 PM Friday, December 13 - Sunday, December 15 Friday, Decem […]
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Pine Valley Camp Christmas
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8668 Pine Creek Road, CA, 91962
Camp Christmas is lighting the campfire for its 4th annual holiday festival with 20 nights of holiday joy. With all the lights and sounds of the holidays, Camp Christmas is an explosion of the holiday season all in one place! From colorful dancing water shows to holiday photo opps, winter hayrides and train rides, as well as “Sappy,” The Talking Christmas Tree – there’s something for everyone that will boost the holiday spirit. There’s also archery, bounce houses, a popular game room, […]
Holiday Events
https://pinevalleycampchristmas.com/tickets/
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Oma's Family Farm
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14950 El Monte Road, Lakeside, CA, 92040
Christmas at Oma’s brings the delight of the holiday season to the farm. From special visits by Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause, to heavy equipment that is decorated with holiday spirit, Oma’s offer a wonderful opportunity for families to celebrate together. For families, there are delightful activities for all ages. Children can partake in holiday crafts and games. The farm’s Christmas event space has quickly become a cherished tradition, offering a perfect escape into a world of holida […]
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Family Christmas Tree Farm
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300 Pepper Drive, El Cajon, CA, 92071
An Experience to Always Remember: Since 1972, our small 10-acre farm has been serving the community by bringing the Christmas spirit to San Diego each and every year. When it comes to the holidays, we’re committed to providing the freshest and best quality, from our pumpkins to our trees! Most importantly, we are committed to providing family, friends, and loved ones with unforgettable memories to be cherished for years to come. From our family to yours, we wish you a wonderf […]
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Bates Nut Farm
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15954 Woods Valley Road, Valley Center, CA, 92082
A Free Holiday Celebration for the Community, come join us at Christmas in Valley Center, here at Bates Nut Farm in Valley Center, North County San Diego! Friday, December 13th & Saturday, December 14th! This magical event is for all ages to enjoy, sponsored by the Valley Center Chamber of Commerce! Bring out the whole family to enjoy Santa arriving by Fire Truck on Friday 12/13 at 6:00pm and Polar Express Hayride on Saturday 12/14 at 11:00am, Christmas carols Friday evening, FRE […]

Holiday Festivals (Multi-Day Experiences)

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The Holiday Market at Petco Park
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800-898 K Street, San Diego, CA, 92101
The Holiday Market is returning for its fourth year to the newly renovated Gallagher Square at Petco Park for select dates beginning December 5-27! Enjoy magical Christmas lighting displays, visit with Santa, live reindeer, and other holiday characters, and go shopping for the perfect stocking stuffers and handcrafted holiday gifts! Indulge in your holiday cravings by sipping cider and mulled wine or tasting delicious shortbread and other seasonal treats. Inside the market, you’ll be […]
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Holidays at The Del
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1500 Orange Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92118
For the 2024 holiday season, we invite you to step back in time to the glittering splendor of Old Hollywood as we celebrate Hotel del Coronado's rich legacy of filmmaking. In honor of the 65th anniversary of Some Like It Hot starring the legendary Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon, the Holidays at The Del will be an unforgettable tribute to Hollywood's golden age. The Del's Christmas trees and garlands will dazzle with Hollywood glamour, reflecting the timeless elegance of […]
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Jingle Terrace Live
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1250 Vale Terrace Drive, CA, 92084
Nightly, December 6-December 21: The City of Vista and the Moonlight Amphitheatre’s “Jingle Terrace Live” features holiday light shows and activities. Bring your whole family to enjoy holiday refreshments, festive displays, live entertainment, holiday activities, photo opportunities, and other special surprises. All ages welcome! Admission, parking, and all activities are free! Food and drinks will be available for purchase. More information to come!   Nightly Activities inc […]
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Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
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1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA, 92101
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is a wonderful, whimsical musical based upon the classic Dr. Seuss book. Back for its 27th incredible year, the family favorite features the songs “Santa for a Day,” “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” and “Welcome, Christmas (Fah Who Doraze),” the delightful carol from the popular animated version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Celebrate the holidays as the Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage in the Old Globe Theatre, part of the Globe’s Conra […]
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Visit Julian
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Julian, CA
Christmas Tree Lighting with music and a Christmas Marketing beginning at noon. Santa arrives 6:10pm(ish).  November 30 Santa at Town Hall every weekend in December until 12/22. Children's desk inside town hall for "Letters to Santa"  Mailbox to North Pole on town hall porch. Christmas Light Parade  December 7 Christmas Sing-Along    December 7 The holiday season in Julian also offers an opportunity to shop at small boutiques, without the crowds or lines, for one-of-a-kin […]
Holiday Events
https://visitjulian.com/to-see-do/special-events/country-christmas/
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The Farm Stand
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3.52
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2115 Miller Ave., Escondido, CA, 92025
The Farm Stand sells beautiful, fresh Christmas Trees beginning the day after Thanksgiving. The trees are displayed in a large, shady tent. The trees come in all sizes, from small to very tall. This is a wonderful family experience. Santa is known to show up. The tree sales will be open 10 am until 8 pm daily, until Christmas. 2115 Miller Ave, Escondido (near 1-15 Felicita offramp). 760-738-9014
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Peltzer Winery + Peltzer Pines
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39925 Calle Contento, CA, 92591
Our annual Peltzer Ice Rink can’t wait to welcome y’all back for its 7th season come November 9th! As an extension of Peltzer Winery and Peltzer Pumpkin Farm, we invite families from all over Southern California to create family traditions with us during the holidays. Our rink features 8,400 square feet of skating space, complimentary gliders, picnic benches, hot cocoa, snacks, local food truck eats, and a bar serving Peltzer Wine (21+ only). Skate sessions are non-refundable, but […]
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Julian Farm and Orchard
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4381 Julian Hwy, Julian, CA, 92070
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday November 9th - December 29th PLUS, December 30th, 31st, and January 1st 10:00am to 4:00pm​ Join us for a magical (Gl)ice-skating experience that combines all the fun of a classic ice rink with the charm of farm activities and the crisp Southern California mountain air. Our Glice synthetic rink feels just like real ice—using real ice skates—without the environmental impact of traditional frozen rinks. It's the perfect eco-friendly way to enjoy skating in a […]

Christmas Trees

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Oma's Family Farm
Oma's Family Farm
14950 El Monte Road, Lakeside, CA, 92040
Start Date:
End Date:
As the fall season approaches, the farm transforms into a vibrant fall scene. Oma’s Pumpkin Patch features a charming array of attractions, including a whimsical haymaze, a petting zoo for all ages, and a hayride that offers scenic views of the farm’s picturesque landscape. Children delight in interactive games and activites, while adults can sample delicious pumpkin-themed treats and fall flavored products. For the Van Ommering family, this new chapter in the farm’s history is more t […]
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Family Christmas Tree Farm
Family Christmas Tree Farm
300 Pepper Drive, El Cajon, CA, 92071
Start Date:
End Date:
Pumpkin Patch 2024 ADMISSION $5 PER PERSON KIDS 2 YEARS OLD AND YOUNGER FREE SEPTEMBER 27TH - OCTOBER 13TH FRIDAY 2-8PM, SATURDAY/SUNDAY 10AM-8PM. OCTOBER 14TH - OCTOBER 31ST MONDAY-FRIDAY 2-8PM, SATURDAY/SUNDAY 10AM-8PM. Farm admission includes free play in our huge hay maze scavenger hunt, family activity area, farm animal area access, and tractor rides around the farm! U-Cut Pumpkins $1 per pound U-cut sunflowers $2 per stem Cornhole board games for the family F […]

Holiday Special Events

Disney’s Moana Live-To-Film Concert

November 14 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Disney Concerts and AMP Worldwide present Disney’s MOANA Live-To-Film Concert North American tour,...
View Details

Holiday Photos or Photo Experiences

There are no upcoming events.

Tree Lighting Ceremonies

tree lighting

The 19th annual Globe Christmas Tree Lighting

Sunday, November 10, 2024
6pm
Globe’s Copley Plaza, part of the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center

The ceremony will kick off the holiday season in conjunction with the presentation of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Designed by Grinch scenic designer John Lee Beatty, the unique tree will be located in the center of the Plaza and will remain for the run of the show. This fun family event will feature a special live performance by members of the Grinch cast and a delightful holiday snowfall on the Globe Plaza. Although the event is free, reservations are required.

There will be a standby line that forms at 5:00 p.m., an hour before the Tree Lighting. Based on space availability after all ticket-holders have entered the plaza, standby line patrons may be given access to the Globe’s plaza starting at 6:00 p.m.

Liberty Station Tree Lighting & Holiday Festivities

Friday, November 29, 2024
5pm to 9pm
Liberty Station North Promenade, 2880 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

Liberty Station invites everyone to kick off the most wonderful time of the year at the 2024 Salute the Season celebration! The main event, the Liberty Station Tree Lighting, will take place on Friday, November 29th, from 5 to 9 p.m. Families and friends are welcome to gather and watch as the majestic 88-foot Norfolk pine tree lights up, bringing holiday cheer to all. This magical evening offers fun for the entire family, with live entertainment, festive firetruck rides, and free photos with Santa! Later, guests can cozy up under the stars for a special screening of the holiday classic, The Grinch. Don’t miss this chance to create cherished memories and start a new family tradition at Liberty Station’s Tree Lighting.

Come and celebrate the season at Liberty Station’s 2024 annual Holiday Tree Lighting. Join in on Friday, November 29th, from 5 to 9 p.m., for an evening filled with festive spirit and community joy at the North Promenade and Building 177.

One Paseo Tree Lighting

Saturday, November 30, 2024
6pm – 9pm
One Paseo, 3725 Paseo Place, San Diego, CA 92130

One Paseo will be aglow with firefly lights shimmering in the trees and festive décor throughout the center beginning on Saturday, November 30th. The lighting of the 30-foot tall tree will feature live musical performances, snow cascading from the rooftops, Santa and special guests! Tree lighting ceremony kicks off at 6pm.

La Valencia Hotel Annual Tree Lighting 

Date TBD
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.

Country Christmas Tree Lighting (Julian)

Saturday, November 30, 2024
12pm-8pm
Julian Town Square, Main and Washington Julian, CA

Market will open around noon with holiday gift idea vendors and crafts. Music will begin around 2pm and go on until the tree lights at 5:30(ish)pm. Followed thereafter by Santa Claus arriving to meet and greet the kids. It is a wholesome, fun, family-friendly way to kick off the holiday season.

6 pm
Orange Avenue between Park Place and Isabella Avenue

A beloved tradition that brought our community together in festive cheer. The tree lighting of the magnificent 120-foot Christmas tree adorned with 18,175 twinkling lights at Rotary Plaza.

The parade features over 1,400 enthusiastic participants and thousands of spectators lining the streets. The parade route begins on Orange Avenue and loops at RH Dana and Adella

Holiday Tree Lighting in Carlsbad Village

Sunday, December 8, 2024
2pm-4:30pm
300 Carlsbad Village Drive., Carlsbad, CA

The Rotary Club of Carlsbad sponsors this annual celebration, which is always attended by a crowd of Carlsbad residents. The annual tree lighting will be led by Carlsbad Mayor-Elect Keith Blackburn at 4:30, just as it’s getting dark. Kids will enjoy holiday crafts and storytelling courtesy of the Carlsbad Library’s Learning Center. The Carlsbad Rotary Club will also provide cookies, coffee, and hot cider.

The official Carlsbad Village Holiday Tree Lighting celebration begins at 2:00 pm. Santa arrives in an antique fire truck courtesy of the Carlsbad Fire Department with his elf and Mrs. Claus. There will be candy cane handouts, visits, and an opportunity to take free photos with Santa.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

Sunday, December 1,2024
5pm-8pm
South Coast Winery: 34843 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591

The holiday season officially begins with South Coast Winery’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Courtyard. Starting at 5 p.m. families can enjoy festive activities including a meet and greet with Santa Claus, a petting zoo, face painting and rides on a horse-drawn trolley. Hot chocolate, cider and a dessert bar will be available while adults can enjoy beer, wine and holiday-themed cocktails. The evening culminates with the lighting of the Christmas tree, a magical moment to share with family and friends. Attendees are encouraged to bring unwrapped toys for donation to Toys for Tots, helping bring joy to children in need.

Tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for children ages 4 to 12; children 3 and under are free. Ticket pricing is inclusive of taxes and gratuities; all ticket sales are final. Tickets go on sale beginning October 1 and can be purchased at https://shop.wineresort.com/RESERVE.AMS.

 

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