The holiday magic was strong at this year’s Sips & Sweets with Santa, held at AleSmith Brewing—one of San Diego’s most iconic family-friendly holiday events.
From snow flurries and sweet treats to character meet-and-greets and hands-on kids’ activities, families from all over San Diego came together for a day packed with festive fun. Whether you joined us for the celebration or are reliving the memories, here’s a full recap of why Sips & Sweets with Santa continues to be one of the most beloved Holiday events in San Diego.
Hosted by San Diego Moms and proudly presented by Children’s Primary Care Medical Group (CPCMG), this year’s Sips & Sweets with Santa brought families together for an unforgettable holiday experience. The event ran from 10 AM–1 PM at AleSmith Brewing, transforming the venue into a winter wonderland filled with entertainment, holiday vendors, tasty treats, and joyful memories for kids of all ages.
Our mission has always been to create meaningful, family-centered events that bring our community together—and this year’s celebration truly delivered.
A Snowy, Magical Atmosphere
Even if San Diego doesn’t get real snow, families were treated to the next best thing: snow flurries every 15 minutes and an artificial SNOW Much FUN Zone that included over 1000 gallons of snow from SNOWONDER. ❄️
Kids danced, twirled, and squealed as the snowfall created picture-perfect moments throughout the day.
Holiday décor, festive lights, and themed stations transformed the brewery into a bright, cheerful Christmas playground—perfect for capturing memories and immersing families in the holiday spirit.
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Presenting Sponsor
A special thanks to our presenting sponsor Children’s Primary Care Medical Group (CPCMG). Find the best primary pediatric healthcare close to home with the region’s only health network focused solely on children, their health and well-being!
From the moment you touch their tiny toes to the day they graduate high school, you want the very best health care for your child. That’s why over 100,000 families have turned to Children’s Primary Care Medical Group (CPCMG) to find the best pediatricians for their children.
The Venue
Venue: AleSmith Brewing Company
9990 AleSmith Ct, San Diego, CA 92126
858-549-9888 | info@AleSmith.com
Family Photos with Santa Photographer
Emily Edman Photos
Emily Edman is a San Diego–born and raised photographer and stay-at-home mom who now lives in North County with her husband, son, and dog. Her passion for photography began in 5th grade with her very first point-and-shoot camera, followed by years of learning on her dad’s film camera in high school and her first DSLR in college.
Today, Emily is turning her lifelong love of photography into a professional journey. Guided by her belief that “time is a thief,” she uses her work to help families preserve the moments that matter most. Emily is honored to capture memories that allow families to hold onto a little piece of time—long after the moment has passed.
Event Photography & Videography
OSCAR DEGARZA
Photographer, director, and videographer based in San Diego, CA. Growing up, he always knew that he had an eye for photography that became a desire for perfecting the art of filmmaking and content creation. Growing up in the face of adversity has influenced his grungy, gritty, and dark style; He also focus on a clean minimalistic look that is pleasing to the eye.
@oscardegarza
Anvil of Hope
We will also be hosting a toy drive at the event to benefit Anvil of Hope. Bring an unwrapped toy for a deserving child and receive FIVE extra raffle tickets. For those bringing more than one toy (we encourage it!), you’ll get FIVE raffle tickets for each of the first FOUR toys and TWO raffle tickets for every additional toy you donate.
Area Sponsors
Coastal Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics
San Diego’s premier private practice of expert pediatric dentists, providing exceptional care for children from their first visit to their final checkup before adulthood. Their team creates a fun, friendly and welcoming experience for every family we serve. Convenient locations across the county in Carmel Valley, Torrey Pines, Eastlake, Santee, San Diego, & South Bay.
Food Allergy Institute
The Food Allergy Institute (FAI) is the largest food allergy treatment center of its kind. Through our unique approach to food allergy treatment, our Tolerance Induction Program™ (TIP) helps us drive our mission for all children who suffer from food allergies to safely eat whatever they want.
Stop by FAI and let your little one write their special letter to Santa! We’ll make sure it gets mailed straight to the North Pole—or they can hand it to Santa himself at the event! 🎅✨
Platinum Sponsors
Cirque Quirk
Cirque Quirk is San Diego’s highest-rated and most trusted circus and event entertainment company. Hire their team of professional and reliable acrobats, jugglers, contortionists, LED stilt walkers, party robots, magicians, and more. They are known for delivering incredibly quality and energetic entertainment. See their 5-star rating on Google!
Magic Jump Rentals
Magic Jump Rentals offers a large variety of jumpers, bouncers, combos, water slides, obstacle courses, slides, interactive inflatables, mechanical rides, rock walls, zip lines, euro bungees, photo booths, movie screens, carnival games, concession machines, and more! Magic Jump Rentals provides an easy and convenient method for online rental, all it takes is 3 easy steps to rent from us. Magic Jump Rentals thrives on its excellent customer service and timeliness so customers can enjoy their party without having to worry about their order.
Party People San Diego
Party People San Diego is a full-service mobile DJ, lighting, and entertainment company dedicated to providing the highest quality and service at competitive prices. They will keep the party going and help us ring in the NOON Year!!!
Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
Better Buzz Coffee Company® is committed to providing consistent quality coffee beverages in a FUN atmosphere, with efficient & friendly customer service. We are dedicated to the freshest possible coffee by roasting and delivering coffee weekly to our stores and customers. Better Buzz Coffee® is certified by CCOF as an ORGANIC Coffee Roaster and strive to source Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance coffees. We hope you share our passion for coffee and join us for a cup. Because LIFE’S BETTER BUZZED®
DJ Greg Murphy
Santa Larry & Marilyn
We are so happy to have Santa Larry and his elf helper Marilyn back! They happily spend time during their holiday season spreading love and joy. They are dedicated members of the Poway Elks (one of 10 locations in the area) which serves local communities, veterans, and children with fundraisers, community projects and other charitable endeavors. To learn more about the Elks or find a lodge near you, go to www.elks.org.
The Storybook Character Company
Thank you to The Storybook Character Company we will have a special appearance by the The Grinch, Cindy Lou Who and not one, but TWO of Santa’s elves! They provide the highest quality character entertainment in San Diego and Southern California. Their singing princesses and other party characters are available for entertainment at children’s birthday parties, special events, school and church carnivals, company picnics, weddings, charity events, theatrical performances, and large corporate events.
EcoVivarium
We are thrilled to have EcoVivarium onsite with their Mobile Zoo featuring 16 to 21 live reptiles and arthropods, offering free hands-on encounters with the Animal Ambassadors throughout the day. They will also be sharing Rattlesnake safety information for families. EcoVivarium is a nonprofit Living Museum located in Escondido. They feature live reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods. In addition to museum tours, they offer Birthday Parties, Private & Corporate Entertainment Events, Educational Programs, and more.
Children’s Museum of Discovery
Children’s Museum of Discovery brings a world of hands-on learning to life with activities that spark curiosity and inspire a love of learning. At their booth, families can dive into creativity with the Imagination Playground Blocks — an interactive, build-anything experience kids absolutely love.
LKH Events
LKH Events offers a full range of event essentials designed to bring any celebration to life. Their services include jumpers, balloon décor, soft play setups, photobooths, table settings, floral walls, centerpieces, and a variety of themed decorations and props.
They also provide tables, chairs, canopies, linens, silverware, and tableware—making it easy for clients to create a seamless, beautifully styled event. Whether it’s a birthday, baby shower, corporate gathering, or milestone celebration, LKH Events delivers elevated, stress-free setups tailored to any occasion.
iFlyCameras
Dive into a world where precision meets passion. At iFlyCameras, every project is a canvas, and our drones are the brushes. With a rich tapestry of experience spanning over a decade, we’ve mastered the art of capturing moments that matter. Whether it’s a grand event or an intimate occasion, our commitment is unwavering: to deliver visuals that not only meet but exceed your expectations. Choose iFlyCameras, and let’s craft memories that stand the test of time.
QuickSitters
At our QuickSitters booth, we will offer fun, hands-on activities for kids to enjoy while parents learn more about our last-minute babysitting services. We’ll share information about how QuickSitters works, what makes our sitters safe and reliable, and how families can book care quickly and easily. We’ll also have small giveaways, surprises, and interactive sign-up opportunities for families interested in trying our services or joining our sitter team.
San Diego Gulls
The San Diego Gulls, the proud AHL affiliate of the Anaheim Ducks, are gearing up for an exciting season starting this October—and they’re bringing the fun to the local community. Families can stop by to meet team mascot Gulliver, enjoy lawn games, enter exciting giveaways, and test their skills at the inflatable slapshot game.
Dave & Buster’s Mission Valley
Dave and Busters is a restaurant and arcade all in one. We sell food, drinks, and powercards to play games. All guests are welcome to play!
At Dave & Buster’s you can Eat, Drink & Play! 🍴🍹🎮
Enjoy fresh, seasonal eats that keep the awards coming, sip on classic cocktails and one-of-a-kind specialty drinks, and relive the thrill of arcade fun with joystick flicks and button-mashing games that bring out the kid in all of us.
Ms Gabby’s Face Paint
A mom, teacher, and entrepreneur working hard to be an example for my children and other strong women and mothers who are working hard to make it to the top!
The Cove
The Cove is a coworking and childcare community in the heart of Carlsbad offering flexible memberships, drop-ins, private offices, shared workspaces, and optional on-site childcare. Designed for working parents, entrepreneurs, and remote professionals, it provides a productive, comfortable environment that understands how real life and work overlap. Beyond work, The Cove also hosts community events, wellness programs, and family-friendly gatherings that help you connect with others who share your values.
North County Gymnastics & The Gyminny Kids
Since 1987, Gyminny Kids has been a leader in fun and fitness for all ages. With a focus on safety and long-term coaching excellence, their team of career coaches and administrators provides top-tier instruction in a clean, climate-controlled environment. All staff are First Aid and CPR certified, background-checked, and passionate about helping kids thrive.
With four locations—4S Ranch, Poway, La Costa, and Carlsbad—Gyminny Kids offers free trials, ongoing classes, camps, gymnastics, ninja training, tumbling, and birthday parties for every little adventurer.
Dynasty Dance Co.
At Dynasty Dance Co., we believe in the transformative power of dance and education. Our mission is clear: to provide underserved youth and families with opportunities that expand their expectations and ambitions through dance education, academic support, childcare, and family services. Founded as a Creative Youth Development (CYD) organization, Dynasty Dance Co. is more than just a dance studio — we are a non-profit dedicated to fostering creativity, discipline, and social-emotional growth in every child and family we serve.
New York Life
At the New York Life San Diego General Office, we do more than work in the community, we’re part of it. Many of our Agents have local roots – some even go back generations. That’s important, because it gives them a vested interest in the people and businesses that make up the community. We believe there’s no greater job than helping our friends and neighbors succeed.
FIT4MOM La Mesa + Lake Murray
FIT4MOM is the nation’s leading prenatal and postnatal fitness program, providing fitness classes and a network of moms to support every stage of motherhood. From pregnancy, through postpartum and beyond, our fitness and wellness programs help make moms strong in body, mind, and spirit.
Teeny Tots Learning LLC
Teeny Tots Learning LLC supports children’s development through thoughtfully curated programs that combine educational and play-based approaches rooted in occupational therapy principles. Our programs focus on building foundational skills through a blend of dynamic and structured activities that foster children’s growth and independence.
Children’s Choice Pediatric Dentistry
At Children’s Choice, we are dedicated to providing children access to the healthcare they need for excellent health and big smiles. Our award-winning teams provide engaging and educational experiences in our fun child-centric offices.
Our mission is to provide everyone access to the healthcare they need. We are a diverse and inclusive company with a focus upon patient-centered care with evidence-based treatment options.
Champion Rhythmics
Champion Rhythmics is San Diego’s premier rhythmic and acrobatic gymnastics school, offering classes for children and adults of all levels. Our expert coaches create a fun, supportive environment where students build strength, flexibility, confidence, and artistry. From recreational classes to competitive training, we help every athlete shine — both in the gym and beyond.
Farm Fresh To You
Farm Fresh To You is a home delivery Farm-to-Table program that conveniently brings the season’s best mix of organic produce and specialty farm products to your door by growing and partnering with local farms and artisans. They’ve been growing sustainability since 1976 and delivering organic fruits and vegetables with an optional artisan market for over 30 years.
Sweet Silver Lining
We are a local home baking business specializing in cake bites; tasty cake mixed with frosting, rolled in chocolate and coated with cookie crumbs. Our cake bites make a great, no mess, hand held sweet addition to parties or any day you want to have a ‘guilt free’ snack. Loved by all ages and toddler approved.
ImagiDough
ImagiDough is a sensory play brand designed to spark creativity, support emotional regulation, and make learning fun through hands-on activities. We create themed playdough buckets with fun accessories that spark creativity and imagination. Perfect for developing fine motor skills, problem-solving, and sensory play.
Unleash creativity with ImagiDough: Where Imagination Takes Shape.
Pattercakes Cheesecakes
Pattercakes is a popular San Diego-based cheesecake business known for its artisanal, creative flavors in jars, featuring options like Key Lime, White Chocolate Raspberry, Rosemary Fig, and vegan/gluten-free choices, sold primarily at local farmers’ markets (like Leucadia & Vista) and through custom orders for events, offering unique treats beyond traditional cheesecake.
Fresh Prints of La Mesa
Bill is a mad scientist of sorts, making 3d printed toys and other useful items that kids love. Kids are allowed to play with the products and even name their own price (within reason) for many items. Nature, science, music, useful things and art are the focuses
Coco Bear Kids
We are a small family owned company local to San Diego and are offering buttery soft Bamboo Sleepwear for Baby & Kids. We work with designers from around the world to bring you the most beautiful and unique prints.
Rising Tides Resin Designs
Rising Tide Resin Designs is led by Lisa Duffy, a coastal artist whose resin work reflects her deep love for the ocean. Drawing inspiration from her background in swimming, lifeguarding, and marine life, she creates unique pieces using recycled and up-cycled materials whenever possible. She also donates part of her proceeds to organizations like the Surfrider Foundation and Prevent Drowning Foundation of San Diego.
Karacataures
Karacatures is Kara Wald, artist and entertainer! I draw caricatures, cartoon, portraits and more on paper and digital media. I have been an artist for more than 30 years and work from San Diego, Los Angeles, and in-between!
Infinite Links LLC
Infinite Links LLC is a permanent jewelry small business. It is a type of jewelry that is custom-fit and hand welded directly onto the wearer-meaning theres no clasp, and its intended to be worn continuously without removal. I offer clasps for those who do not wish to have it on permanent. I carry chains of 14Kg filled, .925 sterling silver and rose gold that can be custom fitted for a bracelet, anklet, necklace or a ring. If one is looking to add a little more bling, I offer different connectors to add to the chain of choice.
Alpine Publishing
Award-winning children’s books, customized with the author signing books onsite.
Giveaways + Swag
In case you are on the fence, here are a few recaps of some of our previous Sips & Sweets with Santa events! But don’t wait this event will sell out!
