San Diego Christmas events and holiday activities in 2023 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 holiday performances like The Nutcracker and How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
I’ve listed nearly 30 festive events to celebrate Christmas in San Diego, from San Diego hotels, theme parks, neighborhoods, and other San Diego attractions around the county to help get your holiday spirit on.
Some to look forward to include Balboa Park December nights, Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo, Christmas activities at the timeless Hotel del Coronado, Surfin’ Santa at Seaport Village, or the Lightscape show at the San Diego Botanic Garden. I can not wait to attend!
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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.
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, open their doors free of charge.
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. December 1st & 2nd. Admission is free.
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 more in the evenings. December 9–January 1.
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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, catch Donner and Blitzen’s Lazer lights show, or enjoy the sounds of the Holiday Brass band. Admission is included with regular park admission.
In addition to the special holiday-themed animal shows and a sea-themed Christmas tree, 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. November 17–January 7, 2024, during park opening hours.
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’.
Festivities run from November 18–January 7, 2024. 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. November 24–26; December 2–3, 9-10, 16–23, and 25–31 from 4–8 p.m.
ACCESS MY EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT
Check for unpublished deeper savings on tickets through my partnership with aRes Travel, an authorized San Diego Zoo Safari Park ticket seller.
*By texting the word SAFARI to 1-833-490-0799 you agree to receive automated promotional messages with how to secure my deeper ticket discount and this agreement isn’t a condition of any purchase. Msg and data rates may apply. 2 msg/mo. Reply STOP to cancel. Read my full privacy policy.
See also: How to Buy Discount San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets
Lightscape — San Diego Botanic Garden
Of all the San Diego Christmas events, we are most excited about this one! The internationally acclaimed show, Lightscape, will be coming to the San Diego Botanic Garden for the second year running.
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 every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from November 17–December 31 (apart from the 24 & 25th) and other selected days through January 1, 2024.
Holiday Ballets and Performances
Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas!
Come to The Old Globe for the beloved annual performance of Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The whimsical musical is back for its 26th season, featuring favorite songs like “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” and more. Buy tickets in advance. November 8–December 31, 2023.
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.
- Friday, December 15 at 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, December 16 at 5 p.m.
- Sunday, December 17 at 5 p.m.
The Nutcracker Ballet by City Ballet
City Ballet dancers take guests on an extraordinary journey to the magical Land of the Sweets with Clara and her Nutcracker Prince this Christmas season. Performances take place at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido.
- Thu, Dec 21, 2023 at 7:30 p.m.
- Fri, Dec 22, 2023 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
- Sat, Dec 23, 2023 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Dining & Holiday Events in San Diego Hotels
Most of our San Diego hotels will have some holiday events and decore on tap, especially our luxury hotels and resorts.
Holidays at Hotel del Coronado
We love the holiday season at the Hotel del Coronado as it bustles with holiday events and Christmas activities for everyone.
Happenings at the Hotel del Coronado include a lively mix of activities such as Skating by the Sea (starting November 17), Gingerbread House decorating, photos with Santa, and a Holiday Festival. 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 ocean.
This year, The Del’s renowned outdoor Christmas light show has an All That Jazz theme. The hotel’s festivities run from November 17–January 7, 2024.
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 with memorable dining experiences complete with seasonal food, a 25ft Christmas tree, outdoor glice skating (artificial ice), a Nutcracker Holiday Tea, s’mores around a firepit, and much more for residents and hotel guests. November 22 through early January 2024.
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
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. Thursday, November 30 at 4:30 p.m.
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. December 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 | Seatings available between 11–11:30 a.m. each day
And, of course, you’ll be able to enjoy special multi-course Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners.
Christmas in San Diego Neighborhood Parades, Tree Lightings, and Other Events
And nearly every neighborhood will have some activities during the holiday season. These are the most popular.
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 “Santa’s Living Room” 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. Saturday, December 2, from 4–8 p.m.
Surfin’ Santa at Seaport Village
It’s not Christmas in San Diego without visiting Surfin’ Santa at Seaport Village for an afternoon of holiday cheer and merriment at Tuna Harbor Pier!
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.
However, you can greet him for breakfast the day before at Malibu Farm, followed by some gingerbread house decorating for all ages. You’ll need to buy tickets through Malibu Farm.
- Friday, November 24 (breakfast)
- Saturday, November 25, from 1–5 p.m.
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 Nutcracker Tea Party, Hannukah Menorah Lighting, and Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station. 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 48th annual Coronado Holiday Parade and Open House. Start at Ferry Landing, down Orange Ave to Hotel del Coronado, then watch the Holiday Parade, join in holiday sing-a-longs, and watch the traditional lighting of a Christmas tree in Rotary Park. Admission is free. Friday, December 1.
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. Complimentary admission. December 3, 2023 from 1–5 p.m.
Plus, you’ll enjoy free parking in Del Mar Village should you shop there during the holiday season. Get more details about the holidays in Del Mar.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
The 53rd 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 Christmas Traditions Around the World.
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 Sundays, December 10 and 17, from 5:30–9 p.m.
The approximate parade route and time of arrival are as follows:
- 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 dingys will dress up for the holidays for an authentic Christmas in San Diego while circling Oceanside Harbor.
the Oceanside Harbor at the Oceanside Parade of Lights. The best viewing point is along Oceanside Harbor, near the fishing dock and police station. December 9 from 7–9 p.m.
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. Saturday, December 2, from
5 p.m.
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 “Grand Ole Christmas.”
The Holiday Festival with entertainment and photos with Santa occurs before the parade at the Christmas village in front of the Athenaeum from 11.30 a.m.–1 p.m, and then 3.30 p.m–4 p.m. The parade starts at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, December 3.
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 event features carolers and street entertainers along La Mesa Boulevard. Guests can visit Santa’s Toy Shop, take photos with Santa, and enjoy craft vendors, fire pits, and live music entertainment. Saturday, December 2, from 12–9 p.m.
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! Tuesday, December 26, 5-8 p.m.
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). Wednesday, December 27. Time TBD.
Poway’s Christmas in the Park
Poway’s Christmas in the Park has added a second date for the 2023 festivities. Old Poway Park will is the location of this traditional old-fashioned Christmas celebration. Guests can enjoy a visit from Santa, live music, theater performances, food, treats, crafts, and even a chance to get onboard 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. The shuttles run from 3 p.m.–9 p.m. Admission is also free. Friday, December 8, from 5:30–8:30 P.M., and Saturday, December 9, from 3:30–8:30 P.M.
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.
- Date: November 17, 2023–January 7, 2024
- Times: Check the website, as they vary by the day.
- Cost: TBD per person with free skate rentals online
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.
- Date: From November 3, 2023
- Times: Dates and times vary. Please check calendars at the link above.
- Cost: $20 for ages 12 and under and $22 for ages 13 and older.
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 price of admission.
- Dates: Saturday, November 16 at 4 p.m. –Sunday, January 7, 2024
- Times: Monday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (the ice is cleared 5-5:30 and 7:30-8 for Zamboni ice resurfacing each day)
- Cost: $20/adult, $15/child/military/groups of 20 or more
You can purchase tickets online or onsite.
Take Pictures with Santa for Christmas in San Diego
Shopping Malls
If headed to one of many shopping malls in San Diego, 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 in the ultimate holiday events! 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. It looks waitlisted on December 9. You can get on the wait list.
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.
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. Location: Hickory Court, Hickory Street, off Twin Peaks Road and Silverset St. Also Includes Butterwood Ct. and Rockrose Ct.
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. Location: Ellingham Street and Oviedo Street, just off Black Mountain Road
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. Location: 5306 North Belardo Drive
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. Location: Garrison Street near Chatsworth
See also:
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.
