Holiday Wonderland at Petco Park
Dates: Dec. 5-23, excluding Dec. 8 and 9, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Snow in San Diego? It’s a Christmas miracle! Get yourself to winter wonderland in Gallagher Square, right outside of Petco Park. Complete with a sledding hill, an imitation train, a carousel from your childhood dreams, and a 40-foot Christmas tree, this world feels miles away from sunny San Diego. There are also food and artisan vendors to enliven the holiday spirit. Admission starts at $25.
December Nights at Balboa Park
Dates: Dec. 5, 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Dec. 6, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Every San Diegan has heard of December Nights for a reason; now, it’s time for you to experience the merry magic. Celebrate the season at San Diego’s biggest free holiday festival! As you make your way through the park, take in the festive array of holiday lights, savor the delicious food, browse unique goods from local vendors, and enjoy plenty of live performances. Visit the International Cottages and sample cuisine from all around the world — a cultural experience you’re sure to enjoy. Several museums also open their doors for free!
Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village
Date: Dec. 6, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Grab your friends and catch the Blue Line trolley downtown to Little Italy for a traditional Italian tree-lighting ceremony. Enjoy seasonal vendors, holiday treats, and live music while supporting small businesses in the Christmas Village that offer unique goods like handmade wreaths, gift boxed cookies, and specialty foods for the holidays.
La Jolla Christmas Parade
Date: Dec. 7, 1:30 p.m.
Join La Jolla for its 69th annual Christmas Parade. Experience true holiday cheer as the streets come alive with joyful music, festive floats, dazzling performances, and of course, Santa’s grand arrival. The parade begins at the intersection of Kline Street and Girard Avenue, then proceeds down the rest of Girard Avenue. Make sure to come early to get a good view of the parade!
Winter MKT at Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Date: Dec. 14, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Part Time Lover, In Sheep’s Clothing, and We Share Records collaborate to bring you Winter MKT: a curated vendor fair with records, gifts, food, and a celebration of Japanese culture. Enjoy ocean views while you jam out to some live vinyl DJs and get a book signed by local artist Perry Vasquez. Admission to both the Winter MKT and the museum are free on Dec. 14!
Future is Color Studio Sessions NYE
Date: Dec. 31, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Future is Color is a San Diego clothing brand, design studio, and community that hosts events at its Logan Avenue location and at a variety of San Diego venues in the spirit of sharing good energy and creating community. This December, if you’re over the age of 18 and looking for New Year’s Eve plans, join Future is Color at The Soap Factory to celebrate the new year with this fun live music and DJ event! Bringing together a lively and diverse lineup, there’s something for everyone.
‘Wonder of Oz’ Light Show and Ice Skating at Coronado
Dates: Nov. 21 – Jan. 4, with shows every day, every 30 minutes, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
We’re not in Kansas anymore, so head to the waterfront Hotel del Coronado to enjoy its Christmas light displays and this year’s special “Wizard of Oz” theme. Light shows begin every 30 minutes. You can also enjoy the festive vibes by ice skating by the sea for $40 per person with skate rentals included.
Festive drinks at LaFayette Hotel
Dates: Any day in December, Beginner’s Diner open 24/7, bar hours vary
Holiday enthusiasts, prepare to be dazzled by the LaFayette Hotel during this festive season. Every inch of the lobby and various bars are filled to the brim with holiday cheer. From sparkling garlands to decorative ornaments hanging from the ceiling and Christmas trees galore, it feels like you are in a bougie North Pole. While you’re there, enjoy holiday-themed cocktails or specialty hot cocoas! If drinks aren’t your thing, no worries — there are many holiday-themed food items available at Beginner’s Diner as well.
