Bookmark our list of must-see holiday events and activities in San Diego for a memory-filled holiday season
San Diego sure know how to make the holidays come alive in paradise. From seeing traditional favorites like How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the iconic Old Globe Theatre to wandering through clever lit up holiday displays whether through neighborhoods or the botanical garden, there’s something fun for everyone no matter what kind of holiday celebration you may be into. So once you’ve found your Christmas tree, stocked up on gifts at the best toy stores in San Diego, and declared a winner of the best hot chocolate in town, head to these fun, only-in-San Diego holiday activities for a most memorable holiday season.
Must-See Holiday Shows in San Diego
Noel Noel at The Rady Shell
Dec. 9-11: Experience an all-new San Diego holiday tradition by watching the 2nd annual Noel Noel show at the beautiful Rady Shell. This new one-of-a-kind outdoor venue sits along the bay front and projects gorgeous images onto the "shell" throughout the performance. You'll be able to follow along with the storyline as it's told through favorite holiday tunes.
222 Marina Park Way
San Diego
Online: theshell.org
A Christmas Carol at the Cygnet Theatre
Select Dates Nov. 22-Dec. 24: The holiday classic A Christmas Carol will transport you into the Victorian era for a tale of hope and redemption at Christmas time. This production features original music, creative stagecraft and live sound effects for a unique storytelling experience that will delight the whole family.
Good to Know: Children under five years old are not permitted in the theater during performances.
4040 Twiggs St.
San Diego
Online: cygnettheatre.com
Must-Go Holiday Events in San Diego
Lightscape at the San Diego Botanic Garden
Select Dates Nov. 18-Jan. 1: Wander through the gardens after dark in this enchanting illuminated 1-mile trail. You’ll see over one million twinkling lights, eye-catching glowing art installations, colors and sounds that have been custom designed for this garden. Kids will enjoy roasting marshmallows over fire and sipping hot chocolate.
Good to Know: Advanced timed tickets are required. Buy your guaranteed parking spot online.
300 Quail Gardens Dr.
Encinitas
Online: sdbg.org
December Nights at Balboa Park
Dec. 2 & 3: The City of San Diego's December Nights is back this year in Balboa Park. This free, family friendly event brings San Diegans together to enjoy the lights, the sounds, the attractions and of course, the amazing food.
Balboa Park
San Diego
Online: tinybeans.com
Snow-N-Glow at the Del Mar Fairgrounds
Dec. 8-Jan. 1: Snow-N-Glow is back this year for snow-tubing down the giant slides with real snow! Wander around the one million twinkling lights, seasonal eats & drinks, roast s’mores over community fire pits, and even book a private “igloo” with fire pit and have fresh snow delivered to you for a private snow play experience.
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd.
Del Mar
Online: snownglow.com
The Annual Holiday Market Trail at Petco Park
Select Dates Dec. 1-23: The Annual Holiday Market Trail at Petco Park is back and this year the popular market will be bigger and better with even more food, beverage and artisan vendors. The Holiday Market in Gallagher Square is a fun night for the whole family and will feature local and European artisan shops, magical lighting displays, seasonal food and beverage, a carousel, Santa and other holiday characters!
Good to Know: Advanced tickets are required. Park at the Padres Parkade at 10th Ave. + J St.
840 K St.
San Diego
Online: petcoparkinsider.com
San Diego Boat Parades
Truly a San Diego local’s holiday event is to catch one of the (free!) boat parades floating by with each vessel all decked out in lights and holiday decor. Dress warmly, BYO blankets and chairs to sit on, grab some take-out and bring your hot chocolate for a fun night. Note: there may not be bathrooms nearby where you’re sitting so plan ahead. PS: Check their websites for the routes, best places to park and more logistical intel.
Mission Bay Parade of Lights: Dec. 10 at 5:30 p.m.
Online: discovermissionbay.org
Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights: Dec. 10 at 7 p.m.
Online: visitoceanside.org
Related: Discover Why Our Editors Love Hanging Out in Oceanside
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: Dec. 11 & 18 at 5:30 p.m.
Online: sdparadeoflights.org
San Diego's Best Neighborhood Holiday Lights
Throughout Dec.: Make some hot cocoa, turn on the holiday tunes, buckle up, and go for a drive to enjoy dazzling Christmas light displays around various neighborhoods. There are lots of well-known neighborhoods that really go all out with their holiday decorating. These neighborhoods are always worth the drive.
Christmas on Knob Hill
Knob Hill Rd.
San Marcos
Holiday Magic
Fairway Village & Stoney Gate Pl.
Carmel Mountain Ranch
Christmas Card Lane
Oviedo St.
Rancho Penasquitos
Christmas Park
Lana Dr. & Mt Abernathy Ave.
Clairemont
Starlight Circle
Magnolia Ave. & Tomel Ct.
Santee
Christmas Circle
First Ave. & H St.
Chula Vista
