San Diego's Best Holiday Events for Families

San Diego's Best Holiday Events 2024

Deck the season with all things merry and bright using our calendar filled with San Diego's biggest and brightest holiday events and attractions! San Diego is bursting with holiday cheer from Christmas tree lightings and Hanukkah celebrations to festive parades and New Year's Eve celebrations. Start planning your family adventure today!

*Information is subject to change. Make sure to check websites or call for updated hours and dates of operation.

Featured Events 2024

Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular. Eight days of holiday fun with holiday light trail, glice skating, Frosty’s Fun Zone and more. Dec. 13-15, 20–23 & 26, 4–9 pm. $18.95–$24.95; 3 & under free. Parking, $20. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Tickets: www.coastalchristmasdelmar.com

“Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” A wonderful, whimsical musical based upon the classic Dr. Seuss book. Select dates through Dec. 31. The Old Globe, Balboa Park. Tickets: www.theoldglobe.org

“A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story Told by Jefferson Mays.” Select dates through Dec. 22. The Old Globe, Balboa Park. Tickets: www.theoldglobe.org

Critters Save Christmas. Animal encounters, crafts, cookie decorating and more. Dec. 1 & Dec. 13–15; 9 am–4 pm. $8.90–$17.75. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe. Register for one hour journey: www.animalcenter.org

FREE Dazzling Holiday Light Show & Snowfall. Falling snow, dancing lights and more. Fri.–Sun. through Dec. 22, 6 & 7 pm. Village Walk at EastLake, 884 Eastlake Pkwy. www.shopvillagewalk.com

FREE Family Christmas Tree Farm. Cut the perfect tree, enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo and more. Daily, 10 am–9 pm. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com

FREE Julian’s Country Christmas. Santa meet and greet Dec. 7, (10 am–4 pm), sing-along, (6:15 pm) and light parade (6 pm). Main Street. www.juliancountrychristmas.com

“Noel Noel.” Christmas classics, sing-alongs, holiday cheer and jolly spirit. Dec. 13-15. Starting at $39. Jacobs Music Center, 1245 Seventh Ave. www.sandiegosymphony.org

“Night of Christmas.” Christmas spectacular featuring classic carols, fireworks, breathtaking aerialists and more Dec. 7-8, 4 & 7:30 pm. Starting at $29. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, 222 Marina Park Way. www.theshell.org

FREE Santa Day at the Super Dentists. Photos with Santa, giveaways and more. Check website for schedule. www.thesuperdentists.com/Santa-Visits

“Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet.” An all-star cast that blends world class ballet with whimsical puppets, lavish costumes and stunning acrobatics. Dec. 16, 7 pm. Jacobs Music Center, 1245 Seventh Ave. www.sandiegosymphony.org

Science Club: Gingerbread Engineering. Use household ingredients to learn about chemical reactions, states of matter and more. Girls only, Dec. 8, 10 am–noon; all scientists; 1–3 pm. $18. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org

City Ballet presents “The Nutcracker.” Through Dec. 23. Starting at $46. California Center for the Arts Escondido. www.artcenter.org

Polar Express Family Day. Crafts, exhibits and the classic film “The Polar Express.” Dec. 21, 10 am–4 pm. $12–$20, 12 & under free. San Diego Model Railroad Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdmrm.org

Looking for San Diego's biggest and brightest holiday light displays? Search through our interactive Map of Christmas Lights!

sunday | 1

“A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens, Again.” A laugh-out-loud funny and heartfelt story. Through Dec. 15. $30. La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Dr. Tickets: www.lajollaplayhouse.org

Jingle Jets. The Midway will be transformed into a festive holiday wonderland on the sea. Select nights through Dec. 23, 5:30–9:30 pm. $20–$30; 3 & under free. USS Midway Museum, 910 N. Harbor Dr. www.midway.org

Pinery Christmas Trees. Open daily. Mon.–Thurs., 10 am–9 pm & Fri.–Sun., 9 am–9 pm. 4 locations: 5354 Sweetwater Rd., Bonita; Del Mar Horsepark, 14550 1/2 El Camino Real; Mission Valley, 1750 Camino Del Rio N.; 1341 Highland Valley Rd., Rancho Bernardo. www.pinerychristmastrees.com

Rady Children’s Ice Rink. Kick off holiday festivities and give back to San Diego families dealing with childhood cancer. Open daily through Jan. 5, 10 am–10 pm. $15–$20; includes skate rental and helmets. Central Promenade, ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station. www.rchicerink.org

“Lightscape.” This one-mile walking trail features a California poppy-inspired display, an illuminated laser sky, playful fiber optic flowers and a bespoke floral display. Through Jan. 5, 5–10 pm. $15–$34; under 3 free. San Diego Botanic Garden, 300 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas. www.sdbg.org

Skating by the Sea. Take a spin around Hotel del Coronado's famous beachfront ice rink featuring stunning views of the Pacific and benefitting Make-A-Wish San Diego. Through Jan. 5. $40. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave. Tickets: https://hoteldel.com

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration. Christmas shows, tunnel of lights, meet Santa & Rudolph, parades and more. Through Jan. 5. SeaWorld, Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr. Tickets: www.seaworld.com/sandiego

FREE “All That Jazz” Light Show Spectacular. Experience the magic as The Del’s historic pine trees are draped in a spectacular light show with lively holiday jazz and snow flurries. Nightly every 30 minutes, 5–9 pm. Through Jan. 5. Hotel Del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave. https://hoteldel.com

Winter Wonder at Belmont Park. Over one million twinkling lights guiding you through an unforgettable experience of holiday cheer. Through Jan. 5. 3146 Mission Blvd. www.belmontpark.com/winter-wonder

Viejas Ice Skating Rink. Southern California’s largest outdoor ice rink. Through Jan. 5, 3–10 pm. $20–$22; includes skates. 5003 Willows Rd., Alpine. www.viejas.com/skating-rink

Holidays at the Farm. Glice skating, farm activities and more. Through Jan. 1, Fri.–Sun., 10 am–4 pm. $12–$18. Skate & helmet rental, $4 each. Julian Farm & Orchard, 4381 Julian Hwy. www.julianfarmandorchard.com

FREE Chula Vista Tree Lighting. Food, carolers and more. Dec. 1, 3–6 pm; tree lighting, 5:30 pm. Memorial Park, Third Ave. www.downtownchulavista.com

Wild Holidays at the Safari Park. Go on an expedition of light and travel through places that glow, shine and twinkle with holiday cheer with fanciful characters, musical entertainment and more. Select nights through Jan. 5. Included with admission. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido. www.sdzsafaripark.org/wild-holidays

Movies on the Beach. Dec. 1: “Elf;” Dec. 8: “Jingle All the Way;” Dec. 15: “Home Alone;” Dec. 22: “It’s A Wonderful Life;” Dec. 28: “Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone” & Dec. 31: “Top Gun Maverick.” $25. Del Beach, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. Reservations required: https://hoteldel.com

Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour. Sing-along caroling with elf conductors while viewing festive holiday sights. Through Dec. 23 & 26–30. 4010 Twiggs St. Tickets: www.trolleytours.com

Camp Christmas. Spectacular water show, hayrides, bounce houses, laser tag and more. Fri.–Sun., through Dec. 22. 5:30–9 pm. $10–$15; 4 & under free. 8668 Pine Creek Rd., Pine Valley. Tickets: www.PineValleyCampChristmas.com

A Very Furry Christmas. Sesame Place will transform into a festive winter wonderland filled with holiday magic and everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends. Select dates through Jan. 5. 2052 Entertainment Cir., Chula Vista. www.sesameplace.com

thursday | 5

The Holiday Market at Petco Park. Dazzling walkthrough lighting displays, Candyland with carnival games, Santaland featuring photo opportunities with Santa and live reindeer and more. Select dates through Dec. 27, 4–10 pm. Gallagher Square. Tickets: www.padres.com/holidaymarket

Victorian Christmas Teas. Through Dec. 23 (closed Wednesdays). 11:30 am, 1 & 2:30 pm. $19.95–$44.95. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts, 2124 Third St., Julian. Reservations required: www.juliantea.com

Christmas at Oma’s. Santa, decorated equipment, crafts and more. Dec. 5–7 & 12–14. 9 am–4 pm. Oma’s Family Farm, 14950 El Monte Rd., Lakeside. Tickets: www.omasfamilyfarm.com

FREE Holiday Tree Lighting. Holiday crafts, Santa photos and more. Dec. 5, 4:30–8 pm. Regal Cinema Plaza, 401 Mission Ave., Oceanside. www.ci.oceanside.ca.us

FREE Family Christmas Tree Farm. Cut the perfect tree, enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo and more. Daily, 10 am–9 pm. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com

The Peppermint Beach Club at Westfield UTC. Join Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves for yuletide fun in the sun at The Peppermint Beach Club. Enjoy the magic of snowfall, special offers and giveaways, festive entertainment, and of course photos with Santa, all in a must-see holiday resort setting at Westfield UTC. Check website for entertainment and snowfall schedule. www.westfield.com/united-states/utc/peppermint-beach-club

Holiday parades are marching into town with festive floats and dazzling decorations. Click here to find a holiday parade in your neighborhood!

friday | 6

FREE December Nights. Holiday festival with lights, music, family zone and delicious food. Dec. 6, 3–11 pm & Dec. 7, 11 am–11 pm. Balboa Park. www.sandiego.gov/december-nights

North Pole Limited. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and Christmas music as you head to the North Pole to pick up Santa. Fridays & Saturdays through Dec. 21, 5 & 7 pm. Starting at $15. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, 750 Depot St., Campo. www.psrm.org

FREE Jingle Terrace Live “Splash Into Christmas.” Holiday light shows, festive displays and holiday activities. Through Dec. 21, 5:30–8:30 pm. Moonlight Amphitheatre, 1250 Vale Terrace Dr. www.moonlightstage.com

FREE Coronado Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting. Dec. 6, 6 pm. Details: www.coronadochamber.com

Holiday Lights at the AGSEM. Twinkly lights, hayride, train rides and more. Fridays & Saturdays through Dec. 21, 5–9 pm. Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, 2040 N. Santa Fe Ave., Vista. Tickets: www.agsem.com

Carols by Candlelight. Dec. 6-7, 8 pm. Starting at $32.40. Concert Hall, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org

Christmas at Oma’s. Santa, decorated equipment, crafts and more. Dec. 5–7 & 12–14. 9 am–4 pm. Oma’s Family Farm, 14950 El Monte Rd., Lakeside. Tickets: www.omasfamilyfarm.com

FREE Dazzling Holiday Light Show & Snowfall. Falling snow, dancing lights and more. Fri.–Sun. through Dec. 22, 6 & 7 pm. Village Walk at EastLake, 884 Eastlake Pkwy. www.shopvillagewalk.com

saturday | 7

FREE December Nights. See Dec. 6.

FREE Encinitas Holiday Parade. Theme: “Creativity in Motion.” Festivities and tree lighting, 5 pm; parade, 5:30 pm. Coast Hwy. 101 from D St. to J St. www.encinitasca.gov

Santa’s Christmas Magic Fireworks. Join us as the elves light up the sky with Christmas magic fireworks. Tonight & Dec. 14, 5:45 pm & Dec. 21–30, 6:45 pm. LEGOLAND, One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. www.legoland.com

FREE San Marcos Tree Lighting. Festive crafts, activities, Santa and more. 2–7 pm, tree lighting 5:35 pm. 1 Civic Center Dr. www.san-marcos.net

Holiday at the Rancho. Crafts, train rides, Santa, movie and more. 5–8 pm; tree lighting, 5:45 pm. Leo Carrillo Ranch, 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane. Tickets: www.carlsbadca.gov

FREE Santa Arrives on the Holiday Express. Santa, crafts, train rides and more. 12–3 pm. Village Walk at EastLake, 884 Eastlake Pkwy. www.shopvillagewalk.com

FREE South Park Holiday Walkabout. Embrace the magic of the holiday season at the lighting of the South Park marquee and ride the festive trolley. 5–9 pm. Grape St. Square. www.southparksd.com

FREE Winter Wonderland. The North Pole comes to Escondido with real snow, arts and crafts and Santa Claus. Today & tomorrow. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. Details: www.artcenter.org

FREE Spirit of Christmas. Santa, kid’s activities and more. 3–7:30 pm; tree lighting, 5 pm. Main Ave., Lakeside. www.lakesidechamber.org

FREE Ocean Beach Holiday Parade. 5 pm. Details: https://oceanbeachsandiego.com/resources/local-news/ob-holiday-parade

FREE Fallbrook Christmas Parade. “Festival of Lights” theme with lighted floats, Santa and more. 5–7 pm. Downtown Main Ave. www.fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org

“Making Merry: A Choral Holiday Celebration.” Filled with songs of the season, carols, holiday classics and more. 7:30 pm. Starting at $23. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.sdopera.org

FREE Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village. 10-foot tall nutcrackers, Santa, kinetic tree holiday displays on street corners, Christmas songs and more. 4–8 pm; tree lighting 6:30 pm. Along India, Fir & Date Sts. www.littleitalysd.com

“Night of Christmas.” Christmas spectacular featuring classic carols, fireworks, breathtaking aerialists and more. Today & tomorrow, 4 & 7:30 pm. Starting at $29. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, 222 Marina Park Way. www.theshell.org

Holiday Moonlight Cinema: “The Grinch.” Watch under the stars to get in the holiday spirit on The Lawn, behind Harland. Don’t forget your blankets and chairs. 5–9 pm. One Paseo, 3725 Paseo Pl. www.onepaseo.com

FREE Christmas on Mt. Helix. Caroling, crafts, Santa and more. 3–8 pm. 4901 Mt. Helix Park Dr., La Mesa. www.mthelixpark.org/christmas

sunday | 8

FREE San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. Brightly illuminated boats decorated to the theme “Peace on Earth.” Tonight & Dec. 15, 5:30 pm. Starts off Shelter Island, goes through the harbor and ends at the Coronado Ferry Landing. www.sdparadeoflights.org

Holiday Lights Spectator Cruise. Watch beautifully decorated boats on a narrated cruise. Today & Dec. 15, 5–7 pm. $45–$60. Flagship Cruises, 990 N. Harbor Dr. www.flagshipsd.com

Parade of Lights Holiday Dinner. Dinner buffet, boat parade viewing and museum admission. Tonight & Dec. 15, 5–8 pm. $35–$70; 2 & under free. Maritime Museum, 1492 N. Harbor Dr. Reservations required: www.sdmaritime.org

FREE Holly Jolly Holiday Market. Shop for holiday gifts, decorations and more. 10 am–4 pm. 251 N. City Dr., San Marcos. www.sanmarcoschamber.com

FREE La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival. “Palm Trees & Poinsettias: A California Christmas” theme. Festival, 11:30 am–4 pm; parade, 1:30 pm. Girard Ave. www.ljparade.com

FREE Fletcher Cove Holiday Tree Lighting. Live music, Santa and treats. 4:30 pm; Santa arrives at 5:20 pm. Fletcher Cove Park, 111 S. Sierra Ave. www.cityofsolanabeach.org

FREE Holiday Concert with Santa & Friends. 5–6:30 pm. Hoyt Park, Scripps Ranch Blvd. & Aviary Dr. www.symphonyinthepark.org

FREE Winter Wonderland. The North Pole comes to Escondido with real snow, arts and crafts and Santa Claus. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. Details: www.artcenter.org

Science Club: Gingerbread Engineering. Use household ingredients to learn about chemical reactions, states of matter and more. Girls only, 10 am–noon; all scientists; 1–3 pm. $18. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org

*Information is subject to change. Make sure to check websites or call for updated hours and dates of operation.

tuesday | 10

Mariachi Sol de Mexico: A Merry-Achi Christmas. 7:30 pm. Starting at $55. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.sandiegotheaters.org

Victorian Christmas Teas. Through Dec. 23 (closed Wednesdays). 11:30 am, 1 & 2:30 pm. $19.95–$44.95. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts, 2124 Third St., Julian. Reservations required: www.juliantea.com

Holiday parades are marching into town with festive floats and dazzling decorations. Click here to find a holiday parade in your neighborhood!

friday | 13

FREE Holiday Nights at Bernardo Winery. Twinkling lights, carolers, miniature train exhibit and more. Through Dec. 15 & 18–22; 5–9 pm. 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte. www.bernardowinery.com

Rawhide Country Christmas. Hay rides, pony rides, petting zoo, crafts and more. Through Dec. 15, 3 –8 pm. Rawhide Ranch, 6987 W. Lilac Rd., Bonsall. Tickets: www.rawhideranch.com

“A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story Told by Jefferson Mays.” Select dates through Dec. 22. The Old Globe, Balboa Park. Tickets: www.theoldglobe.org

“Noel Noel.” Christmas classics, sing-alongs, holiday cheer and jolly spirit. Through Dec. 15. Starting at $39. Jacobs Music Center, 1245 Seventh Ave. www.sandiegosymphony.org

FREE Christmas in the Park. Santa, train rides and more. Dec. 13-Dec. 14, 3:30–8:30 pm. Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd. www.poway.org

FREE Santa’s Sleigh Ride. Santa rides along with Fire, Sheriff and Marine Safety personnel. 2:30–5 pm. 500 Lomas Santa Fe Dr. www.cityofsolanabeach.org

San Diego Civic Youth Ballet’s “The Nutcracker.” Take an extraordinary journey to the magical Land of the Sweets with brave young Clara and her Nutcracker Prince. Fri.–Sun. through Dec. 22. $27. Casa del Prado Theater, Balboa Park. www.sdcyb.org

Dinner with Santa & Tree & Menorah Lighting. Live music, arts & crafts, hot chocolate and cookies. 5:15 pm; tree & Menorah, 6:30 pm. Standley Park, 3585 Governor Dr. www.sandiego.gov

Las Posadas. Be immersed in a time-honored celebration that echoes with centuries-old Mexican traditions and the warmth of the holiday season. 7 pm. Heritage County Park, 2454 Heritage Park Row, Old Town. www.oldtownsandiego.org/lasposadas

Looking for winter break camps for the kids? Scroll to the bottom of this page or click here to find camps for all ages and interests.

saturday | 14

Critters Save Christmas. Animal encounters, crafts, cookie decorating and more. Dec. 14–15; 9 am–4 pm. $8.90–$17.75. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe. Register for one hour journey: www.animalcenter.org

FREE Mission Bay Boat Parade of Lights. More than 100 decorated vessels take to the water. 5:30 pm. Starts at SeaWorld with fireworks and ends at The Mission Bay Beach Club. www.discovermissionbay.org

FREE Santa Arrives on the Holiday Express Train. Train rides, face painting, crafts and more. 1–4 pm. EastLake Village Marketplace, 2275 Otay Lakes Rd., Chula Vista. www.shopeastlakemarketplace.com

FREE Pacific Beach Holiday Parade: “A Holiday Movie Spectacular.” Floats, Santa and more. 1–3 pm. Garnet Ave. between Bayard St. & Haines St. www.pacificbeach.org

FREE Starlight Parade & Festival. Holiday festival, 3–7 pm; tree lighting, 5:45 pm; parade, 6 pm along Third Ave., downtown Chula Vista. www.starlightparade.com

FREE Holiday in the Village. Selfies with Santa, kids’ area, holiday photo ops and more. 12–9 pm. La Mesa Blvd., from Spring St. to Fourth St. www.lamesavillageassociation.org

FREE La Colonia Holiday Tree Lighting. Holiday treats for the kids, Santa and more. 5–7 pm. Santa arrives at 5:20 pm. La Colonia Park, 715 Valley Ave., Solana Beach. www.cityofsolanabeach.org

San Diego Santa Run. 5K, kids 1-mile & dog 1-mile. 8–12 noon. $35–$50; includes Sunny Santa Suit for 5K runners. 912 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach. www.sandiegorunningco.com

Holidays at LEGOLAND. Holiday LEGO characters, giant LEGO tree, seasonal shows and more. Select dates through Jan. 5. One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. www.legoland.com

Christmas with the Animals. Watch rescued big cats and bears open their Christmas presents. 2:30–7:30 pm. $20–$50. Lions, Tigers and Bears, 24402 Martin Way, Alpine. www.lionstigersandbears.org

Breakfast with Santa. Face painting, cookie decorating, crafts and more. Today, tomorrow & Dec. 18–22; 9 am–12 noon. $45–$80; under 2 free. Bernardo Winery, 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte. Reservations required: www.bernardowinery.com

FREE Breakfast with Santa & Friends. Food, hot chocolate bar, crafts, Elsa, Anna and Olaf and festive snowflake stilt-walkers. 9–11 am. AMC Theatres Ct., Mission Valley. Pre-registration encouraged: www.mission-valley.com

Looking for San Diego's biggest and brightest holiday light displays? Search through our interactive Map of Christmas Lights organized by neighborhood!

sunday | 15

Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular. Eight days of holiday fun with holiday light trail, glice skating, Frosty’s Fun Zone and more. Dec. 15, 20–23 & 26, 4–9 pm. $18.95–$24.95; 3 & under free. Parking, $20. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Tickets: www.coastalchristmasdelmar.com

FREE San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. Brightly illuminated boats decorated to the theme “Peace on Earth.” Dec. 15, 5:30 pm. Starts off Shelter Island, goes through the harbor and ends at the Coronado Ferry Landing. www.sdparadeoflights.org

Critters Save Christmas. Animal encounters, crafts, cookie decorating and more. Dec. 15, 9 am–4 pm. $8.90–$17.75. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe. Register for one hour journey: www.animalcenter.org

Jungle Bells. The Zoo will be aglow with holiday cheer and decorations, spectacular Holiday Light Treks, amazing entertainment and merry experiences. Through Jan. 5 (except Dec. 24). Included with admission. San Diego Zoo, 2920 Zoo Dr. Tickets: https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/jungle-bells

Parade of Lights Holiday Dinner. Dinner buffet, boat parade viewing and museum admission. Dec. 15, 5–8 pm. $35–$70; 2 & under free. Maritime Museum, 1492 N. Harbor Dr. Reservations required: www.sdmaritime.org

Holiday Lights Spectator Cruise. Watch beautifully decorated boats on a narrated cruise. Dec. 15, 5–7 pm. $45–$60. Flagship Cruises, 990 N. Harbor Dr. www.flagshipsd.com

Breakfast with Santa. Face painting, cookie decorating, crafts and more. Dec. 15 & Dec. 18–22; 9 am–12 noon. $45–$80; under 2 free. Bernardo Winery, 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte. Reservations required: www.bernardowinery.com

“Noel Noel.” Christmas classics, sing-alongs, holiday cheer and jolly spirit. Through Dec. 15. Starting at $39. Jacobs Music Center, 1245 Seventh Ave. www.sandiegosymphony.org

FREE Holiday Nights at Bernardo Winery. Twinkling lights, carolers, miniature train exhibit and more. Through Dec. 15 & 18–22; 5–9 pm. 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte. www.bernardowinery.com

Rawhide Country Christmas. Hay rides, pony rides, petting zoo, crafts and more. Through Dec. 15, 3 –8 pm. Rawhide Ranch, 6987 W. Lilac Rd., Bonsall. Tickets: www.rawhideranch.com

Movies on the Beach. Dec. 15: “Home Alone;” Dec. 22: “It’s A Wonderful Life;” Dec. 28: “Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone” & Dec. 31: “Top Gun Maverick.” $25. Del Beach, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. Reservations required: https://hoteldel.com

monday | 16

FREE Santa Day at The Super Dentists. Photos with Santa, giveaways and more. 9 am–12 noon. Dec. 16, Carmel Valley (12778 Carmel Country Rd.) & Escondido (390 W. Valley Pkwy.), Dec. 17, Oceanside (3625 Vista Way), Dec. 18, Eastlake (2226 Otay Lakes Rd.), Dec. 19, Chula Vista (345 F St.) & Dec. 20, Kearny Mesa (9737 Aero Dr.). www.thesuperdentists.com/Santa-Visits

“Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet.” An all-star cast that blends world class ballet with whimsical puppets, lavish costumes and stunning acrobatics. 7 pm. Jacobs Music Center, 1245 Seventh Ave. www.sandiegosymphony.org

FREE Family Christmas Tree Farm. Cut the perfect tree, enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo and more. Daily, 10 am–9 pm. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com

Victorian Christmas Teas. Through Dec. 23 (closed Wednesdays). 11:30 am, 1 & 2:30 pm. $19.95–$44.95. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts, 2124 Third St., Julian. Reservations required: www.juliantea.com

Holiday parades are marching into town with festive floats and dazzling decorations. Click here to find a holiday parade in your neighborhood!

friday | 20

City Ballet presents “The Nutcracker.” Through Dec. 23. Starting at $46. California Center for the Arts Escondido. www.artcenter.org

FREE Holiday Nights at Bernardo Winery. Twinkling lights, carolers, miniature train exhibit and more. Through Dec. 22; 5–9 pm. 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte. www.bernardowinery.com

Jingle Belle Family Cruise. Celebrate the merriest time of year with carolers, Santa Claus, festive crafts and more. Through Dec. 24. $45. Bahia Resort Hotel, 998 W. Mission Bay Dr. www.bahiahotel.com

FREE Santa Day at The Super Dentists. Photos with Santa, giveaways and more. 9 am–12 noon. Dec. 20, Kearny Mesa (9737 Aero Dr.). www.thesuperdentists.com/Santa-Visits

FREE Family Christmas Tree Farm. Cut the perfect tree, enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo and more. Daily, 10 am–9 pm. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com

Breakfast with Santa. Face painting, cookie decorating, crafts and more. 9 am–12 noon. $45–$80; under 2 free. Bernardo Winery, 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte. Reservations required: www.bernardowinery.com

Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular. Eight days of holiday fun with holiday light trail, glice skating, Frosty’s Fun Zone and more. Dec. 20–23 & 26, 4–9 pm. $18.95–$24.95; 3 & under free. Parking, $20. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Tickets: www.coastalchristmasdelmar.com

saturday | 21

Polar Express Family Day. Crafts, exhibits and the classic film “The Polar Express.” 10 am–4 pm. $12–$20, 12 & under free. San Diego Model Railroad Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdmrm.org

“Elf in Concert.” Experience your favorite Christmas film transformed with the music of a live symphony orchestra. Dec. 21,, 7:30 pm & Dec. 22, 2 & 7:30 pm. Starting at $47. Jacobs Music Center, 1245 Seventh Ave. www.sandiegosymphony.org

City Ballet presents “The Nutcracker.” Through Dec. 23. Starting at $46. California Center for the Arts Escondido. www.artcenter.org

Breakfast with Santa. Face painting, cookie decorating, crafts and more. Dec. 21–22; 9 am–12 noon. $45–$80; under 2 free. Bernardo Winery, 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte. Reservations required: www.bernardowinery.com

FREE Family Christmas Tree Farm. Cut the perfect tree, enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo and more. Daily, 10 am–9 pm. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com

Holiday Lights at the AGSEM. See Dec. 20.

Camp Christmas. See Dec. 20.

San Diego Civic Youth Ballet’s “The Nutcracker.” See Dec. 20.

Jingle Belle Family Cruise. See Dec. 20.

sunday | 22

FREE Cocoa with Santa. Hot cocoa, holiday treats and Santa. 10 am–2 pm. One Paseo, 3725 Paseo Pl. www.onepaseo.com

Movies on the Beach. Dec. 22: “It’s A Wonderful Life;” Dec. 28: “Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone” & Dec. 31: “Top Gun Maverick.” $25. Del Beach, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. Reservations required: https://hoteldel.com

“Elf in Concert.” See Dec. 21.

FREE Holiday Nights at Bernardo Winery. Twinkling lights, carolers, miniature train exhibit and more. Dec. 22; 5–9 pm. 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte. www.bernardowinery.com

City Ballet presents “The Nutcracker.” See Dec. 21.

Breakfast with Santa. Face painting, cookie decorating, crafts and more. Dec. 22; 9 am–12 noon. $45–$80; under 2 free. Bernardo Winery, 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte. Reservations required: www.bernardowinery.com

*Information is subject to change. Make sure to check websites or call for updated hours and dates of operation.

tuesday | 24

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise. Light up your Christmas Eve with a special dining cruise. 6:30–9 pm. 990 N. Harbor Dr. Tickets: www.flagshipsd.com

Winter Wonder at Belmont Park.  See Dec. 22.

Jingle Belle Family Cruise. See Dec. 22

Looking for San Diego's biggest and brightest holiday light displays? Search through our interactive Map of Christmas Lights organized by neighborhood!

wednesday | 25

Christmas Day

Hanukkah Begins

Christmas Day Brunch Cruise. Celebrate Christmas on the water. 11 am–1 pm. $79.90–$99.90; 3 & under free. Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr. www.cityexperiences.com

Rady Children’s Ice Rink. See Dec. 24.

thursday | 26

FREE Snapdragon Bowl Bash. Family fun, interactive games, giveaways and more. 5–7 pm. Fifth & Market, Gaslamp Quarter. www.holidaybowl.com

FREE Menorah Lighting Ceremony. Live music, kosher bites and the lighting ceremony. 5–8 pm. One Paseo, 3725 Paseo Pl. www.onepaseo.com

FREE Hanukkah & Menorah Lighting. Entertainment, treats and the traditional lighting of the menorah. 5–8 pm. Central Promenade, Liberty Station, 2820 Historic Decatur Rd. www.libertystation.com

Jungle Bells. See Dec. 25.

Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour. Sing-along caroling with elf conductors while viewing festive holiday sights. Dec. 26–30. 4010 Twiggs St. Tickets: www.trolleytours.com

Looking for San Diego's biggest and brightest holiday light displays? Search through our interactive Map of Christmas Lights organized by neighborhood!

friday | 27

Holiday Bowl festivities! Watch the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade (FREE), America’s largest balloon parade with marching bands and floats along Harbor Dr., 10 am. Join the 5K Walk/Run ($45) at Harbor & Ash at 9:45 am. Cheer on the ACC vs. Pac 12 in the DIRECTV Holiday Bowl matchup, followed by the 101.5 KGB Sky Show. 5 pm at Snapdragon Stadium. Details and tickets at www.holidaybowl.com.

Jungle Bells. See Dec. 25.

Rady Children’s Ice Rink. See Dec. 24.

Looking for New Year's Eve plans with the fam? Get ready to dance, party and play at one of San Diego's family-friendly New Year's events. Find out more here!

saturday | 28

Nutcracker Tea. Following tea, the talented dancers from Scripps Performing Arts Academy present the timeless holiday ballet. Through Dec. 29, 11 am & 2 pm. $88–$170. Fairmont Grand Del Mar, 5300 Grand Del Mar Ct. Reservations: www.granddelmar.com

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration. See Dec. 27.

Winter Wonder at Belmont Park. See Dec. 27.

sunday | 29

“Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” See Dec. 28

Nutcracker Tea. See Dec. 28.

Wild Holidays at the Safari Park. See Dec. 28.

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration. See Dec. 27.

Winter Wonder at Belmont Park. See Dec. 27.

monday | 30

Holidays at LEGOLAND. Holiday LEGO characters, giant LEGO tree, seasonal shows and more. Select dates through Jan. 5. One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. www.legoland.com

Looking for New Year's Eve plans with the fam? Get ready to dance, party and play at one of San Diego's family-friendly New Year's events. Find out more here!

tuesday | 31

New Year's Eve

Glow BIG Noon Year Celebration. Family-friendly entertainment, games, bounce houses and more. 10 am–1 pm. $25–$40. AleSmith Brewing, 9990 AleSmith St. www.noonyear.com

Kids’ New Year’s Eve at Legoland. Live music, entertainment and a special New Year’s countdown at 6:45 pm. Included with admission. One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. www.legoland.com

Rockin' 2025 New Year's Eve Party at Corvette Diner. Dance into the New Year at Corvette Diner. Join us for an unforgettable night with the diner’s DJ spinning the hottest tunes and balloon artists adding to the fun. Count down to the Big Apple’s ball drop at 9 pm, followed by our own balloon drop and toast to ring in the New Year. 2965 Historic Decatur Rd. www.dinersd.com/happenings

Mega 2025 Noon Year Celebration. Bring a swimsuit and join the fun at Plunge San Diego's annual MEGA Noon Year Celebration event. Enjoy balloon drops, live D.J., games, giveaways and more. Dec. 31, 10:30 am- 1 pm. Plunge San Diego, 3115, Ocean Front Walk. www.tickettailor.com/events/plungesandiego1/1431099

New Year's Eve Grape Drop. Enjoy face painters, carnival games, giant slide, ice skating, live music and dancing, drone light show and Grape Drop. Dec. 31, 6-10 pm. Old Town Civic Center, 41000 Main St., Temecula. www.visittemeculavalley.com/event/new-years-eve-grape-drop/629

Winter Camps 2024

Winter Critter Camp at Helen Woodward Animal Center. Dec. 20-Jan. 3, 2025. Preschool-6th grade. No camps on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Daily sign-ups available. https://animalcenter.org/winter-break-critter-camp-2/

Camp Kroc Winter Camps. Dec. 23, 26 and 27 and Dec. 30-Jan.3 (no camp Jan. 1). https://sd.kroccenter.org/kroc-san-diego/camp/

STEM Camp at Fleet Science Center. Registration now open. www.fleetscience.org/events/camps

Little Fish Comic Book Studio. Little Fish’s camps are specialized, highly engaging experiences designed specifically for teens and pre-teens! Our next camps are: Kidz Comic Camps and DnD Winter Campaign. Applications can be returned in-person by mail or email, or you can fill out the online Google Form HERE. www.lilfish.us/camps

San Diego Junior Theatre. Winter camps are open to current K-6th grade students. All campers should attend camp in closed-toe shoes and clothing they feel comfortable moving in. Campers should bring a water bottle, sack lunch and two snacks. Camp day begins at 9 am and ends at 3 pm. Campers may be dropped off as early as 8:15 am. We also provide an optional Aftercare program from 3-5 pm for just $20 per day. www.juniortheatre.com/classes/programs

Things change and some activities require reservations or have limited space, so don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.

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Updated: November 2024