Best San Diego County Christmas Events To Enjoy The 2026 Season

Last Updated September 22, 2026. We check dates against official event organizers whenever possible. Events without confirmed 2026 dates are marked TBD.

Looking for the best Christmas events in San Diego County in 2026? From beachfront ice skating and dazzling holiday light displays to free boat parades, Christmas markets, festive train rides, and seasonal performances, there’s plenty to enjoy across the county.

We’ve organized this guide to help you find holiday events in San Diego, North County, South Bay, and East County. Start with our 2026 events-at-a-glance table for dates and locations, then explore individual listings for more information.

Important Note: Please visit the websites of attractions before visiting for the latest information and particular guidelines that apply per listed attraction.  Information may change after posting on our website.

The Places Where We Go contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you when you purchase using one of these Amazon links.  Read our disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Event & Location	2026 Dates	Admission
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! San Diego – Old Globe Theatre	Nov. 4–Dec. 31	Ticketed
SeaWorld Christmas Celebration San Diego – Mission Bay	Nov. 13–Jan. 3, 2027	Park admission
Rady Children’s Ice Rink San Diego – Liberty Station	Nov. 19–Jan. 3, 2027	Ticketed
Christmas at Gaylord Pacific – ICE! Chula Vista	Nov. 20–Jan. 3, 2027	Ticketed
A Holiday Through Time Coronado – Hotel del Coronado	Nov. 20–Jan. 3, 2027	Free light show; paid activities
Lightscape Encinitas – San Diego Botanic Garden	Nov. 20–Jan. 3, 2027	Ticketed
Encinitas Holiday Street Fair Downtown Encinitas	Nov. 22	Free
Cygnet Theatre Holiday Shows San Diego – Liberty Station	Christmas Carol: Nov. 24–Dec. 24 Magical Holiday: Dec. 2–24	Ticketed
North Pole Limited Santa Train Campo	Nov. 27–Dec. 20 Fri.–Sun.	Ticketed
Jingle Jets Holiday Celebration San Diego – USS Midway	Select nights Nov. 27–Dec. 30	Ticketed
Wild Holidays San Diego Zoo Safari Park	Select dates Nov. 27–Jan. 3, 2027	Park admission
Julian’s Country Christmas Julian	Nov. 28	Free
San Diego Made Holiday Market San Diego – Liberty Station	Nov. 28–29	$5; under 10 free
December Nights San Diego – Balboa Park	Dec. 4–5	Free
Petco Park Holiday Wonderland San Diego – Gallagher Square	Select nights Dec. 4–23	From $24
Holiday at the Rancho Carlsbad – Leo Carrillo Ranch	Dec. 5	Ticketed
Starlight Parade & Festival Chula Vista	Dec. 5	Free
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade San Diego – Ocean Beach	Dec. 5	Free
Little Italy Tree Lighting San Diego – Little Italy	Dec. 5	Free
La Jolla Christmas Parade & Festival La Jolla	Dec. 6	Free
Coastal Christmas Del Mar Fairgrounds	Opens Dec. 11 Full schedule TBA	Ticketed
Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights Oceanside Harbor	Dec. 12	Free viewing
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights San Diego Bay & Coronado	Dec. 13 & 20	Free viewing
A Magical Cirque Christmas Oceanside – Frontwave Arena	Dec. 13	Ticketed
Civic Theatre Holiday Shows Downtown San Diego	Nutcracker: Dec. 17–23 Elf: Dec. 29–Jan. 3, 2027	Ticketed
Holidays at LEGOLAND Carlsbad	Select Nov.–Dec. dates Exact dates TBA	Park admission
San Diego Zoo Jungle Bells San Diego – Balboa Park	2026 Dates TBA	Park admission

Planning note: Dates shown are for the 2026 holiday season, including events continuing into January 2027. Some attractions operate only on select dates. “TBA” means the full schedule has not yet been confirmed. Admission, operating hours, and availability may change. Check each event’s official website before visiting.

Christmas Events Campo

Campo – Santa Train North Pole Limited

Experience the magic of Christmas aboard the Santa Train North Pole Limited! Starting at the lighted Campo Depot, the journey begins with picking up tickets in the restored passenger waiting room.

Arriving at least 45 minutes early is recommended to allow time for parking, ticket collection, and a visit to the gift shop. Don’t miss the chance to listen to captivating tales from railroading’s past at the nearby Hobo Camp.

Once onboard, Santa’s elves will delight passengers with Christmas carols, a cherished holiday story, and treats of cookies and hot chocolate for everyone. The train stops at Santa’s Workshop to pick up Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will visit with all passengers on the return trip to Campo Depot. The enchanting train ride lasts approximately 90 minutes, creating memories for both young and old in the heartwarming spirit of the season. 

Dates: Nov. 27–Dec. 20, Fridays–Sundays. Friday/Saturday departures: 5 and 7 p.m.; Sundays: 3 and 5 p.m.
Location: All trains depart from the Campo Depot located at 750 Depot St., Campo, CA 91906
Website: https://www.psrm.org/npl/

Christmas Events Carlsbad

Carlsbad – Holiday at the Rancho

Explore Leo Carrillo Ranch lit up with holiday lights, decorations, and a backdrop of classic holiday musical performance. Watch the holiday tree lighting at 6 p.m. on the sand near the pool. Decorate holiday cookies, create crafts, participate in the ‘plush’ snowball fight, and enjoy festive entertainment. Face painting, train rides, an outdoor movie and a special visit by Santa are also included. A holiday film will be featured on the outdoor movie screen starting at 6:15 p.m.

Dates: December 5, 2026
Time: 5 PM – 8 PM – Tree lighting at 5:45 p.m. and movie at 6 p.m.
Location: Leo Carrillo Ranch Historical Park – 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane
Website: Holiday at the Rancho

Carlsbad – Holidays at Legoland

Get ready for a bricktacular holiday adventure at LEGOLAND California, where the entire resort transforms into a festive wonderland. Create lasting family memories as you rock around the giant LEGO tree, enjoy seasonal shows, and snap “elfies” with your favorite holiday LEGO characters. Don’t forget to indulge in limited-time festive treats and strike a pose at incredible photo spots, including the larger-than-life LEGO wreath and a brand-new LEGO Santa with his sleigh and reindeer. It’s the perfect way to add a little LEGO magic to your holiday season!

Dates: Select dates in November and December 2026
Location: 1 Legoland Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008
Admission: Check the Legoland website for pricing options
Website: Holidays at Legoland

Stay Nearby –  West Inn & Suites
Rated 4.6 on Expedia

Find More Hotels in Carlsbad

Christmas Events Chula Vista

Chula Vista: Christmas at Gaylord Pacific – ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas

Experience a brand-new holiday tradition at Gaylord Pacific Resort in Chula Vista! Making its West Coast debut in 2026, ICE! brings A Charlie Brown Christmas to life through more than two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures. Walk through 12 immersive scenes featuring Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, glide down two-story ice slides, and discover the true meaning of Christmas in this frozen wonderland. Beyond ICE!, the resort offers festive light displays, snow tubing, holiday shopping, character dining and visits with Santa. Day visitors are welcome, so you don’t need to book an overnight stay to enjoy the attraction.

Dates: November 20, 2026 – January 3, 2027
Location: Gaylord Pacific Resort, Chula Vista
Admission: Ticketed attraction; prices vary by date.
Planning tip: The ICE! exhibit is maintained at a chilly 9°F. Dress warmly, even though you’re celebrating Christmas in Southern California!
Official website: Christmas at Gaylord Pacific

🛏️ Book A Stay at The Gaylord Resort

Chula Vista – Starlight Parade & Festival

Celebrate the magic of the holidays in Chula Vista at the 62nd Annual Starlight Parade and Festival! The City of Chula Vista presents this beloved South Bay tradition, which will light up Third Avenue with dazzling floats, joyful participants, and activities for all ages. New twists will also be on this long-standing favorite event, including a holiday movie showing at the Memorial Bowl. 

Date: December 5, 2026
Time: 3 pm – 7 pm
Location: Downtown Chula Vista
Website: https://www.starlightparade.com/

Christmas Events Coronado

Coronado – Skating by the Sea – A Holidy Through Time

Step into more than 135 years of holiday magic at the historic Hotel del Coronado! For 2026, the resort’s A Holiday Through Time celebration explores its rich history through beautifully decorated Christmas trees inspired by different eras, from its Victorian beginnings in 1888 to the present day.

Enjoy the iconic Skating by the Sea beachfront ice rink, watch the complimentary Lightshow Spectacular illuminate the historic Norfolk Island Pines with synchronized music and snow flurries, or relax in a cozy beachside igloo. New for 2026, the Holiday Lodge transforms the hotel’s historic Laundry building into a festive retreat featuring seasonal dining, holiday shopping, and children’s activities. With its magnificent two-story Christmas tree, festive decorations, and oceanfront setting, The Del offers a memorable Southern California Christmas experience for couples and families.

Dates: November 20, 2026–January 3, 2027
Time: Varies by activity. The complimentary Lightshow Spectacular runs nightly from 5–9 p.m., every 30 minutes.
Location: 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, CA, 92118
Admission: The Lightshow Spectacular is free. Skating by the Sea costs $35–$45 per person for a 90-minute session. Other activities, dining experiences, and reservations may cost extra.
Website: A Holiday Through Time

Book a Stay at the Hotel del Coronado

Christmas Events Del Mar

Del Mar: Coastal Christmas at the Del Mar Fairgrounds

Experience the magic of Christmas by the sea at Coastal Christmas, a festive holiday celebration at the Del Mar Fairgrounds! Stroll through a dazzling quarter-mile holiday light trail featuring more than one million twinkling lights, meet Santa, and browse the Holiday Market for unique gifts and seasonal treats. Families can enjoy Frosty’s Fun Zone and glide across an eco-friendly skating rink, while adults can explore the Holiday Wine Walk. For an extra-special experience, reserve a private igloo or fire pit table to relax beneath the sparkling lights. With festive entertainment, holiday activities, and plenty of photo opportunities, Coastal Christmas offers something for couples and families alike.

Planning tip: Arrive after dusk (approximately 5:30 p.m.) to experience the holiday light trail at its most spectacular.

Dates: Opens December 11, 2026. Additional event dates to be confirmed.
Time: 4–9 p.m. on opening day; confirm hours for subsequent dates.
Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard, Del Mar
Admission: Ticketed event. General admission starts at $23 for adults and $17 for children ages 4–12, plus fees. Skating and certain activities cost extra.
Website: Coastal Christmas – Official Website

Christmas Events Encinitas

Encinitas – Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden

See the San Diego Botanic Garden, illuminated with over one million holiday lights, tunnels, and artistic installations. In years past, this show has been displayed to sold-out audiences in Chicago, London, Los Angeles, and New York. The 37-acre garden in Encinitas makes for a beautiful landscape where the night sky will be beautifully illuminated with color and sound. The garden has a reimagined mile-long trail with more than 20 installations.

The Lightscape one-mile loop trail extends throughout the gardens on steep hills and uneven dirt pathways.  Bring comfortable walking shoes.

Dates: November 20, 2026–January 3, 2027
Location: Quail Gardens Drive and Ecke Ranch Rd, Encinitas, CA 92024
Website: Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden

Stay Nearby –  West Inn & Suites
Rated 4.6 on Expedia

Encinitas – Holiday Street Fair

Since 1989, the Holiday Street Fair in Encinitas has been a beloved tradition offering many attractions and experiences. With children’s rides, live entertainment on two stages, and delicious food and drink options, it provides a delightful atmosphere for the public and vendors.

The fair showcases the talents of popular local bands in the Lumberyard Courtyard, while the Community Stage hosts various forms of entertainment. Additionally, there are dedicated areas such as the Kids Zone for fun activities and the Dog Zone for furry friends to enjoy treats and special attention.

Visitors are spoilt for choice with an abundance of food choices from unique vendors and over 40 restaurants and bars in downtown Encinitas. Bring your bag(s) for all your street fair shopping, as single-use plastic bags are no longer provided by merchants in Encinitas.

Dates: November 22, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Coast Highway 101 between D and J Streets, Encinitas, CA 92024 
Admission: Free
Website: Encinitas Holiday Street Fair

Christmas Events Escondido

Escondido – California Center For The Arts Holiday Events

The California Center for the Arts presents several nights of holiday themed events this year.

December 1, 2026: Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
December 9, 2026: Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
December 9, 2026: Irish Christmas in America
December 14: GENTRI Christmas 2026
December 19-23 (select days): City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
December 27: World Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker

Location: 340 North Escondido Boulevard, Escondido, CA 92025
Admission: Varies by event- check the California Center for the Arts website
https://artcenter.org/

Christmas Events in Julian

Julian: Julian’s Country Christmas Tree Lighting

Experience an old-fashioned mountain Christmas in the charming town of Julian! This annual holiday celebration brings the community together for a festive day of live musical entertainment, holiday shopping at local craft vendor booths, and the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree. Santa arrives at 6 p.m. to greet children and spread holiday cheer. Surrounded by historic buildings, decorated storefronts, and the crisp mountain air, Julian’s Country Christmas offers a delightful small-town holiday experience for couples and families. Make a day of your visit by exploring the town’s shops and enjoying a slice of Julian’s famous apple pie before the festivities!

Planning tip: Julian can get chilly after sunset, so bring warm jackets and arrive early to explore the historic downtown before the evening festivities.

Date: Saturday, November 28, 2026
Time: Noon–7 p.m.; Santa arrives at 6 p.m. The exact tree-lighting time has not yet been published.
Location: Julian Town Square, corner of Main Street and Washington Street, Julian.
Admission: Free
Website: Julian’s Country Christmas Tree Lighting

Christmas Events La Jolla

La Jolla: La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival

Celebrate the season in the charming coastal village of La Jolla at the 70th annual La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival! The 2026 theme, “A Village Christmas – Celebrating 70 Years of Holiday Tradition,” brings festive floats, marching bands, vintage vehicles, equestrian groups, and community performers to the streets of La Jolla. After the parade, head to the La Jolla Recreation Center for a free holiday festival featuring live entertainment, arts and crafts, games, children’s activities, and a visit with Santa. New for 2026, the Village Christmas Market offers an opportunity to shop for gifts from local artisans and vendors. This beloved community celebration is a wonderful way for couples and families to enjoy the holiday spirit in one of San Diego’s most picturesque coastal neighborhoods.

Planning tip: Arrive early to find a viewing spot along Girard Avenue. After the parade, follow the route toward the Recreation Center to enjoy the festival and Christmas Market.

Date: Sunday, December 6, 2026
Time: Parade begins at 1 p.m.; Holiday Festival runs from 1–5 p.m.
Location: Parade begins at Kline Street and Girard Avenue in La Jolla. The Holiday Festival takes place at the La Jolla Recreation Center
Admission: Free
Website: La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival

Christmas Events Oceanside

Oceanside – Harbor Parade of Lights

The Harbor Parade of Lights in Oceanside is a must-see celebration that promises to enchant onlookers with its festive charm. As you cozy up with a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate, you’ll be treated to a spectacular display of holiday spirit. Fishing boats, sailboats, yachts, kayaks, and dinghies will be adorned in delightful holiday swag as they circle the harbor, spreading joy to all. Keep an eye out for Santa Claus and his merry crew, waving from the deck of these beautifully decorated vessels. 

For the best view, head to the side of the Oceanside Harbor near the fishing dock and police station, where you can see the parade not once but twice! If you prefer to stroll, the concrete walkway surrounding the harbor offers a perfect vantage point for the magical procession. Take advantage of this delightful event that encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season.

Date: December 12, 2026
Location: Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside, CA 92054 
Time: TBA
Website: Oceanside Parade of Lights

Oceanside: A Magical Cirque Christmas at Frontwave Arena

Experience the wonder of the holiday season with A Magical Cirque Christmas, a spectacular live performance coming to Frontwave Arena in Oceanside! This family-friendly holiday show combines breathtaking acrobatics, incredible feats of strength and agility, comedy, and heartwarming magic, all set to a lively soundtrack of modern Christmas favorites. Featuring world-class cirque performers, the production brings a unique twist to traditional holiday entertainment. Whether you’re planning a festive date night or a memorable family outing, this one-night-only performance offers a dazzling way to celebrate the Christmas season.

Planning tip: Consider purchasing parking in advance through Frontwave Arena. The venue has a clear-bag policy, so review its guidelines before arriving.

Date: Sunday, December 13, 2026

Time: 5:30 p.m. (doors open at 4:30 p.m.)
Location: Frontwave Arena, 3475 Hero Drive, Oceanside
Admission: Ticketed event; prices vary by seating.
Website: A Magical Cirque Christmas 

Christmas Events San Diego

San Diego: Christmas Performances at Cygnet Theatre

Celebrate the magic of Christmas with two festive productions at Cygnet Theatre’s home, The Joan, in Liberty Station! The theatre’s annual production of A Christmas Carol brings Charles Dickens’ beloved story of Ebenezer Scrooge to life with captivating storytelling, music, and theatrical effects. For a different kind of holiday entertainment, Cygnet’s A Magical Holiday delivers a high-energy celebration of Christmas music and dance, featuring festive favorites such as “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” “We Need a Little Christmas,” and “Feliz Navidad.” Whether you’re seeking a traditional Christmas story or a lively musical spectacle, these two productions offer a wonderful opportunity to enjoy live theatre during the holiday season.

Planning tip: Consider combining a performance with dinner at Liberty Station for a festive date night. Families should note that children under age five are not permitted at A Christmas Carol.

Dates:

• A Christmas Carol: November 24 – December 24, 2026
• Cygnet’s A Magical Holiday: December 2–24, 2026

Time: Matinee and evening performances; showtimes vary by date.
Location: Cygnet Theatre at The Joan, 2880 Roosevelt Road, San Diego
Admission: Ticketed performances; prices vary by production, date, and seating.
Website: Cygnet Theatre

San Diego – Ebenezer Scrooge’s BIG San Diego Christmas Show

It’s back! San Diego has another show in its Christmas stocking with this fast, funny, and highly theatrical reimagining of one of the most beloved holiday stories ever told. All the traditional elements of Dickens’s A Christmas Carol are intact—including the iconic ghosts of Christmases Past, Present, and Future—but with a comic local twist. Audiences of all ages will cheer Ebenezer Scrooge’s rediscovery of the Christmas spirit in this riotous Dickens mash-up filled with music and laughter—all set in “wintery” San Diego.

Running time: One hour and 15 minutes. There is no intermission.

By Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen
Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Directed by Gordon Greenberg

Dates: November 20 – December 27, 2026
Location: The Old Globe Theater
Website: Ebeneezer Scrooge’s BIG San Diego Christmas Show

San Diego – Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

Experience the enchanting world of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! in this whimsical musical adaptation of the beloved book. Join us for another incredible year as we bring to life the heartwarming story filled with catchy songs like “Santa for a Day,” “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” and the delightful carol “Welcome, Christmas (Fah Who Doraze).” Step into the snow-covered Who-ville, as the Old Globe Theatre magically transforms into a festive wonderland, capturing every whimsical detail right down to the last can of Who-hash. Get ready to celebrate the holidays like never before!

Dates: November 4 – December 31, 2026 (check website for specific days and times)
The Old Globe also has a new, fully staged Spanish-language production Nov. 19–22.
Location: The Old Globe – 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: Dr. Seuss How The Grinch Stole Christmas

San Diego – December Nights at Balboa Park

A fun place for San Diego Christmas events is right in the heart of Balboa Park. This wintertime family-friendly event brings the sights and sounds of Christmas to San Diego. Enjoy the amazing Family Zone with STEAM activities and free photos with Santa, lights displays, musical performances, attractions, delicious food, and more! And it’s free!

Dates: December 4-5, 2026
Location: Balboa Park
Admission: General festival admission is free
https://www.sandiego.gov/december-nights

Stay Nearby –  Moxy San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
Rated 4.6 on Expedia

San Diego – Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village

Experience the magic of the holidays at the annual Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village. This family-friendly event invites you to explore a festive wonderland adorned with twinkling lights, 10-foot tall nutcrackers, and kinetic tree displays.

Your adventure awaits as you wander through the Christmas Village, discovering unique stocking stuffers from artisan and Mercato vendors. Enjoy live music and entertainment before gathering for the main event: a traditional tree lighting ceremony at 6:30pm in the Piazza della Famiglia, where Santa himself will be making an appearance to grant Christmas wishes.

Dates: December 5, 2026
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Tree lighting 6:30 p.m.
Location: Piazza della Famiglia -523 W. Date Street,San Diego, CA 92101
Website: https://www.littleitalysd.com/events/little-italy-tree-lighting

San Diego: San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

Celebrate the holidays along the waterfront at the 56th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights! This beloved Christmas tradition features approximately 80 boats adorned with dazzling holiday lights and festive decorations. The 2026 theme, “Liberty Lights the Bay – Cheers to 250 Years!”, celebrates America’s 250th anniversary. Watch the illuminated vessels cruise past some of San Diego’s most scenic waterfront locations, including Shelter Island, Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, and Coronado. The parade is free to watch from shore, making it a wonderful holiday outing for couples and families. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot!

Dates: Sunday, December 13 and Sunday, December 20, 2026
Time: 5:30 p.m. start; approximately 7:40 p.m. arrival at Coronado Ferry Landing
Location: San Diego Bay, beginning at Shelter Island and ending at Coronado Ferry Landing
Website: San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

San Diego – Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Arts District

Get into the festive spirit at Rady Children’s Ice Rink at ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station! Enjoy outdoor ice skating in the Central Promenade while supporting a great cause. Be sure to mark your calendar for special events like Gulls Night, iHeart Rady Children’s Night, and Rady Children’s Auxiliary Day. Net proceeds go towards the Thriving After Cancer program at the Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Rady Children’s. So lace up your skates and join in on the holiday fun!

Dates: November 19, 2026–January 3, 2027
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Location: Legacy Plaza at Liberty Station
Website: https://rchicerink.org/

San Diego – San Diego Zoo Jungle Bells

Buy a ticket to the San Diego Zoo and enjoy the included Jungle Bells celebration. Enjoy live entertainment, animal light sculptures, and the spectacular show, Aurora. Listen to the Jingle Brass and the Tinseltones for holiday music. Experience holiday-themed activities through the grounds of the zoo.

Dates: Not yet updated for 2026
Location: 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/jungle-bells

San Diego: Ocean Beach Holiday Parade

Celebrate the holiday season with a distinctly Southern California twist at the annual Ocean Beach Holiday Parade! This beloved community tradition brings festive floats, marching bands, local organizations, and holiday cheer to Newport Avenue in the heart of Ocean Beach. With colorful decorations, creative parade entries, and the neighborhood’s laid-back coastal atmosphere, this free nighttime celebration offers a fun way for couples and families to experience Christmas by the beach. Arrive early to explore the local shops and restaurants before finding your spot along the parade route.

Planning tip: Parking in Ocean Beach can be challenging during popular events. Arrive early, check for street closures, and consider enjoying dinner at one of the neighborhood’s restaurants before the parade.

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach, San Diego
Admission: Free
Website: Ocean Beach Holiday Parade

San Diego: Petco Park – Holiday Wonderland

Get into the Christmas spirit at Petco Park’s Holiday Wonderland, where Gallagher Square transforms into a festive holiday destination! Stroll through dazzling light displays, enjoy nightly snowfall, and admire a beautifully decorated 40-foot Christmas tree. Families can meet Santa and other holiday characters, ride the Christmas train and carousel, play carnival games, and sled down a hill covered in real snow. Browse local artisan shops, enjoy seasonal treats, and catch live entertainment on select nights. With rides and activities included in admission, Holiday Wonderland offers a fun way to celebrate Christmas in downtown San Diego.

Planning tip: Purchase tickets for your preferred entry window in advance. Once inside, you can stay as long as you like.

Dates: Select nights, December 4–23, 2026
Time: Beginning at 4 p.m.
Location: Gallagher Square at Petco Park, 100 Park Boulevard, San Diego
Admission: Tickets start at $24; prices vary by date and entry time.
Website: Petco Park Holiday Wonderland 

San Diego – Civic Theater Christmas Shows

Celebrate the holiday season with a festive night at the San Diego Civic Theatre! The theatre’s 2026 holiday lineup features two beloved Christmas productions, offering everything from traditional ballet to a heartwarming Broadway musical.

The Nutcracker (December 17–23, 2026): Golden State Ballet brings Clara’s magical Christmas adventure to life with beautiful costumes, enchanting scenery, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed live by the San Diego Symphony. Family- and sensory-friendly matinees are also available on select dates, featuring recorded music and a more relaxed theatre environment.

Elf the Musical (December 29, 2026 – January 3, 2027): Based on the popular holiday film, this Broadway musical follows Buddy the Elf as he travels from the North Pole to New York City in search of his father. Filled with festive songs, humor, and Christmas spirit, it’s an entertaining way to extend your holiday celebrations into the new year.

Location: San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Avenue, San Diego

Admission: Ticketed performances. Prices vary by production and seating.

Planning tip: Arrive approximately one hour before your performance to allow time for parking, security screening, and finding your seats.

Website: San Diego Civic Theatre

San Diego: San Diego Made Holiday Market

Kick off your holiday shopping at the San Diego Made Holiday Market, a festive outdoor celebration at Liberty Station’s NTC Park! This two-day event features more than 130 local makers offering handmade gifts, artwork, jewelry, clothing, vintage treasures, and other unique finds. Enjoy live music, food trucks, seasonal activities, interactive art, photo booths, and family-friendly entertainment while supporting San Diego’s creative community. Visitors can also participate in a special scavenger hunt for a chance to receive a free handmade gift with purchase, while supplies last. Held over Thanksgiving weekend, this holiday market is a wonderful opportunity to shop small, discover one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts, and enjoy a festive day out.

Planning tip: Free parking is available throughout Liberty Station, but spaces may be limited during this popular holiday shopping weekend. Consider arriving early or using a rideshare service.

Dates: Saturday, November 28 – Sunday, November 29, 2026
Time: Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Location: NTC Park at Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Road, San Diego
Admission: $5; children under 10 are free.
Website: San Diego Made Holiday Market

San Diego – SeaWorld Christmas Celebration

Experience the magic of Christmas at SeaWorld San Diego, California’s ultimate holiday celebration. The park transforms into a winter wonderland with over one million twinkling lights, nightly snowfall, and festive decorations, including the iconic 320-foot Skytower Tree of Lights. Create unforgettable memories with live musical shows, heartwarming parades, and a spectacular Christmas Wish Fireworks Show on select nights. You can even meet Santa Claus and his real reindeer, say hello to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™, and enjoy delicious holiday food and drinks.

Your adventure continues with a lineup of all-new and returning favorite shows and experiences. Laugh along with the hilarious “Clyde & Seamore’s Christmas Special,” feel the festive cheer with the “Jingle Squad” musicians, and be dazzled by “Donner and Blitzen’s Lazer Light Show.” There’s something for everyone, from soulful holiday classics at “A Stocking Full of Soul” to the merry journey of “Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Parade.” It’s a festive journey packed with jo

Dates: November 13, 2026–January 3, 2027
Location: 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA 92109
Admission: Visit the park website for pricing options
https://seaworld.com/san-diego/events/christmas/

San Diego: USS Midway – Jingle Jets Holiday Lighting Celebration

Celebrate Christmas aboard a historic aircraft carrier at the USS Midway Museum’s Jingle Jets Holiday Lighting Celebration! More than one million sparkling lights transform the ship into a festive wonderland overlooking San Diego Bay. Enjoy Christmas carolers, a holiday model train display, interactive reindeer games, a magical penguin scavenger hunt, and opportunities to write letters to Santa. New for 2026 is Admiral Evergreen, a talking Christmas tree that brings additional holiday cheer to the festivities. With dazzling decorations, family-friendly activities, and incredible waterfront views, Jingle Jets offers a uniquely San Diego way to celebrate the holidays.

Planning tip: Tickets are available online only and will not be sold at the museum. Advance purchase is recommended.

Dates: Select nights, November 27 – December 30, 2026
Time: 5:30–9 p.m. (last entry at 7:30 p.m.)
Location: USS Midway Museum, 910 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego
Website: USS Midway Jingle Jets 

San Diego – Wild Holidays at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Experience Wild Holidays at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park like never before! Embark on a holiday expedition of illuminated wonders as you journey through captivating places adorned with twinkling lights. Immerse yourself in the joyful ambiance set by delightful holiday tunes while tantalizing seasonal food treats tempt you at every turn. This extraordinary event offers a unique opportunity to see the Safari Park in a new light, creating unforgettable memories for the entire family. Don’t miss out on this enchanting adventure that combines the holidays’ magic with the animal kingdom’s natural beauty.

Dates: November 27, 2026–January 3, 2027 (Select days)
Location: San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Website: Wild Holidays at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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Christmas Events Vista

Vista – Vista Christmas Parade

Enjoy a holiday parade with music, bands, dancers, and more. The This year’s theme is Candyland!  

Date: Saturday, Dec. 5 at 1 p.m.
Time: Starts at 1:00 pm
Location: Historic Downtown Vista
Website: Vista Christmas Parade

Bookmark our San Diego County Christmas Events Guide

San Diego County offers many things to do between November and January to keep you in the holiday spirit.  We hope you’ve found this San Diego County Christmas Events directory helpful and wish you a wonderful winter season.  Thanks for visiting our website.

We hope to see you at the places where we go.

Julie & Art

Check out more seasonal event guides

Halloween events in Southern California – Bookmark it for next year!
Julefest Christmas in Solvang, California
Celebrate Victorian Christmas in Nevada City, California

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