San Diego Holiday Events In December
When you think of San Diego, you might think palm trees, summer and margaritas, but it is actually one of the most festive places to be during the holiday season.
There are plenty of activities for the whole family to take part in involving hot coco, ice skating and yes, Santa Claus. If you are unfamiliar with these events, here is a list of the upcoming holiday activities you can check out.
Skating By The Sea is held at Hotel Del Coronado and all money helps benefit the Make A Wish Foundation.
It takes place from November 22nd to January 6th, featuring views of the Pacific ocean, roaring fire pits with food and beverage services available including hot coco. You can learn more at the Hotel Del Coronado event calendar.
47th Annual San Diego Parade Of Lights
This year is the 47th annual San Diego parade of lights. The event put on by the local boat owners and fisherman of the area. They decorate their boats and hold a parade for the general public to enjoy for free.
The event is scheduled for December 9th and 16th and will begin at 5 pm both nights. The theme this year is Tropical Island Christmas and you can expect to see them traveling from Shelter Island, passing the Berkeley Ferry and to the pier of Cesar Chavez Park.
Winter Tubing And Sports Near San Diego
If you are looking for a place to enjoy the winter snow near San Diego, then you can go to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and enjoy a variety of snow-related activities for the whole family.
You can buy a day pass if you want to park inside the park or park for free along the turnouts on the highway. Find more places to snow tube here.
Global Winter Wonderland
Global Winter Wonderland is the only Chinese Festival of Lights outside of China and has been around since 2011.
This is a spectacular holiday festival that is taking place from November 19th to January 7th, featuring illuminated landscapes and celebrating holidays from around the world. You will see Cirque du Soleil level acrobatics, 35+ carnival rides, holiday-themed activities, games, food and more!
Port Of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade
This is a scenic, bay side holiday bowl parade coming to downtown San Diego! Crowds will see world-class marching bands, floats, entertaining drill teams and enormous balloons and street side viewing is free!
The Parade of Lights is happening on December 31st at 10 a.m. and is a free event unless you want to purchase grandstand seats for $22 in advance and $25 the day of the parade. Transportation is free via trolley every night if you want to avoid parking issues.
Vet + Pet West Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade
This event is being held on Sunday, December 16, 2018, at MLK Promenade Park. Check-in is at 11:30 for participants and the parade begins at 2 pm.
The event is free for spectators. Pet owners and their companions are invited to host their favorite costumes for the event taking place at MLK Promenade Park, adjacent to the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter.
Old Town Las Posadas: An Old Town Celebration
This event is being held on December,15th at 5 pm. Fiesta de Reyes hosts this event based on the story of Mary and Joseph and is celebrating 68 years with campfire and s’mores.
The city of Poway is having their annual Christmas in the Park on Saturday, December 8th from 3:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
This event is a unique way to bring holiday delights to your family this season with the magic of an old-fashioned traditional Christmas and it is also free to the public!
Alpine Village Christmas Parade And Snow Festival
The Alpine Village Christmas Parade and Snow Festival is being held Friday December, 7th and features free sledding with the parade taking place at 6:30 pm.
The alpine village will feature Christmas lights, a snow festival with floats, trucks and more! Don‘t miss Santa Claus, children’s activities and vendors starting at 7 pm.
La Mesa’s Holiday In The Village
The Holiday in the Village at La Mesa will be held December 7th 4-9 pm and the 8th from 10am-9pm. This free event features a variety of carnival-style activities, games and more!
