Welcome to sunny San Diego, a city where the holiday spirit mingles with the charm of the Pacific coast. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, San Diego during the holidays offers a vibrant mix of festive activities, cultural events, and natural beauty. In this article, we’ll explore the must-do activities that should be on your holiday bucket list when in San Diego.
1. Explore the Festive Lights at Balboa Park December Nights Balboa Park December Nights is a magical event that transforms the already stunning park into a holiday wonderland. With twinkling lights, delicious food, and live music, it’s a perfect place to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. Don’t miss the spectacular tree lighting!
- Address: Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101
- Local Tip: Arrive early to find parking or consider using public transportation as it gets crowded.
- Experience: Enjoy the festive atmosphere with food vendors offering international cuisine and museums open late with free admission.
2. Experience the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights A holiday tradition, the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights features beautifully decorated boats sailing along the bay. This nautical spectacle is a unique way to experience San Diego’s maritime charm.
- Address: San Diego Bay, San Diego, CA
- Local Tip: Best viewed from Seaport Village or the Embarcadero. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
- Experience: A unique holiday light show on water, this parade is a delightful experience for all ages.
3. Visit the Hotel Del Coronado for Skating by the Sea The iconic Hotel Del Coronado offers a one-of-a-kind experience: ice skating by the Pacific Ocean. Skating by the Sea is a delightful activity for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
- Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
- Local Tip: Book tickets in advance as this popular event often sells out.
- Experience: Ice skate by the beach with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean.
4. Enjoy a Festive Show at The Old Globe The Old Globe Theatre’s annual holiday production is a must-see. Whether it’s a classic like “Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” or another festive play, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
- Address: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
- Local Tip: Check their schedule online and book tickets in advance for holiday shows.
- Experience: Enjoy heartwarming holiday plays in a world-renowned theatre.
5. Stroll Through the San Diego Zoo’s Jungle Bells The San Diego Zoo gets a festive makeover during the holidays with its Jungle Bells celebration. Enjoy animal light sculptures, holiday treats, and festive entertainment.
- Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Local Tip: Dress warmly for the evening and don’t miss the light show at the front plaza.
- Experience: The zoo transforms into a holiday-themed wonderland, complete with animal-themed light sculptures.
6. Discover the Seasonal Delights of Little Italy’s Christmas Village Little Italy transforms into a charming Christmas village, complete with holiday décor, seasonal vendors, and authentic Italian cuisine. It’s a great spot to find unique gifts and savor festive treats.
- Address: Little Italy, San Diego, CA 92101
- Local Tip: Try the Italian hot chocolate from one of the local vendors.
- Experience: Wander through festive streets filled with holiday lights, shopping, and Italian culinary delights.
7. Take a Holiday Cruise Around the Harbor Experience San Diego’s beauty from the water with a holiday-themed harbor cruise. Enjoy the city skyline and coastal views while sipping on hot cocoa or a festive cocktail.
- Address: Various locations along San Diego Harbor
- Local Tip: Bring a jacket as it can get chilly on the water.
- Experience: Enjoy San Diego’s skyline and festive lights from a unique vantage point on the water.
8. Join the Festivities at the San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade The Holiday Bowl Parade is one of the nation’s largest balloon parades. Featuring marching bands, floats, and giant balloons, it’s a fun event for all ages.
- Address: Downtown San Diego, along Harbor Drive
- Local Tip: Arrive early to grab a front-row spot along the street.
- Experience: Witness one of the nation’s largest balloon parades, a visual treat for all ages.
9. Indulge in Seasonal Flavors at Local Restaurants San Diego’s culinary scene embraces the holiday season with special menus and seasonal flavors. From cozy cafes to fine dining, there’s something for every palate.
- Trust
- Address: 3752 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103
- Experience: Known for its rustic ambiance and creative cuisine, Trust is beautifully decorated for the holidays.
- Cesarina
- Address: 4161 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92107
- Experience: This charming Italian restaurant offers a cozy holiday atmosphere and authentic dishes.
- InsideOut
- Address: 1642 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
- Experience: Modern and stylish, InsideOut offers a unique dining experience with exquisite holiday decorations.
10. Relax at a Beach Bonfire End your holiday adventures with a relaxing beach bonfire. San Diego’s beaches are perfect for a peaceful evening under the stars, reflecting on the year gone by and the new one ahead.
- Address: Various beaches like Mission Beach, Ocean Beach
- Local Tip: Check local regulations for bonfire rules and bring your own firewood.
- Experience: A serene beach experience to relax and reflect, enhanced by the sound of waves and a warm fire.
San Diego during the holidays is a blend of festive activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. This bucket list offers a glimpse into the many ways you can enjoy this vibrant city during the most wonderful time of the year. So pack your bags, bring your holiday cheer, and get ready to explore San Diego like never before!
