Carlsbad Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Carlsbad and surrounding areas
Carlsbad kicks off Christmas 2025 with Holidays at LEGOLAND California and the Carlsbad Holiday Market lighting up the downtown and coastal areas. The festive season offers Christmas markets, ice skating pop-ups, and seasonal concerts near Carlsbad Village and the Forum. Enjoy Holiday lights along the harbor and beachside walks while taking part in family activities, parades, and shows that make the season joyful and memorable for visitors of all ages.
Find the best Carlsbad Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Lights
27 eventsLEGO-themed holiday celebration with characters and fireworks
Christmas Markets
20 eventsLocal artisan market supporting community philanthropy
Christmas Shows
9 eventsMotown holiday show with live music
Christmas Parties
6 eventsOther Christmas Activities
38 eventsAnnual Christmas boat parade of lights on Mission Bay
Editor's Picks (6)
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Holidays at LEGOLAND California
LEGO-themed holiday celebration with characters and fireworks
- Big Night San Diego (San Diego)
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Balboa Park December Nights
(San Diego)
San Diego's largest free holiday festival in Balboa Park.
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SeaWorld San Diego Christmas Celebration
(San Diego)
One Million Lights Meet Ocean Delights
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Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo
(San Diego)
Zoo transformed into a holiday wonderland with lights and entertainment
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Christmas Card Lane
(San Diego)
Neighborhood-wide elaborate Christmas light displays
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Also Near Carlsbad
Oceanside
See all in Oceanside →Encinitas
- Del Mar Village Holiday Happenings
- Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular
- CRC's Jingle and Mingle 2025
San Marcos
See all in San Marcos →Escondido
See all in Escondido →La Jolla
See all in La Jolla →Carlsbad Christmas FAQ
Key events include the Annual Carols of Carlsbad and Tree Lighting at the Omni La Costa Resort, the Carlsbad Holiday Market, and the Holidays at LEGOLAND® California Resort, all drawing festive crowds each year.
Carlsbad features unique traditions like the skydiving Santa at the Omni La Costa Resort tree lighting and the LEGO Christmas tree and light show at LEGOLAND®, blending coastal charm with festive celebrations.
Beloved neighborhood displays scattered throughout Carlsbad offer charming walking trails of holiday lights, with some areas near residential streets known for their festive decorations.
The Woman's Club of Carlsbad hosts the popular Holiday Market, and various artisan markets and craft fairs near Carlsbad showcase local makers and seasonal vendor stalls throughout the holiday season.
Free neighborhood light displays, community concerts like the Musical Kickoff to the Holidays in Carlsbad Village, and exploring local holiday markets offer budget-friendly ways to enjoy the season.
Family favorites include the Holidays at LEGOLAND® event with themed shows and Santa meet-and-greets, the Holiday at the Rancho event with crafts and train rides, and festive markets with kid-friendly activities.