National City Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in National City and surrounding areas
Winter 2025 brings a festive glow to National City as Holiday lights and holiday activities illuminate parks and waterfront areas around the city center. From decorated plazas to spirited seasonal performances, the city offers a warm mix of events that welcome families and visitors alike. Catch the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights or explore local winter festivals and festive gatherings that showcase illuminated displays, seasonal music, and community activities against the backdrop of familiar downtown landmarks.
Find the best National City Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Lights
25 eventsLEGO-themed holiday celebration with characters and fireworks
Christmas Markets
22 eventsOver 100 artisan vendors in a festive holiday market.
Christmas Parties
7 eventsTwo-day New Year's electronic music festival at Petco Park
Christmas Shows
7 events20th anniversary of traditional Irish holiday performance
Christmas Activities
38 eventsAnnual Christmas boat parade of lights on Mission Bay
Editor's Picks (6)
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Holidays at LEGOLAND California
(Carlsbad)
LEGO-themed holiday celebration with characters and fireworks
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PROPER NYE/NYD 2026
(San Diego)
Two-day New Year's electronic music festival at Petco Park
- 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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Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park
(San Diego)
Over 100 artisan vendors in a festive holiday market.
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SeaWorld San Diego Christmas Celebration
(San Diego)
One Million Lights Meet Ocean Delights
Events Happening Soon (6)
National City Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near National City
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near National City!
National City Christmas FAQ
National City hosts several annual holiday events including neighborhood light displays and community markets. While large-scale events may be found in nearby cities, local gatherings and festive markets are highlights within National City itself.
National City embraces community-focused holiday traditions such as neighborhood light displays and local artisan markets that reflect its diverse culture and close-knit spirit during the season.
Several residential areas in National City feature festive neighborhood displays, with streets where many homes participate in decorating. These areas offer a welcoming atmosphere for walking or driving to enjoy the lights.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found at community centers, parks, and seasonal pop-up markets throughout National City and nearby neighborhoods, offering handmade gifts and festive treats.
Enjoying neighborhood light displays, attending free community markets, and participating in local holiday events are great budget-friendly ways to celebrate the season in National City.
Families can enjoy festive walking trails, visits to local markets with kid-friendly activities, and neighborhood displays where children can experience the holiday spirit up close.