San Diego Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in San Diego and surrounding areas
San Diego welcomes the festive season across Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter and along the waterfront, where festive events and seasonal attractions bring light and warmth to cooler nights. Balboa Park December Nights, PROPER NYE/NYD 2026 and the Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park showcase seasonal performances, markets and Santa visits for families. Expect outdoor lights displays, holiday activities and coastal charm that make San Diego an inviting winter destination.
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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 eventsSan Diego's premier full-length Nutcracker with live symphony.
Other 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
Two-day New Year's electronic music festival at Petco Park
- Big Night San Diego
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Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park
Over 100 artisan vendors in a festive holiday market.
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Balboa Park December Nights
San Diego's largest free holiday festival in Balboa Park.
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Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo
Zoo transformed into a holiday wonderland with lights and entertainment
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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San Diego Christmas FAQ
Some of the biggest events include the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, and the Jingle Jets Holiday Lighting Celebration at the USS Midway Museum. These events draw large crowds and offer festive entertainment for all ages.
San Diego’s coastal location brings unique traditions like boat parades on the bay, including the Parade of Lights, where decorated boats sail at night. The city also blends cultural influences in its holiday markets and festive events.
Neighborhoods such as Rancho Penasquitos and parts of La Jolla are known for their impressive holiday light displays. Additionally, many local communities host beloved neighborhood displays that are free and open to the public.
Christmas markets and local artisan fairs are commonly found in areas like Little Italy and the Spanish Village Art Center. These hubs feature vendor stalls with handmade crafts, holiday gifts, and seasonal food and drink options.
Free or budget-friendly options include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending the Bay Parade of Lights from public viewing areas, and exploring local holiday markets with no admission fee. Many parks and public spaces also host free seasonal events.
Family-friendly picks include SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration with themed shows and animal encounters, the Jingle Jets light festival, and interactive holiday markets offering crafts and treats. These events provide engaging activities for children and adults alike.