Welcome to the festive season in Rancho Santa Fe and the surrounding San Diego area, a time when the community comes alive with a variety of family-friendly holiday events that capture the spirit of the holidays. From enchanting ballet performances to dazzling light shows, and from traditional holiday events in San Diego concerts to creative workshops, there's an abundance of activities to enjoy. Families can immerse themselves in the joy and wonder of the season. In this blog, we'll explore some of the most anticipated holidays in san diego events, each offering unique experiences and the chance to create lasting memories with loved ones. Join us as we journey through these festive highlights, perfect for families looking to celebrate this special time of year.
Golden State Ballet's Nutcracker (December 15-24)
The holiday season in San Diego isn't complete without the magical performance of the Golden State Ballet's "Nutcracker" at the San Diego Civic Theatre. This enchanting show brings the classic story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince to life, accompanied by the beautiful compositions of Tchaikovsky performed by the San Diego Symphony. This timeless performance is a family favorite, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Noel Noel Concert (December 15-17)
The "Noel Noel" concert at Rady Shell at Jacobs Park is a quintessential holiday experience in San Diego. Featuring the San Diego Symphony Orchestra, Master Chorale, and Children’s Choir, this event combines classic Christmas tunes, sing-alongs, and a festive atmosphere. It's an ideal setting for families to immerse themselves in the joy and spirit of the season, complete with special HOLIDAY EVENTS IN SAN DIEGO-themed treats and drinks.
Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden (Now - January 1)
Lightscape offers an immersive experience at the San Diego Botanic Garden, where art and nature merge in a stunning display of lights and sounds. The one-mile loop features new installations and fan favorites, reimagined to delight visitors of all ages. It's a wonderful way to experience the beauty of nature illuminated in a festive glow.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights (December 17)
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a beloved holiday tradition in San Diego, where more than 100,000 spectators gather to watch a parade of lavishly decorated boats. This event captures the maritime spirit of San Diego and is a delightful spectacle for families to enjoy the holiday lights in San Diego in a unique and exciting setting.
Santa’s Story Time Tea at Westgate Hotel (Every Weekend in December)
Santa’s Story Time Tea at the Westgate Hotel offers a charming holiday experience in San Diego. Families can enjoy story time with Santa, take photos, and indulge in delicious hot chocolate, pastries, and desserts. Each child also receives a keepsake teddy bear, making it a memorable event for the little ones.
Living Nativity at Horizon Christian Fellowship (December 21-23)
Experience the story of Christmas at the Living Nativity at Horizon Christian Fellowship. This event features dramatic recreations of the nativity story along with a marketplace offering camel rides, games, crafts, and delicious treats. It's an engaging and educational holiday event for the whole family in San Diego.
December Nights at One Paseo (Every Friday & Saturday from Now - December 23)
December Nights at One Paseo invites families and friends to indulge in the festive spirit every Friday and Saturday from November 24th to December 23rd. Between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, One Paseo is transformed into a whimsical Winter Wonderland. This event features a breathtaking display of snow cascading from the rooftops, creating a magical atmosphere that lights up the plaza. It's an enchanting experience for the holidays in San Diego, where visitors can stroll under twinkling lights, revel in the festive ambiance, and create unforgettable holiday memories in San Diego.
Cocoa with Santa at One Paseo (December 17)
One Paseo also hosts the delightful Cocoa with Santa event, providing a chance for children and families to meet Santa Claus in a cozy setting. Imagine sipping on warm, delicious cocoa while listening to holiday stories in San Diego from Santa himself. This event is perfect for capturing the holiday spirit in San Diego and creating those special moments that children cherish. The combination of hot cocoa and Santa's presence makes for a heartwarming and festive experience, further enhancing the holiday charm of One Paseo.
Skating by The Sea” at the Hotel Del Coronado (Now - January 1)
The iconic Hotel del Coronado offers a unique holiday experience in San Diego with its "Skating by The Sea" event, a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors. This remarkable ice-skating rink is set up on the Windsor Lawn, providing guests with the rare opportunity to skate just steps from the Pacific Ocean. Available from 2 pm to 10 pm during the holiday season in San Diego, the rink offers stunning views of the beach and ocean, adding a magical touch to the traditional ice skating experience. Whether skating under the sun or the stars, the combination of the ocean breeze and the festive atmosphere creates an unforgettable experience. The rink is part of the hotel's annual Holiday Festival in San Diego, which also includes photos with Santa, performances by local school children, and a spectacular skydiving Santa event. It's a perfect blend of holiday spirit in San Diego and Southern California charm, making ice skating at the Hotel del Coronado a must-try event for the season.
Rooftop Cinema Club Embarcadero at the Grand Hyatt (Through December 23)
The holiday season in San Diego is elevated with the Rooftop Cinema Club Embarcadero at the Grand Hyatt, which extends its run through December 23. This outdoor cinema, located at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, is a favorite destination for movie enthusiasts and has been adorned in festive décor for the season. The extended slate of holiday classics in San Diego includes favorites like "Elf," "The Grinch," and "Home Alone," ensuring a film for every taste. Additionally, to enhance the holiday experience in San Diego, holiday-themed music fills the air before and after films, and guests can enjoy warm beverages like hot cocoa and coffee from the concession menu. For families, the week of December 18-23 is dubbed "Family Week," with children 12 and under receiving a free ticket to afternoon screenings with a paid adult ticket. Moreover, on December 22, a special "Cookies with Santa" event will feature a screening of "Elf," along with a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus and a DIY holiday cookie decorating kit. Finally, don't miss the Ugly Sweater Party Movie and Silent Disco on December 14 for a festive night of fun, featuring the comedy "The Night Before" and a holiday-themed Silent Disco.
Coastal Christmas: A Holiday Light Spectacular at Fairgrounds (December 14-30)
Coastal Christmas: A Holiday Light Spectacular" at the Del Mar Fairgrounds is a holiday event that promises to be a magical experience for all ages. Starting December 14 and running through December 30, this festive celebration transforms the Fairgrounds into a holiday village aglow with twinkling lights and festive activities. Visitors can stroll through an immersive light display that brings the spirit of the season to life, glide around an eco-friendly skating rink, and enjoy shopping at a holiday market in San Diego. The event, occurring on December 21 from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm, includes live entertainment, delicious treats, and festive drinks for both kids and adults. This enchanting festival combines the warmth of the season, the joy of community, and the beauty of the coastal setting into one delightful holiday experience for the whole family.
San Diego Zoo Jungle Bells Festivities (December 9, 2023 - January 1, 2024)
The San Diego Zoo's annual Jungle Bells festivities, running from December 9, 2023, through January 1, 2024, offer a magical winter wonderland experience for visitors. During this holiday event in San Diego, the zoo transforms into a festive playground illuminated with lighted animal sculptures and filled with the sound of holiday music in San Diego. Guests can enjoy special treats, meet Santa Claus, and experience unique entertainment, including the end-of-the-evening spectacular, Aurora. The Zoo extends its hours for Jungle Bells, allowing guests to explore and enjoy the lights and festivities until 8 p.m. every night (except December 24). This event is an excellent opportunity for families to experience the magic and spirit of the holiday season in one of the world's most famous zoos, where the joy of animals and the holiday season come together in a dazzling display.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas at The Old Globe (November 8 - December 31)
The Old Globe Theatre presents the whimsical musical "Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" from November 8 to December 31. Celebrating its 26th year, this family favorite brings to life the classic Dr. Seuss tale with beloved songs like “Santa for a Day,” “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” and “Welcome, Christmas (Fah Who Doraze).” The Old Globe Theatre transforms into the snow-covered Who-ville, creating an immersive experience that captures the essence of the heartwarming story. This production is a holiday tradition in San Diego, perfect for audiences of all ages who want to enjoy the magic of Dr. Seuss's world and rediscover the true meaning of Christmas
Each of these holiday events in San Diego curated by Brizolis Janzen & Associates, provides a blend of culture, entertainment, and festive cheer, making them perfect choices for families looking to celebrate the holiday season together in San Diego. From ballet to boat parades and from light shows to live nativity scenes, there's something to captivate everyone's holiday spirit in San Diego.