Things to Do in San Diego in December: Holiday Events from North County to Downtown
Why December is a Great Time to Explore
December in San Diego has its own kind of winter magic. Instead of snowfall, we get cool ocean air, glowing sunsets, and palm trees wrapped in twinkle lights. The beaches feel calmer, the evenings come sooner, and the entire coastline—from Rancho Santa Fe and Del Mar to La Jolla and downtown—takes on a festive energy.
For those of us in North County, December brings the best of both worlds: holiday traditions close to home and access to San Diego’s most iconic seasonal events within a short drive. Explore illuminated gardens in Encinitas, gather with the community at coastal parades, skate by the sea at the Hotel Del, or head into the city for December Nights and the Bay Parade of Lights.
Whether you’re hosting family, planning outings with friends, or just looking for a meaningful way to embrace the season, here are some of our favorite holiday events and things to do across San Diego in December.
🎄 Local Holiday Events — North County & La Jolla Area
Coastal Christmas Del Mar
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This seaside holiday wonderland at the Del Mar Fairgrounds transforms for the season with a light trail, an eco-friendly skating rink, private igloos (cozy with fire pits for s’mores!), hot cocoa or holiday cocktails, and a fun children’s zone.
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It’s a festive, easy-going option especially nice if you want to stay close to home — perfect for an evening outing with friends or family.
San Diego Botanic Garden — Holiday Lights & “Lightscape” (Encinitas area)
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The garden dresses up for the holidays with a musical light show, poinsettia displays, kids’ crafts and visits from Santa, making it a family-friendly holiday highlight.
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A lovely, low-key way to enjoy some holiday magic without venturing downtown. Especially great if you’re in Encinitas or nearby.
Encinitas Holiday Parade
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The Encinitas Holiday Parade happens on the coast — a nice community vibe for local families.
La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival (La Jolla village / downtown)
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A beloved local tradition: the parade (with marching bands, community groups, vintage cars, horses — and yes, even a camel!) plus a tree-lighting and holiday festival make it a festive, family-friendly community event.
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A great excuse to spend a day in La Jolla: grab lunch or dinner, stroll the village, pop into shops, and enjoy the holiday cheer.
Coastal Walks, Beach Walks, Sunset Views & Maybe Whale Watching
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The coast doesn’t close down just because it’s December. For those seeking a more relaxed, low-key day — a beach walk at Solana Beach or Carlsbad, a sunset in Del Mar, or a stroll in La Jolla can be magical this time of year.
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As some locals note, winter sometimes brings dramatic skies and quieter beaches — perfect for reflection, a walk with a coffee, or just to unwind.
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Bonus idea: Keep an eye out for whale migrations (Grey whales often begin returning December through spring). With a bit of luck — or a booked tour — you could make a simple beach walk into a “look out for whales” adventure.
🎁 Classic San Diego–Wide Holiday Events Worth the Drive
Even if you call North County home, a short drive to downtown or coastal hubs is often worth it for the big holiday spectacles. Here are some of the top annual happenings for 2025:
Balboa Park December Nights
December 5 & 6, 2025
San Diego’s largest free holiday festival — with twinkling lights, international food stalls, live music, open museums, and a joyful holiday marketplace.
It’s a great chance to soak up holiday spirit, culture, and incredible food — ideal for a family night out or a festive date night.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
December 14 & 21, 2025
Dozens of boats adorned in brilliant holiday lights cruise the bay in a dazzling parade. It’s a uniquely San Diego tradition and makes for a magical evening under the stars.
Great viewpoints include: Shelter Island, the Embarcadero, and the Coronado Ferry Landing — or join a harbor cruise if you’re up for something extra special.
Skating by the Sea — Hotel del Coronado
November 21 – January 4
For a holiday experience unlike anywhere else, Hotel del Coronado transforms its beachfront into a festive ice rink overlooking the Pacific. Skate by the ocean with palm trees wrapped in lights, sip a seasonal cocktail on the sand, and take in the glow of the historic hotel’s holiday décor.
This is a signature Southern California holiday moment — unforgettable for out-of-town guests and a must-do for locals at least once each season.
Zoo, Theme Parks & Family Favorites
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San Diego Zoo’s “Jungle Bells” — festive lights, Santa visits, holiday-themed decorations, and a cozy evening vibe.
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LEGOLAND California and SeaWorld San Diego — both typically offer special holiday events around December.
❤️ Celebrate the Season, San Diego Style
From coastal parades to Festive nights under the palms, December is one of our favorite times of the year in North County. It’s a chance to support local businesses, embrace community traditions, and share the season with family and friends — all with the Pacific as your backdrop.
From all of us at the Jason Barry Team, we wish you a wonderful holiday season.