Nov 27, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027 on Liberty Station’s South Lawn. Ticketed entry from $12.90. Which ticket to buy, when to go, and how it stacks up against San Diego’s free markets.

Every December, a 1905 craftsman house in Little Italy turns into a life-size gingerbread house you can eat inside. What to order, when to go, and how to get a table.

These are the San Diego spots that look great on a card, and what to know before you drag the family out in coordinated outfits.

San Diego’s beloved holiday theater tradition brings Dr. Seuss’s classic to life at Balboa Park. See the Grinch and Whoville in this family-friendly musical production.

San Diego’s largest free holiday celebration with international food, free museums, live performances, and more than 350,000 visitors across December 4–5, 2026 at Balboa Park.

European-style Christmas market takes over Petco Park with artisan vendors, festive food, craft cocktails, and a massive Christmas tree.

Over 80 decorated boats light up San Diego Bay across two December Sunday evenings. Find the best viewing locations, parade route details, and insider tips.

This one puts you on a 4-acre steel flight deck in the middle of the bay, surrounded by lit-up fighter jets and the downtown skyline reflecting off the water.

SeaWorld’s 100-acre park transforms with holiday shows, the 320-foot SkyTower Tree of Lights, Santa visits, and festive marine life encounters through early January.

California’s only beachfront ice skating rink plus the iconic Lighting of the Del ceremony. A Victorian Christmas celebration at San Diego’s historic oceanfront resort.

Experience the traditional Mexican Christmas celebration in Old Town San Diego. Candlelight procession, live nativity, mariachi music, and authentic holiday traditions.

It’s the holidays… should you save, should you splurge? Read our roundup to help decide if what you get is worth the cost of admission.

LEGOLAND California transforms for the holidays with festive lights, real snow play areas, character meet-and-greets in costume, and holiday entertainment through early January.

Nov 20, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027. Two million pounds of carved ice, kept at 9°F, in Chula Vista. Tickets from $29.99 adults, $19.99 kids. What to know before you go.

Jungle Bells at San Diego Zoo runs December 18, 2026 through January 3, 2027. Twinkling lights, festive entertainment, special animal encounters. Get tickets, dates, and insider tips for the Zoo’s holiday celebration.