Christmas Celebrations in San Diego

By Bryan Kittman | December 18, 2019

Tis’ the season to be jolly! San Diego is no stranger to Christmas festivities, and this holiday season has plenty of cheer to go around. If you’re looking to get into some Christmas joy, here are the celebrations you don’t want to miss. 

Santa Photos at Westfield Mission Valley – Dec. 18 – Dec. 24 

Santa Claus is coming to town, so head on out to Westfield Mission Valley to get your photo taken with the big jolly man himself. The smile it will bring your kiddos is more than worth it.

Botanic Wonderland – Dec. 19 – Dec 30 

Gather up your friends and family and make your way to the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas for a night of Christmas cheer. This new holiday event brings us Santa, live entertainment, twinkling lights, beer and wine, and much more!

Santa Hat & Ugly Sweater Party at the Hard Rock Hotel – Dec. 20 

Come ready to party at this amazing night hosted by the Hard Rock Hotel, featuring live music and dancers. Guests are encouraged to wear their ugly Christmas sweaters and Santa hats and prepare to get down for an amazing night!

Caribbean Christmas Ball Dinner & Dance – Dec. 21 

The Caribbean has made its way to San Diego this year for the Christmas season. This event will be filled with good vibes, delicious Caribbean food, music, raffles, and dancing. It might be cold outside, but this is a good time to break out the Hawaiian shirt for this celebration.

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration – Dec. 21 

Christmas is gliding into SeaWorld this year with plenty of fun and festive activities. From an all-new ice skating spectacular to a Cirque Christmas performance featuring traditional ballet “The Nutcracker” infused with contemporary cirque-style entertainment, this event is bound to the highlight of your Christmas celebration.

Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade – Dec. 26 

This parade is America’s largest balloon parade, bringing together world-class matching bands, floats, drill teams, and a magical procession of towing balloons.

Holiday Bowl Football Game – Dec. 27

Taking place at SDCCU Stadium, this great college bowl game pits PAC-12 versus Big Ten in a football extravaganza that features live music, face painting, and photo booths, making for the perfect send off for the holiday season.

Liberty Station’s Salute the Season – through Jan. 5 

Glide on the ice at Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station, or enjoy the glittering lights of the 88-foot Norfolk pine tree decorated for the holidays.