what is there to do in san diego at christmas

Where are the Christmas lights in San Diego?

What is the average temperature in San Diego in December?

What is the holiday bowl parade?

When is the Nutcracker at the San Diego Civic Theater?

What is shopping over the holidays?

When is the SDCCU parade?

When is the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights?

See 4 more

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How can I spend Christmas in San Diego?

Surfin Santa San Diego.San Diego December Nights Balboa Park.Seaport Village Holiday Lights.Holidays at the Harbor – Dana Point.Lake Murray and Cowles Mountain.Coronado Island Hotels – Hotel Del Coronado.Ice skating on the Beach at the Hotel Del Coronado.

Is it worth going to San Diego in December?

With plenty of sunshine and a temperate climate, San Diego makes a great year-round winter destination…even as a staycation for locals. But, as a local, I love the fewer crowds, stunning sunsets, and unique activities that only winter can offer in California.

What is there to do in La Jolla at Christmas?

La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival This fun, family-friendly event is a decades-old La Jolla tradition, and includes marching bands, community groups, drill teams, vintage vehicles, horses, and even a camel!

Is Balboa Park lit up for Christmas?

December Nights is back for 2022! 2 and 3 for the City of San Diego's largest holiday festival in beautiful Balboa Park. This free family-friendly event brings San Diegans together to enjoy the lights, the sounds, the attractions, and of course, the amazing food.

What should I wear in San Diego in December?

It is definitely necessary to bring a good jacket when traveling to San Diego in December. The weather can change quickly during the winter. Pack a lightweight or cardigan for the warmer days, a rain jacket, and then a warm fuzzy jacket.

What is the coldest month in San Diego?

DecemberSan Diego's coldest month is December when the average temperature overnight is 48.9°F. In August, the warmest month, the average day time temperature rises to 77.5°F.

What is open in San Diego on Christmas?

SAN DIEGO: San Diego Zoo open December 25, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. SAN DIEGO: San Diego Zoo Safari Park December 25 open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. SAN FRANCISCO: San Francisco Zoo open Christmas Day 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Zoo is open 365 days a year. SANTA BARBARA: Santa Barbara Zoo is open Christmas Eve & Christmas Day 10 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.

Where can I see the Parade of Lights in San Diego?

2022 Theme: Fantasea On The Bay Maritime Museum of San Diego has been known for years as the best place on the waterfront to view the annual Parade of Lights on San Diego Bay from the Museum's historic 1898 steam ferry boat Berkeley located along Star of India wharf.

What do you do on Christmas Day?

PureWow18 Fun Things to Do on Christmas Day in 2022. By Emma Singer. ... Tour the Christmas Lights. ... Watch a Christmas Movie. ... Check Out a Ballet Performance of 'The Nutcracker' ... Clean Up and Donate. ... Make It a Themed Family Game Night. ... Go Caroling. ... Cook a Christmas Day Feast.More items...•

Does Balboa Park have a Christmas tree?

The Community Christmas Tree, a cedar tree (Cedrus deodara) planted in 1981, is decorated and lit to celebrate the holiday season. It is located north of the Spreckles Organ Pavilion.

Where is December nights in San Diego?

Balboa ParkDecember Nights is back for 2022! Join us on Dec. 2 and 3 for the City of San Diego's largest free holiday festival in beautiful Balboa Park. The family friendly event brings San Diegans together to enjoy the lights, the sounds, the attractions and of course, the amazing food.

How long is December Nights in Balboa Park?

December 2 – 3December Nights 2022: December 2 – 3, 2022 We are excited to see December Nights to back to its beloved original format this year where people can walk and mingle on El Prado and in the gardens, check out the booths and international houses, visit the museums and soak up the Holiday atmosphere.

Can you go to the beach in San Diego in December?

Yes, even in the winter you can still enjoy the magnificent San Diego beaches. Because the climate is ideal all year long, there's never a bad time to have a beach day. The Old Town Trolley Beach Tour is a great way to experience some of the city's most beautiful beaches.

Is San Diego good to visit in the winter?

Smaller crowds, more vivid sunsets, and temperate weather in the 60's and 70's make winter in San Diego one of the best times to visit the area. Although you're unlikely to see any snow, there are lots of seasonal activities and fun things to do in December and beyond.

Can I swim in San Diego in December?

It's important to remember that you can swim, surf, stand-up paddleboard, kayak, snorkel, and dive in the San Diego ocean year-round. During cooler months, though, you'll want to wear a full wetsuit, which you can rent at a variety of surf shops around town, even for kids.

What is San Diego like in the winter?

San Diego Winter Weather Average winter temperatures range from the mid-60s to 70s Fahrenheit in January and February, with over 10 hours of daylight. Though January is the wettest month of the year, that only means 6.7 average days of precipitation, decreasing by February.

Is Universal busy on Christmas Day?

To the surprise of many people, Universal Studios Hollywood is open to visitors on Christmas Day and is truly incredibly popular with locals and fa...

How do I spend a day in Coronado?

How to make Coronado in a dayHe leads. If you are driving, taking the bridge is great because you can enjoy great views of the city and the bay. .....

Is the San Diego Zoo open in December?

During the festival, the zoo remains open until 8 p.m. (except on Christmas Eve, when the park closes at 5 p.m.). The park is open on Christmas and...

Christmas San Diego 2022 - Guide to Holiday Events & Shopping - 619area.com

Christmas in San Diego, California 2022 is celebrated through family activities and Christmas weekend events. Christmas is not just about shopping for the holidays, but its also about doing things with friends & family.

Where are the Christmas lights in San Diego?

One of the most famous is in the South Bay neighborhood of Chula Vista , known as "Christmas Circle.".

What is the average temperature in San Diego in December?

The average high during December is 66 degrees Fahrenheit, warm enough to sit outside for holiday parades, ice skate on the beach, or take part in an outdoor seasonal festival.

What is the holiday bowl parade?

Dubbed "America's Largest Balloon Parade," more than 30 giant balloons will float down the one-mile route along the Embarcadero, along with bands, drill teams, and more. Free streetside viewing is available along the parade route, but grandstand seats are also available for purchase if you want a guaranteed comfortable spot.

When is the Nutcracker at the San Diego Civic Theater?

"The Nutcracker" has enchanted children and adults alike for generations, and the California Ballet Company will be presenting their rendition at the San Diego Civic Theater from December 14–24, 2019. The visionary choreography is accompanied by the illustrious San Diego Symphony, and even young children will appreciate the magic of this holiday classic. After matinee and early evening shows, they can even get pictures with Clara, the Nutcracker, and the Sugar Plum Fairy as a memorable keepsake.

What is shopping over the holidays?

Shopping over the holidays is often more than just buying gifts. For many, it's a way to hook up with friends and family, making the shopping trip more of a social outing. During the holiday season, most malls and shopping centers also treat shoppers to carolers, light displays, and towering Christmas trees. A trip to the mall can really be a full holiday experience.

When is the SDCCU parade?

Due to the game being scheduled later this year, the holiday parade takes place after Christmas, on December 26, 2019, starting at 3 p.m. 08 of 11.

When is the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights?

It's so big that one parade isn't enough and it repeats on back-to-back weekends, December 8 and December 15, 2019.

Who wrote a guide to a Holly Jolly Christmas in San Diego?

A Guide to a Holly Jolly Christmas in San Diego was written and edited by Hedge Metreyeon. For more San Diego Explorer posts, check out our homepage. For more of their articles visit here. Follow them on social media here.

How long is the San Diego Parade of Lights?

Head down and watch the San Diego Parade of Lights go by along the Bay. The event lasts about 1-1.5 hours and is a great holiday event for the whole family.

When is the San Diego Parade of Lights 2021?

This is a great San Diego Holidays tradition. Head down and watch the San Diego Parade of Lights go by along the Bay. The event lasts about 1-1.5 hours and is a great holiday event for the whole family. This year’s dates are Sunday, December 12, 2021 and December 19, 2021. The route goes as follows:

What to eat on December 5th?

You can eat loads of chili and sip on wine and craft beer while you listen to music and window shop all day on December 5th.

Can you take pictures of Santa in San Diego?

This year, there are some special precautions and you can take pictures of a mural of Surfin Santa instead. Get your pictures with Santa as he brings a San Diego Christmas.

Is the Bay Parade of Lights cancelled?

Update: Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the 2020 Bay Parade of Lights has been canceled . However, if you don’t want to miss out, you can go to Newport Beach for their Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Book your tickets here>> And if you want to experience it from the water, you can even do a Holiday Lights Cruise!

Is Christmas in San Diego magical?

The holidays can be a magical time and if you play your cards right, you can create loads of memories for your Christmas in San Diego. I like to think that it’s never about where you are but about the memories you create there so why not make the season especially memorable.

What to say to San Diego residents for Christmas?

Wishing you happy holidays and a very Merry Christmas in San Diego!

When is Taste of December Nights in Balboa Park?

Foodies can make their way to Taste of December Nights in Balboa Park on Friday, December 3 through Sunday, December 5 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. to enjoy some tasty treats. The three-day event will feature food and entertainment in a festive drive-through setting.

Where is the Mother Goose Parade?

The annual holiday kick-off celebration happens on November 21 in El Cajon, located in San Diego County, The event features floats, marching bands, equestrian units, special characters, performing artists, celebrities, giant helium balloons and, of course, Santa Claus. North of San Diego, you can also catch the wonderful La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival, taking place on December 5.

Is Christmas in San Diego?

Even though you won’t find snow falling in this sunny city, there are many fun ways to celebrate Christmas in San Diego. From San Diego Christmas lights to family-friendly holiday events, here are 15 fun things to do that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

What are some fun things to do at Christmas?

Besides Santa crashing in on a surfboard or jetski, there are other Christmas activities to enjoy, such as children’s crafts as well as live street performers and a holiday parade.

What is the holiday bowl?

The Holiday Bowl is a very fun San Diego Christmas event for kids and adults alke — if you can get tickets!

Where are the Jungle Bells?

Fondly known as “Jungle Bells”, this lighted display event takes place at the San Diego Zoo and offers festivities, lighting shows, and more!

Is Christmas complete without seeing the Nutcracker?

No Christmas is complete without seeing The Nutcracker live.

Can kids wave at Santa?

Your kids can wave at Santa during the parade and they will be wowed by the overall pageantry of the day.

Is San Diego a good place to visit?

San Diego is a beautiful location to visit at any time of the year — and San Diego at Christmas is extra wonderful!

Is Christmas in San Diego summer?

Christmas in San Diego offers you summer and winter vibes all in one! You might enjoy some traditional California beach activities and then head to a tree lighting, or visit a holiday light festival.

CHRISTMAS IN SAN DIEGO BY NEIGHBORHOODS

San Diego is known as “America’s Finest City,” and is known to be a fun vacation place. Therefore, it makes sense that there are a lot of fun Christmas activities to do in San Diego.

CHRISTMAS IN DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO

Cost: Ranges from $27-$97 Location: Copley Symphony Hall buy tickets here

CHRISTMAS IN SEAPORT VILLAGE

This is considered to be one of the ten best Santa sightings, according to USA today. Join the classic San Diego styled Santa. All decked out in boardshorts and his favorite Hawaiian shirt. Guests can take pictures with Santa and his surfboard.

CHRISTMAS IN LITTLE ITALY, SAN DIEGO

Head to Little Italy to see the unique 25-foot tower of 1,100 Poinsettias be lit up like a Christmas tree at 6:30pm. Little Italy will turn into a small Christmas village. There will be festive vendors, food, music, Christmas treats, and even a visit from Santa.

CHRISTMAS IN MISSION VALLEY

This is a day full of fun handmade crafts. Enjoy visiting booths from all the local artists and designers. Purchase some handmade gifts as Christmas presents. Find the pop-up Etsy shop located in front of Nordstrom’s Rack.

CHRISTMAS IN OLD TOWN

Old Town Las Posadas will be all decked out for this Christmas in San Diego. There will be entertainment and holiday experiences for everyone! Old Town will also have its traditional Las Posadas procession. End the night by enjoying some s’ mores by the campfire in the Plaza.

CHRISTMAS IN OCEAN BEACH

This quaint surf village known as Ocean Beach has hosted a holiday parade for 40+ years now. Enjoy listening to The Point Loma Marching band or watching the SD roller derby ladies skate on by.

Where is the New Years Eve party in San Diego?

The Del New Year’s Eve Gala - New Years Eve San Diego party at The Del, Hotel del Coronado. Ring in 2022 at a San Diego New Years party, and expensive but delightful evening. Champagne reception in the magnificent Crown Room, followed by a lavish dinner and dancing in the oceanfront Ballroom. Ages 21 and older only.

When is the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights 2021?

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights - Sunday December 12 and 19 2021 from 5 PM. The parade of decorated boats starts at southwest end of Shelter Island, and travels past Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Coronado Ferry Landing Marketplace before ending at the navy carrier turning basin. www.sdparadeoflights.org .

When is Disneyland Christmas 2021?

Disneyland Christmas - November 12 2021 - January 9 2022. Disneyland Christmas holiday time at the happiest place on earth. Take your loved ones on a Disneyland Christmas holiday vacation. Disneyland Christmas

Where is the Grinch Stole Christmas 2021?

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! - Nov. TBD to Dec TBD 2021 at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego Balboa Park. Christmas activities wouldn't be the same without the Grinch. Shows at various times, and some shows may be adults only. Get your San Diego Grinch Tickets at www.theoldglobe.org

What are the activities at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront?

At the Hilton San Diego Bayfront experience unlimited sledding, musical light shows, and meetings with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Holiday by the Bay. For an additional fee enjoy extra holiday activities : cookie decorating, electronic reindeer rides, stocking decorating, and bumper cars! While visiting the event enhance your evening with dinner or dessert – I highly recommend the funnel cake!

Where is the parade of lights in San Diego?

More than 100 private boats decorated with holiday lights sail through the waters of San Diego Bay in the Parade of Lights. Great places to view this event are at the Coronado Ferry Landing, Seaport Village, and the Embarcadero on both December 19 and 21, 2021 beginning at 5:30pm.

How tall is the Lego Santa tree?

The tree is 30 feet tall and has 400 LEGO ornaments.

What to do with kids at a campfire?

Kids will love roasting marshmallows, drinking hot chocolate alongside the campfire, and making holiday crafts. Weather permitting, snow will fall!

When is Christmas on the farm 2021?

On November 26-28, 2021 from 9-4pm you can do your holiday shopping at the annual “Christmas on the Farm” Arts, Crafts & Vintage Market. All sorts of homemade goodies from artisans will be available for purchase. There will also be pony rides, face painting, barbeque food, and music.

Where to skate in San Diego?

Other beautiful places to skate outdoors in San Diego include Fantasy on Ice, located at Liberty Station. This is ice-skating in an urban environment with the added bonus of proceeds benefiting Rady Children’s Hospital. *This event has been cancelled for 2020.

When is Santa's breakfast at Neiman Marcus?

A special breakfast with Santa at Neiman Marcus is held on two Saturdays in December and sells out quickly. Parents and kids love the chance to have more conversations with Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as yummy breakfast foods and special photos taken. Call the store directly for schedule and booking.

What to wear in San Diego?

San Diego residents are causal dressers, wearing shorts, T-shirts and yoga pants any time they can. For a meal in a fancy restaurant, men can get by with nice jeans and a collared shirt. For women, casual dresses are perfect. Stuff a pair of tights in your day bag to layer beneath it in case it gets chilly, and bring some jewelry to dress it up. If you want to enjoy the nightlife in the Gaslamp, however, bring those party dresses, fancy shoes, and whatever else you might wear for a night out on the town.

When is whale watching season in San Diego?

San Diego whale watching season runs from December through March. Use the San Diego whale watching guide to learn more about California whale-watching and San Diego excursions. If you're looking for something else to do in December like a fun concert or theatrical performance, try these resources:

What is the San Diego Reader?

The San Diego Reader keeps a big list of groups performing at local live music venues.

Is Sea World open on Christmas Day?

Some attractions may be closed on Christmas Day, although the major theme parks, including Sea World, Legoland, and the San Diego Zoo are open. Check with places you want to go to find out their hours during the holidays.

Can you count on averages in San Diego?

Averages can help you plan, but don't count on conditions during your trip being "average." Check the San Diego weather forecast before you leave home.

Does Santa Claus wear a Hawaiian shirt?

If you visit San Diego in December, you won't find ice or snow unless someone made them artificially. Santa Claus is more likely to be wearing board shorts and a Hawaiian shirt than a fur-trimmed red velvet outfit. And you might see people surfing on Christmas Day.

Do you need flip flops for San Diego?

Some people say to pack your flip-flops for San Diego. That's a good idea if you want to walk on a sandy beach, but if you follow that advice for your only footwear in December, you could end up with cold feet or wet toes. If you want to spot migrating whales from the land, don't forget your binoculars.

Where are the Christmas lights in San Diego?

One of the most famous is in the South Bay neighborhood of Chula Vista , known as "Christmas Circle.".

What is the average temperature in San Diego in December?

The average high during December is 66 degrees Fahrenheit, warm enough to sit outside for holiday parades, ice skate on the beach, or take part in an outdoor seasonal festival.

What is the holiday bowl parade?

Dubbed "America's Largest Balloon Parade," more than 30 giant balloons will float down the one-mile route along the Embarcadero, along with bands, drill teams, and more. Free streetside viewing is available along the parade route, but grandstand seats are also available for purchase if you want a guaranteed comfortable spot.

When is the Nutcracker at the San Diego Civic Theater?

"The Nutcracker" has enchanted children and adults alike for generations, and the California Ballet Company will be presenting their rendition at the San Diego Civic Theater from December 14–24, 2019. The visionary choreography is accompanied by the illustrious San Diego Symphony, and even young children will appreciate the magic of this holiday classic. After matinee and early evening shows, they can even get pictures with Clara, the Nutcracker, and the Sugar Plum Fairy as a memorable keepsake.

What is shopping over the holidays?

Shopping over the holidays is often more than just buying gifts. For many, it's a way to hook up with friends and family, making the shopping trip more of a social outing. During the holiday season, most malls and shopping centers also treat shoppers to carolers, light displays, and towering Christmas trees. A trip to the mall can really be a full holiday experience.

When is the SDCCU parade?

Due to the game being scheduled later this year, the holiday parade takes place after Christmas, on December 26, 2019, starting at 3 p.m. 08 of 11.

When is the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights?

It's so big that one parade isn't enough and it repeats on back-to-back weekends, December 8 and December 15, 2019.