The holiday season is upon us, with so many fun events to kick off this joyous time. We have put together a great list of Santa sightings, ice skating, and holiday events right here in San Diego that the entire family will enjoy.
Tag us in your instagram pics @SanDiegoMomsBlog #SDMomsBlog – Email [email protected] to add an event we missed.
Sips and Sweets with Santa
Saturday, December 7th at Green Flash Brewery
9am-12pm
The San Diego Moms Blog is hosting its 4th annual Sips & Sweets with Santa on Saturday, December 7th from 9am-12pm at Green Flash Brewery. Get ready to start your holiday season with laughter, joy, and the holiday spirit.
Early Bird Tickets (before 12/1 at midnight) $25 Ticket $30 After 12/1
(One ticket per family – please RSVP for total family members)
BUY TICKETS HERE
Your family ticket will include access to a great lineup of fun family activities, entertainment and of course a digital family photo with Santa. The first 50 families to register receive a VIP Swag Bag.
We will have a great lineup of refreshments, discounted Green Flash Brewing Co. 25% off, light bites, desserts and raffle prizes!
Photos with Santa
General Photos with Santa Info
It’s Santa photo time at Fashion Valley Mall. CLICK HERE to reserve a time for your Santa Photos.
Caring Santa Events – Sunday, December 1st and December 8th.
Located at 7007 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92108 | (619) 297-3381
Visit SANTA at SEAPORT VILLAGE Beginning Saturday, November 16th -through- Christmas Eve: December 24th, 2019 !!! CLICK HERE for available times and more info.
Parade of Lights on Dec 8th and 15th – 5PM to 8:00PM
Presented by the Port of San Diego, the Parade of Lights returns for its 48th consecutive year, and Seaport Village is an ideal spot for onlookers to enjoy the views. Dozens of boats will cruise by with dazzling light displays, following this year’s theme — “Comic-Con on the Bay.” Locals and visitors will have two chances to catch the parade.
Live holiday entertainment December 1-31st. CLICK HERE for schedule.
Located at 849 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 | 619-530-0704
General Photos with Santa Info
It’s Santa photo time at Carslbad Premium Outlets. CLICK HERE to reserve a time for your Santa Photos.
Caring Santa Event – Sunday, December 8th.
Located at 5620 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA.
Westfield Mission Valley
1640 Camino Del Rio North San Diego CA 92108-1506 | 619.296.6375
Don’t miss your chance to take a photo with Santa November 22 – December 24. Reserve your spot ahead of time and skip the line by making a reservation here.
Santa is located in the Holiday Village near Papaya inside Westfield Mission Valley.
Westfield Plaza Bonita
3030 Plaza Bonita Road, Suite 2075 National City CA 91950 | 619.267.2850
Don’t miss your chance to take a photo with Santa November 15 through December 24 at Westfield Plaza Bonita. Reserve your spot ahead of time to skip the line by making a reservation here.
Located on Level 1 near JCPenney.
Westfield North County
272 East Via Rancho Parkway Escondido CA 92025 | 760.489.0631
The holiday season is a little extra magical when you get to visit with Santa! Santa will be available for family photos in Center Court, Level 1, during most mall operating hours.
Skip the line and reserve your Fast Pass here!
Located on Level 1 Center Court
Westfield UTC
4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite E-25 San Diego CA 92122-1212 | 858.546.8858
Don’t miss your chance to take a photo with Santa November 15 though December 24. Reserve your spot ahead of time to skip the line by making a reservation here.
Santa is located in the gilded ornament tree near Pottery Barn.
*Santa often takes a break to feed his reindeer between 3:30 pm-4:00 pm.
Santa Events at Westfield Malls
Operation Santa Salute
Sunday, December 8th, 11:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Operation Santa Salute is a day of appreciation for active Military and Veteran Families. On this day, all active Military and Veteran families are invited to visit Santa during regular Santa hours (at locations linked above) to receive one free photo package* (with valid Government issued Military/Veteran ID card, one photo package per family only). Click the links below for more info on each event.
Westfield UTC | Westfield Mission Valley
Westfield Plaza Bonita | Westfield North County
*Complimentary Photo Package C consists of (1) 5×7, (2) 4×6, (1) 3×5, and (2) wallet size photo prints. Valid with valid Government issued Military/Veteran ID card; one photo package per family only.
Cocoa with Santa at Westfield North County
Saturday, December 14th, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Join Santa and friends for an exclusive morning of family friendly festive cheer in North County’s brand new holiday lounge! Event festivities include: fun filled pancake breakfast- feel free to come in your holiday jammies! Pick your favorite toppings at our hot cocoa and coffee bar, get some exclusive time and a photo with Santa, stories and holiday cheer with your favorite ice princess and more and holiday crafts, treats, games and music from some of North County’s most merry retailers. Buy tickets HERE.
All proceeds benefit CA Center for the Arts.
Winter Nights at Westfield UTC
Saturday, December 7th and 14th, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Celebrate this holiday season at Westfield UTC as it transforms into a winter wonderland with glistening lights and classic carols, offering a collection of activities from seasonal performances, amazing headlining acts in partnership with STAR 94.1, photos with Santa, holiday sips and savory treats, along with winter-themed crafts and fun activities for the entire family.
CLICK HERE for more info.
Santa Paws at Westfield Mission Valley
Sunday, December 1st, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Bring your furry friends to snap a photo with Santa Claus for a Santa Paws celebration at Westfield Mission Valley. Stop in with your fur baby for photos with Santa, free giveaways, dog treats, a mobile adoption pop-up with the San Diego Humane Society, and a chance to win a $150 gift card to Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar!
CLICK HERE for more info.
Winter Wonder at Belmont Park
December 1st – January 5th
Discover the Spirit of the Holiday Season at Belmont Park’s First Annual Beachside Winter Wonder
The 94-year-old beachside park will offer a day-and-night experience, featuring holiday toy drive, 10 to 15-foot-tall holiday-themed sculptures, a free Santa photo op, other winter-themed activities and entertainment; plus, Illuminated Winter Nights when the sun goes down. On weekends in December, families can also capture lasting holiday memories with free photos with Santa every weekend starting Sunday, Dec. 1 through Sunday, Dec. 22 from 4 to 8pm. Other winter-themed happenings include live music with carolers Friday 6 to 9pm, plus Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 5pm, Dec. 1 through Dec. 29. CLICK HERE for more info.
Located at 3146 Mission Blvd., San Diego, CA 92109.
Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo
December 13–23 and December 25–January 5
With later hours are filled with musical performances, entertainers, and animal encounters. New this year is Aurora, an exciting visual and sound experience that weaves 3-D projections, music, and light into a spectacular performance. ‘Tis the Season to celebrate—join the San Diego Zoo for holiday cheer! Event is free with admission.
CLICK HERE for more info. Photo credit – https://www.sandiego.org/
Located at 2920 Zoo Drive in Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92112 | (619) 231-1515
SeaWorld San Diego Christmas Celebration
Now through January 5th
Celebrate Christmas daily at SeaWorld San Diego! Holiday music fills the air, a sea of over one million lights sparkle, transforming SeaWorld into a marvelous holiday event. Enjoy live shows like the all-new Winter Wonderland on Ice and Cirque Christmas. Plus, meet festive friends at Rudolph’s Christmastown and the new Sesame Street® Christmas Village. Savor holiday flavors of hot cocoa and warm desserts as you shop for unique gifts and decorations.
CLICK HERE for more info. Event is included with park admission.
Located at Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 | 619-226-3901
The Family Christmas Tree Farm
Now – December 23rd
There are traditions that should go on forever…
For over forty years people from all around San Diego have made us a part of their holidays. Opening the day after Thanksgiving, homes, churches, theaters and schools become filled with the fragrance of the Northwest with our beautiful pre-cut Noble, Douglas, Grand, Fraser and Nordmann firs, along with potted Spruce, Cedar, Cypress and Rosemary.
Located at 300 Pepper Dr. El Cajon, CA 92021 | (619) 448-5331
NATALE – Journey to the North Pole
Now through January 6th
The must-see show to kick-off the holiday season, NATALE – Journey to the North Pole, is coming to San Diego for an inspiring, Big Top-style extravaganza that will bring family fun and good cheer to Southern California. The circus-style show and Christmas-themed village debuts at the South Promenade at Liberty Station for 23 performances, Nov. 14 through Dec. 1.
Created by Spain’s vaulted La Fiesta Escénica (LFE) and making its U.S. debut in partnership with La Fiesta Shows, NATALE features a nostalgic holiday experience with top acrobatic performers and dancing animatronic polar bears, as well as, an array of unique and inspiring surprises guaranteed to elevate San Diego’s holiday spirit. With prices starting at only $29. The NATALE – Polar Family Adventure is also available (4-Pack including Holiday Village Attractions & Parking) at only $85 for weekdays and $99 for weekends.
Annual Seas ‘n’ Greetings at The Birch Aquarium
December 1st – 31st
The magic of the holidays meets the magic of the underwater world at Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego during Seas ‘n’ Greetings, a month-long holiday celebration featuring SEAsonal activities for the whole family.
From December 1 to 31, Birch Aquarium is transformed into a holiday wonderland. Deck the Hall of Fishes and get into the holiday spirit every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and check the schedule for special appearances by Scuba Santa as well as themed animal encounters, a scavenger hunt, and fun photo opportunities. All holiday activities are included in admission, which is $19.50 for adults, $15 for children ages 3 to 17. Children 2 and under are free.
Located at 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037 | (858) 534 3474
Viejas Casino & Resort – Open now through January 26th
Viejas is your destination to celebrate the sights and sounds of the holidays open now through January 26th. We deck our halls (and grounds) with holiday lights, entertainment, and a seasonal water show. Visit Viejas Casino & Resort and enjoy Southern California’s largest outdoor ice rink throughout the season! 5003 Willows Road Alpine, CA 91901 | 619.659.2070
Rady Children’s Ice Rink At Liberty Station – Open now – January 5th
Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary presents another holiday season of outdoor ice skating with support from SENTRE Inc., NBC 7 San Diego, ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station, and many friends of Rady Children’s. The rink is open daily from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., 7 days a week throughout the holiday season, November 2019 – January 2020 (closed only on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day).
Skating by the Sea at Hotel Del Coronado – Open Now through January 5th
Skating by the Sea® returns to The Del, this spectacular beachfront ice rink features stunning views of the Pacific and benefits Make-A-Wish San Diego. Now you can reserve your own rink side lounge at Frostbite – A Place to Chill. Where guests will enjoy skating passes and plush 4 or 6 person seating around a roaring fire pit with full food and beverage service. Choose from your favorite holiday-themed libations or snacks as you enjoy watching the beachfront ice skating.
December 1st – 7th
Holiday by the Bay – Hilton Bay Front
Full lineup of events and activities now through December 22nd! CLICK HERE to see their activity guide. Come experience their oversized Christmas Tree displayed on our Bayfront pier nightly throughout the holiday season and movies by the bay every Friday & Saturday, enjoy a holiday themed family friendly night!
Balboa Park December Nights – December 6-7th
The countdown has begun for the City of San Diego’s 42nd annual free holiday festival. December Nights will kick off the holiday season this Dec. 6 and 7, 2019, and feature light displays; inspirational choirs, bands and dancers; amazing food and fun-filled attractions. Stay tuned for more updates!
Coronado Holiday Parade & Open House – December 6th
Santa arrives via the Ferry at the Coronado Ferry Landing. A parade follows Santa down Orange Avenue and he lights the Christmas Tree in Rotary Plaza during the Coronado Holiday Parade & Open House.
Alpine Village Christmas Parade and Snow Festival – December 6th
Festivities begin at 6pm. The Parade steps off at 6:30pm at the corner of Alpine Blvd & W. Victoria Dr and ends at Tavern Road. There will be a visit from Santa and lots of snow! Enjoy various vendors, food, music and fun for the entire family!
“The Nutcracker” – Dec. 6-Dec. 22nd
Voted San Diego’s Best Nutcracker production by the “Tommy Awards”, this elaborate and elegant production, with exquisite costumes and scenery, will take you on Clara’s magical journey from her fun filled family Christmas party where toy soldiers and mice become life sized, to the enchanted Snow Forest and on to the Land of Sweets where she is welcomed by the Sugar Plum Fairy, her Cavalier and magical performances from dancers throughout the world. www.cityballet.org
Little Italy’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony – December 7th
Families, friends and neighbors are invited to kick-off the holiday season with festive fun in San Diego’s Little Italy at the 21st Annual Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village on Saturday, December 7th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Chula Vista Starlight Parade – December 7th
The 2019 Starlight Parade and Children’s Faire will be a day of free fun! The faire, which takes place in Memorial Park from 2 – 5 p.m. includes pictures with Santa, a real-snow hill, make and takes, games and prizes and more! The parade kicks-off at 5 p.m. along the Western side of Third Avenue and travels north from H Street to E Street.
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade – December 7th
For over 30 years, our quaint little surfing village of Ocean Beach has hosted one of the best Holiday Parades in SoCal. On the first Saturday in December, Newport Avenue is lined with colorful OBceans and visitors all eagerly awaiting the big event to commence at 5:05pm.
Winter Wonderland Festival – December 7th
Every year, the Center brings the North Pole to the heart of Escondido. Children will have the chance to frolic in real snow, create winter-themed arts and crafts, and even rendezvous with live reindeer! The highlight for kids is, of course, Santa Claus himself, but there will also be a number of holiday-themed entertainers—from carolers, to stilt walkers, to storybook princesses—for all ages to enjoy. Sample fare from local food trucks while you enjoy our taste of the North Pole.
North Park Toyland Parade – December 8th
The North Park Toyland Parade has been revitalized by the North Park Main Street Business Improvement District with the help of the North Park Lions Club and local business owners. The parade is held along University Avenue between Utah and Iowa Street, rain or shine. The event is free and appropriate for all ages.
La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival – December 8th
‘What’s Up In Space?’ NASA Astronaut Special Appearance R. Shane Kimbrough Commander Int’l Space Station Expedition 49/50 Chief Vehicle Integration Test Office Photos with Santa, Athenaeum Porch.
Santa by the Sea & Tree Lighting, Del Mar – December 8th
Bring the whole family to see Santa in Del Mar Village! This is a free holiday event that begins at 3PM with the annual tree lighting at 5PM. Free pictures with Santa, live music by the Original Dickens Carolers, holiday treats and drinks, letters to Santa workshop, and much more!
Port of San Diego Bay Parade of Lights – December 8th & 15th
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a time-honored holiday tradition brought to San Diego by the boating community. Continuing its long-standing San Diego tradition, the 48th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights promises to dazzle and entertain bayfront crowds during the evenings of December 8 and 15, 2019. Participants in this year’s highly anticipated holiday boat parade will decorate their boats to fit this year’s theme, which will be Comic-Con on the Bay.
Holiday Events December 8th – 26th
San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, Roots: Spain – December 14th, 2pm-4pm
Celebrate Spain at San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum with a special community event for the whole family. Enjoy traditional dance performance, an interactive storytelling adventure, Spanish cuisine, and a special take-home craft. This event is free with Museum admission.
La Mesa’s Holiday in the Village – December 13-14th
The La Mesa Village Association’s Holiday in the Village returns to downtown La Mesa December 13th from 4 – 9 pm & 14th from 10 am – 9 pm, 2019! This FREE, family friendly event will feature a wonderland of festive holiday music and dance, food, children’s activities, shopping and more! Stay tuned for more details as we get closer.
Breakfast with Santa – Saturday, December 14th
The morning includes a full breakfast, picture with Santa, face painting, balloon artists, and kids show. Santa is checking his list and hoping to see you there! Cost is $25 per person (this includes children). Breakfasts start at 9:00 am and go until 10:30 am. For tickets and more info please contact the Harbor House | 619-232-1141 or for more info CLICK HERE.
Poway’s Christmas in the Park – December 14th
The City of Poway invites you to join us on Saturday, December 14 from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m., for an old-fashioned holiday tradition. This free event will take you back in time with caroling, live music, horse-drawn hay rides, and so much more. Purchase tasty holiday treats, finish your Christmas shopping at the craft boutique, or board the Poway Midland Railroad for a night-time ride around the park. Children of all ages will enjoy the free crafts, model trains and of course a visit with Santa.
Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights – December 15th
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a time-honored holiday tradition brought to San Diego by the boating community. Continuing its long-standing San Diego tradition, the 48th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights promises to dazzle and entertain bayfront crowds during the evenings of December 8 and 15, 2019. Participants in this year’s highly anticipated holiday boat parade will decorate their boats to fit this year’s theme, which will be Comic-Con on the Bay.
The Vet + Pet West Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade – December 15th
Deck those paws with bells so jolly and jingle all the way through the Gaslamp Quarter for the 12th Annual Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade. Pet owners and their furry, feathered, and scaled companions are invited to don their favorite costumes for this jolly promenade and Holiday Pet Market on Sunday, December 15, 2019, at MLK Promenade Park, adjacent to the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter (401 K Street, San Diego, CA 92101). Entry to participate in the Pet Parade is just $15 per pet in advance, and $20 on the day of the event. FREE for Spectators!
Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade – December 26th
The scenic, bayside streets of downtown San Diego will come alive with the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade presented by Hilton! As always, this exciting family event brings together world-class marching bands, magnificent floats, entertaining drill teams, and a procession of enormous balloons – more than any other parade! Over 100,000 street-side spectators will enjoy the parade along with a nationwide television audience. Street side viewing of the parade is FREE!
Parade festivities will begin in the television area with the National Funding 5K Run/Walk.
For street closures, times and answers to common questions, see the Parade FAQ’s page.
For those who want an alternative to staying up until midnight with their kids, head to Green Flash Brewery for a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration at NOON!
Join the San Diego Moms Blog on December 31, 2019 10am-1pm at Green Flash Brewery for entertainment, games, crafts, a dessert bar, face-painting, giveaways and a celebratory countdown at 12pm – complete with a balloon drop and dance party! We couldn’t be more excited to celebrate the “Noon” Year with you.
Guests also receive 25% off Green Flash Beer – so sit back enjoy a beer, while your kids have the time of their lives.
Tickets Prices: Early Bird General Admission Family Ticket $10 (through 12/20 at midnight) $15 After, Early Bird VIP Family Ticket with Swag bag $20 (through 12/20 at midnight) $25 after (only 25 available)
