National City Other Christmas Activities 2026

The 56th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights returns for two magical evenings on December 13 and December 20, 2026. Over 100,000 spectators gather to witness approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats illuminate San Diego Bay. This iconic event, themed...

Balboa Park December Nights returns for 2026, transforming San Diego's cultural heart into a festive wonderland. This beloved, free holiday festival invites everyone to celebrate with dazzling lights, captivating sounds, and a vibrant atmosphere. Discover unique entertainment, shop for gifts,...

Embark on Old Town Trolley's Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour for a unique San Diego holiday experience. Join elf conductors for caroling, fun facts, and festive sights across Old Town and beyond. It's a perfect way to embrace the...

Lace up your running shoes and don your Santa suit for the 14th Annual San Diego Santa Run! This highly acclaimed event, voted the 'Best Fun Run in the US,' transforms Pacific Beach into a festive spectacle with thousands of...

Get into the holiday spirit at El Cajon's annual Winter Wonderland celebration at Wells Park. This festive event offers a morning filled with family-friendly activities, including a special breakfast with Santa, a charming movie in the park, and delightful train...

Lace up for the 14th Annual San Diego Holiday Half Marathon & 5K on December 19, 2026. This popular winter race features a fast, point-to-point half marathon course with a significant 714-foot net elevation drop, making it a prime candidate...

Join the Coronado community for their cherished Annual Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony. This festive event marks the official start of the holiday season, bringing residents and visitors together for a joyous celebration.

Lace up for the Ohana Holiday Run, a festive event in San Diego that brings the community together for a good cause. Choose from a 5K run/walk or a 1K Kid's Fun Run, with options to include a toy donation...

Lace up for the 34th annual Red Nose Run, a festive 3K and 5K fun run and walk on the sands of Del Mar beach. This volunteer-organized event welcomes families, walkers, and even leashed dogs. All proceeds benefit Semper Fi...

The 62nd Annual Starlight Parade and Festival in Chula Vista promises a magical holiday celebration. This beloved South Bay tradition will illuminate Third Avenue with dazzling floats and joyful participants, offering activities for all ages. It's a perfect way to...

Get ready for the annual OB Holiday Parade, a cherished community event that kicks off the festive season. This vibrant parade lights up Newport Avenue with creative floats, participants, and holiday cheer, bringing the spirit of the holidays to the...

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosts a community Christmas celebration open to all.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints holds its annual OL Ward Christmas Party, a free community event for holiday celebration.

The Tierrasanta Auxiliary Unit hosts 'Breakfast with Santa,' featuring a holiday breakfast, photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, children's crafts, and surprises. Proceeds benefit Rady Children's Hospital.

Elf Themed Trivia 2026 tests knowledge of the movie 'Elf' at SD TapRoom. Costumes are encouraged.

Del Mar Village invites everyone to celebrate the season with a magical lineup of holiday events. Experience enchanting festive lights throughout downtown, enjoy complimentary parking on select dates, and discover unique gifts during Small Business Saturday. Savor seasonal flavors at...

Experience a magical holiday tradition at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, where the grounds come alive with sparkling lights, festive décor, and cheerful holiday music. Families can enjoy cookie decorating, crafts, a playful snowball area, face painting, train rides, and...

All aboard the North Pole Limited for a magical holiday journey! This enchanting 90-minute train adventure departs from the festive Campo Depot. Enjoy holiday sing-alongs, stories, hot chocolate, and cookies with a jolly elf crew. Keep an eye out for...

Get ready for the annual Encinitas Holiday Parade! This beloved community event brings festive cheer to the coast. Watch as decorated floats and local groups parade down South Coast Highway 101, filling the street with holiday spirit. It's a wonderful...

Create a truly unique holiday keepsake by blowing your own glass ornament. Participants select colors, apply them to molten glass, and shape their one-of-a-kind creation with expert guidance. This immersive experience offers a close encounter with the hot shop environment,...

The San Diego Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland for Jungle Bells, offering a magical holiday experience. Guests can enjoy extended evening hours until 8 p.m., featuring dazzling light displays, live entertainment, and festive activities. Meet Santa Claus at Santa's...

Experience the magic of the Oceanside Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights, a cherished annual tradition. This spectacular event features creatively decorated boats illuminating Mission Bay with dazzling light displays. Kick off the holiday season with SeaWorld's fireworks and...

Get ready for a unique holiday celebration as Surfin' Santa makes a splash at Seaport Village! This special event features Santa trading his sleigh for a surfboard to spread cheer in true Southern California style. Families can witness his grand...

Experience San Diego's biggest holiday party with the 46th Annual Holiday Bowl! This signature event includes a spectacular parade with giant balloons and marching bands, a lively tailgate party, and a thrilling football game. Enjoy free family fun at the...

Discover the magic of the Filipino Christmas at the 28th Annual Parol Lantern Festival. This vibrant event celebrates the iconic parol lantern, a symbol of hope and pride. Attendees can immerse themselves in cultural performances, browse unique vendor offerings, and...

Get ready for a tail-wagging good time at the Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade & Pups in the Pub Party! This festive event invites pets of all kinds to don their holiday best for a lively parade through the historic Gaslamp...

Discover the charm of a Small Town Holiday event, a festive celebration designed to bring the community together. This event promises a delightful experience with seasonal activities and a heartwarming atmosphere. Details about specific attractions and entertainment are expected soon,...

Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Christmas by the Sea Pow Wow 2025. This cultural celebration brings together diverse Native American tribes for a weekend of dancing, singing, and community. Experience the energy of the Gourd Dance, witness...

Experience the magic of Christmas at this FREE community event! Visit Santa's petting zoo, enjoy carols and entertainment, and witness a live Nativity scene. Kids can build gingerbread houses, play on the playground, and join a reindeer scavenger hunt. Don't...

Experience a one-of-a-kind family Christmas event at Sesame Place San Diego. The park transforms into a festive wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights, dazzling decorations, and thrilling rides. Enjoy special Christmas shows, a vibrant cavalcade with festive floats, and dance...

Join the City of Santee for their annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony at Santee Trolley Square. This festive event kicks off the holiday season with live music, exciting sledding opportunities, and memorable photos with Santa. Don't miss the magical tree lighting...

Experience the magic of 'North Pole By The Sea' in Del Mar Village! This festive event features real snow for kids to play in, carolers spreading holiday cheer, and opportunities to write letters to Santa. Cap off the day with...

Join the festive fun at Christmas Comes To Imperial Beach! This exciting event features Santa, a super slide, carnival games, and a variety of activities. Browse unique items from local vendors and enjoy delicious food and drinks. Live music will...

Liberty Station invites visitors to embrace the holiday spirit at their annual Salute the Season celebration, highlighted by the magical Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony. This cherished tradition marks the beginning of their festive holiday offerings, creating a memorable experience for...

Lace up your skates for a magical outdoor ice skating experience at the Rady Children's Ice Rink in San Diego's ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station. This festive event offers public skating sessions daily, with special hours on major holidays. All proceeds...

Experience the warmth and light of Hanukkah at Liberty Station's public menorah lighting. This magical, family-friendly celebration features entertainment, special treats, and the ceremonial lighting of the menorah. The illuminated menorah will remain on display each night of Hanukkah, adding...

Awaken Church invites San Diego to its 6th Annual Night of Christmas, a spectacular holiday celebration at The Rady Shell. This magical evening features classic carols, a breathtaking fireworks display, a full string orchestra, mesmerizing aerialists, and heartwarming stories. It's...

The historic La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla invites guests to celebrate the holiday season with a variety of festive events. From the annual tree lighting ceremony to elegant holiday teas and special Christmas and New Year's Eve dining experiences,...

Join the Holiday Open House & Tree Lighting for a festive celebration to kick off the holiday season. This event promises a warm and inviting atmosphere, culminating in a magical tree lighting ceremony that will illuminate the spirit of the...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the San Marcos Tree Lighting Ceremony. This cherished community event marks the official start of the festive period, bringing residents together to celebrate. Details about specific activities and timings will be announced...