Winter in San Diego: Top Events and Activities in December
San Diego in December offers a magical mix of festive holiday activities, making it an ideal winter destination. From ice skating by the ocean to festive parades, holiday performances, and themed food tours, the city transforms into a SoCal winter wonderland. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in San Diego in December, whether you’re a local or just visiting.
December Nights at Balboa Park
December 6-7
One of San Diego’s most beloved holiday traditions, December Nights at Balboa Park, returns on December 6-7, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM. This free event transforms the park into a dazzling holiday wonderland with international foods and live performances. Balboa Park December Nights visitors can also enjoy holiday crafts, carnival rides, and visit select museums free of charge.
Ice Skating at Coronado
December 1-31
Glide by the Pacific Ocean at the Skating by the Sea event at the Hotel del Coronado, running all December long until January 1, 2025. The San Diego Bay beachfront rink is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering a one-of-a-kind experience where you can skate with a view of the ocean. Book a Frostbite Lounge by the rink or ocean for a unique experience with plush seating, fire pits, and refreshments. And, enjoy ice rink views at Sun Deck, Babcock & Story Bar, and Serẽa.
Rink hours:
Dec 2 – Dec 17
Mon-Thu: 4pm – 10pm*
Fri: 12pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
*Dec 6: Rink opens at 6pm.
Dec 18 – Jan 5
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Holiday Tea Times at Westgate Hotel and Fairmont Grand Del Mar
December 2024*
Westgate Hotel Holiday Tea Events
Indulge in elegance this December in downtown San Diego at Westgate Hotel’s Santa’s Story Time Tea and Winter Wonderland Tea events. At both events, you can enjoy house-made pastries, savory tea sandwiches, gourmet teas, jolly cocktails, and a host of treats with a merry twist! Check the Westgate’s website starting Nov. 1, 2024 for details and to book a reservation.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar’s Holiday Afternoon Tea
Get ready for a delightful holiday experience at the Fairmont Grand’s Holiday Tea in the Lobby Lounge. This festive event will be filled with cheer and deliciousness. Picture yourself enjoying your favorite holiday scones, sandwiches, and sweet treats in a beautiful setting. It’s the perfect place to soak up the holiday spirit with your friends and family. From the yummy sights to the tasty flavors, you won’t want to miss out on this special afternoon tea!
Every Saturday and Sunday in December
Weekdays December 23 and December 24
12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
$125 per adult, $65 per child (ages 6-12)
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade
Ocean Beach Mainstreet Association
December 7
Kick off the season with the quirky and beloved Ocean Beach Holiday Parade on December 7, 2024, at sunset. Known for its local charm and eclectic floats, this community-driven event takes over Newport Avenue with participants dressed in holiday attire and creative floats. It’s a free, family-friendly celebration with a laid-back, beach-town vibe.
Santa Run in Pacific Beach
December 14
Get your holiday workout in at the Santa Run in Pacific Beach on December 14, 2024, starting at 9:00 AM. This festive 5K invites participants to don Santa suits and festive costumes while running along the beach. Post-race, enjoy live entertainment and holiday-themed activities, making this a great event for both runners and spectators.
Party with Santa at Belmont Park
Miracle at Draft
December 1-31
Get ready for the return of Draft’s Christmas-themed cocktail pop-up in Mission Beach! All December, this festive venue will be decked out in extravagant holiday decorations and offer collectible mugs. Sip on unique, seasonal cocktails crafted exclusively for the event, all while enjoying the cheerful atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to toast to the season with friends in a holiday wonderland.
Almost Nakey SantaCon
December 14
This year’s Almost Nakey SantaCon on December 14, 2024, transforms Belmont Park in Mission Bay into a winter wonderland for adults 21+ like never before. From 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM, enjoy an all-day festival with access to all park rides, including favorites like the Giant Dipper Coaster and Sky Ropes. With four themed stages, live entertainment, and holiday décor, this event promises a unique experience. Don’t miss the sunset over the ocean before the Christmas tree lighting!
Holiday-Themed Bars and Restaurants
December 2024
San Diego’s nightlife takes on a festive twist in December with several holiday-themed bars and restaurants creating a cozy atmosphere:
Queenstown Public House (Little Italy) – A charming spot, beautifully decorated for the holiday season with warm drinks to match, making it an ideal destination for a San Diego Christmas or Christmas Eve celebration.
Polite Provisions – Located in Normal Heights, this trendy bar becomes a winter wonderland with themed cocktails like spiked hot chocolate. It’s a favorite of every San Diegan and a must-visit during Southern California’s festive time.
Top of the Hyatt – This upscale lounge offers breathtaking views of the city and bay, along with holiday-inspired cocktails, making it perfect for a festive night out. Enjoy the stunning holiday lights display and take part in a holiday festival while sipping seasonal drinks.
San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus Holiday Performance
December 14-15
Celebrate the holidays with the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus at their annual holiday performance, JINGLE: The Holiday Big Band Spectacular, on December 14 and 15th at the Balboa Theatre. The show includes a mix of holiday classics and contemporary songs, with performances starting at 7:30 PM on Saturday and 3:00 PM on Sunday. This festive musical performance is one of the top December events in San Diego for music lovers and families alike.
Holiday Shows at The Rady Shell and San Diego Symphony
December 2024
Night of Christmas
Presented by Awaken Church, Night of Christmas is a celebration of the season featuring classic carols, live fireworks, a symphony orchestra, holiday cheer, aerialists, captivating storytelling, and many more festive surprises.
San Diego Symphony Holiday Shows
For those trying to get in the spirit of the season, San Diego Symphony will host a series of holiday-themed concerts throughout December. Highlights include the Symphony’s sing-along concert Noel Noel (December 13-15), NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet! (December 26), and Elf in Concert (December 21-22).
The Nutcracker Ballet
December 13-24
For a classic holiday experience, catch The Nutcracker ballet, performed by the California Ballet Company and the San Diego Symphony at the San Diego Civic Theatre. The enchanting story of Clara and her magical Nutcracker prince will be performed from December 13-24, 2024, featuring beautiful choreography, stunning costumes, and the iconic score by Tchaikovsky. This is a beloved holiday tradition for families and ballet enthusiasts alike.
Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village
December 7
Little Italy’s annual Tree Lighting and Christmas Village returns on December 7th from 4 pm to 8 pm. The neighborhood will be transformed into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, nutcrackers, and Christmas trees. Enjoy live music, entertainment, vendors, and a traditional Italian tree-lighting ceremony. Santa Claus will also be present to grant Christmas wishes.
The festivities start at 4:00pm, with the Tree Lighting Ceremony taking place in the Piazza della Famiglia at 6:30pm.
Take a Festive Food Tour with So Diego
Looking for unique things to do in San Diego in December? Consider a Daily Tour with So Diego. These tours offer a mix of history, culture, and food, perfect for exploring the city during the holidays. A few of our favorites:
- Tequila, Tacos, and Tombstones: Discover Old Town San Diego’s history while sampling delicious tacos and tequila.
- Brothels, Bites, and Booze: A Gaslamp Quarter tour highlighting local history with culinary stops.
- Vino! Vino! Little Italy Wine Stroll: Sip and savor wine tastings while enjoying the festive charm of Little Italy.
These tours provide an immersive and delicious way to explore San Diego’s neighborhoods and cuisine, making them ideal during the festive season. Whether you’re visiting for the Holiday Bowl, planning your San Diego Christmas or Christmas Eve celebrations, or looking for something special to do on New Year’s Eve, these tours are a great option. Plus, they’re a perfect complement to other festive activities like enjoying the city’s holiday lights displays. Explore San Diego County in a fun and flavorful way this December!
San Diego shines in December, offering a wide array of festive activities, events, and experiences. From holiday concerts and parades to ice skating by the ocean and themed food tours, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for fun things to do in San Diego in December, exploring San Diego tours, or searching for the top December events San Diego has to offer, this coastal city is the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season. Enjoy the magic of Christmas Day in America’s Finest City, where winter wonder meets the beach.
Written by: Melissa
Melissa hails from San Jose, CA, and has been a San Diego local for five years now after a 10-year long pit stop in Los Angeles. In L.A., she began her writing career crafting digital content for a wide range of clients, including The Real Talk Show, Sharon Osbourne, Hank Azaria, Time Life, and Cardinal Financial. She’s excited to be able to use her passion for writing to introduce people to some of the best spots in San Diego, many of which she has already frequented or has on her ever-expanding list of things to do … In her spare time, she enjoys taking her puppy Milo to all of the best dog beaches in SD, grabbing a glass of wine or a cup of joe at new places, and hosting watch parties for The Bachelor/ette TV show.
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