Christmas Events in San Diego

Now that Christmas weekend is upon us and families are flying in from all over the world to spend some quality time together, you may be wondering what you’re going to do with your own group of visitors. Thankfully, there will be plenty to do in San Diego this weekend so go ahead and take your pick from some of the best options!

Dec. 12 -13

Spa Aquazul

Looking for the perfect day to spend with your mom? Offered today and tomorrow only, Spa Aquazul, at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, will be getting into the holiday spirit by offering $50 spa treatments to anyone with a donation for Toys for Tots. For more information, check out the spa’s site or call 619-321-4290.

Dec. 17 – 23

California Ballet’s The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker is a time-honored Christmas tradition and many people have cherished memories of seeing it for the first time as a child. Relive those memories and make new ones by snatching some tickets to the last performances at the Civic Center. With the San Diego Symphony supplying the sweeping overtures, The Nutcracker is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a cherished San Diego tradition with your loved ones. Make sure to stick around for the Sugar Plum Party in the Theatre Grand Salon after the show, where there will be a plethora of cookies and treats, a vast array of nutcracker souvenirs, and a chance to meet members of the cast. For more information on ticket prices and show times, visit the Civic Center’s site.

Nov. 24 – Jan. 1

Holiday of Lights

The Holiday of Lights at Del Mar is sure to impress any fan of Christmas light shows. As the largest animated drive-through show on the coast, Holiday of Lights features over 400 twinkling themed displays that are set-up around the racetrack. For more information on the prices per car, check out the Holiday of Lights website!

Dec. 11 – Jan. 2

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo

As if you needed another excuse to visit the San Diego Zoo, the park has been expertly transformed into a wondrous winter paradise. With a nightly tree-lighting ceremony, bell ringers, lighted animal sculptures everywhere, and holiday themed animal presentations, the Zoo is the perfect place to take the family once the sun sets. Check out the site for a list of all the features the Zoo is offering this holiday season!

Dec. 25

Christmas Day Concert at Sprekels Organ Pavilion

Balboa Park is always a great place to go during the holidays and will be even more special on Christmas day. Enjoy the fantastic Spreckels organ for free as it plays its regular Sunday concert, only this week it falls on a very special day. San Diego Civic organist Dr. Carol Williams will begin the show at 2 p.m. sharp, so make sure to arrive early to grab a seat!

You can also build up some good karma for the new year by bringing some donations for St Vincent de Paul Villages, who will be accepting your charitable donations between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

For more information, visit the website!

Dec. 25

Christmas Day Buffet Dinner Cruise

Instead of slaving over a full-course meal, take your family to the San Diego Bay to experience a lavish holiday buffet while aboard a gorgeous yacht. With the San Diego lights in the background and delicious food in front of them, your family will be talking about this Christmas for years to come. Santa will also be showing up to delight the children, all while snapping shots for your photo albums.  Check out Hornblower Cruises and Events for more information on how to reserve your seats!