December Nights returns to San Diego

Christmas Tree Lighting ceremonies have become more common than, well, just about anything when it comes to Christmas.

In fact, December Nights in Balboa Park draws arguably the largest amount of attendants to the park with an expected amount of 350,000 people. And while it’s not solely a tree lighting event, it offers plenty of other activities for participants.

December Nights truly breaks out all the stops, with sparkling light displays, multi-cultural dance and music performances, bell-ringers, and more. And best of all? You guessed it—food from all over the park. Perhaps most notably, the museum opens its doors from five to nine in the evening for free admission during the weekend, too.

Indeed, all of these festivities lend to the fact that is has been going strong in the city for almost 40 years.

But that’s not the only Christmas-themed event in San Diego, which shouldn’t go unrecognized by even the more recluse San Diegans.

While it’s far out of the way from the downtown nightlife, Del Mar Highlands will be putting on a laser show featuring Santa Claus. This free event will feature photos with Santa along with short story readings, theater, and dance performances from local schools in the area. It takes place from 5:00 to 7:30 pm and it features a Toys for Tots campaign for the Marine Corps.

However, we know that the flashy show of lights and futuristic allure won’t sway everyone. Sometimes, looking at a looming tree made out of legos will do the trick.

On December 3, Carlsbad will be showing off its 30 foot Christmas tree after flipping the switch on its festive holiday lighting, which will take place at 5 pm. Perhaps the best part of this event is that it will be at the famous Legoland —making it the quintessential getaway for families.

From Balboa Park to Carlsbad, San Diego loves its Christmas tree lighting ceremonies.

And honestly, who can really blame them?