Your 2023 guide to holiday events in San Diego County: tree lightings, festivals, parades and more

Holiday festivities are getting into swing in communities across San Diego County. Here’s a guide to parades, light shows, Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, community holiday shows and festivals to celebrate the season. Check the venue’s website for updates.

ALPINE

Parade of Lights: Alpine’s “Parade of Lights” starts at 6 p.m. Dec. 1 at Alpine Boulevard and West Victoria and will be on the main stretch of Alpine Boulevard. The parade is hosted by the Alpine Chamber of Commerce.

Christmas With the Animals: Nonprofit big cat and bear sanctuary Lions Tigers & Bears invites the public to a special event from 2:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9 at the sanctuary, 24402 Martin Way, where animals will be opening treat-filled presents and discovering Christmas trees in their habitats. Feeding is from 3 to 4 p.m. There will be a Festival of Lights gift shop. Donation for admission is $50 or $20 for children age 12 and under; $30/$15 for members. Visit lionstigersandbears.org/wishlist.

Holiday Home Tour: The Alpine Woman’s Club hosts its 16th annual Holiday Home Tour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 9 starting at 2156 Alpine Blvd. and including six decorated homes. Tickets are $35 at alpinewomansclub.org/events/holiday-home-tour; also available at The Postal Annex, 2710 Alpine Blvd., For the Love Boutique, 2530 Alpine Blvd, or Alpine Garden & Gifts, 2442 Alpine Blvd. Tickets will be $40 at the door. Online tickets are exchanged for an admission ticket and tour map on event day at the Alpine Woman’s Club Historic Town Hall, 2156 Alpine Blvd. Browse the Holiday Marketplace and enjoy light refreshments. Proceeds benefit the Alpine Woman’s Club Scholarship, Preservation and Education Foundation.

BONSALL

Winter Wonders tour: Wild Wonders hosts a Winter Wonders and Holiday Lights tour of its Bonsall wild animal refuge, which will showcase its nocturnal animals. Visitors meet several animal ambassadors while strolling the 5-acre facility decorated for the season. Tours are at 4:30 p.m. Fridays to Sundays, Dec. 15 through Dec. 31, excluding Dec. 24 and 25. Cost is $39 for ages 12 and up and $20 for children ages 5-11. Visit wildwonders.org/winter-wonders-and-holiday-lights/.

CARDIFF

Kringle Mingle: The 16th annual Kringle Mingle is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3 with live music, children’s crafts and holiday treats, hot coffee and hot chocolate hosted by Cardiff 101 Main Street and vendor booths for holiday shopping until 5 p.m. in downtown Cardiff along South Coast Highway 101. Santa and his vintage Camera Camper sleigh will be ready for photos from noon to 3 p.m. Admission is free. Visit cardiff101.com/events.

“Christmas Joy! A Choral Celebration:” A Christmas concert, with more than 80 singers featuring International Chorus Champions Masters of Harmony and the award-winning Pacific Coast Harmony chorus of La Jolla, performs at 3 p.m. Dec. 2 at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 3459 Manchester Ave. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. Free parking. Tickets are $25 plus $2 fee at stsconstantinehelen.ludus.com.

CARLSBAD

Christmas Tree Lighting: The Rotary Club of Carlsbad’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Dec. 3 in the south parking lot of Carlsbad Village Faire shopping center, 300 Carlsbad Village Drive. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at 2:15 p.m. in an antique fire engine, followed by Mayor Keith Blackburn. Highlights include free photos with Santa, and entertainment by Renaissance Institute of Music Orchestra, Carlsbad High School Band and Lancer Dancers and XCalibur dance teams. There will be free cookies, cider and coffee along with storytelling and crafts. Visit carlsbadrotary.com.

Holiday at Carrillo Ranch: Holiday at the Rancho is from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 2 at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, 6200 Flying L.C. Lane. The event features a tree lighting at 5:45 p.m., train rides, games, visit from Santa, a plush snowball arena, crafts, face painting, cookie decorating, holiday shopping, photos and holiday movie “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas” on the outdoor screen at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10; free for ages 3 and younger. Food and beverages will be sold. Additional parking at Carrillo Elementary School, 2875 Poinsettia Lane. Visit https://www.carlsbadca.gov/departments/parks-recreation/programs-and-events/special-events/holiday-at-the-rancho.

Hanukkah celebration: Chabad La Costa hosts a lighting of the menorah from 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 12 at The Forum Carlsbad, 1923 Calle Barcelona. Visit theforumcarlsbad.com.

Christmas concert: A 90-minute program of Christmas favorites is at 2 p.m. Dec. 10 at Pilgrim United Church of Christ, 2020 Chestnut Ave. The concert includes a guest performance by the “Behind the Barn” Quartet. Suggested donation, $10. Visit musicmenchorus.org.

The Living Nativity: Christ Presbyterian Church hosts a free interactive walk-through Christmas story from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 10 at 7807 Centella St., featuring Mary and Joseph on the way to Bethlehem, baby Jesus in a manger, the innkeeper, shepherds and angels in the field, wise men and Emperor Augustus. Also, a lighting of the Christmas tree and other festivities is from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 3 and a Sounds of Christmas concert is 9 and 10:45 a.m. Dec. 17. Visit christ-pres.church.

Tree Lighting Celebration: Festive activities from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 1 include a live music, holiday characters and visit from Santa along with lighting of the Christmas tree and a light show and snowfall at The Forum Carlsbad, 1923 Calle Barcelona. Visit theforumcarlsbad.com.

A surfer enjoys the waves and a Christmas tree at Cardiff State Beach

Free visits with Santa: On Saturdays and Sundays, from Dec. 2 through Dec. 23, families can visit with Santa in the Garden Area of The Forum at Carlsbad from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and meet holiday characters on Saturdays and strolling carolers on Sundays. Visit theforumcarlsbad.com.

Holidays at Legoland: Live entertainment, twinkling lights, holiday treats and some snowfall Nov. 18 through Jan. 7 at Legoland California, One Legoland Drive. Nightly tree lightings at the park’s 30-foot Lego tree decked with lights and Lego ornaments. Photos can be taken with life-size Lego models of Santa and his reindeer in Fun Town or costumed characters such as Lego Santa, toy soldier and gingerbread man. The annual Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party is Dec. 31. Activities inside the park are included with regular park admission. Visit legoland.com or call (760) 918-LEGO (5346).

12 Trees of Christmas: Ladies night out with Christmas music, dinner, games and the raffling of 12 themed Christmas trees valued between $100 and $800 starting at 6 p.m. Dec. 4 at Las Flores Church, 1400 Las Flores Drive. Doors open at 5:30. Tickets are $15, including dinner, dessert and five raffle tickets. Checks, cash and Venmo accepted. Open to ages 12 and older. Proceeds go to local charity to help young women in need who are pregnant during this Christmas season. Registration is required at lasfloreschurch.com.

CARMEL VALLEY

Tree Lighting at One Paseo: Lighting of a 30-foot Christmas tree begins at 5 p.m. Nov. 25 at One Paseo, 3725 Paseo Place. The center will be shimmering with firefly lights in the trees and festive decor. The evening will feature live music performances, snow cascading from the rooftops, Santa, special guests and photo ops. The Moonlight Cinema features a holiday showing of “The Grinch” from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 9 on The Lawn. A Menorah Lighting Ceremony for Hanukkah is from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 12. Meet Santa Claus from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 17 and enjoy hot cocoa and holiday treats. Visit onepaseo.com.

Holiday Festival: The free event with holiday crafts, magic show and visit with Santa is from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 2 at Piazza Carmel shopping center, 3810-3890 Valley Centre Drive.

CHULA VISTA

Starlight Parade and Festival: The holiday fest returns from 3 to 8 p.m. Dec. 3 in Memorial Park and Park Way, with parade, holiday market, children’s holiday train ride, tree lighting, live entertainment and photos with Santa. The lighting of a 25-foot tree takes place at 5:45 p.m. on the plaza at the northwest corner of Memorial Park, 373 Park Way. The parade starts at 6 p.m. on Third Avenue and goes from E Street to H Street, featuring marching bands, decorated floats, automobiles and dance teams, among other entries. Free admission. Visit starlightparade.com.

Light show with music: Village Walk at EastLake hosts a new holiday event featuring a light show with choreographed music and dancing lights The show is at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 1 and continues at the same times every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through Dec. 24. Children receive free Magic Glasses to view the light show in assorted colors. The Discovery Charter School Choir will perform at 5:30 p.m. and between the two light shows at the Dec. 1 premiere. Other community caroling groups will sing holiday favorite songs to entertain visitors between the 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. light shows in December. Visit https://shopvillagewalk.com.

Family Holiday Festival: Village Walk at Eastlake, at Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive, holds free events in December, including the Family Holiday Festival from noon to 3 p.m. Dec. 2. Santa will come on the Holiday Express and visit with children. There will be free train rides and holiday entertainment, photos, free holiday crafts for children ages 12 and younger and holiday activity books from Santa’s elf. Visit shopvillagewalk.com/special-events/#santa.

Santa coming on Holiday Express: Santa arrives on the holiday train 1 p.m. Dec. 9 at Eastlake Village Marketplace on the corner of Eastlake Parkway and Otay Lakes Road. Highlights include free train rides, face painting, children’s holiday craft, balloon sculptures and photos with Santa. Musical entertainment is from 1 to 4 p.m. featuring Southwestern College Jazz Vocal Ensemble, The Music Machine and Sound Unlimited from Bonita Vista High School, Serenity Sisters and Eastlake High School Titan Concert Choir, Titanium & Spotlight Show Choir. Visit ShopEastLakeMarketplace.com.

Christmas tree lighting: A grand Santa arrival and the lighting of a Christmas tree with more than 17,000 lights will be among the highlights of an evening of holiday activities, music, entertainment, roaming carolers, merchants and unique gift stands and a “magical snowfall” from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 21 at the Tree Lighting and Holiday Farmer’s Market at Otay Ranch Town Center. Santa will arrive on Main Street at 7 p.m. Free holiday crafts for kids. Free cookies and hot chocolate (while supplies last). Snowfall at Santa’s House after tree lighting. Visit otayranchtowncenter.com.

A Very Furry Christmas: Holiday “Sesame Street”-themed shows, attractions and entertainments on select dates Nov. 10 to Jan. 7 at the Sesame Place San Diego theme park, 2052 Entertainment Circle. Highlights include Elmo’s Christmas Wish show, Cookie Claus, Furry Friends Christmas Dance Party and The Sesame Street Christmas Parade. Visit sesameplacesandiego.com.

Ten days of caroling: Terra Nova Plaza invites the public to a free holiday fest from 6 to 7 p.m. Dec. 7-16 at 394 E. H St. The festival will feature caroling by various community groups. Free hot chocolate or cider. Visit terranovaplaza.com.

CORONADO

Coronado Holiday Parade: Holiday cheer with lighting of 85-foot tree, local business open house and parade featuring local organizations, clubs and businesses with lights and costumes from the Ferry Landing, down Orange Avenue, to the Hotel del Coronado from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 1 along with live music and holiday sing-alongs. Visit coronado.ca.us.

“All That Jazz” at the Del: The Hotel del Coronado features “All That Jazz” Lightshow Spectacular,” a free 11-minute light show every 30 minutes from 5 to 9 p.m. nightly Nov. 17 through Jan. 7, with 1920s jazz soundtrack and light show in a grove of towering Norfolk Island Pines on the Founders Lawn. There will be “Skating by the Sea” at the beachfront ice rink, heated beachside igloos decorated with twinkling lights, cozy seating and seasonal decor. The hotel’s historic lobby will showcase a huge Christmas tree with 10,000 amber lights and nearly 2,000 ornaments. Visit hoteldel.com/events/at-first-light-lightshow-spectacular.

DEL MAR

Del Mar Village Winter Taste & Sip: Stroll decorated streets from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 3 and enjoy culinary creations by Del Mar Village restaurants along with sips at “Sip Stops” in downtown Del Mar businesses. live music, and other holiday happenings as part of the North Pole by the Sea day of family-friendly festivities. Visit visitdelmarvillage.com/winter-taste-and-sip

North Pole by the Sea: Family-friendly festivities from noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 3 throughout the Del Mar Village, including photos with Santa and letters to Santa at Del Mar Plaza, holiday characters, carolers, live music, hot chocolate and drinks for adults from 4 to 6 p.m. at L’Auberge Del Mar Amphitheater, Camino Del Mar and 15th Street. The Del Mar Village Winter Taste & Sip is from 1 to 4 p.m., and the annual holiday tree lighting at 5 p.m. in the Jim Watkins Amphitheater at L’Auberge Del Mar. Visit visitdelmarvillage.com/north-pole-by-the-sea.

Coastal Christmas Del Mar: The Del Mar Fairgrounds hosts a Coastal Holiday Festival with holiday lights attractions Dec. 14-17; Dec. 22-26 and Dec. 29-31 at 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Highlights include a walk-through display of more than 1 million lights, holiday skating, holiday market, Frosty’s Fun Zone and Santa and Friends. Igloos and fireside lounges can be reserved for cozying with some hot cocoa. Free photo ops with Santa, S’mores kits, festive food, and drinks will be sold. Tickets to the walk-through Winter Wonderland path are $19.99 for adults and $14.95 for children ages 4-12. Admission is free for 3 and under at cbfproductions.ticketspice.com/coastal-christmas-del-mar.

EL CAJON

Winter Wonderland: El Cajon hosts a free “Winter Wonderland” event from 2 to 6 p.m. Dec. 9 at Wells Park, 1153 E. Madison Ave. The movie “Rise of the Guardians” will be shown and there will be free photos with Santa, snow, rides and games.

Holiday event: Visits with Santa are free at this holiday event noon to 3 p.m. Dec. 10 with a craft area for kids to make a holiday keepsake at El Cajon Town & Country, 400 North Second St.

ENCINITAS

Holiday Street Fair: The 39th Annual Encinitas Holiday Street Fair is from 9 a.m to 4 p.m. Nov. 19 with 450 vendors, plus a beer garden, three stages and kids’ rides. Coast Highway 101 will be closed from D Street to J Street, from 3 a.m. to 5 p.m. The beer garden will be open from noon to 5 p.m. Several bands will rock the Beer Garden Stage, The Lumberyard Courtyard Stage and The Hansen’s Community Stage. Parking is at Moonlight Beach, City Hall and side streets. Electra Bike sponsors a free bike valet service at each end of the festival at D Street and J Street. Visit encinitas101.com.

Encinitas Holiday Parade: Encinitas’ annual holiday parade — themed “Traditions of Encinitas” — is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2. It will feature floats, marching bands and decorated cars along Coast Highway from D to J streets. The event kicks off with a tree lighting and brief appearance from Santa at 5 p.m. in The Lumberyard shops courtyard, between H and I streets, followed by the parade at 5:30 p.m. Free parade shuttles will run from 4 to 8:30 p.m. from the San Dieguito Academy High School parking lot at Melba Road and Nardo Road and the YMCA/Ecke Sports Park parking lot on Saxony Road to the North County Transit District bus station on Vulcan Avenue, a half-block from the parade route. ADA-accessible bus runs from San Dieguito Academy. Visit encinitasparksandrec.com.

Botanic Garden Lightscape: San Diego Botanic Garden hosts Lightscape from 5 to 10 p.m. select nights Nov. 17 through Jan. 1 (except Nov. 23 and Dec. 24-25). It will feature a more than one-mile trail decorated with holiday lights that winds through the garden with lantern trees, tunnels and light attractions, along with installations from international artists that come alive at night with color and sound at 300 Quail Gardens Drive. Advance tickets are $26-$32 for adults, $16-$20 for children ages 3-12, and free for ages 2 and younger. Discounted tickets for garden members and military with ID. Parking is $10 paid online in advance or $20 on day of visit. Tickets are at sdbgarden.org/lightscape.

Christmas Concert: Chancel Choir, Bell Choirs and a brass quintet will be featured in a Christmas concert with music old and new at 3 p.m. Dec. 2 at San Dieguito United Methodist Church 170 Calle Magdalena. Free. Visit encinitaschurch.com.

A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Encinitas Guitar Orchestra, directed by Peter Pupping, will perform a musical program titled, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 925 Balour Drive. The program features mainly instrumental music with 30 guitarists, a bass guitarist and several guest artists, including MaryRuth Culver on piano, harp, and vocals, Katie Pupping on vocals, and drummer Kevin Koch from the band, Fattburger. Suggested donation is $20 at the door. Seating is first come, first served. Visit www.encinitasguitarorchestra.com

ESCONDIDO

Jaycees’ Christmas parade: The Jaycees’ Christmas parade returns this year starting 10 a.m. Dec. 9. The parade route will start near the post office on Escondido Boulevard and head south, then turn east on Grand Avenue to Juniper Street, north on Juniper to Valley Parkway, west on Valley Parkway to Broadway, north on Broadway, then west on Woodward Avenue. Visit https://www.facebook.com/EscondidoJaycees.

Winter Wonderland: The festival is from 1 to 5 p.m. Dec. 2-3 in the Lyric Courtyard of the California Center for the Arts, Escondido. Visitors can join winter-themed crafting activities led by artists, browse for gifts sold by local businesses, meet Santa and play in snow. This year’s entertainment features student holiday recitals. Admission is free. Visit artcenter.org.

Carols by Candlelight: The 34th annual event is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 8-9 at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido. It will feature Deana Carter, Charlie Worshamanna, Anna Vaus, Back to the Garden and Steve Vaus all singing their hits and favorite Christmas songs to benefit Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego. Tickets are $25-$99. Visit carolsbycandlelight.com.

Community in Unity: This is Escondido’s holiday season-opening event, set for 5:30 to 8 p.m. Dec. 7 under the City Hall Dome at Broadway and Valley Parkway. Enjoy food from local restaurants, wineries and local craft breweries. Musical groups representing Escondido communities will provide entertainment. Guests are encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys and pajamas. Pajamas of all sizes will benefit the children and teens of Solutions for Change; toys for boys and girls, ages 4 to 12, will benefit the Escondido Police Athletic League. Visit greaterescondido.org/community-in-unity/.

Safari Park features “Wild Holidays”: The San Diego Zoo Safari Park celebrates the “Wild Holidays” with an expedition of light and travel through places that twinkle with holiday cheer and seasonal culinary delights from 4 to 8 p.m. Nov. 24-26, Dec. 2-3, Dec. 9-10, Dec. 16-17, Dec. 18-23, Dec. 26-31 at the park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the event, with “Wild Holidays” festivities beginning at 4 p.m. Entertainment includes the “Light Up the Holidays” choreographed lighted tree show with holiday soundtracks, Holiday Troubadour, fanciful characters, Firefly Stilt Walkers and visits with Santa along with lighted archway Bridge of Lights, Forest of Color, Baja Gardens and Nairobi Lantern Walk. “Wild Holidays” activities are free with Safari Park admission or membership. Visit sdzsafaripark.org/wild-holidays.

Holiday Multicultural Festival: The USA Multicultural Holiday Festival follows the Dec. 9 Escondido Jaycees parade from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Grape Day Park, 321 N. Broadway. Free family event with entertainment, performers and vendors from different cultures. There will be a Santa’s Village with Mrs. Claus and the elves, too. A live decorated Christmas tree will be given away. Visit usamulticultural.org/holiday-festival.

Gorskaya-Hartwick Productions' presentation of World Ballet Series' "The Nutcracker"

Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker”: “The Nutcracker” will be performed Dec. 21-23 at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido. The Center Children’s Chorus will sing in the lobby of the Concert Hall before “The Nutcracker” from 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 23 and in the Snow Chorus of the ballet danced by the San Diego City Ballet with full orchestra. The Center Chorale will join the City Ballet Orchestra and dancers for “The Nutcracker” with a Carol Sing in the Concert Hall lobby before the ballet from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 23. Tickets are $99-$279 at cityballet.org/performances/the-nutcracker/.

Winter Wonderland: The Escondido High School Agriculture department is hosting the fourth annual Winter Wonderland with the Escondido High Ag Boosters and Future Farmers of America from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Escondido High School farm. The free community event includes holiday vendors, photos with Santa, story time with elves, crafts for kids, and a petting zoo. Food and drinks will be sold. Proceeds benefit the Escondido High Agriculture program. Bring canned foods for Interfaith Community Services.

FALLBROOK

Christmas parade: Fallbrook’s 42nd annual Christmas parade, themed “Small Town Christmas,” starts at 5 p.m. Dec. 2 on Main Street in downtown Fallbrook, hosted by the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce. The parade features Santa, lighted floats, music, marching bands and dancers along with classic cars. Visit fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org.

LA MESA

Holiday in the Village: The annual La Mesa Holiday in the Village will ring in holiday cheer from noon to 9 p.m. Dec. 2 on La Mesa Boulevard from Spring Street to Fourth Street in downtown La Mesa. The event offers free fun with live music, cozy fires, local craft vendors, food, holiday photo ops, including “Selfies With Santa,” and a kids’ area along with other entertainment and snack specialties. Visit lamesavillageassociation.org.

Light Up the Holidays: The Salvation Army hosts its red-kettle kickoff, “Light Up the Holidays,” from 4 to 6 p.m. Nov. 26 at Grossmont Center, 5500 Grossmont Center Drive. The free family event includes a tree lighting at 6 p.m., hot chocolate and coffee, Christmas music by The Salvation Army San Diego Brass Band and performances by San Diego Gymnastics and photos with Santa. Besides money donations, the Salvation Army is accepting new, unwrapped toys. Visit salarmy.us/lightuptheholidays.

LEMON GROVE

Holiday bonfire: Lemon Grove hosts its 25th annual free Community Bonfire from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 1 in Treganza Park, 3200 Main St. The bonfire will be ignited at 6 p.m., and a community aerial photo will be taken at 6:15 p.m. The Ugly Sweater Contest is at 7 p.m. Enjoy a game truck, bounce house, arts and crafts, rock climbing and live music. Free hot chocolate, popcorn and cookies. Food trucks will also be there. Visit lemongrove.ca.gov/

NATIONAL CITY

Port hosts South Bay holiday event: The Port of San Diego invites the community to its South Bay Holiday, a free, family-friendly event from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Aquatic Center in Pepper Park, 3299 Tidelands Ave. Enjoy holiday treats and refreshments, giveaways and activities, and have a photo taken with Santa. Shop for gifts created by local artisan craft vendors. Guests can also explore the Aquatic Center, a waterfront event space, and learn about the Port of San Diego. No RSVP required. Parking is free. Free shuttle. Visit portofsandiego.org.

Reindeer Dash, Kimball Holiday: The Reindeer Dash 1-Mile Walk/Run is from 9 to 10 a.m. Dec. 9 at Kimball Park, 148 E. 12th St. Free to participate. Check-in starts at 8:30 a.m. Space is limited; registration begins Nov. 13 at joinnatcity.com. After the race, come to the MLK Community Center for the quarterly Community Breakfast, free to the first 100 people. National City is also hosting its annual “A Kimball Holiday” at the park from 2 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 9 with DJ, LED dance floor, tree lighting, Santa’s Village and Who-Ville, kid’s train, arts and crafts, vendor and food court, car show, resource booths, and snow. Call (619) 336-4290 or email [email protected].

OCEANSIDE

Christmas Concert at mission: The San Luis Rey Chorale performs the 12th annual concert and singalong in the Historic Mission San Luis Rey Church at 7 p.m. Dec. 1 with a dessert reception in the Sacred Garden among twinkling lights and an encore performance at 2 p.m. Dec. 1. Tickets are $40-$60 for Dec. 2; $30 for Dec. 2 at sanluisrey.org starting Nov. 1.

Parachuting Santa Claus: St. Nick will make a parachute landing at noon Nov. 25 at Mission Marketplace, 471 College Blvd., for the free family-oriented Jingle Bell Jump event from noon to 3 p.m. The El Camino High School Band will welcome Santa as he parachutes from an airplane at noon and the band will lead Santa in a parade from the landing area in the parking lot to his Holiday Headquarters. Highlights include holiday crafts for kids, carnival games, balloon artists and cookie decorating, free churros and cotton candy. Visit missionmarketplaceoceanside.com.

Santa and tree lighting: Santa arrives by firetruck for the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and Gift Market at 6 p.m. Dec. 7 at Regal Cinema Plaza, 401 Mission Ave. Activities for kids are from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Highlights include holiday music, carolers, cookies and milk, jump houses, a bungee run, a children’s zip line and giant slides. From 5 to 9 p.m. Thursdays in December, the Sunset Market becomes the Holiday Gift Market downtown with 200 artisans and merchants, an international food court, live music and children’s activities at Pier View Way and Coast Highway. Visit mainstreetoceanside.com or sunsetmarket.com.

Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights: The annual Parade of Lights at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 in the Oceanside Harbor features boats of all shapes and sizes decorated for the holidays, with lights, ornaments and holiday trimmings. Many of the captains and boat crews dress up in their holiday best, with a few Santas joining in the festive parade. The best decorated powerboat, sailboat and small-craft boats will be awarded prizes. Call (760) 722-5751.

The 50th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

PINE VALLEY

Camp Christmas: Pine Valley Camp Christmas, a holiday festival for all ages, starts Nov. 17 and runs from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Friday through Sunday in November and Dec. 1-3, 8-10, 15-17 and 19-23 at 8668 Pine Creek Road. Festivities include the “Lights & Sounds of the Season” attraction featuring the trees of Pine Valley with thousands of lights and favorite Christmas songs, a colorful dancing water show, winter wonderland hayrides and train rides and “Sappy,” the Talking Christmas Tree. There will be a game room, bounce houses, a Nativity and a Holiday Theater featuring a presentation of “The Christmas Guest,” among other attractions. Visit PineValleyCampChristmas.com.

POWAY

Christmas in the Park: The annual old-fashioned holiday celebration from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 8 and 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 9 at Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Road, includes caroling, a craft boutique, holiday sweets and warm dinner foods, visits with Santa and horse-drawn hayrides. Night time rides are planned around The tree lighting ceremony, followed by Santa’s arrival by train, begins at 6:15 p.m. both days. Admission is free, with nominal fees for train rides and Santa visits. Free shuttles from 3 to 9 p.m. from two Poway City Hall parking lots, 13325 Civic Center Drive, and Poway Adult School parking lot, 13626 Twin Peaks Road. Visit poway.org.

Christmas at the Barn: The holiday shopping event is Nov. 2-5, Nov. 9-12, and Nov. 16-19 hosted by The Barn Redefined, known previously as Poway Countryside Barn at 14051 Midland Road. Also, the Christmas-themed festival “The 12 Days of Christmas” will feature holiday decorating ideas and 20 themed Christmas trees on display. Each year, Santa makes an appearance. Visitors can bring new toys for Anvil of Hope, a nonprofit helping families in need. Visit TheBarnRedefined.com.

RAMONA

Tree lighting: The 31st annual Christmas Tree Lighting is at 7 p.m. Dec. 2 outside the Guy B. Woodward Museum, 645 Main St., with activities from 5 to 9 p.m. Highlights include carolers, live music, dancers, dining and shopping, children’s crafts, classic cars and dancers, along with photos with Santa. Visit ramonachamber.com.

RANCHO SANTA FE

Breakfast in Bethlehem: The Village Church’s annual Breakfast in Bethlehem for families is at 9 a.m. Dec. 9, with the Christmas story read by Senior Pastor Jack Baca and several Bible character friends. Children can make ornaments and Christmas crafts, and there will be breakfast. For reservations, visit villagechurch.org or call (858) 756-2441.

SAN DIEGO

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: Beginning at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 10 and Dec. 17, the procession of decorated boats will be arriving off the shore of the San Diego Bay. This year’s theme is “Christmas Traditions Around the World.” The parade takes a little over an hour to pass any given point along the parade route, including Shelter Island (start of parade) at 5:30 p.m., Harbor Island at 6:15 p.m., The Embarcadero at 6:45 p.m., Seaport Village at 7:15 p.m., The Pier at Cesar Chavez Park at 7:30 p.m. and Ferry Landing on Coronado at 7:45 p.m. (Times are approximate). Visit sdparadeoflights.org.

Holiday Bowl and parade: The 44th annual San Diego Holiday Bowl kicks off 5 p.m. Dec. 27 at Petco Park with the 101.5 KGB Sky Show. The Holiday Bowl Parade, featuring floats, bands and huge inflatable characters, is Dec. 27 along downtown San Diego’s bayfront. The Holiday Bowl 5K Run/Walk at the Port of San Diego is slated to start 9:45 a.m. Dec. 27 taking off from the corner of Harbor Drive and Park Blvd. and finishing at Ruocco Park. Visit holidaybowl.com.

Snapdragon Bowl Bash: The Holiday Bowl puts on the second annual Snapdragon Bowl Bash from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 26 at 5th and Market St. in the Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego. Highlights include family entertainment, food, live music, street performers, games and giveaways along with food and drink specials. Visit holidaybowl.com/bowl-bash/snapdragon-bowl-bash.

December Nights at Balboa Park: Holiday festival from 3 to 11 p.m. Dec. 1 and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Dec. 2 at Balboa Park. The family-friendly event features holiday lights, sounds, entertainment and food. Visit sandiego.gov/december-nights.

Belmont Park’s Winter Wonder: The fifth annual event at the beachside amusement park runs Nov. 11 through Dec. 31 featuring festive rides and attractions, including the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, Tiki Wonderland Mini Golf and Candy Cane Lanes Go Karts. Highlights include hundreds of twinkling lights, carolers, oversized winter sculptures and seasonal characters throughout the park, 3146 Mission Blvd. A Clark Griswold-worthy Holiday Pop-Up Bar will debut this year Nov. 17 to Dec. 31. Tickets and passes are at belmontpark.com

Holiday market and tree lighting: The holiday event is from 3 to 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at Quartyard and 13th Street, hosted by the East Village Association, featuring a curated holiday market by San Diego Markets, live music, foods, activities for the kids along with photos with Santa Claus. The annual tree lighting to kick off the holidays will be 5:45 p.m. Visit eastvillagesandiego.com.

Christmas Marketplace: All Souls’ Episcopal Church in Point Loma holds its Christmas Marketplace and Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 2 at 1475 Catalina Blvd. The event is a fundraiser for neighbors in need. Highlights include choristers Christmas carols, St. Nicholas, All Souls’ Christmas Mouse (a long time tradition) and crafts, cookies and spiced tea along with gift shopping. The Taco Cart will sell tacos. Admission is free. Visit allsoulspointloma.org.

Community Las Posadas: At 4 p.m. Dec. 10, the children of Mission Hills United Methodist Church will lead the community in re-enacting the journey of Mary and Joseph as they searched for shelter in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. The short journey will be narrated in English and Spanish and the public is invited to join in the procession beginning at the church steps. Participants will walk through the neighborhood and stop at several locations to sing carols before returning to the church for piñatas, crafts and traditional Mexican refreshments. The Mission Hills United Methodist Church is at 4044 Lark St.

Kwanzaa Celebration: The WorldBeat Cultural Center will host the 43rd annual Kwanzaa Celebration – Umoja, Unity from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 26 and 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 27-29 at 2100 Park Blvd. Highlights include a ceremonial candle lighting, live drumming, poetry readings and a traditional feast (Karamu) along with guest speakers. Visit worldbeatcenter.org/event.

Liberty Station tree lighting: Ceremonial lighting of Liberty Station’s 88-foot Norfolk pine tree is at 5 p.m. Nov. 24 along with entertainment, festive firetruck rides, free photos with Santa, and outdoor holiday movie showings. Admission is free. Visit libertystation.com/events/salute-the-season/holiday-tree-lighting.

Jungle Bells at San Diego Zoo: The annual holiday event from Dec. 8 to Jan. 1 (except Dec. 24) at the San Diego Zoo, 2920 Zoo Drive, features a wonderland of twinkling lights, live entertainment, music and views of wildlife, along with a magic of Aurora immersive performance about the power of nature with 3D projection mapping, music and lights. Highlights featured at various times, include Reindeer Games, Jingle Brass concerts and Holiday Troubadour along with Northern Frontier’s Holiday Forest, Zoo characters, snow and a visit with Santa. There will be a beer garden, food and shopping for gifts. The zoo is open late from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. during this event; except Dec. 24. Free with zoo admission or membership; parking is free. Visit sandiegozoo.org/junglebells.

Christmas, Italian style: Little Italy hosts a Tree Lighting and Christmas Village from 4 to 8 p.m. Dec. 2 at Piazza della Famiglia, 523 W. Date St., with twinkle lights and 10-foot-tall nutcrackers decorating the neighborhood along with kinetic tree holiday displays on street corners. Enjoy seasonal vendors, live music, holiday treats and other entertainment, and an appearance by Santa Claus. A permanent 25-foot-tall live tree anchors the Piazza della Famiglia, where a traditional Italian tree lighting ceremony takes place at 6:30 p.m. You can find one-of-a-kind stocking stuffers and gifts the the Christmas Village on India Street, between West Cedar and West Grape streets. Visit littleitalysd.com/do/little-italy-tree-lighting-and-christmas-village

Ocean Beach parade: Ocean Beach holds its 44th annual holiday parade at 5 p.m. around sunset Dec. 2 along Newport Avenue with the theme, “Santa’s Disco Luau.” Visit obtowncouncil.org/holiday-parade.

La Jolla parade, festival: La Jolla holds a Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival with the theme “Christmas on the Sand” Dec. 3. The Holiday Festival opens at 11:30 a.m. at Girard and Wall streets, and the parade starts at 1:30 p.m. at Kline and Girard. The event closes at 4 p.m. Visit ljparade.com.

Street full of Santas: Pacific Beach holds its 11th annual San Diego Santa Run on Dec. 9. Starting line is 912 Garnet Ave. Entry fees are $25 for children’s 1-mile run (10:30 a.m.) and 1-mile dog run (11 a.m.) and $40 for 5K Santa Run (8:30 a.m.); fees are an additional $5 after Oct. 26, Nov. 30 and on Dec. 9. Holiday parade follows at noon. Register at sandiegorunningco.com/sdrc_events/san-diego-santa-run

Mission Bay Parade of Lights: The holiday boat parade takes off at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 9 at SeaWorld with a fireworks kickoff, then heads west, north and east, ending at The Mission Bay Beach Club. The parade will be set up near Mission Bay hotels and resorts, including Bahia Resort Hotel, Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, The Dana on Mission Bay, Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa, Marina and Paradise Point Resort. Free for spectators. Viewing areas will offer special festive food and beverage menus and family-friendly holiday festivities, such as bonfires and s’mores, live music, holiday games and Santa. Visit discovermissionbay.org.

Candy Cane Lane: The Arc of San Diego hosts its Candy Cane Lane Winter Wonderland Luncheon and fashion Show 10 a.m. Dec. 1 at the U.S. Grant Hotel. The event features boutique shopping, silent auction, luncheon and fashion show. Proceeds benefit children and adults with disabilities at The Arc of San Diego. Visit arc-sd.com.

Christmas Show: Point Loma Nazarene University Choir and Chorale put on their 22nd annual Christmas Show, aka Cider Celebration, from 6 and 8 p.m. Dec. 1-2 in the university’s Crill Auditorium. The program includes Christmas favorites such as “Joy to the World,” “Silent Night” and “Frosty the Snowman.” Hot cider served. Come early. Admission is $10. Visit plnu.universitytickets.com.

Holiday Celebration with magic: The free event with magic show, holiday crafts and visit with Santa is from noon to 3 p.m. Dec. 9 at University Square, 5801 University Ave.

Rabbi Yossi Tiefenbrun of Chabad Pacific Beach, lights a menorah.

Holiday Makers Fair: A Makers Arcade Holiday Fair is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 2-3 at Broadway Pier, sponsored by the Port of San Diego. The event features 135 local makers for seasonal shopping, gourmet food, live music, game area, cocktails and workshops. Admission is $7, which includes a free make & take holiday wreath. Visit makersarcade.com.

SantaCon at Mission Beach: The second annual SantaCon at Beach House from 1 to 10 p.m. Dec. 16, presented by Almost Nakey, will transform the beachfront boardwalk into the North Pole. The main stage will become Santa’s Village with LED walls and snow cannons. There will be 50-foot inflatable Santas, Grinches, and a ‘Whoville’ along with life-sized snow globes, Club Penguin Igloo Silent Disco, photos with Santa and another entertainment stage inside Belmont Park as well as a Sky Deck’s for VIP’s. Dress in your best Santa outfit for the costume contest. This is a 21-plus event. Tickets are $60; $149 for VIP, including rides at Belmont Park. A portion of ticket sales will benefit Toys for Tots. Each ticket includes full access to all the rides at Belmont Park. Visit https://www.santacon.info/San_Diego-CA.

Jingle Belle Cruise: One-hour family-friendly cruise Dec. 21-25 with carolers strolling throughout the ship, meet and greet and photos with Santa Claus, and interactive activities for the family, including cookie decorating, a balloon artist and face painter. There will be holiday treats and libations, including hot cocoa with toppings and an espresso coffee bar. Passengers can embark on the cruise at the Bahia Resort Hotel pier, 998 West Mission Bay Drive on Dec. 21 and Dec. 23 at 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. and at the Catamaran Resort Hotel pier, 3999 Mission Blvd. on Dec. 22 and 24 at 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. On Dec. 25, passengers can embark on the cruise at both the Bahia Resort and Catamaran Resort at various time throughout the day, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cost is $45 per person, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting Mama’s Kitchen. Visit www.bahiahotel.com/jingle-belle-cruise

Adams Avenue Spirit Stroll: The eighth annual event is from 2 to 5 p.m. Nov. 25. Highlights include holiday-themed cocktail tastes and sweet treats at 25 independently owned retail stops along Adams Avenue, from University Heights through Normal Heights and into Kensington. Stroll tickets are $35. Visit Adams Avenue Spirit Stroll Tickets.

Holiday Open House: Celebrate the holidays with La Jolla Music Society at a festive and free family event 4 p.m. Dec. 7 when the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd will be transformed into a winter wonderland. There will be cider or hot cocoa, storytime and kids crafts along with holiday shopping with local artisans at our holiday market. theconrad.org/events/2023-holiday-open-house/

Free celebration: The public is invited to the free Christmas Celebration at Mesa Town Center from noon to 3 p.m. Dec. 3 at 8955 Mira Mesa Blvd. The event features a free magic show, visit with Santa and children’s holiday craft activity.

North Park Winter Wonderland: North Park Main Street hosts a Winter Wonderland festival from noon to 8 p.m. Dec. 9 and noon to 6 p.m. Dec. 10 at North Park Mini Park. Highlights include ice skating, a light show, a photo booth and shopping, along with food, drinks and entertainment. Visit northparkmainstreet.com.

Jingle Jets: The USS Midway Museum will be decked with hundreds of thousands of lights as part of its new “Jingle Jets” holiday light show and festivities from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on select nights from Nov. 24 to Dec. 23. Highlights include holiday carolers, dancing to holiday tunes with a DJ, illuminated Christmas trees, Santa in his red flight suit and life-size holiday ornaments along with lit-up tunnels and reindeer. Overhead truss lighting will fill the hangar with hues of red, green and blue, and lighting from above will simulate snowflakes. White icicle lights crisscrossed from decorative truss towers will be on the carrier’s flight deck and nearly a dozen of Midway’s aircraft will be wrapped in holiday lights. Holiday cards will be at the mess-deck tables for visitors to write letters to service members. Holiday-themed treats, food and merchandise will be sold. Visit midway.org.

Nativity scene with the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child

SAN MARCOS

Holiday parade: The 26th annual Kiwanis San Marcos Holiday Parade starts at 1 p.m. Dec. 3, themed “A Beary Merry Christmas,” celebrating 120 years of teddy bears. The Grand Marshal will be Pia Harris-Ebert, longtime San Marcos elementary teacher and City of San Marcos councilmember. There will be bands, floats, marching groups and Santa. The parade route is Comet Drive at Palomar College, east on Mission Road to the Civic Center. Visit lsmkiwanis.org.

Tree lighting and vendor market: The family event with entertainment, crafts and vendors is set for 2 to 7 p.m. Dec. 2 at the San Marcos Civic Center, 1 Civic Center Drive. Santa lights the tree at 5:35 p.m., followed by snowfall. Photos with Santa are from 2 to 5 p.m.. Admission is free. Visit san-marcos.net/departments/parks-recreation/special-events/santa-s-village

Winter Wonderland at Lakehouse
Festivites begin Dec. 1 with a lighting ceremony of the 30-foot tree. Highlights include a 140-foot holiday light tunnel with display of holiday lights, igloo dining with twinkle lights, tapas and wine near the lake, Polar Express-inspired hayrides, European-style Holiday Market and holiday-themed Pontoon and Duffy boat cruises on the lake through Dec. 24. Entry tickets are $5 per person over 12. The resort is at 1025 La Bonita Drive. Visit thelakehouseresort.com.

SANTEE

Holiday Lighting: A Holiday Lighting Celebration is from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 17 with live music by the Bayou Brothers, face painting and Holiday photo opportunities at Santee Trolley Square, 9884 Mission Gorge Road. For vendor questions, email [email protected].

SOLANA BEACH

Community tree lighting
The annual free Holiday Tree Lighting at Fletcher Cove Park, 111 S. Sierra Ave., is from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Dec. 3 with live music, sweets, treats, cider and hot cocoa, hosted by the city of Solana Beach’s Parks and Recreation Commission. Santa is slated to arrive by a firetruck escort at 5:20 p.m. Visit cityofsolanabeach.org.

Holiday tree lighting: The family-friendly tree lighting event is from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at La Colonia Park, 715 Valley Ave. There will be traditional holiday aguinaldos treat bags for the kids, sweets and Mexican hot cocoa. Santa will come at 5:20 p.m. cityofsolanabeach.org or call (858) 720-2453.

Santa’s Sleigh Ride Parade: Back by popular demand, the city of Solana Beach and the Solana Beach Parks and Recreation Commission host Santa’s Sleigh Ride Parade from 2:30 to 5 p.m. Dec. 15. Santa will be riding along with fire, sheriff’s and Marine safety personnel. The sleigh ride will start and end at the Solana Beach Fire Station, 500 Lomas Santa Fe Drive. A map is at cityofsolanabeach.org

Christmas concert: “The Light of the Lord” Christmas Concert is 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Dec. 3 with the Solana Beach Presbyterian Church Choir and worship band as well as a chamber orchestra and members of the San Diego Symphony at the church, 120 Stevens Ave. Highlights include short Christmas meditation. Freewill offering. Visit solanabeach.church.

SPRING VALLEY

Enchanted Village: Noah Homes hosts its Enchanted Village from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 15 through Dec. 22 at 12526 Campo Road. Guests can stroll through 8 acres of lighted trees and tunnels, giant candy canes and interactive displays, and enjoy live music. Santa will be at the Enchanted Village nightly for photos. No pets allowed (only service animals). Tickets are $19.99; $11.99 for ages 2-12 through Nov. 27 and $24.99/$14.99 after Nov. 27. Noah Homes is a nonprofit that provides housing and care to people with developmental disabilities. Visit enchantedvillage.org.

VALLEY CENTER

Breakfast with Santa: Armstrong Feed and Supply hosts Breakfast With Santa from 9 to 11 a.m. Dec. 9 at 28520 Cole Grade Road. Pets welcome. Come get some free breakfast and a free photo with Santa. Call (760) 749-2223.

VISTA

Jingle Terrace Live: Holiday light show and activities for all ages from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 8-23, hosted by the city of Vista and Moonlight Amphitheatre at the Moonlight, 1250 Vale Terrace Drive. Special entertainment offered on certain nights, such as Jingle Band concert, holiday crafts, Maker’s Market and visit with Santa and reindeer. Visitors are asked to bring a donation of food for the North County Food Bank. No tickets for “Jingle Terrace Live.” Visit jingleterracelive.com.

64th annual Vista Christmas Parade: The Vista Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas parade is set for 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 2 in downtown Vista. This year’s theme is “Viva Vista” celebrating the Vista Chamber’s 100th anniversary. The Grand Marshal will be Danny Villaseñor from Peppertree Frosty. The parade starts at 1 p.m. on Santa Fe and Pala Vista Drive, heads north, goes down Broadway to Citrus, then to Main Street, ending at the Wave Waterpark. There will be floats, music and marching bands, along with Santa. Visit https://business.vistachamber.org/events/details/65th-annual-vista-christmas-parade-25389

To submit a community event, email [email protected]

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