Encinitas Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Step into a world of enchantment at San Diego Botanic Garden's Lightscape, a mile-long illuminated trail that transforms the garden into a dazzling spectacle. Explore vibrant new installations by international artists alongside returning favorites, all set to lively music. Enjoy festive food and drinks as you create unforgettable holiday memories.

Join the 23rd Annual Tree Lighting Celebration at The Forum Carlsbad for an enchanting evening of holiday cheer. This festive event features Santa's arrival, a live performance by Woodie and The Longboards, and the magical lighting of the Christmas tree. Families can capture photos with Santa, enjoy strolling characters, a...

Coastal Christmas transforms the Del Mar Fairgrounds into a dazzling seaside winter wonderland. Millions of lights illuminate a festive holiday trail, offering a magical experience for all. Enjoy activities like Glice skating, photos with Santa, a Holiday Wine Walk, and a bustling Holiday Market. Indulge in festive food and drinks,...

Experience the magic of the holidays at North Pole By The Sea in Del Mar Village. Families can capture professional photos with Santa Claus, write letters to him, and enjoy festive giveaways. Roaming holiday characters and carolers add to the cheerful atmosphere, while warm drinks are available for purchase. The...

Experience the most wonderful time of the year at LEGOLAND California Resort's 'Holidays at LEGOLAND' event. Families can immerse themselves in a world of LEGO-themed holiday cheer, meet beloved characters like LEGO Santa, and enjoy festive shows and activities. Don't miss the dazzling fireworks display and the impressive giant LEGO...

Step into a classic holiday wonderland at Holiday at the Rancho. Explore Leo Carrillo Ranch aglow with festive lights and decorations, accompanied by the sounds of holiday music. The event features a tree lighting ceremony, cookie decorating, crafts, a playful snowball fight, and enchanting entertainment. Meet Santa Claus, enjoy face...

Step into North County's original Winter Wonderland at Lakehouse Resort. This magical event features twinkling lights, festive treats, and seasonal drinks on the Lakeside Lawn. Kids will delight in the Frozen Fun Zone with the Lakehouse Express train, s'mores, and Build-a-Buddy. For a more exclusive experience, reserve private igloos or...

Step into a world of enchantment at Holiday Lights 2025, where the Antique Gas & Steam Museum transforms into a dazzling spectacle. This signature magical night promises an abundance of sparkle and cheer, perfect for the entire family. Immerse yourselves in joyful festivities, explore unique holiday shopping opportunities, and create...

Step into a winter wonderland at Bernardo Winery's 'Holiday Nights.' This enchanting event transforms the historic grounds into a magical spectacle of dazzling lights and festive cheer. Wander through the charming artist village, browse unique holiday gifts, and savor delicious food and warm beverages from local vendors. It's the perfect...

Discover the magic of Christmas Card Lane, a beloved San Diego tradition where an entire neighborhood goes all out with festive holiday decorations. Residents transform their homes into dazzling displays of light, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere for all to enjoy. It's a perfect, free way to immerse yourself in...

Discover a magical holiday expedition at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park's Wild Holidays. This event transforms the park into a glowing wonderland with dazzling light displays, festive entertainment, and unique animal-themed decorations. Visitors can enjoy live music, storytelling, and the chance to meet Santa Claus, all while exploring the...

SeaWorld San Diego transforms into a magical winter wonderland for its annual Christmas Celebration. Visitors can immerse themselves in a dazzling display of over one million lights, enjoy festive shows like the all-new 'Clyde & Seamore’s Christmas,' and meet beloved characters like Santa and Rudolph. Experience nightly snowfall, a festive...

Step into a magical holiday wonderland at the San Diego Zoo's Jungle Bells celebration. This annual event transforms the zoo into a festive spectacle with dazzling light displays, captivating live entertainment, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus. Families can enjoy carols, acrobatic elves, and interactive games, all while exploring the...

Balboa Park December Nights returns in 2025 as San Diego's premier free holiday festival. This beloved event transforms the park into a festive wonderland with dazzling lights, captivating music, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Attendees can explore a variety of entertainment, enjoy delicious food and drinks from numerous vendors, and...

Discover the enchanting Starlight Circle neighborhood light display in Santee, California. Residents transform their homes into a festive wonderland with dazzling holiday lights. This beloved, community-coordinated event offers a magical experience for all ages. Visitors can drive or walk through the neighborhood to admire the creative displays, creating a memorable...

Step into a magical world of 'A Holiday in Oz' at the Hotel del Coronado this holiday season. The iconic resort is transformed with stunning themed decor, thousands of glittering lights, and enchanting experiences for all ages. Enjoy ice skating by the sea, festive feasts, and a spectacular light show.

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Holiday Lights on Main in Downtown El Cajon. This festive event offers a delightful evening for all ages, featuring trackless train rides, live music, and a variety of holiday vendors. Capture cherished memories with free photos with Santa Claus and explore local...

Del Mar Village invites you to celebrate the season with a delightful array of holiday events. Stroll through streets adorned with festive lights, support local artisans on Small Business Saturday, and savor seasonal flavors at the Winter Taste & Sip. Capture cherished memories with Santa by the sea and enjoy...

Get ready for the Carlsbad Holiday Market on November 15, 2025! This vibrant event brings together local craft makers and vendors offering a unique array of handmade gifts, from artisanal food and accessories to home decor. It's the ideal way to kick off the holiday season, enjoy a festival street...

Get ready for the 12th Annual Holiday Mercato at Beach House Winery! This festive event invites you to sip, shop, and taste your way through a delightful holiday experience. Browse unique artisanal products and enjoy the winery's renowned wines while soaking in the scenic views. Details are coming soon, so...

Experience the magic of the Holiday Market and Trail at Petco Park, returning for its fourth year. This festive event transforms Gallagher Square into a winter wonderland with dazzling Christmas lights, a charming Christmas Train, and a carousel. Visitors can shop for unique handcrafted gifts from over 100 artisan vendors,...

Experience the charm of La Mesa's 10th annual Holiday in the Village! This festive event transforms downtown into a winter wonderland with an ice skating rink, a special reading nook with Mrs. Claus, and opportunities for selfies with Santa. Explore unique vendor offerings, enjoy mini golf, and capture festive memories...

Join the Community Resource Center for their annual Jingle & Mingle event, a festive evening dedicated to holiday cheer and community support. Attendees can enjoy a delightful spread of festive fare, including a turkey carving station with gluten-free and vegetarian options, alongside holiday cocktails. The event features live and silent...

Ring in the New Year with the 'Dance Into 2026' package at Humphreys Half Moon Inn. This exclusive offering provides a festive celebration with a special New Year's Eve dinner and entertainment, all set against the backdrop of beautiful waterfront views. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations and a memorable start...

Big Night San Diego has been a premier New Year's Eve celebration for over two decades, offering an unforgettable experience to ring in the new year. While they have concluded their annual events, they express gratitude to all attendees who have celebrated with them over the past 21 years. Stay...

Celebrate New Year's Eve and Day at PROPER NYE/NYD 2026, a premier electronic music festival in San Diego. This 21+ event spans two days, featuring an extensive lineup of over 40 acclaimed DJs and live acts across five stages at the iconic Petco Park. Prepare for an unforgettable start to...

Immerse yourself in the enchanting spirit of Christmas with 'Irish Christmas in America.' This highly anticipated holiday show, celebrating 20 years, brings a captivating performance of traditional Irish music, song, and dance. Experience the humor, energy, and rich historical traditions of Ireland through evocative visuals.

Experience the magic of Carols by Candlelight, a spectacular family Christmas concert in San Diego. This annual event features performances by popular country music stars, including Mark Wills, Andy Griggs, and Anna Vaus, singing holiday favorites and their biggest hits. All net proceeds benefit Rady Children's Hospital – San Diego,...

Get ready for the annual Encinitas Holiday Parade, a beloved community tradition that lights up South Coast Highway 101. This festive event showcases a dazzling array of decorated floats, energetic marching bands, and creatively adorned vehicles. Participants compete for awards in categories like Best Use of Theme, Best Use of...

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 holidays.

Lace up for The Red Nose Run, a festive 3K and 5K fun run and walk event held on the beautiful Del Mar beach. This family and dog-friendly tradition, organized entirely by volunteers for over 30 years, supports vital San Diego-based charities like Semper Fi & America's Fund and the...

Get ready for the 67th Annual Vista Christmas Parade! This beloved community event brings together vibrant floats, lively marching bands, and enthusiastic participants for a festive procession through Downtown Vista. It's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with friends and family.

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Oceanside Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. This festive event features a special arrival by Santa Claus on a fire truck, followed by the enchanting tree lighting ceremony. Families can enjoy a variety of free activities, including kids' crafts, milk and cookies, and...

Experience the magic of the Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights, where a festive fleet of decorated boats cruises through the harbor. Bring a blanket and hot chocolate to enjoy this enchanting holiday spectacle, complete with Santa waving from the decks. It's a perfect evening for families and anyone looking to...

Lace up your festive spirit for the 13th Annual San Diego Santa Run, celebrated as the 'Best Fun Run in the US'! This vibrant event invites thousands to fill the streets of Pacific Beach in a sea of Santa suits. Choose your pace with two 5K start times, or bring...

Witness the dazzling Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights, a cherished annual tradition. Decorated boats illuminate the bay with creative and brilliant light displays, creating a magical spectacle for all ages. Kick off the holiday season with this festive event, perfect for creating cherished family memories.

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 at 6:15 PM, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere for all.

Get into the holiday spirit by crafting your own fused glass ornaments and night lights. This hands-on workshop offers a chance to create unique winter-themed pieces, perfect for gifting or decorating your home. Participants can choose from a wide array of colorful glass and textures, with guidance from instructor Suzanne...

El Cajon invites families to its annual Winter Wonderland celebration at Wells Park. This festive event offers a magical afternoon and evening filled with holiday cheer, including complimentary train rides, opportunities to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a special movie screening in the park. Engage in fun arts and...