Think San Diego in December is just 70 degrees and sunshine? You’re not wrong, but you’re missing the explosion of holiday cheer that takes over the city. The problem isn’t a lack of things to do; it’s navigating the sheer volume of events to find what’s truly worth your time.

You could spend hours scrolling through different sites, trying to piece together a plan. Or you could use our expert-curated list. We’re The Cassity Team, and while we’re experts in the San Diego marketplace pulse, we’re also locals who know how to make the most of the city. We’ve seen clients move here for the lifestyle, and December is a prime example of why. This is your playbook for an unforgettable holiday season.

San Diego in December: Where you can go from whale watching in the morning to ice skating on the beach at night. This city has layers.

Immerse yourself in Balboa Park December Nights

▶ When: December 5-6, 2025 [7] ▶ Cost: Free admission

This isn’t your average town square tree lighting.

• Normal: You show up expecting a few light displays and maybe some hot cocoa. It’s a classic, predictable holiday festival.

• Explosion: You step into Balboa Park and are met with San Diego’s largest free holiday festival, a massive two-day event packed with live music, international food vendors, and free admission to museums after dark [4]. The scale is impressive.

• New Normal: You realize “community event” in San Diego means something bigger. It’s a full-blown cultural celebration. The tradeoff? It gets incredibly crowded. Arrive early or use ride-sharing to avoid the parking headache.

Watch the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

▶ When: Select Sundays in December ▶ Cost: Free for spectators

This is a quintessential San Diego experience. Around 80 boats, decked out in dazzling lights, cruise the bay for the annual Parade of Lights [7]. This year’s theme, ‘An Out of This World Christmas,’ promises a creative and festive spectacle.

The best viewing spots are along the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, and Harbor Island. For those living or looking in the area, neighborhoods like Point Loma offer some incredible vantage points right from your doorstep. The caveat is that these prime spots fill up fast. You’ll need to stake out your territory hours in advance if you want an unobstructed view.

Go wild at Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo

▶ When: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 [2] ▶ Cost: Included with Zoo admission/membership

The world-famous San Diego Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland for its annual Jungle Bells event. The park is draped in festive lights, holiday music fills the air, and special themed entertainment runs throughout the evening. It’s a brilliant way to experience a familiar landmark in a completely new light. It’s a fantastic family outing, but be prepared for evening crowds, especially on weekends leading up to Christmas.

Skate by the sea at Hotel del Coronado

▶ When: Late November 2025 to early January 2026 ▶ Cost: Varies; booking in advance is crucial

Ice skating on a beachfront rink with views of the Pacific Ocean is an experience you can’t get just anywhere. The Hotel del Coronado’s iconic rink is a holiday staple. We’ve tried it ourselves—let’s just say our real estate negotiation skills are far more graceful than our attempts at a triple axel.

This is a premium experience with a price tag to match, and skate times sell out quickly. Is it worth it? For the sheer novelty and the photo op, absolutely. Just book your 90-minute slot well in advance.

Celebrate at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration

▶ When: Mid-November 2025 to early January 2026 [3] ▶ Cost: Included with park admission

SeaWorld goes all-out for the holidays with over a million lights, a nightly “snowfall,” and special holiday-themed shows [3]. It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible, especially for families with young kids. From meeting Santa to seeing sea lions in festive gear, it’s a packed day. The main risk here is trying to do it all in one visit; prioritize the shows and experiences that matter most to you before you go.

Discover more San Diego December gems

San Diego’s holiday spirit isn’t confined to major attractions. Here are a few more activities to round out your month:

• Little Italy Tree Lighting & Sparkle: The neighborhood transforms with thousands of lights, nutcracker statues, and a festive atmosphere [4]. It’s a great spot for a holiday-themed dinner.

• Whale Watching: December marks the start of gray whale migration season. While sightings are never guaranteed—it’s nature, not a scripted show—the experience of being out on the water is a reward in itself.

• Belmont Park’s Winter Wonder: The beachside amusement park in Mission Beach gets a festive makeover with over a million lights, holiday music, and character meet-and-greets.

Finding the right activities is a lot like finding the right home—it’s about matching your lifestyle to what the community offers. As local experts, we help people do that every day. For more insider tips, check out what we’re sharing on our social media.

Your Next Move

Exploring these events gives you a taste of what it’s like to live in San Diego. You start to see how each neighborhood has its own unique energy and traditions.

If you’re ready to stop visiting and start living here, you need a team that understands the nuances of this city. You need more than an agent who just opens doors.

Contact The Cassity Team today. We’ll help you find your place in San Diego.