Looking for festive fun this winter? Discover a world of magical memories waiting in sunny San Diego! From glittering parades to local getaways to enjoy hot apple cider and homemade apple pie, embrace the holiday spirit with free events for the whole family. Don’t miss out on making holiday memories together this December– make this winter one to remember!
Snapdragon Bowl Bash
When: Dec. 26, 2023
The San Diego County Credit Union Holiday Bowl is excited to host the second annual Snapdragon Bowl Bash in the Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego! The Snapdragon Bowl Bash is a time for fans and locals to gather in the heart of San Diego for FREE family fun, great food, live music, giveaways and more!
Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade
When: Dec 27, 2023
Gaze up at the massive balloons during the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade, the country’s largest balloon parade. Floats, balloons and marching bands are just some of the offerings in this colorful holiday parade along San Diego Bay in downtown San Diego.
Hotel del Coronado
When: All December
Cross the Coronado Bay Bridge and make your way to the Hotel del Coronado to marvel at the illuminated hotel and the popular and beautifully decorated tree in the hotel lobby.
Julian
Drive to the mountain town of Julian for a warm mug of hot apple cider and a delicious piece of Julian’s legendary homemade apple pie. On Saturdays, stroll through the quaint neighborhood streets and enjoy the sounds of wandering Christmas carolers and a living nativity scene.
Mount Laguna
Experience a white Christmas in San Diego when you make the scenic, one-hour drive to the top of Mount Laguna. Sled down mountain slopes, build snowmen and have snowball fights (weather conditions permitting).
Mt. Soledad Veterans Memorial
Take a drive to the top of Mt. Soledad Veterans Memorial in La Jolla for a panoramic view of the city all spruced up in holiday finery. Along the way, take a peek at the beautifully decorated homes in this exclusive community.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion
Enjoy free organ concerts at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park beginning at 2:00 PM each Sunday. The Organ Pavilion features the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ, a San Diego landmark for over 90 years, where organists resound holiday favorites, waltzes and show tunes from the organ’s monstrous 32-foot lead alloy pipes.
Source:
25+ Free Holiday Events and Things to Do in San Diego, CA
The San Diego Tourism Authority