As the holiday season unfolds in San Diego, the city transforms into a magical wonderland of lights from late November through December. In the spirit of spreading holiday cheer, we’ve curated the perfect guide to San Diego’s best Christmas light displays. Join us as we add a little extra sparkle to your holiday season.
Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights: Boats, kayaks, yachts, and dinghies deck out their vessels in festive attire as they brighten up the Oceanside coastline, creating a dazzling spectacle for onlookers.
When: December 9, 2023
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside, CA 92054
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a time-honored holiday tradition brought to San Diego by the boating community. Participants in this year’s highly anticipated holiday boat parade will decorate their boats to fit this year’s theme.
When: December 10th and 17th
Time: 5:30pm
Where: Parade Schedule and Route
Jungle Bells at the Zoo: The San Diego Zoo hosts an annual holiday-themed event, featuring festive decorations, light displays, and special entertainment throughout the zoo. Purchase Tickets
When: December 9th – January 1st
Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Where: San Diego Zoo 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Wild Holidays at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park: See the Safari Park in a whole new light! Embark on a joyous holiday expedition, and travel through places that glow and twinkle with seasonal cheer. Holiday tunes set the festive mood, and tasty seasonal treats will be available to tempt you throughout your journey. Purchase Tickets
When: November 24th – December 31st
Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Where: San Diego Zoo Safari Park 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027-9614
Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden: Merging nature and art, the Garden will come to life at night with festive sights and sounds for all to enjoy. Purchase Tickets
When: November 17th – January 1st
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: San Diego Botanic Garden 300 Quail Gardens Drive (off Ecke Ranch Road) Encinitas, CA 92024
Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights and Festive Night Tour: Hop aboard and ride a wave of holiday cheer! Elf conductors will share fun holiday facts and traditions as you enjoy the festive holiday lights of Old Town, Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Balboa Park and more! Purchase Tickets
When: December 1st – 30th (closed Christmas Eve and Day)
Where: Old Town Market 4010 Twiggs Street, San Diego, CA 92110
“All That Jazz” Lightshow Spectacular: Experience a complimentary 10-minute light show set to music, occurring every 30 minutes. This brilliantly orchestrated ethereal display captivates guests, culminating in a mesmerizing finale of snow flurries.
When: November 17th – January 7th
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Every 30 minutes
Where: Hotel del Coronado 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Enchanted Village: Experience the magic of the season as you walk through acres of brilliantly lit trees, magical cottages, light tunnels, live entertainers, hundreds of giant candy canes, over a million lights, interactive displays and other festive decorations. Purchase Tickets
When: December 15th – 22nd
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
Where: Noah Homes 12526 Campo Road, San Diego, CA 91978
Start a new holiday tradition the whole family will cherish! Book your stay at Southern California Beach Club for an experience that guarantees you will discover the spirit of the holidays in San Diego!
