San Diego’s Best Christmas Light Displays

As the holiday season arrives in San Diego, the city transforms into a magical wonderland from late November through December. To help you make the most of the festive glow, we’re put together the perfect guide to San Diego’s best Christmas light displays. Let’s add some extra sparkle to your season! 

Lightscape at Botanical Garden
Parades and Festivals​

Coronado Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting

Join Coronado in holiday cheer from the Ferry Landing, down Orange Avenue, all the way to the Hotel del Coronado for live music, local business open houses, sing-alongs, a parade and a grand tree lighting at Rotary Park.

December 6th

6:00PM - 7:00PM

La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival

Spread some holiday cheer at the La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival in December in downtown La Jolla. 

December 8th

11:30AM

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: Peace on Earth.

December 8th and 15th

5:30PM

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.

Light Displays

All That Jazz Lightshow Spectacular

The grove of towering Norfolk Island Pines on the Founders Lawn is the scene of a dynamic light show orchestrated to lively holiday jazz music, a brilliant ethereal experience that captivates guests with a finale of snow flurries. 

Lightscape

 Featuring exciting new installations along with returning fan favorites, this one-mile loop has been reimagined to surprise and delight visitors. Merging nature and art, the Garden will come to life at night with festive sights and sounds for all to enjoy. Purchase tickets here.

November 15th - January 5th

5:00PM - 10:00PM (last entry at 8:45PM)

Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights & Festive Nights

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, including a 15-minute stop at Seaport Village for holiday festivities. Purchase tickets here

November 30th - December 23rd and December 26th - 30th

Wild Holidays at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Celebrate the holidays and see the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in a whole new light! Go on an expedition of light and travel through places that glow, shine, and twinkle with holiday cheer. Fanciful characters, musical entertainment, festive storytelling, and culinary treats create family fun and get everyone in the spirit of the season!

November 29th - January 5th

Start a new holiday tradition the whole family will treasure! Book your stay at Southern California Beach Club for a festive getaway that promises to fill your days with joy, laughter, and the magic of the season.