12 Things to Do for the Holidays That are Uniquely San Diego

Get ready to deck the paws—San Diego’s most adorable holiday tradition is back! The Gaslamp Pet Parade is taking over the streets of the Gaslamp Quarter, and every kind of pet is welcome to strut their stuff, from dogs and cats to bunnies and bearded dragons.

Registration is $30, and your fur baby will be part of a festive lineup with floats, marching bands, and eight costume contest categories. Not parading? You can still soak up the cuteness for free from a nearby patio.

And don’t skip the Pups in the Pub Party at the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter. Expect holiday photos with Santa and friends, pup-friendly games and treats, caricatures, seasonal drinks (including kid-friendly ones), and a big awards ceremony to crown Best in Show.

📆 Saturday, December 13, 2025: Parade & festivities: 11 AM–4 PM | Pups in the Pub: 2 PM–4 PM
📍 Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego
🎟️ Register your pet here
ℹ️ More info here

See the Christmas Lights Around San Diego

Just because it doesn’t snow in San Diego and the temperature rarely drops below 60 degrees, it doesn’t mean that we don’t know how to get into the holiday spirit! So when you are feeling those Christmas vibes, here’s where to go to see the best Christmas lights in San Diego.

There are many neighborhoods known for their stunning light displays that you’ll want to add to your holiday to-do list. Check out our top picks here.

Holiday Wonderland Returns to Petco Park

Petco Park is going full festive with the return of Holiday Wonderland, and this one’s worth bundling up for. From dazzling light tunnels and snowfall (yep, real snow!) to Santa sightings, carousel rides, a Christmas train, and even a sledding hill, it’s basically a holiday theme park tucked inside Gallagher Square.

There’s plenty for the grown-ups too—festive drinks, seasonal bites, local artisan shopping, and live music on select nights. Perfect for families, date nights, or just getting into the spirit without heading to the mountains.

📆 Select dates, December 5–23
📍100 Park Blvd, San Diego
ℹ️ More info here

Hit Up Holiday by the Bay

Holiday by the Bay at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront is serving up serious festive charm—right along the waterfront. This year’s lineup has something for everyone, whether you’re bringing the kids or just want to sip a seasonal cocktail under the lights.

Here’s what not to miss:
A life-sized gingerbread house (yes, really—you can walk through it)
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus – Storytime with Mrs. Claus, Breakfast with Santa, and more!
Cozy holiday movie nights on the lawn at Promenade West
Family-friendly Christmas crafts and activities
Seasonal goodies like holiday cookies, a holiday libations menu, and Christmas dinner specials

It’s the perfect mix of nostalgic fun and modern holiday magic—all with gorgeous bay views.

Watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas at The Old Globe

San Diego’s most lovable holiday grouch is back! Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! returns to The Old Globe for its 28th year, transforming the stage into a snowy Who-ville that’s bursting with heart.

This whimsical musical stays true to the classic Seuss tale and features all the songs you know and love—“You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” “Santa for a Day,” and “Welcome, Christmas.”

Whether you’re a longtime fan or introducing it to the next generation, it’s the perfect way to wrap yourself in holiday cheer (and maybe even grow your heart a few sizes).

📆 November 5 – December 31
📍 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego
🎟️ Buy tickets here
ℹ️ More info here

Celebrate Las Posadas in Old Town

If you’ve never experienced Las Posadas in Old Town, this is the year to go. It’s one of those holiday traditions that really brings the community together—and it’s such a special way to slow down and soak up the season.

We’ll follow Mary and Joseph (yes, with Mary riding a donkey!) as they journey through six stops in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, reenacting their search for shelter. At each stop, there’s live narration, call-and-response verses, and a whole cast of shepherds and angels to bring the story to life.

After the procession, we’ll all gather for live music, refreshments, and that cozy, festive vibe you only get when the whole neighborhood comes out to celebrate.

📆 Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 4 PM – 7 PM
📍 4002 Wallace St, San Diego
ℹ️ More info here

Go Skating and Explore Liberty Station

Liberty Station knows how to do the holidays right, and their Salute the Season lineup is packed with festive fun for all ages. From twinkling lights to sweet traditions, here’s what we’re checking out this year:

• Holiday Tree Lighting – The season kicks off with a classic tree lighting you don’t want to miss. Bundle up, grab a warm drink, and soak in the holiday cheer.
• Nutcracker Tea with San Diego Ballet – A cozy, family-friendly way to experience the magic of The Nutcracker, paired with tea time treats and live performances from the San Diego Ballet.
• Hanukkah Celebration & Menorah Lighting – Join the community for a beautiful Hanukkah celebration, complete with music, activities, and the lighting of the menorah.
• Rady Children’s Ice Rink – Skate under the stars and support a great cause. The rink is open daily through early January, and proceeds benefit the Thriving After Cancer program at Rady Children’s Hospital.

ℹ️ More info here

Check Out the USS Midway’s Holiday Light Festival

Jingle Jets is back on the USS Midway—and it’s bigger, brighter, and more festive than ever. If you haven’t been, this is your chance to see the iconic aircraft carrier transformed by over a million lights, live holiday performances, and plenty of cheer up on the flight deck.

It’s one of those holiday experiences that hits the sweet spot between wow-worthy and family-friendly, with a view of the bay that’s hard to beat. We’re making it a yearly thing—and you probably will too.

📆 Select nights, November 28 – December 30, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 9 PM (last entry at 7:30 PM)
📍 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego
ℹ️ More info here