San Diego Automotive Museum’s Holiday Cars and Coffee Brings Festive Cheer to Balboa Park

The San Diego Automotive Museum is adding some holiday spirit to its monthly Cars and Coffee event, inviting car enthusiasts and spectators to gather for a festive morning of beautiful vehicles, complimentary coffee and donuts, and a little seasonal fun.

This month’s edition encourages attendees to deck out their “sleigh” for a chance to win a special prize, turning the usual showcase into a rolling holiday parade.

cars and coffee

All vehicles welcome

Cars and Coffee happens on the third Sunday of each month, bringing together car lovers to share their passion and show off their rides. The format is simple and inclusive – all years, makes, models, colors, styles, and customizations are welcome.

Whether we’re into classic cars or modern machines, there’s always something worth admiring in the lineup. The holiday edition keeps that same spirit while adding a festive twist.

Early museum access

Beyond the outdoor gathering, the Museum opens early with a special $10 admission price for guests who visit before 10 AM. It’s a solid opportunity to explore the collection while the morning is still quiet, then head outside to catch the Cars and Coffee scene before it wraps up.

Free and open to everyone

The event is free for both participants and spectators, with complimentary coffee and donuts available while supplies last. It’s one of those low-key weekend traditions that works whether we’re rolling up in our own ride or just showing up to appreciate what others brought.

See you there!

Holiday decorations, classic cars, and free coffee in Balboa Park – a festive start to the weekend.

📆 Saturday, December 21, 7:30 – 9 AM (Museum opens at 8 AM with $10 admission until 10 AM)
📍 2080 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Event
Event Details
  • Start Date
    December 21, 2025 7:30 am
  • End Date
    December 21, 2025 9:00 am
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • San Diego Automotive Museum
  • Address
    2080 Pan American Plaza, San Diego CA
  • More Info
Event Map
The Latest
OluKai La Jolla
Visit the OluKai La Jolla location for premium footwear and a unique design that embodies the spirit of both Hawaii and California.
Pacific Records Festival
Mark your calendar for the Pacific Records Festival! Experience great music and stunning views at Kate Sessions Park this July.
Insomniac's Into the Horizon Festival crowd at Waterfront Park San Diego
Insomniac’s Into the Horizon Festival is coming to Waterfront Park in Downtown San Diego for a two-day electronic music event on the city’s most iconic...
Andaz San Diego june lineup
If you’re looking for a reason to get up to the Andaz San Diego rooftop this month, the calendar is doing a lot of the...
Ziggy Marley performing live on the Brightside Tour 2026 in San Diego
Ziggy Marley is bringing his Brightside Tour to San Diego for a night of live reggae at one of the city’s best outdoor venues. Supporting...
Temecula Wine country
Explore the Temecula Valley Wine Country summer lineup featuring live music, poolside cocktails, and new tasting experiences.
Event Details
  • Start Date
    December 21, 2025 7:30 am
  • End Date
    December 21, 2025 9:00 am
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • San Diego Automotive Museum
  • Address
    2080 Pan American Plaza, San Diego CA
  • More Info
Upcoming Events
Bird's Eye View of Mission Bayfest
October 16, 2026
3:00 pm
  • Mariners Point
Mission Bayfest is heading back to the waterfront this fall, bringing three days of reggae, rock, and SoCal vibes to Mariner’s Point Park along the...
Tori Amos San Diego
August 26, 2026
7:30 pm
  • San Diego Civic Theatre
There are artists who put on a show, and then there’s Tori Amos – a force of nature who turns every performance into something genuinely...
RESET Beach Wellness Event
August 2, 2026
8:00 am
  • Mission Beach Park
SSBD and Almost Nakey are joining forces for RESET, a brand-new beachside event happening at Fit Social Club. It’s a full day of movement, recovery,...
Taste of Eastlake
July 24, 2026
6:00 pm
If you’re looking for a summer night out that means something, this one’s worth circling. The EastLake Educational Foundation is hosting its annual Taste of...
Pacific Records Festival
July 19, 2026
4:00 pm
  • Kate O. Sessions Memorial Park
Mark your calendar for the Pacific Records Festival! Experience great music and stunning views at Kate Sessions Park this July.
Event Search: