With the holidays approaching, San Diego becomes a magical land full of holiday cheer, and millions of lights welcome you with amazing experiences! Whether you live here or are just visiting, the best way to enjoy holiday cheer is by discovering spectacular free events around the city.
Be it parades, light spectacles, or festivals; there is something for everyone to enjoy for free at this time of year. We gathered the best 25 free holiday events going on throughout San Diego County this year to make your holiday planning easy.
We also have an exciting series of events that we are hosting – Key Connections Presents Santa Photos! Search and read on for all of the revelries, including what you need to know about our event and other must-see fun.
May you be bewitched by the holiday season!
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Key Connections Presents Santa Photos
- Date & Time: Thursday, December 12, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
- Location: 5500 Grossmont Center Dr, Space 10, La Mesa, CA 91942
- Details: Enjoy an evening with drinks, food, and photos with Santa.
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Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas
- Dates: November 6 – December 31, 2024
- Location: Balboa Park
- Details: Explore Balboa Park's architecture and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
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December Nights at Balboa Park
- Dates: December 6–7, 2024
- Details: San Diego's largest free holiday festival featuring lights, sounds, and attractions.
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Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade
- Date: December 28, 2024
- Details: Witness the country's largest balloon parade with massive balloons and festive floats.
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Coronado Playhouse Holiday Cabaret
- Dates: December 13–15, 2024
- Details: Enjoy holiday songs, including old favorites and fun singalongs.
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Noel Noel at the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
- Dates: December 13–15, 2024
- Details: Experience festive performances in a scenic outdoor setting.
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Jingle Terrace Live
- Dates: December 6–21, 2024
- Location: Moonlight Amphitheatre, Vista
- Details: Features holiday light shows and activities for all ages.
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Old Town Holiday in the Park
- Dates: December 1–24, 2024
- Details: Stroll through historic Old Town adorned with holiday decorations.
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Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Details: Celebrate with a tree lighting ceremony, live music, and festive vendors.
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La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival
- Date: December 8, 2024
- Details: Enjoy a traditional parade followed by a holiday festival.
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Encinitas Holiday Parade
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Details: A festive parade along Coast Highway 101 with floats and music.
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Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights
- Date: December 14, 2024
- Details: View decorated boats parading through Mission Bay.
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San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
- Dates: December 8 and 15, 2024
- Details: A time-honored tradition featuring boats adorned with holiday lights.
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Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade
- Date: December 15, 2024
- Details: Pets dressed in festive costumes parade through the Gaslamp Quarter.
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Julian Country Christmas
- Dates: November 30 – December 31, 2024
- Details: Experience a small-town Christmas with tree lighting and carolers.
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Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights
- Date: December 14, 2024
- Details: Decorated boats light up the harbor in a festive display.
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Carlsbad Village Night of Lights
- Date: December 5, 2024
- Details: An evening of holiday lights, music, and shopping.
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Solana Beach Holiday Tree Lighting
- Date: December 1, 2024
- Details: Tree lighting ceremony with live entertainment.
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Del Mar Holiday Wonderland
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Details: Festive activities including crafts, music, and holiday lights.
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Chula Vista Starlight Parade
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Details: Evening parade with illuminated floats and performances.
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Escondido Winter Wonderland
- Date: December 14, 2024
- Details: Snow play areas, holiday crafts, and entertainment.
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Poway's Christmas in the Park
- Date: December 14, 2024
- Details: Old-fashioned holiday traditions and activities.
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Santee Holiday Lighting Celebration
- Date: December 6, 2024
- Details: Tree lighting, live music, and holiday festivities.
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Vista Christmas Parade
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Details: Annual parade with festive floats and performances.
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San Marcos Santa's Magical Village
- Dates: December 6–7, 2024
- Details: Holiday market, entertainment, and visits with Santa.
