Fun Holiday Activities in San Diego, CA
San Diego has plenty of fun things to do this holiday season.

It’s officially December, which means it’s now socially acceptable to partake in any or all holiday festivities! San Diego has plenty of family-friendly things to do during the holiday season. Take your kids, your friends, or your significant others to these great holiday events throughout the month of December.
December Nights at Balboa Park
This coming weekend (Friday, December 6 and Saturday the 7th), head over to Balboa Park for their annual December Nights celebration. They’ll have live music, dancers, light displays, and a bunch of different food vendors. This is a classic San Diego tradition, so be sure to arrive early to find parking!
Ice Skating: Coronado and Liberty Station
People wait all year to skate by the sea at the Coronado ice rink. This beachfront rink is perfect for a date night or family night. You can even reserve a fire pit, complete with seating and food/beverage service.
Liberty Station is another hot spot for ice skating this time of year. This is a cheaper option in the heart of Liberty Station. There are plenty of surrounding restaurants to dine at once your skate session is over.
Both rinks are open daily, with the exception of Christmas Day. Check their websites for exact hours!
Christmas Tree Lighting, Little Italy
Little Italy’s 21st annual tree lighting ceremony is Saturday December 7th from 4-8pm. Join in on the fun and watch as they light a new tree, listen to some live holiday music, and enjoy some yummy treats. Santa will be making an appearance from 4pm to 6pm and the entire street will be covered in Christmas lights!

Winter Nights at Westfield UTC
For the first two Saturdays in December, Westfield UTC holds their Winter Nights. Each weekend will have live music, fun family crafts, and decorations to die for. Some stores will be providing tasty treats, too! Keep an eye out for the toy soldiers, winter fairies, and Santa walking around.
Holiday Pet Parade
On December 15th, the Gaslamp district will be holding its 12th annual Holiday Pet Parade. If you have an adorable pet that likes dressing up for the holidays, look no further! The pet parade is the place for you and your furry (or scaly) companions. Early registration is $15, day-of is $20, and the event is free for spectators!
Poway Christmas in the Park
If you don’t want to make the trek to Downtown, the city of Poway has a wonderful holiday festival. Christmas in the Park will be complete with caroling, live music, hay rides, and delicious holiday snacks. The annual tree lighting will begin just after 5pm, so don’t be late!

Polite Provisions
Every year, popular North Park bar Polite Provisions decks out in holiday decor. From shiny garlands to beautiful wreaths, you’ll feel like you just walked into a classic Christmas movie. Stop by after a day of ice skating and grab one of their perfect holiday cocktails!
Pacific Beach Santa Run
If you found this article helpful, follow us on social media. We post daily tips to help you manage your own rental property:
Steve Welty
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter
Join the 5k+ homeowners receiving Local Law Updates and Landlord Tips. Delivered to your inbox every Saturday at 6am PST.
Share this:
Get in touch with us:
We make owning rental property easy.
Choose Your Next Step
Good Life Blogs
We believe that education is empowering.

AB 2347: Key Eviction Timeline Updates for CA Landlords
AB 2347 changes eviction timelines in California starting 2025. Learn key updates landlords need to stay compliant.

San Diego First-Time Landlord Checklist: The Ultimate Guide
Ready to become a landlord in San Diego? Follow these steps and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful landlord with happy tenants and a strong long-term investment.

How California Assembly Bill 12 Will Affect Landlords in San Diego
California Assembly Bill 12 (AB 12) is a new bill that is set to revolutionize the way security deposits are handled in San Diego.