December Holiday Events & Winter Camps

Things change. That’s why we’ve included phone numbers and websites when available. Please call to confirm dates, times and admission prices. Tell them you heard about their event from Family Magazine!

Quicklinks: Friday Dec 2  |  Friday Dec 9  |  Friday Dec 16  |  Saturday Dec 24  |  Saturday Dec 31

thursday  | 1

Jungle Bells. Get an extra-wild dose of holiday fun at the San Diego Zoo! This three-week celebration features elves who dance in the air, bell ringers, Santa’s workshop, Dr. Zoolittle’s holiday show, a nightly tree lighting ceremony and more. Now through Jan. 1; visit website for hours. Free with zoo admission. $30-$40. Balboa Park. www.sandiegozoo.org; 619-231-1515.

Enjoy a season of shimmer and sparkle with San Diego Family’s Map of Christmas Lights: http://www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/san-diegos-best-map-of-christmas-lights

friday  |  2

North Pole Limited. Board the train at the historic Campo Depot for cookies and hot chocolate served by Santa’s elves, a reading of a famous Christmas story and a visit from Santa. Tonight, tomorrow, Dec. 9 & 17, 7 pm. $20-$45; under 2 free. Advance reservations required. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, Campo. www.psrm.org.

“Santa Claus vs. the Martians.” Santa is kidnapped by Martians! Will the children have no toys on Christmas Day? Tonight until Dec. 18. Fri., 7 pm; Sat. & Sun., 2 & 4 pm. For tickets, call or visit website. For ages 8 & up. La Jolla YMCA Firehouse, 7877 Herschel Ave. www.juniortheatre.com; 619-239-8355.

Snow Mountain, Open House & Christmas Parade in Coronado. Explore various shops along Orange Avenue from 5:30-9 pm. Before the open house, visit the snow mountain at the Coronado Ferry Landing (3-8 pm). Santa arrives at the Coronado Ferry Landing Marketplace at 3:20 pm, and joins the parade down Orange Avenue, starting at 6 pm. For details, go to www.coronadochamber.com.

Holiday Hayrides at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Take a tour of the Holiday of Lights the old-fashioned way! Fridays, Dec. 2, 9 & 16, every half hour from 5:30-8:30 pm. $10 includes Holiday of Lights tour, hot chocolate or cider and a holiday cookie. 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.holidayoflights.com; 858-793-5555.

Center Stage Dance Performance. Come celebrate the holidays with Center Stage School of Dance at Christmas on the Prado in Balboa Park! Festive dances will include, hip hop, jazz, lyrical, ballet, bit bop and combo techniques. See how Center Stage transforms the spirit of Christmas through highly energized routines with themed costumes. Hope to see you there! www.centerstageschoolofdance.com; 619-401-7700.

saturday  |  3

LEGOLAND’s Holiday Snow Days. Join a ‘cool’ celebration that features the world’s largest LEGO Christmas tree, Let it Snow the musical (through Jan. 2), a nightly tree lighting ceremony (through Dec. 24), fireworks (Dec. 26-31) and real snow! Through Jan. 2; see website for hours. $59-$69. www.legoland.com; 760-918-LEGO.

“Little People Live!” Holiday Show. Get ready for lots of singing, dancing and merry surprises as Fisher-Price Little People characters Sonya Lee, Eddie and Michael discover the true meaning of the season. Today & tomorrow, 2 & 4 pm. Free with zoo admission. $30-$40. Balboa Park. www.sandiegozoo.org; 619-231-1515.

Holiday at the Rancho. Come to this annual event that makes the season a lot merrier with cookie decorating, a Santa visit, live entertainment, an outdoor screening of A Christmas Story, a tree lighting ceremony, shopping and more. Today, 5-8 pm. $5-$8; ages 3 & under free. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, 6200 Flying LC Lane, Carlsbad. www.carlsbadca.gov/parksandrec; 760-434-2843.

“The Nutcracker” by San Diego Ballet. See leaping Cossacks, flurries of snowflakes and a legion of rats! Tonight, 7:30 pm & tomorrow, 2:30 pm at Birch North Park Theater, 2891 University Ave., Ste. 1. Also, Dec. 17, 2 & 7:30 pm & Dec. 18, 2 pm at Mandeville Auditorium, UCSD Campus, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla. $20-$55. www.sandiegoballet.org; 619-294-7311.

Holiday Victorian Tea. Indulge in various traditional finger sandwiches and a selection of sweet treats and teas. Today, tomorrow, Dec. 10, 11, 15-24 & 26-31. $20-$42. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave. www.hoteldel.com; 619-522-8490.

Skating by the Sea. Experience outdoor ice-skating overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Through Dec. 16, daily skating sessions are 2-5 & 6-9 pm; weekend & holiday matinee sessions from 11 am-1 pm. All three skating sessions offered daily from Dec. 17-Jan. 1. $15-$25 includes skate rental. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. www.hoteldel.com; 800-468-3533.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. Jolly shows such as Shamu’s Christmas and Clyde and Seamore’s Night Before Christmas, SeaWorld’s Christmas Tree of Lights and SnowWorld, a winter wonderland of snowmen, snowballs and family fun! Today, tomorrow, Dec. 10, 11, 17-31 & Jan. 1, 2012. Free with admission. $65-$73. Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr., San Diego. www .seaworldsandiego.com; 800-25-SHAMU.

Breakfast with Shamu & Santa. Feast on a scrumptious breakfast buffet at poolside tables just a few feet away from SeaWorld’s family of killer whales. Santa makes an appearance, too! Today, tomorrow, Dec. 10, 11 & Dec. 17-24. $16-$26 plus tax, gratuity and park admission. For reservations, call or visit website. Interstate-5, exit SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworldsandigeo.com; 800-25-SHAMU.

North Pole Limited. Board the train at the historic Campo Depot for cookies and hot chocolate served by Santa’s elves, a reading of a famous Christmas story and a visit from Santa. Tonight, Dec. 9 & 17, 7 pm. $20-$45; under 2 free. Advance reservations required. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, Campo. www.psrm.org.

sunday  |  4

“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” See the Old Globe Theatre magically transform into the snow-covered Whoville, right down to the last can of Who-hash! Through Dec. 31; visit website for show times. Tickets start at $24. Old Globe Theatre, Balboa Park. www.theoldglobe.org; 619-23-GLOBE.

Holiday of Lights at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. This is the largest animated drive-through light show on the West Coast. More than 400 twinkling, lively displays located around the Del Mar Racetrack will delight your family. On select Fridays, tour the Holiday of Lights in our old-fashioned, open-air Holiday Hayride! Through Jan. 1 (closed Dec. 5 & 12). Sun.-Thurs., 5:30-10 pm; Fri. & Sat., 5:30-10:30 pm. $14 per car (up to 5 people); $19 per vehicle (6 or more people). 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.holidayoflights.com; 858-793-5555. Print the coupon in Family Magazine to save $1.50 on a single car admission or find it on page 33 of the December issue.

Holiday Happenings at SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium. Learn ‘green’ holiday tips, make eco-friendly crafts, watch a holiday-themed Daily Dive Show and more. Through Dec. 31; see website for hours. Free with admission. $13-$20. www.sealifeus.com.

“Arch, The Angel.” This children’s musical tells the story of an angel who discovers the real meaning of Christmas. Featuring the Foothills children’s choirs. Today, 3 pm. Free. Foothills United Methodist Church, 4031 Avocado Blvd., La Mesa. 619-670-4009.

monday  |  5
International Volunteer Day
Visit our donations, volunteers and local fundraisers page for opportunities 

wednesday  |  7

Fantasy on Ice. Chill out with friends and family in downtown’s outdoor ice skating rink. Through Jan. 8, 10 am-10 pm. Closed on Christmas Day. $12-$14 includes skate rental. 225 Broadway Circle, downtown San Diego. www.fantasyonicesd.org; 619-234-1031.

friday  |  9

“Traditions of Christmas: A Musical Spectacular.” A holiday extravaganza of the greatest Christmas songs and traditions from around the world. Tonight, Dec. 16 & 17, 7 pm; tomorrow & Dec. 21, 2 & 7 pm; Dec. 11, 18 & 22, 2 pm. $15-$48. Lincoln Performing Arts Center, 4777 Imperial Ave., San Diego. www.cytsandiego.org.

“The Nutcracker” by San Diego Civic Youth Ballet. Take a wondrous journey with Clara, the Nutcracker Prince and the Sugar Plum Fairy as a cast of 200 young dancers bring the magic of “The Nutcracker” to life. Set to the timeless music of Tchaikovsky, this holiday tradition is a must see for all children! Tonight & Dec. 16, 7 pm; tomorrow & Dec. 17, 2 & 7 pm; Dec. 11 & 18, 2 pm. $10-$15. Casa del Prado Theater, Balboa Park. www.sdcyb.org; 619-233-3060.

City Ballet’s “The Nutcracker.” Tonight, Dec. 16 & 20, 7:30 pm; tomorrow, Dec. 17 & 21, 2 & 7:30 pm; Dec. 11 & 18, 2 pm. $29-$59. Lunch with Sugar Plum Fairy & Friends prior to each Sat. matinee. Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway, downtown San Diego. www.cityballet.org; 858-272-8663.

Scripps Performing Arts Academy & Scripps Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker.” Watch the twists and turns of this enchanting production filled with costumed cuties! Dec. 9, 7 pm; Dec. 10, 2 & 7 pm & Dec. 11, 2 pm at Scripps Ranch High School Theater (10410 Treena St.). $30-$35. Call 858-586-7834 or 858-509-2624 for tickets. Also, don’t miss The Nutcracker Holiday Tea featuring an abridged youth performance plus tea, sandwiches and holiday sweets at The Grand Del Mar (5300 Grand Del Mar Ct.).   Dec. 18-21, 11 am-1 pm & 1-3 pm. Call 858-314-1988 for tickets.

Elite Gymnastics Annual Holiday Show and Potluck. All gymnastics and dance classes will be showcasing everything they have been working on at Elite to family, friends, neighbors, and the public. This year’s theme is Glee inspired. You are invited to come! There is no charge, we just ask that you bring a yummy dish to share. After the show we will mingle, and enjoy yummy food! Come out and enjoy the fun, you will leave with smiles! Tonight, 6-9pm. Call for more information: 619-441-5900. http://www.EliteGymnastics.com

Jungle Bells. See Dec 1.
Holiday Hayrides at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. See Dec. 2.
North Pole Limited. See Dec. 2.

saturday  |  10

Holiday Crafts. Kids make cards and ornaments with Indian finger weaving, pin-point window art, macramé and plastic canvas weaving. Today, 3-5 pm. Free. Renaissance Village Academy, 9988 Hibert St. #301, San Diego. http://rva.us.com; 858-564-9622.

Family Christmas Tea Party. Enjoy refreshments, music and Christmas trivia games, and build a gingerbread house. Today, noon-2 pm. $5 per family. Pre-registration required. First United Methodist Church of San Diego, 2111 Camino del Rio South, Mission Valley. www.fumcsd.org; 619-297-4366.

Free Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning. Ages 3 & up. Saturday, 11 am-3 pm. Dec. 10: Jolly Snowman; Dec. 24: Holiday Ornaments; Dec. 31: New Year’s Noisemaker. Lakeshore Learning Store, Hazard Center, 7510 Hazard Center Dr., San Diego & 702 Center Dr., San Marcos. www.lakeshorelearning.com/freecrafts4kids; 619-297-8494 or 760-504-0292.

Shopping for the kids today? Use the Lakeshore Learning Store coupon from page 49 of the December issue of Family Magazine or print it from the digital edition

“Santa Claus vs. the Martians.” See Dec. 2.
Skating by the Sea. See Dec. 3.
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” See Dec. 4.

sunday  |  11

Santa at the Lakes. Go sledding down our real snow hill! Warm up from the snow, enjoying visits with Santa, pony rides, a petting zoo, hay rides, holiday art activities, carnival rides, inflatables and a fire ring for the whole family to make s’mores. Today, 11 am-5 pm. $5 per car; ride/activity tickets $.50. Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve, 9310 Fanita Pkwy. www.santeelakes.com; 619-596-3141.

Hanukkah Happening. Crafts, prizes, photos with Shrek and Cinderella, carnival games, a silent auction and more. Today, 11 am-2 pm. $3; under 2 free. Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, Jacobs Family Campus, 4126 Executive Dr., La Jolla. www.lfjcc.com; 858-457-3030.

Fantasy on Ice Family Day. Ice-skating, crafts, Santa, live entertainment, food and more. Today, 1-4 pm. $15. For reservations, visit website. 225 Broadway Circle, downtown San Diego. www.helpsdkids.org/fantasyonice.

Enjoy a season of shimmer and sparkle with our Map of Christmas Lights

monday  |  12

“Santa vs. the Snowman.” Watch this animated IMAX film about Santa and his not-so-jolly showdown with the Snowman and his minions for the rights to Santa’s worldwide gift delivery franchise. Through the end of Dec.; visit website for screening times. $12.75-$15.75. Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.rhfleet.org; 619-238-1233.

wednesday |  14

Jingle Bell Kroc & 10News Toy Drive Christmas Festival. Enjoy free hot chocolate and cider, watch an ice-skating show, see Santa, make crafts and end the evening with a public ice-skating session. Today, 4-8 pm. Free admission with donation of an unwrapped toy ($5 or more). The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 6845 University Ave., San Diego. www.kroccenter.org.

friday  |  16

Santa at Play Town. This is a great opportunity for kids to share their Christmas wishes! Today, 11 am-1 pm. Free with admission. $8 per child; adults free. 858 Jackman St., El Cajon. www
.goplaytown.com; 619-447-7529.

A Christmas Tabernacle. The true meaning and spirit of Christmas come alive this December at A Christmas Tabernacle, a 3-day family-friendly festival. Features a wide range of activities and entertainment for family members of all ages, including specialty-goods vendors; two stages with non-stop Christmas entertainment, a Living Nativity, Santa’s Village with live reindeer and real snow, a themed Christmas Tree Forest with uniquely decorated trees; and a fun zone complete with games, inflatables and attractions. Dec. 16-18, 11 am-8 pm. $12-$18. NTC Liberty Station, Point Loma. For info and tickets: www.AChristmasTabernacle.com

Holiday Hayrides at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. See Dec 2.
Holiday Victorian Tea. See Dec. 3.

saturday  |  17

Parent’s Nite Out at Elite Gymnastics Academy: Circus. This is the perfect time to do some holiday shopping while the kids enjoy an evening of open gym and pizza. Tonight, 6-10 pm. $15. For ages 4 & up. Register online. 1817 John Towers Ave., El Cajon. www.elitegymnastics.com; 619-441-5900.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s Breakfast with Santa. Featuring a buffet breakfast with terrific views of wildlife, an animal presentation and a Santa visit. Today, 9-11 am. $12.95-$19.95 plus tax and gratuity. Call for reservations. www.sdzsafaripark.org; 760-738-5055.

“The Nutcracker” by West Coast Ballet Theatre. Come see West Coast Ballet Theater's production of The Nutcracker at California Center for the Arts, Escondido. The family-oriented performance, which features a cast of over 200 performers with internationally acclaimed guest artists, captures the magic, wonder and innocence of Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet as seen through a child's eyes. Spectacular sets, gorgeous costumes, special effects and live music by the San Diego Civic Youth Orchestra come together to create a stunning, grand-scale event that is sure to become a family tradition. Today, 1 & 7 pm & tomorrow, 1 pm. $18.50-$39. 340 N. Escondido Blvd. www.sandiegonutcracker.com; 800-988-4253.

“A Nutcracker Spectacular.” Danceology Performing Arts Campus presents this classic holiday delight for all ages. Today, 11 am & 2 pm. $12. Mt. Carmel High School Theater, 9550 Carmel Mountain Rd., San Diego. www.danceology.biz/news.

California Ballet’s “The Nutcracker.” Meet the cast and receive sweet treats at their Sugar Plum Parties after matinee performances. Today, Dec. 21-23, 2:30 & 7 pm; tomorrow, 1 & 5:30 pm. $25-$80; discounts available for ages 12 & under. San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown San Diego. www.californiaballet.org; 619-570-1100.

“Lead Me Back to Bethlehem” Christmas Concert. The Chancel Choir, accompanied by an orchestra, performs brand-new music that unravels the miracle and mystery of Jesus’ birth. Today, 5 & 7 pm. Free. Foothills United Methodist Church, 4031 Avocado Blvd., La Mesa. 619-670-4009.

Danceology’s Nutcracker Holiday Showcase. This family-friendly event will be held at Mt. Carmel High School in Rancho Peñasquitos with convenient show times at 11 am & 2 pm. Please bring your family and join Danceology for this classic holiday delight. Tickets are $12 each. http://www.danceology.biz/news/

North Pole Limited. See Dec. 2.
Fantasy on Ice. See Dec. 7.

sunday  |  18

Go Whale Watching with Hornblower. Featuring live narration about San Diego and marine life from San Diego Natural History Museum naturalists. Through Mid-April. Daily cruises at 9:30 am-1 pm & 1:30-5 pm. $17.50-$35. Boarding at 1600 N. Harbor Dr., downtown San Diego. 
www.hornblower.com; 619-686-8715.

“Santa Claus vs. the Martians.” See Dec. 2.
“The Nutcracker” by San Diego Ballet. See Dec. 3.
Skating by the Sea. See Dec. 3.
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” See Dec. 4.

monday  |  19

Rhythmic Gymnastics Winter Holiday Camp. Emerald City Academy of Rhythmic Gymnastics offers an excellent camp during the Christmas break. Take advantage of your daughter’s free time and give her the opportunity to learn the beautiful sport of Rhythmic Gymnastics as well as perform ballet classes and funny activities of arts & crafts and games. We offer half day sessions and full day sessions Dec. 19-22 & Dec. 27-30. Bring your daughter to our Winter Holiday Camp so she will learn new skills and keep fit while having fun! http://www.emeraldcityrhythmics.com/; 619-437-4161.

Kroc Center Winter Day Camp. The Kroc Center's American Camp Association Accredited Day Camp program presents Winter Kroc Adventure camps for ages 5 to 14! Enjoy four weeks of fun from December 19-January 13, 8 am-4 pm with free extended care hours (drop off as early as 6:30 am and pick-up as late as 6 pm). Daily and weekly rates are offered. Visit us at www.kroccenter.org for information. 619-269-1460.

KinderCare Winter Break Camps. Have a camper that goes bonker for beakers? Try Radical Reactions for some scientific fun. Fascinated by flight? Send your camper soaring with Wright Flight! www.kindercare.com/camps; 888-518-2201.

Drop & Shop Days for Kids at Chula Vista Nature Center. Drop off your kids (Ages 4-12) for some nature fun while you complete your holiday shopping! Live animals, outdoor fun, games, crafts and more! Dec 19-23, 10 am-3 pm. $35/day or $140/week ($30/$120 for members). Discounts available for siblings. Call today to reserve a spot! www.chulavistanaturecenter.org; 619-409-5900.

tuesday  |  20
Hanukkah Begins at Sundown

City Ballet’s “The Nutcracker.” See Dec. 9.

thursday  |  22

“Traditions of Christmas: A Musical Spectacular.” See Dec. 9.
Holiday Victorian Tea. See Dec. 3.
Drop & Shop Days for Kids at Chula Vista Nature Center. See Dec. 19. 

saturday |  24
Christmas Eve

First United Methodist Church of San Diego’s Christmas Eve Candlelight Services begin at 5 pm with a special worship for families. See the Christmas story unfold with a live nativity, carols and candle lighting. Traditional services with carols and candlelight at 7, 9 & 11 pm. Christmas Day worship at 9:30 & 11 am. Childcare available, all services. 2111 Camino del Rio South, Mission Valley. www.fumcsd.org; 619-297-4366.

Christmas Eve Services at Foothills United Methodist Church. Family service at 4 pm; Candlelight services at 6:30 & 8:30 pm; Candlelight & Communion at 11 pm. 4031 Avocado Blvd., La Mesa. www.FoothillsUMC.org; 619-670-4009.

Skating by the Sea. See Dec. 3.
Free Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning. See Dec 10.

sunday  |  25
Christmas

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. See Dec. 3.
Holiday of Lights at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. See Dec. 4.
LEGOLAND’s Holiday Snow Days. See Dec. 3.

monday  |  26

Tinkering Studio Winter Camps. Single day or full week option December 26-30, 9am-4pm at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. Grades 1-2 and 3-4. $45 per day. Grab your tool belt and join us for classes devoted to the science of tinkering. Use design aspects from our new “Tinkering Studio” and “Geometry Playground” exhibitions to engineer mighty structures, experiment with unique geometry gadgets, and conjure up crazy contraptions out of recycled materials. Let the tinkering begin! Balboa Park, www.rhfleet.org; 619-238-1233.

tuesday  |  27

Rhythmic Gymnastics Winter Holiday Camp. See Dec. 19.

wednesday  |  28

Port of San Diego Big Bay Balloon Parade. See world-class marching bands, eye-catching floats, entertaining drill teams and gigantic balloons rule the streets! Today, 10 am. For more family fun, head down to Broadway Pier at the Amtrak Big Bay Family Festival for games and entertainment. 9 am-1 pm. Free admission. North Harbor Dr., downtown San Diego. www.bridgepointeducationholidaybowl.com; 619-283-5808.

Holiday Day Camps at Chula Vista Nature Center. Hands-on nature fun for kids and teens ages 4-18. Explore the wetlands of San Diego Bay and Sweetwater Marsh Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy up-close animal encounters with sea turtles, sharks, rays, hawks, owls and more. Feed their curiosity with a fun and educational adventure. Ideal for animal lovers! Dec. 28-30 & Jan 2-6. Times vary by age group. Check website or call for details. www.chulavistanaturecenter.org; 619-409-5900.

Holiday Victorian Tea. See Dec. 3.

saturday  |  31
New Year’s Eve

Kids’ New Year’s Eve at LEGOLAND. The party starts with a mini-concert in Holiday Fun Town during the day then continues with games and more musical performances from 2:30-6 pm in Miniland U.S.A. Don’t miss a countdown followed by a huge LEGO brick drop and fireworks at 6 pm to ring in the new year! Free with admission. $59-$69. www.legoland.com; 760-918-LEGO.

Fantasy on Ice. See Dec. 7.
Free Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning. See Dec. 10.

Things change, especially this holiday season. That’s why we’ve included phone numbers and websites when available. Since most activities require advance reservations or have limited space, don’t forget to call first to confirm dates, times and admission prices.