It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and whether you’re continuing timeless family traditions or starting new ones, we have the scoop on where to make lasting family memories.
San Diego Symphony
San Diego Symphony presents its annual Noel Noel concert Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. All performances will be indoors at the newly renovated, world-class Jacobs Music Center in downtown San Diego. Audiences will experience a festive program full of Christmas classics, sing-alongs, holiday cheer and jolly spirit. Purchase tickets at www.sandiegosymphony.org/performances/noel-noel.
Family Christmas Tree Farm
Experience the joy of finding the perfect Christmas tree at Family Christmas Tree Farm in El Cajon. Choose from a variety of fresh-cut trees or cut your own (all materials provided). Kids love the tractor ride, exploring the mini hay maze and interacting with the farm animals. Use the coupon on page 3 the December issue of San Diego Family Magazine for $5 off a purchase of $50 or more. Open daily starting Nov. 29 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
The Old Globe Theatre
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! returns for a 27th year of holiday fun for the entire family. Based on the classic Dr. Seuss book, this wonderful, whimsical musical features favorite songs like “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Fah Who Doraze.” Celebrate the holidays at The Old Globe Theatre, which is transformed into snow-covered Who-ville, right down to the last can of Who-hash. All-ages performances are available. www.TheOldGlobe.org
Village Walk
Visit Village Walk at Eastlake for a dazzling holiday light show and snowfall every Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 1–22 at 6 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Santa arrives Sat., Dec. 7! Enjoy free visits with Santa in his sleigh from Noon–3 p.m., plus free train rides and a craft.
Sunday Fun Days (Dec. 8 & 15 from 4–6 p.m.) feature free photos with Frosty in a life-size frame. www.ShopVillageWalk.com
Christy’s Toy Outlet
Visit Christy’s Toy Outlet for all your holiday shopping needs! San Diego’s independently owned toy shop in East County offers a wonderful selection of toys, puzzles and games for all ages, plus complimentary gift wrapping on purchases over $25. We ship anywhere in the U.S. for a small fee. www.christystoyoutlet.com
Julian’s Country Christmas
Julian’s Country Christmas, an old-fashioned holiday celebration, promises fun for the whole family! Visit Santa at Town Hall, attend the Christmas sing-along and light parade (Dec. 7), catch a performance of “A Christmas Carol” and mail letters to the North Pole in Santa’s mailbox. Enjoy unique shopping, dining and lodging. www.juliancountrychristmas.com
Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular
Experience a Coastal Christmas—eight days of holiday fun featuring a dazzling holiday lights trail, Glice skating, Frosty’s Fun Zone, festive food and drinks, holiday market and more! Dec. 13–15, 20–23 and 26, from 4–9 p.m. at Del Mar Fairgrounds. Buy tickets and special experiences at www.coastalchristmasdelmar.com.
The Super Dentists Visits with Santa
Join us for Santa Day at The Super Dentists! Enjoy festive photos with Santa, ToothKeri and MeloD, plus hot chocolate, cookies and a free SuperMouth gift (different dates for each location). Capture holiday smiles and earn extra reward points with morning appointments. To schedule, call (619) DENTIST or visit www.thesuperdentists.com/santa-visits.
Celebrate Hanukkah
Looking for fun ideas to celebrate Hanukkah with your family? Discover creative crafts, tasty recipes, local Menorah lightings and more in our round-up of ways to celebrate Hanukkah with kids. We’ve even included San Diego’s favorite Jewish delis, which offer traditional foods for the holiday. Find all the details at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/seasonal-happenings/ways-to-celebrate-hanukkah.
New Year’s Eve with Kids
Ring in the new year! When you have kids at home, planning a big New Year’s Eve out for parents can be challenging (and expensive). Don’t worry. There are plenty of fun ways to make the last evening of the year special for the whole family! Discover local kid-friendly events in addition to great ideas for making epic New Year’s Eve memories at home at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/seasonal-happenings/7-ways-to-ring-in-the-new-year-with-your-kids.
Map of Christmas Lights
Wondering why our Map of Christmas Lights is the best? Because we were the first to create it over 30 years ago -- and more importantly, we have connections with the homeowners and businesses featured, so we update the information year after year, adding new neighborhoods, updating themes, dates and more. www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/san-diego-s-best-map-of-christmas-lights
Updated December 2024
