Holiday events in Coronado bring the community together each winter with tree lighting ceremonies, festive celebrations, and seasonal traditions. For longtime residents or those considering making Coronado your home, here are the best winter season and holiday events around the island and San Diego County in 2025.
Coronado Holiday Events and Winter Celebrations
Coronado’s community spirit shines brightest during the holiday season! Here are holiday and winter events around Coronado in 2025.
NOTE: The Hotel Del Coronado hosts a TON of events each year. We’ll cover all their 2025 events in the second section below. 👇
12th Annual Coronado Turkey Trot
November 27, 2025 at 8:00 AM | Tidelands Park
This family-friendly 5K benefits Rady Children’s Hospital and welcomes runners and walkers of all ages. The flat course offers breathtaking views along San Diego Bay. Sign up here.
Coronado Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
December 5, 2025 at 6:00 PM | Orange Avenue
Watch the lighting of the magnificent 120-foot Christmas tree adorned with 18,175 twinkling lights at Rotary Plaza. The parade features over 1,400 participants along a route beginning on Orange Avenue and looping at RH Dana and Adella.
Lamb’s Players Festival of Christmas
December 3-28, 2025 | 1142 Orange Ave
Lamb’s Players Theater has delighted audiences for over four decades with fabulous Christmas productions that entertain young and old alike.
Coronado Philharmonia Holiday Concert
December 6, 2025 at 7:00 PM | Coronado School of the Arts, 650 D Ave
Celebrate the season with the 5th Annual Holidays in Coronado Concert, featuring the Christopher Hollyday Jazz Quartet for an unforgettable evening of music and cheer. This performance sells out quickly.
Coronado Artisan’s Alley Craft Fair
December 6, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM | Village Elementary School, 600 6th Street
The 53rd annual craft fair features more than 150 vendors showcasing homemade crafts and unique holiday gifts, food vendors, and live performances by Coronado school bands and choirs. Suggested donation includes a raffle ticket.
Coronado Holiday Cabaret
December 19-21, 2025 | Coronado Playhouse
This annual holiday sing-along brings together CPH alums for a feel-good celebration. Shows Friday and Saturday at 7:00 PM, Sunday at 2:00 PM.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
December 14 & 21, 2025 at 5:30 PM | Best viewed from Coronado Ferry Landing
The 55th annual parade features over 75 lavishly decorated boats and brings more than 100,000 spectators to the shores of San Diego Bay. The parade arrives at the Ferry Landing approximately 7:40 PM. Free to view.
Wine & Jazz New Year’s Eve Concert
December 29-31, 2025 | Loews Coronado Bay Resort
Hosted by Mindi Abair, this inspired celebration combines world-class music, fine wine, and incredible food in an unforgettable setting to ring in the new year.
Hotel del Coronado Holiday Festivities
Every year, the iconic Hotel del Coronado elevates the holiday experience with signature events and seasonal offerings. Here are their events for 2025.
A Holiday in Oz
November 21 – January 4
Inspired by L. Frank Baum’s deep connection to The Del, the hotel transforms into the magical land of Oz with stunning themed trees, thousands of glittering lights, and festive feasts in the Crown Room. Special opening day performance by Broadway star Jenna Leigh Green at 5:30 PM on November 21.
Thanksgiving at The Del
November 27, 2025
Savor an elegant Thanksgiving buffet in the beautifully restored Crown Room or take in sweeping panoramic views from the Ocean Ballroom.
Holiday Festival
December 3, 2025
This community event features performances by Coronado school children, Skydiving Santa with photos, Skating by the Sea, and a dazzling fireworks show.
Skating by the Sea
November 21 – January 4
Take a spin around the famous beachfront ice rink featuring stunning Pacific views. Benefits Make-A-Wish San Diego.
Beachside Igloos
November 21 – January 4
Get cozy inside a beach igloo with plush seating and roast s’mores around a private bonfire.
Frostbite Lounge
November 21 – January 4
Reserve your own rink side lounge at Skating by the Sea with a cozy fire pit and food and drink service for up to 12 people.
Photos with Santa
December 5-7, 12-14, 19-24
Celebrate the holidays with a classic family photo with jolly Old St. Nick.
Victorian Tea
December 18-22
Take a step back in time with a classic Victorian Tea in the historic Crown Room.
Christmas Eve Dinner
December 24, 2025
Celebrate the season with a decadent Christmas Eve buffet dinner in the stunning Crown Room.
Christmas Day Brunch
December 25, 2025
Create special holiday memories with a Christmas Day feast in the magnificent Crown Room.
Holiday Movies on the Beach
November 29 & December 6, 13, 20, 27, 31
Snuggle up on Del Beach for favorite holiday movies in a theater under the stars.
Gingerbread House Decorating
December 12-14, 20-24
Create classic holiday memories as you decorate a festive gingerbread house with your family.
Elf Deliveries
December 12-14, 20-24
Surprise your loved ones with a personalized delivery from Santa’s little helpers.
Wonder of Oz Lightshow Spectacular
November 21 – January 4
The Del’s historic pine trees are draped in a spectacular light show set to an Oz-inspired soundtrack with a finale of snow flurries.
Tinsel Trail to Oz
November 21 – January 1
Journey along the yellow brick road on a self-guided trail featuring themed Christmas trees and iconic Wizard of Oz characters, plus a special experience in The Garden Courtyard.
Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Party at The Laundry
December 31, 2025
Ring in the New Year with a live band, open bar, and delectable bites.
All Hotel del Coronado holiday events require reservations and prepayment to confirm. Find complete details and book at hoteldel.com/experience/holidays.
Holiday Events Across San Diego
Beyond Coronado, the greater San Diego area offers exceptional holiday attractions and seasonal activities. Here’s what’s happening this year, from downtown celebrations to North County holiday events.
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas
November 5 – December 31, 2025 | Old Globe Theatre, Balboa Park
Enjoy the annual holiday production and explore the Whoville decorations in the plaza outside the theater. Take a walk around Balboa Park to discover its beautiful architecture.
Encinitas Holiday Street Fair
November 23, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
A holiday tradition since 1989 featuring children’s rides, two stages of live entertainment, and food and drink. Held annually on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
Liberty Station Tree Lighting & Festivities
November 28, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM | North Promenade
Celebrate the season at Liberty Station’s Salute the Season main event with festive activities throughout the promenade.
The Peppermint Beach Club at Westfield UTC
Through December 24, 2025
Enjoy San Diego-style snowfall, craft cocktails, curated food, photos with Santa, live entertainment, and special offers at this festive happening in UTC.
Julian’s Country Christmas and Tree Lighting
November 29, 2025 | Pioneer Park
Watch the lighting of Julian’s huge living Christmas tree and visit with Santa. Hundreds of visitors gather to kick off the holiday season. More Julian holiday events.
Surfin’ Santa Arrival at Seaport Village
November 29, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Watch Santa cruise in from San Diego Bay by watercraft and lead a festive parade to the fountain courtyard. Free downloadable photos with Surfin’ Santa on his giant surfboard.
Paradise Point Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 4, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM | Paradise Terrace
Roast s’mores over the bonfire, enjoy caroling, The Churro Addict food truck, holiday cocktails, and activities for kids of all ages.
Balboa Park December Nights
December 5-6, 2025
Friday 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Saturday 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
A two-day holiday celebration filled with carolers, live music, light displays, theater and dance performances, and delicious food from around the world.
Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village
December 6, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
See the unique 25-foot tower of 1,100 gorgeous poinsettias. Enjoy festive decorations, live music and entertainment, snacks, and holiday beverages.
Starlight Parade & Festival
December 6, 2025 | Third Avenue, Chula Vista
The 61st annual celebration features dazzling floats, Santa’s Holiday Train, a holiday market, live music at Memorial Park, and free family photos with Santa.
Encinitas Holiday Parade
December 6, 2025 at 5:30 PM | South Coast Highway 101 between D St. and J St.
This year’s theme is Peace by the Pacific, celebrating the laid-back spirit of beachside Encinitas with creative entries reflecting coastal community culture.
OB Holiday Parade
December 6, 2025 at 5:00 PM
For more than 40 years, Ocean Beach has hosted one of the best holiday parades in SoCal.
Winter Wonderland Festival
December 6-7, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM | Downtown Escondido
Play in real snow, make festive crafts, visit Santa, and enjoy seasonal food, drinks, and holiday shopping. Free community event bringing North Pole magic to Escondido.
SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off
December 7, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM | 32nd & Thorn St, North Park
Sample chili from local restaurants, pick out hand-spun ceramic bowls, shop for holiday gifts from local artisans, and enjoy free live music, kids’ games, gourmet food trucks, and craft beer.
La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival
December 7, 2025 at 1:30 PM | Downtown La Jolla
The parade features marching bands, community groups, drill teams, vintage vehicles, horses, and a camel. Includes a holiday festival and tree lighting ceremony.
Jingle Terrace Nights
December 8-23, 2025 (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays) from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM | Moonlight Amphitheatre, Vista
Free holiday event featuring light shows, refreshments, festive displays, live entertainment, and photo opportunities. Food and drinks available for purchase.
Las Posadas: An Old Town Celebration
December 13, 2025 starting at 4:00 PM | Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
The 67th annual celebration rekindles cherished Mexican traditions and the warmth of the holiday season.
Poway’s Christmas in the Park
December 12-13, 2025 from 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM | Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Road
Tree lighting ceremony, visits from Santa, train rides, live music, theater performances, food, treats, and crafts. Tree lighting and Santa’s arrival by train only on Friday, December 12 at 6:00 PM.
La Mesa’s Holiday in the Village
December 13, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM | La Mesa Blvd. between Spring St. and 4th St.
The 10th annual event features live music and dance, cozy fires, craft vendors, food, and a kids area with holiday movies and activities.
Gaslamp Quarter Pet Parade
December 13, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM | Gaslamp Quarter
Watch adorable dogs and their owners parade in colorful fashion through the heart of the Gaslamp.
Liberty Station Hanukkah and Menorah Lighting
December 14, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Central Promenade next to Rady Children’s Ice Rink
Public menorah lighting to commemorate the first night of Hanukkah, hosted in partnership with The Chabads of Downtown San Diego and Pacific Beach.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion Holiday Concerts
Sundays at 2:00 PM | Balboa Park
Free organ concerts at the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ. Special holiday events: November 30 (San Diego Youth Ballet), December 4-5 (December Nights), December 14 (Holiday Celebration at 1:30 PM).
San Diego Christmas Tree Trail
Throughout December 2025
Follow the trail to discover unique Christmas trees throughout San Diego, from beachside trees to rooftop displays and themed Grinch trees.
Country Christmas in Julian
Every Saturday in December
Drive to the mountain town for hot apple cider and legendary homemade apple pie. Enjoy wandering Christmas carolers and a living nativity scene.
Snapdragon Bowl Bash
January 1, 2026 | 5th & Market, Downtown San Diego
Free family fun with a Battle of the Bands featuring university bands, photo booths, interactive games, street performers, food and drink specials, and a photo op with the Holiday Bowl Trophy.
Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade
January 2, 2026 at 10:00 AM | Downtown San Diego along San Diego Bay
The country’s largest balloon parade features massive balloons, floats, and marching bands along the bayfront.
Experience Coronado's Holiday Magic Year After Year
For those considering Coronado real estate, the holiday season offers a perfect glimpse into the community’s welcoming atmosphere. Whitney Benzian specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the Coronado real estate market, offering deep local knowledge and personalized service. Browse Coronado luxury properties or review our detailed market reports for local insights.
Current homeowners interested in selling can access a free home valuation to understand their property’s value in today’s market. Whether you’re buying or selling, working with the top Coronado Realtor ensures a smooth transaction backed by extensive community expertise.
Learn more about Whitney’s approach to real estate and commitment to client success on the About page, or explore additional San Diego communities served by the team.
Ready to make Coronado your home? Contact Whitney Benzian to discuss your real estate goals and discover opportunities in this exceptional coastal community.