Even though San Diego doesn’t experience traditional snowy winters, the city still offers plenty of fun, family-friendly activities to celebrate the season. From festive events to outdoor adventures, there are many ways to make the most of winter in San Diego. Here are some ideas to help your family enjoy the holiday spirit and create lasting memories.
1. Ice Skating by the Beach
One of the unique winter experiences in San Diego is ice skating near the ocean. Several outdoor rinks pop up during the winter months, allowing families to enjoy a classic winter activity with a beachside twist. Popular spots include:
• Skating by the Sea at the Hotel del Coronado: This iconic beachfront hotel sets up a holiday ice skating rink right next to the ocean. It’s a magical experience with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Rady Children’s Ice Rink (Liberty Station): This outdoor rink is a fun option for families, and proceeds go toward a good cause, benefiting the Rady Children’s Hospital.
2. Snow Play at the Mountains
While San Diego itself may not get snow, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy some winter fun in the snow. Head to nearby mountain areas for a day of sledding, snowball fights, or even building a snowman. Popular nearby spots include:
• Mount Laguna: Located about an hour from downtown San Diego, Mount Laguna often gets a blanket of snow during the winter. Families can enjoy hiking, snow play, and even some sledding.
• Julian: This charming mountain town not only offers apple pies but also sees snow in the winter, making it a fun spot for snow play.\
3. Holiday Light Displays
San Diego comes alive with holiday lights during the winter season, and there are several neighborhoods and parks where families can take in the dazzling displays:
• Balboa Park’s December Nights: One of San Diego’s most beloved holiday traditions, December Nights transforms Balboa Park into a winter wonderland with light displays, performances, food, and holiday cheer. Families can enjoy strolling through the beautifully lit park and taking part in festive activities.
• Botanic Wonderland at San Diego Botanic Garden: The garden lights up with festive holiday displays, including beautiful light sculptures, a winter village, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
• Candy Cane Lane (Poway): This neighborhood is famous for its over-the-top holiday lights. Walking or driving through the streets filled with colorful, twinkling lights is sure to get everyone into the holiday spirit.
4. Old Town Holiday Events
Old Town San Diego takes on a festive vibe during the winter months, with historical holiday events that highlight the traditions of the past. Families can explore the beautifully decorated streets, enjoy live entertainment, and take part in special events like:
• Las Posadas: This traditional Mexican holiday event re-enacts the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph in search of a place to stay. The celebration features a candle-lit procession, piñatas, and caroling, followed by festive treats.
5. San Diego Zoo’s Jungle Bells
During the winter season, the San Diego Zoo transforms into a holiday wonderland with its Jungle Bells event. Families can stroll through the zoo while enjoying festive decorations, live entertainment, and special holiday-themed animal presentations. Kids will love the twinkling lights, musical performances, and Santa’s workshop.
6. LEGOLAND Holiday Events
LEGOLAND California hosts a variety of holiday events and activities during the winter season, including the Holidays at LEGOLAND celebration. Families can enjoy festive decorations, giant LEGO holiday displays, and even a life-sized LEGO Santa. Kids can participate in seasonal activities, watch holiday-themed shows, and take photos with LEGO characters dressed for the occasion.
7. Go Whale Watching
Winter marks the beginning of whale watching season in San Diego. From December through April, gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California, and families can take boat tours to see these majestic creatures up close. Several companies in San Diego offer family-friendly whale watching tours, making it a great outdoor adventure for kids and adults alike.
8. Take a Hike
Winter in San Diego brings cooler temperatures, making it the perfect time for a family-friendly hike. Explore scenic coastal trails or venture into the mountains for breathtaking views and outdoor fun. Popular family hiking spots include:
• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: This coastal gem offers trails with stunning ocean views, perfect for families looking for a scenic hike in cooler weather.
• Mission Trails Regional Park: With trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels, this park is a great spot for a winter family hike and a picnic.
9. Visit a Holiday Market
San Diego offers several festive holiday markets that provide families the chance to shop for unique gifts while enjoying seasonal treats, crafts, and live entertainment. Some favorites include:
• Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village: This festive market in Little Italy features holiday shopping, food vendors, live music, and a tree lighting ceremony, making it a great place for families to soak in the holiday atmosphere.
• Seaport Village Holiday Market: Families can explore the shops at Seaport Village, enjoy holiday music, and take part in seasonal activities like ornament-making and photos with Santa.
10. Visit SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
SeaWorld San Diego transforms into a winter wonderland during its Christmas Celebration, offering a variety of holiday-themed shows, festive decorations, and special events. Families can experience live performances, meet Santa and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and enjoy the park’s festive lights and holiday displays.
11. Holiday Parades
San Diego hosts several holiday parades that bring together the community for festive fun. These parades feature beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and even Santa Claus. Some popular parades include:
• The Port of San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: Watch as boats decked out in holiday lights and decorations cruise along the San Diego Bay. This unique parade can be viewed from various points around the harbor, making it a fun and festive family outing.
• Encinitas Holiday Parade: This annual event features marching bands, floats, and performers making their way through downtown Encinitas, celebrating the holiday spirit.
Final Thoughts
Winter in San Diego may not bring snow, but it offers plenty of family-friendly activities that embrace the season. From festive light displays and holiday markets to outdoor adventures and special seasonal
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