Looking for a festive getaway this holiday season? Fortunately, us Angelenos don’t have to travel far for a change of scenery. From holiday-themed performances at San Diego’s Old Globe theater to family-friendly cruises on Mission Bay, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during a quick weekend to our neighbors down south.
A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place San Diego
Join Jingle Bell Elf, Burt, Ernie and the rest of the Sesame Street friends for a Grand Illumination Ceremony, where the park’s 24-foot-tall Christmas tree comes to life with thousands of twinkling lights. For more holiday magic, experience Elmo’s Christmas Wish Show, the Sesame Street Christmas Cavalcade and an all-new holiday-themed menu at Dine with Elmo & Friends. A Very Furry Christmas runs now through Jan. 5, 2025. Included with park admission.
SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration
Grab a photo with Santa at Santa’s Village, join Mrs. Claus for her Christmas Parade, experience Donner and Blitzen’s Lazer Light Show, catch the nightly interactive tree lighting ceremony, savor some hot chocolate and other festive treats and more. If you’re in town on Dec. 14 or Dec. 31 you can also see A Christmas Wish Fireworks Show. SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration runs now through Jan. 5, 2025. Included with park admission.
Holidays at LEGOLAND
Guests can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit by training to become an elf at the new Elf Training Academy, taking “elfies” with the all-new LEGO® elf characters, Ivy and Frode, or mastering their jolly good dance moves at the new Holly Hype Dance Party. And don’t miss the North Pole Postal Service where guests can mail letters to Santa by dropping them in a special mailbox, where eager elves will ensure they make their way to the North Pole. The elf fun continues as you stroll through the park where you’ll be greeted by the iconic three-story-tall twinkling LEGO Christmas tree built out of more than 364,481 LEGO® and DUPLO® bricks. Holidays at LEGOLAND is open select days through Jan. 5, 2025. Included with park admission.
Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Holiday magic at San Diego Zoo Safari Park includes photos with Santa, illuminated Safari Park-themed tree and Bridge of Lights, live music, sweet treats and more. Join Safari Parker for ‘Twas the Night Before Wild Holidays, an interactive storytelling experience ending in a wintery finale. Wild Holidays is open select nights Nov. 29-Jan. 5, 2025. Included with admission.
Jingle Belle Cruises on Mission Bay
Hop aboard a Whoville-inspired William D. Evans sternwheeler and cruise along Mission Bay for a holiday-themed ride. The family-friendly cruises include a welcome hot cider, candy bags for the kids, face painting, balloons, crafts, carolers, photos with Santa and more. Don’t forget to stop by the lobby at The Bahia or Catamaran resorts to see the beautiful Gingerbread House Displays. Jingle Belle Cruises depart from the Bahia and Catamaran resorts Dec. 20-24. $45 per person.
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas at The Old Globe
Renowned regional theatre complex, The Old Globe, presents beloved holiday musical, “Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” for its 27th year. The family favorite show is for children ages 3 and up. However, the 10:30 a.m. performances are all-ages and children under the age of two are free. Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! performs Nov. 6-Dec. 31. $78-$127.
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
The 54th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights returns with its 2024 theme, Peace on Earth, featuring approximately 80 decorated boats with dazzling light displays. Starting at Shelter Island the holiday boat parade makes its way to Harbor Island, The Embarcadero, Seaport Village and The Pier at Cesar Chavez Park before ending its journey at Ferry Landing on Coronado. San Diego Bay Parade of Lights runs Dec. 8 and Dec. 15. FREE.
