San Diego is a great place to be in December. The weather is usually still mild with the sun shining most days. We don’t have snow, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t in the holiday spirit! And with so much to do in San Diego the month of December, it is a great time to indulge in some holiday fun. Read on for six family-friendly activities to enjoy the month of December!
Find some snow!
While it doesn’t actually snow in San Diego, there is a list of places to visit that will actually have real snow! So, dress accordingly and plan on a fun day of sledding and snow angels. Check out these spots in Escondido, Oceanside, and the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Where to see Christmas lights
There are so many neighborhoods that really go all out when it comes to decorating. Pack up the kids and drive around to see the sights. Plan to leave early as a lot of these homes can get crowded. Also, bring cash. Some of the homes will sell hot chocolate, cookies or other treats. Bring this Christmas scavenger hunt print out with you to add to the fun! Visit Marisa Lane in Encinitas for 3 cul-de-sacs all lit up. In Carlsbad visit Ammonite Court and the Carlsbad Christmas House at 6646 Elegant Tern Place. The Carlsbad Christmas House transforms into Santa’s Village complete with a letterbox to drop off your letters to Santa and you’ll even get a reply from him! Every year on Dec. 14th they host a community party with hot chocolate, mulled wine and other holiday treats!
Visit a Christmas tree farm
If you want to experience the magic of picking and cutting your own Christmas tree, visit one of these spots. The Family Christmas Tree Farm in El Cajon offers delivery and welcomes dogs. Highland Valley Christmas Tree Farm in Ramona is a great place to spend the day as they offer wine, Italian food, live music on the weekends and plenty of kid activities. They will also cut and net the tree for you!
Go ice skating by the sea
Between November 17th to January 1st, enjoy a truly magical experience ice skating by the sea at the famous Hotel Del in Coronado. Take in views of the Pacific while also benefiting the Make-A-Wish San Diego. Make a day of it and reserve a spot rink-side or ocean-side at the Frostbite Lounge with plush seating, warm fire pits, holiday-themed libations, and tasty bites. Tickets include ice skate rental and up to 90 minutes of skating.
Holidays at Legoland California
Celebrate the holidays at Carlsbad’s theme park LEGOLAND on select days in November and December where the holiday cheer fills the air! Thousands of Legos come together to create a 30ft tall Christmas tree that light up during the Holiday Light Show which features falling “snow,” a holiday fireworks show lights up the sky, and dazzling holiday shows burst throughout the park. Holiday characters are also out and about during the season as well so be sure to bring your camera!
Have breakfast with Santa
Here’s your chance to meet Santa and tell him what’s on your Christmas list while enjoying breakfast at Joe’s Crab Shack in Oceanside! Adults and kids will enjoy holiday activities, games to win prizes, and taking your own photo with Santa.
