It’s the first weekend in December, which means it’s the start of the meteorological winter. Which also means that it’s the start of the holiday season.
Around town, there are several festivals and celebrations of Old Man Winter, starting with an annual San Diego favorite, December Nights.
But if the hustle and bustle of the crowds aren’t your thing, there are a few other options around town.
December Nights
Formerly known as Christmas on the Prado, the 36th annual December Nights is a San Diego tradition. More than 300 thousand people are expected over the two-day event.
Museum admissions are free from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on both nights, so take advantage see what some of the best museums in Southern California has to offer.
There are some top-notch musical, theater and dance performances around the park, not to mention the annual tradition of food offerings from around the world at the International Christmas Festival at the House of Pacific Relations.
December Nights is San Diego’s largest free community celebration. The event goes from 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. Friday and noon to 10 p.m. Saturday in Balboa Park.
Coronado Christmas Parade & Open House
Don’t want to head to Balboa Park but don’t want to miss Santa either? Coronado has you cover.
The annual festivities kick off at 3:20 p.m. Friday with Santa arriving at the Ferry Landing. Afterwards, pick out a favorite spot on Orange Avenue for the Christmas Parade starting at 6 p.m.
The annual lighting of the Christmas Tree is at 7 p.m. at the Rotary Plaza, 1100 Orange Ave.
Alpine Village Christmas Parade and Snow Festival
For those in the East County, you can join in the fun at the 18th Annual Alpine Village Christmas Parade and Snow Festival.
The parade starts at 6:30 p.m. Friday on Alpine Road. Afterward, the free Snow Festival starts t the Alpine Creek Town Center, 1347 Tavern Road.
The event feature Santa Claus, free snow sledding along with a host of family-friendly activities till 9 p.m.
North Park Toyland Parade & Festival
If staying late with your wee ones isn’t an option, try the 51st Annual North Park Toyland Parade & Festival.
One of the San Diego’s oldest parade, the march starts at 11 a.m. Saturday on University Avenue between Utah and Iowa streets. Afterward, the festival lasts until 4 p.m.
Santa is expected to make an appearance, as well as several elected officials.
Chula Vista Holiday in the Village and Starlight Parade
In the South Bay, Chula Vistans can celebrate the holidays at the annual Holiday in the Village starting at noon Saturday.
There are holiday themed performances, children’s activities ad strolling performances. Not to mention shopping specials from shops along Third Avenue Village.
After the festivities wrap up, stay for the Starlight Parade, which kicks off at 6 p.m. down Third Avenue from H to E streets.
Encinitas Holiday Parade
Being the surfing and action sports capital of San Diego, Encinitias does its Holiday Parade a bit differently.
Expect to see plenty of big name surfers, skateboarders, snowboarders and more and terrific representations of the action sports lifestyle on the many floats and entries in the parade.
The parade starts at 5 p.m. Saturday along Coast Highway 101.
La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival
Vintage cars, horses and Santa, the annual La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival has all the elements of a traditional Christmas parade.
The parade starts at 1:30 p.m. Sunday at Girard Avenue and continues down Prospect Street, ending at the Contemporary Museum of Art.
The Holiday Festival starts at 5 p.m. at the La Jolla Rec Center, 615 Prospect St.
