Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo (Fri–Sun)

If you want “holiday magic without leaving San Diego,” this is the move: lights, music, and festive zones all across the Zoo—plus it stays open later so you can do the whole after-dark vibe. Jungle Bells runs Dec 19, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026 (except Dec 24) and the Zoo is lit up until 8 PM.

Wild Holidays at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (Fri–Sun)

For a bigger “winter wonderland” feel (and more space), head to the Safari Park in Escondido—holiday lights, themed entertainment, and that sunset-to-night transition hits extra nice out there. Wild Holidays is running Dec 26 – Jan 4 and the park is open until 8 PM on event nights.

Skating by the Sea at Hotel del Coronado (Fri–Sun)

This is a classic “cute night out” plan: ocean air, lights, and an ice rink right at Hotel del. From Dec 19 – Jan 4, it’s running daily 10 AM–10 PM, so you can do an afternoon skate or go late for maximum atmosphere.

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration + Kwanzaa Festivities (Fri–Sun)

If you want a full theme-park holiday experience (shows, lights, characters, seasonal food), SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is running daily through Jan 4, 2026. Bonus: Kwanzaa festivities start Dec 26 (through Jan 1), so this weekend has extra cultural programming too.

Parade of Lights Cruises (Fri–Sun evenings)

Want the bay lights experience without fighting for a curb spot? A parade-of-lights-style cruise is a super easy upgrade—warm layers, skyline views, and you’re on the water the whole time. Cruises are listed Dec 26–28, 5:00–8:00 PM from 990 N Harbor Drive (Downtown).

San Diego Bazaar at The Soap Factory (Sat–Sun)

For shopping + vibes, this is a perfect “walk around, snack, buy gifts, repeat” plan. The San Diego Bazaar is a one-weekend-only pop-up with 60+ vendors, running Sat & Sun, 11 AM–4 PM at The Soap Factory (Logan Heights), and admission is free.

Art Mart at Spanish Village (Sat–Sun)

If you want something chill, local, and daytime-friendly: Art Mart is basically an easy Balboa Park stroll with art booths and browsing. It runs Dec 27–28, 7 AM–7 PM at Spanish Village Art Center, and it’s free.

Wild Horses Festival at Petco Park (Saturday)

This is your “big main event” if you’re trying to do something high-energy. Wild Horses Festival is Sat, Dec 27 (4–11 PM) at Petco Park, with general admission starting around $65 (VIP options higher).

45th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration at WorldBeat Cultural Center (Fri–Sun)

If you want something meaningful and community-centered, this is a great pick: speakers, candle lighting, performances, poetry, and a shared celebration energy. It’s running Dec 26–29, with Fri–Sun 6–9 PM at WorldBeat Cultural Center (Balboa Park).

A Magical Cirque Christmas at Balboa Theatre (Sunday)

This one’s for the “fun + wow-factor” crowd—acrobatics, variety acts, and holiday music in a big theater setting. It’s Sun, Dec 28 at Balboa Theatre, with showtimes at 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM.

Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! at The Old Globe (Fri–Sun)

A perfect family option (or nostalgic date night): a full stage musical version of The Grinch in Balboa Park. It runs Nov 5 – Dec 31, and there are multiple showtimes (best to check the calendar for the exact slots for Dec 26–28).

Annual Buffett Birthday Bash at Belly Up (Friday)

If you’re down for a lively concert night outside the city core, this is a classic local tradition. It’s Fri, Dec 26 (9 PM) at Belly Up (Solana Beach), with tickets listed around $22 online / $25 day-of (before fees)