While it might feel like the summer heat was beating down on us just yesterday, the holiday season is in full swing, folks, which means it’s past time to start ironing out those wintertime plans. And, though there might not be any snow on the ground, there’s no shortage of Christmas cheer in sunny San Diego, California. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to be in town for the holidays, you’re in luck, since there are a ton of fun things to do in San Diego for Christmas. From world-class cruises and famous parades to excellent restaurants, terrific shopping centers, and much more, you really can’t go wrong with spending the holidays in San Diego this year, or any year for that matter. However, if you’re not sure how to get started planning your wintertime fun, don’t worry — that’s where we come in. Below, we’ve put together a short list of some of the best things to do for Christmas and Christmas Eve in San Diego. So, grab your wreaths and your sunglasses, and let’s dive in!

 

A Super Fun San Diego Christmas Cocktail Cruise

Holiday Lights & Sips Cocktail Cruise – If you’re looking for some festive fun, look no further than the Holiday Lights & Sips Cocktail Cruise and set sail aboard the only floating holiday happy hour in San Diego. The cruise includes a holiday cocktail upon boarding, along with a cash bar complete with plenty of drink specials on craft beer, local wine, and creative City Cruises cocktails along with some light appetizers. This really is the perfect excursion on San Diego Bay — or a great way to kick off a night of bar hopping downtown! No matter the occasion, munching on some delicious holiday hors d’oeuvres, sipping on outstanding drinks, and taking in those sparkling San Diego views (including the Coronado Bridge and the sunset!) is almost impossible to beat on dry land.

 

Christmas Eve Dining Cruises That Make the 2023 Holidays Special

San Diego Christmas Eve Premier Brunch Cruise – In the market for some festivities on Christmas Eve? Then book your ticket on the San Diego Christmas Eve Premier Brunch Cruise ASAP. You and your guests will keep your holiday merry and bright while aboard the vessel, which is totally decked out with festive decor. Plus, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal as you celebrate Christmas on the water in the ultimate gift to yourself and your loved ones. (After all, you’ve been good this year!) Get ready to deck the halls with limited-time holiday entertainment and a festive retreat from land. If you’re hoping to set sail later in the day, we suggest the San Diego Christmas Eve Premier Dinner Cruise for that same world-class experience, complete with a full bar serving up delicious drinks the whole time you’re on board.

 

Come Celebrate Christmas with City Cruises in San Diego

San Diego Christmas Day Premier Brunch Cruise — This year — after you open presents, of course — we recommend ringing in the magic of the season on the water with a Christmas Day Premier Brunch Cruise in San Diego. You and your guests will enjoy a delicious holiday brunch buffet that’s freshly prepared by the onboard chef, full bar service, and City Cruises’ distinctive hospitality. While onboard, you can experience exceptional views of San Diego’s iconic skyline and waterfront, entertainment, and festive décor. Plus, the City Cruises team will happily take care of the details, so all you have to do is focus on celebrating the holiday with your friends and family. Or, if you’d rather see the city at night, the San Diego Christmas Day Premier Dinner Cruise offers that same incredible experience later in the day.

 

 

Other Fun San Diego Events During the Holidays

Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade: The biggest and most famous event during the holidays in San Diego has got to be the Holiday Bowl, which is a tradition that’s taken place every year since 1978. The scenic, waterfront streets of downtown San Diego come alive each December with the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade. This exciting, family-friendly event brings together world-class marching bands, magnificent floats, entertaining drill teams, and a procession of enormous balloons, which (according to the official website) is more than any other parade! Over 100,000 street-side spectators will enjoy the parade along with a nationwide television audience, and street-side viewing of the parade is totally free. Plus, the parade festivities begin with the annual Holiday Bowl 5K Run/Walk, so if you’re hoping to get a quick workout in between all the festivities, you’re in luck.