The holiday season has definitely arrived in San Diego. This weekend, you’ll find lots of festive events, as well as live jazz and and a tasty chili fest to keep things a little spicy.
Here are the top things to do in San Diego, Nov. 27 – Dec. 1 , 2013:
San Diego Jazz Fest
Presented by the America’s Finest City Dixieland Jazz Society, this annual festival features all types of jazz, ranging from traditional to ragtime to rockabilly and everything in between. Held every Thanksgiving weekend, the 34th Jazz Fest will offer big dance halls as well as small listening rooms to draw jazz lovers of every taste and style.
Where: Town & Country Hotel and Convention Center, 500 Hotel Circle North, San Diego, CA 92108
When: Nov. 27 – Dec. 1, 2013
Time: 7 – 11 p.m. (Wed. and Thurs.), 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. (Fri.), 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. (Sat.), 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Sun.)
Cost: Varies; single day tickets start at $15 and multi-day tickets start at $95
>Find out more about the San Diego Jazz Fest
Surfin’ Santa’s Arrival at Seaport Village
The magic of the sea comes to life at Seaport Village when Santa arrives by jetpack and soars above the ocean surface to greet kids and adults. This family event will include pictures with Santa surfing a giant wave, ornament making, live music and plenty of holiday cheer at this cobblestoned shopping and dining hub located along the Downtown waterfront.
Where: Seaport Village, 849 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
When: November 30, 2013
Time: 1 – 5 p.m. (Santa arrives at 1pm in front of the Pier Café)
Cost: Free
>Find out more about Surfin’ Santa at Seaport Village
Jingle Bell Jump at Mission Marketplace in Oceanside
Kids and families will witness Santa parachuting from the sky to greet those who attend this fun-filled community event in the city of Oceanside. The festivities include photo opportunities with Santa, a complete snow playground, kids’ crafts, live music and much more!
Where: Mission Marketplace, 471 College Blvd, Oceanside CA 92057
When: November 30, 2013
Time: 12 – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free
>Find out more about Jingle Bell Jump
SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off
The neighborhoods of South and North Park come together in a friendly chili competition among 29 top local restaurants competing as guests try out their chili in hand-spun ceramic bowls. The event offers two free live music stages, great holiday gifts and crafts from local artisans, five food trucks, a game truck and a kids’ activity zone with free cookie decorating, and craft beer and wine garden featuring 10 local breweries.
Where: 3216 Thorn Street, San Diego, CA 92104
When: Sunday, December 1, 2013
Time: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: Festival is free; handmade ceramic bowls with chili tastings: $20
>Find out more about the SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off
Luminaria First Light in South Park
The historic craftsman neighborhood of South Park kicks off the holiday season with a beautiful display of luminarias presented by local businesses and homeowners. After 5 p.m. tree lighting, stroll the scenic streets to shop local boutiques and enjoy live music and tasty treats from neighborhood eateries.
Where: Beech St., between Fern St. and 30th St., San Diego, CA 92102
When: Sunday, December 1, 2013
Time: 5 – 9 p.m.
Cost: Free
>Find out more about the Luminara First Light in South Park
More Top Things to Do in San Diego
- Have some laughs with Doug Benson at the American Comedy Club, Nov. 27.
- Score Black Friday deals at the Shops at Las Americas, Nov. 29.
- Celebrate Hanukah with the lighting of a giant menorah, Dec. 1.
Browse the Event Calendar
What will you be doing this week in San Diego? Let us know in the comments.