Kick off the holidays in San Diego this Thanksgiving weekend enjoying everything California’s Beach City has to offer including these top things to do.
San Diego Jazz Fest and Swing Extravaganza
When: November 27 – December 1, 2019
The 40th San Diego Jazz Fest over Thanksgiving will present a variety of traditional jazz music, from ragtime to hot jazz to swing to rockabilly at the Town & Country Resort and Hotel in Hotel Circle. Jazz bands and musicians from across the U.S. will perform.
Thanksgiving Feasts and Turkey Trots
When: November 28, 2019
Thanksgiving is a beautiful time of year in San Diego. Ring in the holiday season in San Diego with traditional Thanksgiving feasts, turkey trots, and more.
A Christmas Story
When: November 29 – December 29, 2019
Nine year old Ralphie Parker wants one thing for Christmas, and one thing only: An Official Red Ryder Range Model Carbine Action BB Gun. There’s only one problem: everyone else is convinced he’ll shoot his eye out! Undeterred, he begins his saga of convincing all the necessary players, from his sweet and protective Mother, to his straightlaced teacher, Miss Shields, all the way to Santa Claus himself, that he needs that gun for the protection of his loved ones, and maybe even a little cowboy glory to call his own.
San Diego Surf Challenge Cup
When: November 29 – December 1, 2019
This is a Class I Tournament open to USYSA, US Club Soccer, Super Y League, and FIFA affiliated teams. All games will be played throughout Northern San Diego County.
Surfin’ Santa Arrival
When: November 30, 2019
Surfin’ Santa will ditch his red suit and reindeer to spread his holiday cheer in true SoCal fashion as he makes his annual arrival at Seaport Village.
Seas ‘n’ Greetings Holiday Celebration
When: December 1-31, 2019
Deck the Hall (of Fishes) and get into the holiday spirit at Birch Aquarium. Enjoy holiday decorations throughout the aquarium, and don’t miss Scuba Santa during special dive shows. Holiday activities are included with admission and free for members.
SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off
When: December 1, 2019
The festive and fiery SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off promises everything a person could want in a fun day including craft beer, wine, shopping music and chili!
Del Mar Fall Racing Festival
When: Thru December 1, 2019
It’s time for an encore! Four weeks of elite Thoroughbred racing, fresh events and musical performances to keep the good times rolling.
Holidays at LEGOLAND
When: Thru December 31, 2019
Experience the magic of the Holidays at LEGOLAND with music and twinkling lights and the world’s largest LEGO® Christmas Tree!
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
When: Thru January 5, 2020
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is a holiday waiting to be made, with seasonal shopping, festive food and drinks, and stunning live shows.
> Find more Top Things to Do on the San Diego Event Calendar
Activate Holiday Mode
Activate holiday mode and turn up the good cheer with a winter trip to San Diego. The season is as merry and bright as it gets—just make sure to bring flip-flops instead of snow boots. Enjoy warm weather and good vibes at special San Diego-style holiday events, like beachside ice skating and an illuminated boat parade on San Diego Bay. You’ll also find great deals all season long, with hotel rates starting at just $99 from November 25 to January 5! ‘Tis the season for San Diego.