Santa's Sleigh at December Nights in Balboa Park
As I mentioned above, this is the largest, free, annual holiday festival in San Diego, and I don’t know anyone who doesn’t appreciate a festive, free experience! The event welcomes people of all backgrounds to share in the Christmas spirit.
I attended Balboa Park December Nights for the first time in 2023 with my wife and kids, and we all had an incredible time. I also learned a lot about what it’s all about!
Let’s dive a little deeper into the main attractions so you know what to expect before you attend the 2025 festivities.
A Winter Wonderland in the Heart of the City
One of the most stunning parts of December Nights in San Diego is the light show. Just like houses that go all-out with their decorations, Balboa Park gets transformed with Christmas lights and holiday displays, including a decorated Christmas tree and Santa’s sleigh.
Walking around the winter wonderland feels magical. The upbeat atmosphere and big focus on San Diego’s community feels like what I would call ‘San Diego special’. Of course, the event is for everyone, from locals to visitors, all invited to attend and experience a warm holiday welcome.
The 2024 event was amazing, so I can just imagine what things will look like in 2025.
Rides, Shows, and More
December Nights will also feature special events, including rides, and live performances.
If I could give you a few recommendations, I’d say to visit the Festival of Trees featuring delightfully decorated Christmas trees, then swing by stages stationed throughout the park to experience the live entertainment - watch the musicians, dancers, and entertainers. This was what my family did last year and we plan to do again this year.
You’ll also find a Ferris wheel set up in the Pan American Plaza parking lot, right in front of the San Diego Air and Space Museum.
Global Delights at the International Cottages
One of the best-kept secrets (at least for first-timers) is to check out the International Cottages area located just across Pan American East Road from the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Each little house represents a different country. During December Nights, they open up and serve authentic food and drinks from their home countries.
There are 33 different houses, some dating back to the 1935 exposition when this part of the park opened, each representing a different ethnic or cultural group. Normally, they don’t offer food service, so this is a rare treat.
I’ve heard rave reviews about the German House, especially for its hearty, traditional food. I plan on putting this on my list this year! I’d say exploring the cottages is one of my favorite parts of the event because my wife and I get to eat, and my kids get to learn a bit at the same time.
In addition to food, there are cultural dances and musical performances, further highlighting and celebrating each country’s unique traditions.
Drink Around the World
Another highlight for me that was popular in 2024, and should be again this year, is the International Spirit Garden’s ‘drink around the world’ event. You guessed it, beers and drinks from around the world!
Set for Friday from 5:00pm until 10:00pm and Saturday from 3:00pm until 10:00pm, you’ll find the garden near the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, just across the small street Pan American East Road.