Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo vs. Winter Wonder at Belmont Park

Trying to decide between Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo or Winter Wonder at Belmont Park? Use our 2025 comparison guide to lead you to the best holiday cheer!

Key Takeaways

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo and Winter Wonder at Belmont Park are annual holiday events designed to get you into the holiday spirit.
How much are tickets to each holiday event? Entry to Winter Wonder is free. Jungle Bells is included with zoo admission. Read on for details.
What is there to do at the events? Jungle Bells has live music, lights, & kids’ activities. Winter Wonder has characters, DJ music, lights, & more.

By Kristina Cappetta

Last Updated on
Dec 30, 2025

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Jungle Bells vs. Winter Wonder

The Events at a Glance

Cost Comparison

Go City Pass & Save

Location & Accessibility

Highlights

Cost Comparison

Highlights Comparison

Final Verdict

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo vs. Winter Wonder at Belmont Park: Which One to Choose?

Fun Kid Attractions at Belmont Park in Mission Beach

There is very little that's better than experiencing the Christmas season in San Diego!

And before you say we're biased (which, OK, we do really love San Diego) it truly is amazing to enjoy the spirit of the holidays with a sunny backdrop and a very chill Southern California vibe. Our founder Todd, a longtime local himself, isn't shy at all to tell me how much he loves the festive cheer and community spirit that the area has to offer this time of year!

During the Christmas season, two events that our team absolutely loves are Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo and Winter Wonder at Belmont Park. Both of these bring their special flair and festive entertainment to a couple of our favorite theme parks in San Diego.

And with that, let's get in there and see what each is all about.

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo: A Magical Experience

The San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park, the #1 attraction in San Diego County, is a real hit with families and visitors no matter when they visit. So, when you add the holiday vibe, it just takes it up another notch! Everyone tells me that the zoo always makes them feel as though they're stepping into a different world, and I know that each seasonal event is designed to transport families into the feeling of the season.

Jungle Bells, the Zoo's seasonal event complete with lights, music, tasty holiday treats and so much more, will take place from Friday, December 19th, 2025, to Sunday, January 4th, 2026, from 9:00am until 8:00pm, excluding Christmas Eve on December 24th, 2025.

Step into a Winter Wonder at Belmont Park

If you've been to Belmont Park before, but not during the annual Winter Wonder event yet, then you're not going to believe the makeover it undergoes this time of year. Over one million twinkling lights are hung to guide you as you walk around the park. There's also live holiday DJ-spun music, festive decorations, and of course a wide selection of special festive food and drinks.

Winter Wonder at Belmont Park will take place from Monday, December 1st, 2025 until Sunday, January 4th, 2026. Park hours vary during the event. Many of the Winter Wonder special events will take place starting at 3:00pm. It's best to check the park's site so you don't miss out on any family fun!

And with that, I know that both of these family-friendly holiday events are amazing, so if you're having trouble choosing which of these to attend in 2025, our Go Visit San Diego team has you covered! We've put together this useful guide to help you decide which is best for you and your family!

Visit Jungle Bells Early for Animals & Lights

Arrive at the San Diego Zoo in the morning to see the animals when they're most active, then stay through the evening to experience Jungle Bells after dark. This way, you'll maximize your admission and create a full day of memories without needing to visit twice.

How Much Does Each Event Cost?

As a parent myself, I understand that cost can play a big factor in which activities make the family fun list, especially during the Christmas holidays.

Let's compare the true cost of what it will take to visit each event!

What Does it Cost to Get Into Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo?

Jungle Bell is included with San Diego Zoo tickets. Regular one-day admission to the Zoo starts at $72 for adults and $62 for kids under 12. But there is a cheaper way to visit!

How to Save

Looking for the cheapest way to get into the zoo?

Get yourself and your family Go City San Diego passes. The pass is an amazing holiday gift in itself as it will get you into not just Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo but also other holiday events like SeaWorld San Diego's Christmas Celebration, and so much more!

You can also use our discount code GVSD5OFF at checkout for a little extra savings. Think of it as our little gift from our families to yours!

How Much is Parking for Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo?

Great news here! Parking is free for Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo…another holiday treat!

Cost of Admission to Winter Wonder at Belmont Park

I think one of the best things about Belmont Park is that it's free to get in. So, you can walk around and take in all of the holiday sights for free!

If you or your kids want to go on some rides, first Todd's daughter would totally agree with this choice, and second, you can purchase day passes at the park starting at $44.95 for unlimited rides and attractions. There are also ticket ride bundles ranging from $16 to $60.

How to Save

I'm all about finding ways to save and passing them on to you!

Belmont Park is another area attraction where you can use the Go City San Diego pass using discount code GVSD5OFF. I highly encourage you to get it because you can use it for unlimited rides, plus all of the other perks it comes along with as well. If nothing else, have a look for yourself at what an incredible deal the pass is, especially during the holidays!

Belmont Park Parking

I have more great news about parking for Winter Wonder. Parking for Winter Wonder at Belmont Park is also free.

Budget-Friendly Winner: Winter Wonder at Belmont Park

You just can't beat free admission, right?

While the zoo is affordable, especially with the Go City San Diego pass, the fact that you can walk through Belmont Park and see everything without paying a penny is pretty sweet!

Save BIG with Go City!

The World Famous San Diego Zoo

Explore the top zoo in America! The San Diego Zoo is located in iconic Balboa Park, and features over 3,500 animal in their habitats. Bundle with other attractions in Balboa Park for top savings - like the Air and Space Museum!

Buy Now

What Attractions are Included with a Go City San Diego Pass?

Attractions that you can visit with a Go City San Diego pass include:

The San Diego Zoo, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, SeaWorld San Diego, Safari Park, LEGOLAND CA, Harbor Cruise, USS Midway Museum, the NAT Museum, Whaley House, Petco Park Tour and many, many more!

Want to save more? Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF!

Which Event Has the Better Location?

You really can't go wrong with either holiday event location because they're both easy to get to and are handicap accessible. So here we'll look at both event's locations comparing Balboa Park to Mission Beach.

Where is the San Diego Zoo?

The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park, just northeast of Downtown San Diego. It's close to the Little Italy neighborhood (my favorite for the amazing food), and the Gaslamp District, which features some really interesting San Diego history, great restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

The zoo is large and is located around many Balboa Park museums as well as trails, cafes, and green spaces. If the weather is warm enough, which in San Diego it often is, you can even sneak in a picnic while you're there!

Handicap Accessibility at the Zoo

The zoo has handicap parking and restrooms.

Manual wheelchairs and electric scooters are available to rent for a small fee. Check the Zoo's website for complete details. Service animals are also allowed.

Belmont Park's Location

If you're looking for a scenic location with a picturesque backdrop, Belmont Park just might be it! Located on Mission Beach right on the boardwalk, and beach, the historic park features incredible views of the Pacific Ocean that are truly special.

Is Belmont Park Handicap Accessible?

Yes, wheelchair-accessible entrances are located throughout the park. Service animals are also allowed.

And the Best Location Award Goes To…Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo

While Todd loves the Mission Beach location of Winter Wonder at Belmont Park, local families always tell me how much they enjoy the area around the zoo.

Featuring restaurants, open spaces, and things to do for people of all ages, our winner here has to be Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo!

Popular Hotels Nearby

Popular Hotels

Price

Bahia Resort Hotel

$199

Learn More

The Dana on Mission Bay

$179

Learn More

Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina

$179

Learn More

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

$171

Learn More

Event Spotlight: Featured Things to Do at Each Holiday Extravaganza

Before we get into separating these two, I have to tell you that you won't be bored at either one!

With that in mind though, there are surely differences between what you can do and see at each holiday event. Let's dive into the details!

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo

If you're looking for things to do at Jungle Bells, here's a quick highlight list of what you can do and experience:

Jingle Brass
Reindeer Games
Holiday Troubadour
Pictures with Santa Claus
Toy Shop Hop
Dr. Harry & His Holiday Friends
Holiday Harmonies
Holiday Light Discovery
Holiday Light Celebration
Holiday Light Symphony

Winter Wonder at Belmont Park

Holiday Decorations & Lights
Jingle Jams
Holiday Face Painting
Characters in the Park
Park Rides & Arcade

More Holiday Fun: Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is a great experience for everyone, even people without kids. I also think that older adults or couples will really enjoy the zoo during Jungle Bells. The variety of live music, live entertainment, shows, and light displays give the edge to Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo for this category.

But there's also a lot to see and do at Winter Wonder. Our founder, Todd, has told us that Belmont Park is a great spot for couples and a date night, especially over the holidays. So, keep that in mind for your special someone this winter season!

Featured Hotel

Bahia Resort Hotel

Bayfront

Families

Sailing

Say goodbye to the everyday routine and hello to pure relaxation at Bahia Resort Hotel. Located in Mission Bay Park, this resort has it all for any kind of traveler.

Prices Starting at $199

Check Availability

Comparing the Event's Lengths

Before you go, it's good to know how much time it will take you to see everything at each event so you can plan ahead.

How Much Time Will I Need at Jungle Bells?

There is a lot of ground to cover at the zoo, so I suggest that you make sure to give yourself enough time to see as much as possible. Look at the different events in advance so that you know what you want to visit, scheduling enough time to get it all in.

As a local tip, you can arrive early to enjoy the San Diego Zoo and its animals during the day and then stay after dark to enjoy Jungle Bells, the festive lights, and all that the event has to offer. This can make for a longer day, but if you have good shoes and energy, this can also make for a fantastic family memory.

The event runs until January 4th, each night until 8:00pm. I suggest planning for 3 to 6+ hours to explore the San Diego Zoo and Jungle Bells.

How Long Does Winter Wonder Take?

Many of the Winter Wonder events don't start until at least 3:00pm, so there is less time to cover all your ground. But there are also fewer events to take in, unless you're going on the rides or hitting the arcade.

Just like Jungle Bells, this event also runs until January 4th. The park is usually open until between 8:00pm and 10:00pm.

I think this event really depends on how much time you want to spend on rides and playing games, or if you want to eat at Draft for example. I think 2 to 4+ hours here will be more than enough time to take in all the Winter Wonder has to offer.

The Longer Event Winner: Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo

I can assure you that both events will be fun to attend, and if you're looking for a quick in and out with great decorations and a lot of holiday cheer, perhaps Winter Wonder could be for you. But if you're like me and always looking for value and more family time during the holiday, then Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo will be your winner here as well. It's open longer, and you can do more than just the Jungle Bells event.

Which Fits Your Adventure?

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo 2025 Guide

Start at $72 for adults and $62 for kids under 12

Learn More

Winter Wonder at Belmont Park 2025 Guide

Daily Cost $54.95 or Included with the Go City San Diego Pass

Learn More

Which Event Offers the Better Special Activities?

Our founder Todd loves to find events that make each holiday event unique and special, and both of these will not disappoint!

Special Things to Do at Jungle Bells

Our Go Visit San Diego had a tough time finding stand-out activities at Jungle Bells because they all stand out to us!

We really love the Holiday Light Treks. They are a major family favorite and something festive that I can highly recommend. Know that to see them lit up, you'll definitely want to go later in the day so you can check them out after dark. I also find the jugglers fascinating, so I have a bit of a soft spot for Jack Frost Juggler. His skills are amazing!

Unique Experiences at Winter Wonder

Characters in Belmont Park make Winter Wonder stand out because who doesn't want to have their picture taken with Buddy the Elf? You'll also find Santa Claus roaming the park which I think is extra cool.

For the over 21 crowd, the Winter Wonderland pop-up attraction at Draft with the Christmas-themed cocktails adds a unique flair to this event. And as a local tip, their smash burgers are delicious!

Where to Visit for More Activities Winner: Jungle Bells

Both of these events have special events, and enough lights to put you in the holiday spirit! But Jungle Bells stands out to me because their Holiday Light Treks are truly one of a kind.

Tips for Visiting Each Event

No matter which event you choose, you'll want to be as prepared as possible. Here's a few more things I think you should know about each annual San Diego holiday event.

Planning for Jungle Bells

Download the PDF zoo map from the zoo's website so you can make sure you don't miss anything!
You can bring small backpacks inside the zoo or rent a locker to store your stuff.
Dress in layers if you're spending the day, so you're ready for the potential swings in temperature.

What to Know Before You Go to Winter Wonder

While the San Diego winter weather is not especially cold, you'll want to bring a sweater or light jacket, especially since the park is located on the water where breezes are likely.
Wear comfy shoes because you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Don't forget that Belmont Park is great for friend groups and date nights!

Which Holiday Event Wins?

And the Overall Winner Is…Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo!

Our Go Visit San Diego team really loves both of these events! Honestly, if we didn't, we wouldn't have bothered to write this article.

While Winter Wonder might be best for teenagers that love rides and games, or for a date night or family that really appreciates a fully decorated vintage theme park, Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo is quite hard to beat!

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo offers more activities for families, more entertainment, and a wider variety of live holiday music. Plus, Santa is there until Christmas! We also love that you can spend the day visiting the animals and seeing other parts of the park, then still be able to take in the holiday events in the evening!