Top 10 Things to Do This Weekend in San Diego: Dec. 19-21

Holiday Activities in San Diego: A Weekend of Fun and Festivity

San Diego is brimming with holiday activities this weekend, from festive light displays to cultural performances. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best events happening from Friday, December 19 to Sunday, December 21.

Friday Events

Coastal Christmas at Del Mar Fairgrounds

The Del Mar Fairgrounds transforms into a winter wonderland for the Coastal Christmas festival, featuring light displays, a skating rink, vendor markets, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Adults can enjoy a "wine walk" with a souvenir tasting cup. The family-friendly area includes bounce houses, food vendors, and a North Pole-themed space. Tickets start at $26.98 for adults and $20.61 for children. This event runs through December 26.

“La Pastorela: A Shepherd’s Tale”

Teatro Máscara Mágica presents Timothy Paul Evans’ 37th anniversary pastorela play about the shepherds' journey to Bethlehem on the first Christmas. The bilingual faith-based play will be performed mostly in English with Spanish carols. Shows are scheduled for 7 p.m. today through Tuesday, and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at the Southwestern College Performing Arts Center.

Family Hanukkah Party

Congregation B’nai Tikvah hosts its annual community Hanukkah party and latke contest. There will be latkes and donuts for dinner, and guests are encouraged to bring nonperishable food and coats for donation. The event starts at 6 p.m. at the Masonic Center. Admission is free.

“Amahl and the Night Visitors”

Genesis Opera Theatre presents Gian-Carlo Menotti’s one-act opera inspired by the story of a poor disabled boy who meets three wise kings. The production is directed by Cynthia Leigh and features musical direction by Abraham Fabella. Performances are at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 3 p.m. on Sunday at Trinity Episcopal Church.

Golden State Ballet's “The Nutcracker”

Choreographed by Raul Salamanca, this production features spectacular sets, elaborate costumes, and professional dancers. John Stubbs conducts a live orchestra from the San Diego Symphony. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 and 5:30 p.m. on Sunday at the San Diego Civic Theatre.

‘Wild Holidays’ at Safari Park

During the “Wild Holidays” festivities, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park stays open until 8 p.m. Entertainment includes the “Light Up the Holidays” choreographed lighted tree show, Bridge of Lights, Enchanted Lagoon, and visits with Santa. Activities are free with park admission or membership.

San Diego Civic Youth Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”

Celebrate the 80th Anniversary Season with a trip to the Enchanted Land of Sweets. Danika Pramik-Holdaway directs the students of the Balboa Park-based company. Performances are at 7 p.m. on Friday, 2 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday at Casa del Prado Theater.

Coronado Playhouse Holiday Cabaret

This annual holiday concert features sing-along favorites and is suitable for all ages. Performances are at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday at the Coronado Playhouse.

Camarada presents “Charlie Brown Jingles & Jazz”

An all-star concert featuring leading jazz and classical musicians. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday at the Baker-Baum Concert Hall.

San Diego Symphony: “Noel, Noel”

Conductor Christopher Dragon leads the San Diego Symphony in this annual musical tale of Noel the Elf’s journey. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 5 p.m. on Sunday at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park.

Jungle Bells at San Diego Zoo

The zoo’s annual holiday celebration kicks off with later hours, brass ensembles, reindeer games, and a cappella quartets. Visit Santa’s Factory or listen to Dr. Zoolittle’s One Wild Night Before Christmas. Jungle Bells is part of regular admission prices.

Saturday Events

Christmas Tree Wonderlights Show

The Forum Carlsbad holds holiday festivities, including a Christmas Tree Wonderlights choreographed light and music show. The show runs daily from 5 to 9 p.m. until December 25.

Night at the Mechanized Museum (requires base access)

An old landmark from Camp Pendleton’s history serves as the venue for a base-wide holiday party. Santa makes a grand entrance by WW II Jeep, and there will be performances and festive drinks. Base access credentials are required.

Vintage Marine Corps Vehicles at Camp Pendleton Museum

A holiday open house features vintage Marine Corps vehicles.

City Ballet of San Diego presents “The Nutcracker”

Carolers sing holiday songs before the Victorian-era ballet. Performances are at 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and Tuesday, 2 p.m. on Sunday, and 7:30 p.m. on Monday at the California Center for the Arts.

San Diego Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

The theme of this year’s “Nutcracker” is illusionism. Performances are at 1 and 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m. on Sunday at The Magnolia.

Southern California Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

Now in its 35th year, SCB’s “Nutcracker” features more than 100 dancers. Performances are at 1 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m. on Sunday at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts.

Sunday Events

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

The 55th annual parade features nearly 80 decorated boats. The parade starts at Shelter Island and flows around the San Diego Bay. It begins at 5:30 p.m. and is free.

Posada del Tianguis de la Raza

A family-friendly cultural event with piñatas, free gifts for kids, and a market for buying gifts. Los Paisanos perform at 4:10 p.m.

The Christmas Story Told Through Live Nativities

Live nativities across San Diego tell the Christmas story.

Christmas with Leonard Patton & Friends

Leonard Patton performs holiday shows at The Jazz Lounge. Performances are at 5:15 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Sunday, and 6:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Monday.

“An Irish Christmas”

Kerry Irish Productions presents a holiday concert with Irish music and dancing. Performance is at 2:30 p.m. at the Balboa Theatre.

GRAND POSADA at Chula Vista Center

This family-friendly event includes folklorico, Santa photos, cultural exhibitions, and a toy giveaway. It starts at 3 p.m. at the Chula Vista Center.