San Diego’s Christmas markets offer a warm, festive escape filled with lights, music, and seasonal treats, making this coastal city a wonderful holiday destination. Each year, San Diego hosts an array of Christmas markets that bring holiday spirit to life with twinkling lights, unique gifts, and family-friendly entertainment. Around the world, people come to these events to experience holiday rituals and buy handcrafted goods. The events range from traditional European-style markets to modern holiday pop-ups. You can go to the famous Petco Park Holiday Market or look for secret gems in the area.Every market is various. Don’t miss out on the fun holiday trips and shopping that you can plan with this list of the top 10 Christmas markets in San Diego. For people in and around San Diego who want to get into the Christmas mood, this list is great. It lists events that you have to see, entry fees, times, and nearby places to visit. Going to the German Christmas Market in Amherst is like doing German holiday traditions.
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Toggle1. Petco Park Holiday Market
The Petco Park Holiday Market is one of San Diego’s most popular Christmas markets, offering a festive experience that brings holiday magic to the iconic ballpark. Set up within the stadium, this market has a unique blend of traditional holiday charm and the vibrant atmosphere of a major event. People can walk through booths with holiday themes that sell things like hot chocolate, cookies, and handmade jewelry and gifts. The best thing about the market is the lovely Christmas tree. It lights up the park at night and is a beautiful picture setting. Additional attractions, like an ice-skating rink and Santa’s Workshop, make this a fun outing for families and friends alike. Live holiday music fills the air as local bands and choirs perform festive favorites, creating a joyful ambiance. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, enjoying seasonal snacks, or simply taking in the festive decor, the Petco Park Holiday Market offers a memorable holiday experience in the heart of San Diego. This market is ideal for those looking to combine holiday shopping with entertainment, making it a top destination for locals and visitors during the holiday season.
Address: Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA
Dates: November 29 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday 4:00 PM–10:00 PM, Friday–Sunday 1:00 PM–10:00 PM
Entrance Fee: $10 for adults, free for children under 12
Ticket Information: Tickets available on the Petco Park website
Nearest T Stations:
- Gaslamp Quarter Station
- 12th & Imperial Transit Center
Events:
- Tree Lighting Ceremony – Watch the grand lighting of Petco Park’s Christmas tree.
- Ice Skating Rink – Enjoy ice skating with a view of the ballpark.
- Santa’s Workshop – Kids can meet Santa and take photos.
- Live Holiday Music – Local bands and choirs perform festive songs.
- Festive Film Nights – Family-friendly holiday movie screenings.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- Handmade Ornaments – Unique ornaments crafted by local artists.
- Holiday Sweets – Seasonal treats like fudge, gingerbread, and cookies.
- Artisan Jewelry – Handmade, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces.
- Winter Wearables – Cozy scarves, hats, and gloves perfect for gifting.
- Craft Spirits – Locally produced spirits with a holiday twist.
Special Spots:
- Main Christmas Tree – A large, beautifully decorated tree perfect for photos.
- Ballpark Views – Holiday decor set against the iconic Petco Park field.
- Mistletoe Walk – Romantic lighted path with mistletoe arches.
- Santa’s Photo Booth – Capture memories with Santa.
- Gift Wrapping Station – Convenient spot for wrapping newly purchased gifts.
Parking: Available at Petco Park lots, starting at $10 per vehicle
Nearby Hotels:
- Omni San Diego Hotel
- Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
- Pendry San Diego
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Deck at Moonshine Flats – Casual dining with festive specials.
- Garage Kitchen + Bar – Seasonal cocktails and holiday-inspired menu.
- Cafe Sevilla – Spanish-inspired cuisine with a holiday ambiance.
2. Old Town Holiday Market
There is only one holiday market like the Old Town Holiday Market in San Diego. It’s different because it blends Mexican and American traditions in a fun way. This market is in the well-known Old Town San Diego State Park. Lots of people are there, and the place is bright and lively. People can look at holiday decorations, locally made goods, and traditional Mexican foods. The market stands sell many lovely and one-of-a-kind things that would make great holiday gifts. These include piñatas, pottery, and ornaments that were made by hand.Live mariachi music and the Holiday Lantern Parade add a cultural touch to the events. Kids can also enjoy arts and projects that are based on Mexican holiday traditions. With its old buildings and Christmas lights, the market is a lovely place to spend an afternoon or evening with family and friends. At the Old Town Holiday Market, you can buy gifts, eat authentic Mexican food, or get into the holiday mood with music and dance. This holiday event only happens once a year and shows off San Diego’s rich culture history.
Address: Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, San Diego, CA
Dates: December 1 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; event details on Old Town San Diego website
Nearest T Stations:
- Old Town Transit Center
- Washington Street Station
Events:
- Holiday Lantern Parade – A festive lantern parade through historic Old Town.
- Live Mariachi Music – Traditional holiday tunes with a Mexican flair.
- Artisan Demonstrations – Watch artisans create pottery and leather goods.
- Santa’s Pueblo – Visit Santa in a unique, Old Town setting.
- Holiday Piñata Making – Family-friendly activity inspired by Mexican traditions.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- Mexican Handcrafts – Beautiful handmade crafts from Mexico.
- Traditional Pottery – Hand-painted pottery and home decor.
- Leather Goods – Authentic, handcrafted leather items.
- Holiday Foods – Seasonal Mexican treats like tamales and champurrado.
- Artisan Jewelry – Unique jewelry inspired by Mexican designs.
Special Spots:
- Old Town Fountain – Decorated with holiday lights, perfect for photos.
- Historic Casa de Estudillo – A festive tour of this historic home.
- Piñata Alley – Colorful alley filled with piñatas and holiday decor.
- Santa’s Stage – Spot where Santa greets visitors daily.
- Lantern Lighting Path – Walkway illuminated with traditional holiday lanterns.
Parking: Public parking available near Old Town, starting at $5 per vehicle
Nearby Hotels:
- Hilton Garden Inn Old Town
- Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel
- Courtyard San Diego Old Town
Nearby Restaurants:
- Casa Guadalajara – Authentic Mexican cuisine with holiday dishes.
- Cafe Coyote – Festive atmosphere and traditional Mexican fare.
- Old Town Mexican Cafe – Known for delicious tortillas and seasonal specials.
3. Liberty Station Holiday Market
People in San Diego love the Liberty Station Holiday Market because it has a fun setting and unique holiday items. This market is set in front of the historic Liberty Station and has rows of holiday booths with local artists, makers, and gourmet food sellers. People can walk through stalls full of handcrafted items, such as jewelry, candles with holiday themes, and spices that are only available during certain times of the year. The market’s nighttime light show adds a magical touch by lighting up the paths and making the atmosphere warm and welcoming. The pet-friendly Santa’s Workshop is a highlight because families can take pictures of their animal friends with Santa. Another highlight is the craft beer tastings, which feature seasonal beers from local breweries. With plenty of holiday music, carolers, and children’s craft stations, Liberty Station Holiday Market is a family-friendly event that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or looking to enjoy festive food and drink, Liberty Station offers a wonderful blend of holiday spirit, local artistry, and entertainment.
Address: Liberty Station, 2820 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA
Dates: November 30 – December 23, 2025
Opening Hours: Friday–Sunday 12:00 PM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry; event details available on the Liberty Station website
Nearest T Stations:
- Old Town Transit Center
- Washington Street Station
Events:
- Holiday Light Show – An enchanting light show illuminates the market grounds nightly.
- Craft Beer Tastings – Sample seasonal craft beers from local breweries.
- Christmas Carolers – Choirs sing traditional carols throughout the market.
- Handmade Gift Workshops – Create your own holiday gifts with local artists.
- Pet Photos with Santa – Bring your pets for holiday photos with Santa.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- SoCal Pottery – Beautiful, handcrafted ceramics and home decor.
- Liberty Chocolates – Artisanal chocolates with holiday flavors.
- Seasonal Spice – Locally blended spices and holiday ingredients.
- Wooden Toys by Jake – Hand-carved wooden toys for children.
- Winter Scents Candle Shop – Holiday-inspired candle scents.
Special Spots:
- Liberty Archway – Festive archway entrance beautifully lit for photos.
- The Rose Garden – Garden decked out with holiday lights and decor.
- Santa’s Workshop – A cozy setup where kids can meet Santa.
- Light Tunnel – A sparkling tunnel of lights perfect for holiday photos.
- Market Stage – Live holiday performances throughout the season.
Parking:
- Ample free parking at Liberty Station lots
Nearby Hotels:
- The Monsaraz San Diego
- Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station
- Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport
Nearby Restaurants:
- Stone Brewing World Bistro – Seasonal brews and hearty fare.
- The Loma Club – Cozy eatery with holiday specials.
- Fig Tree Cafe – Holiday-inspired brunch dishes and drinks.
4. Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village
Everyone loves the Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village in San Diego. It brings the culture and beauty of Italy to the holiday season. This market and tree-lighting event is in the middle of Little Italy and takes a standard holiday celebration and adds an Italian twist to it. The big Christmas tree in Little Italy, which is the center of the market, is lit up at the start of the evening. Along the streets are stands selling gifts with an Italian theme, such as handmade leather goods, jewelry, pastries, and wines with holiday themes.While families wait in line for pictures with Santa, there will be places for kids to make crafts and get makeovers. The mood is lifted by live performances of Italian holiday songs, making it feel more real and joyful. It’s fun to see the Little Italy Christmas Village, which combines Italian traditions with the holiday spirit in a way that is truly special. Every year, this event brings together people from all over the area and from other countries. You can enjoy a warm and friendly vacation with a touch of Italy.
Address: India Street, Little Italy, San Diego, CA
Dates: December 2, 2025
Opening Hours: 4:00 PM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry; find details on the Little Italy website
Nearest T Stations:
- County Center/Little Italy Station
- America Plaza Station
Events:
- Tree Lighting Ceremony – Watch the lighting of Little Italy’s iconic Christmas tree.
- Italian Carols and Music – Traditional Italian holiday songs performed by local choirs.
- Holiday Market Stalls – Artisan booths offering holiday gifts and Italian treats.
- Kids’ Zone – Fun activities for children, including crafts and face painting.
- Santa’s Arrival – Santa makes a special appearance for photos with families.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- Italian Bakery Stand – Fresh cannolis, biscotti, and holiday sweets.
- Olive Oil Tasting – Locally sourced olive oils perfect for gifting.
- Italian Leather Goods – Handcrafted wallets, bags, and belts.
- Italian Ornaments – Unique, Italian-themed Christmas ornaments.
- Holiday Wine Stand – Sample and buy Italian wines for the season.
Special Spots:
- Little Italy Piazza – The main square decorated with holiday lights.
- Christmas Tree – A beautiful, towering Christmas tree in the heart of the piazza.
- Fountain Area – Festively decorated with garlands and lights.
- Santa’s Photo Area – Santa’s setup for family photos.
- Holiday Walkway – Lighted pathway with seasonal decor and twinkling lights.
Parking:
- Little Italy Parking Garage, $5 flat rate
Nearby Hotels:
- La Pensione Hotel
- Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside
- Residence Inn San Diego Downtown
Nearby Restaurants:
- Filippi’s Pizza Grotto – Classic Italian dishes in a festive setting.
- Bencotto Italian Kitchen – Italian cuisine with seasonal specialties.
- Caffe Italia – Italian coffees and pastries, perfect for a holiday treat.
5. Seaport Village Holiday Market
The Seaport Village Holiday Market in San Diego is a beautiful holiday spot on the water that blends holiday activities with the beauty of the bay. This market is in Seaport Village and has cute holiday booths with one-of-a-kind gifts, handmade goods, and coastal-themed home decor.Along the water, people can shop for Christmas gifts and enjoy the view of the bay. One of the best things about this market is the Holiday Boat Parade. The holiday spirit is made even more beautiful when boats are decked out and sail through the bay. There are also events at the market that are fun for the whole family, like story times and art events. Santa Claus also stops by for pictures by the water. The village is lit up with holiday lights, and there is live jazz music played all the time. The Seaport Village Holiday Market makes you feel like you’re in the holiday spirit. Family events, shopping, and views of the water are all fun for everyone, from groups of friends to couples.
Address: Seaport Village, 849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA
Dates: December 1 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry; visit Seaport Village website for details
Nearest T Stations:
- Seaport Village Station
- Convention Center Station
Events:
- Holiday Boat Parade – View decorated boats sailing along the harbor.
- Santa’s Seaside Photos – Unique photo opportunities with Santa near the ocean.
- Live Jazz Nights – Evening jazz performances with holiday tunes.
- Kids’ Craft Workshops – Hands-on holiday crafts for children.
- Christmas Storytelling – Seasonal story sessions by the sea.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- Seaport Sweets – Fudge, chocolates, and holiday candies.
- Artisan Jewelry – Handcrafted pieces inspired by the sea.
- San Diego Apparel – Holiday-themed San Diego apparel and souvenirs.
- Local Art Market – Paintings, prints, and coastal-inspired art.
- Nautical Gifts – Sea-inspired decor and holiday ornaments.
Special Spots:
- Harbor Walk – Pathway along the water with festive decorations.
- Seaport Fountain – Popular gathering spot beautifully decorated for the season.
- Holiday Boat Viewing Spot – Prime spot for watching the boat parade.
- Santa’s Beach Hut – Unique Santa’s setup by the beach.
- Lighted Palm Trees – Twinkling palm trees for a warm holiday feel.
Parking:
- Seaport Village Parking, $10 flat rate
Nearby Hotels:
- Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
- Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay
- Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Edgewater Grill – Waterfront dining with seasonal dishes.
- San Pasqual Winery Seaport Village – Wine tasting with holiday pairings.
- Marion’s Fish Market – Fresh seafood with a holiday twist.
6. Balboa Park December Nights
Balboa Park December Nights is one of San Diego’s largest and most popular holiday events, drawing thousands of visitors each year to celebrate the season. Located in the iconic Balboa Park, this two-day festival transforms the park into a winter wonderland with festive lights, music, and holiday decor.There are many holiday-themed stands in the market that sell crafts, food, and gifts from all over the world. This lets people from all over the world try foods that are in season. December Nights is also known for the culture shows it puts on. There are fun holiday activities from all over the world at the park’s International Cottages. This makes the fun more educational and cultural. During certain hours, some sites in Balboa Park are free to enter. Kids will love the holiday-themed craft areas and the chance to take pictures with Santa. At Balboa Park December Nights, there are live choir performances, dance shows, and a beautiful event where the trees are lit. It’s a fun time for families and holiday fans alike. Every year, this event really gets people in the holiday mood in San Diego, so you should go during the holidays.
Address: Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA
Dates: December 6 – December 7, 2025
Opening Hours: Friday 3:00 PM–11:00 PM, Saturday 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry; event details on Balboa Park website
Nearest T Stations:
- City College Station
- Fifth Avenue Station
Events:
- International Christmas Village – Discover holiday traditions from around the world.
- Holiday Choir Performances – Local choirs perform festive songs throughout the park.
- Museum Open Houses – Free museum access during certain hours for event attendees.
- Tree Lighting Ceremony – Spectacular tree lighting to kick off December Nights.
- Santa’s Grotto – Santa greets kids for festive photo opportunities.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- Global Bazaar – Handmade gifts and crafts from various cultures.
- Balboa Park Book Stand – Holiday-themed books and San Diego history.
- Local Artisan Jewelry – Unique, handcrafted jewelry by local artists.
- Winter Warmers – Cozy hats, scarves, and gloves.
- Holiday Food Stalls – Delicious treats from around the world.
Special Spots:
- Botanical Building and Lily Pond – Beautiful holiday lights enhance these iconic park features.
- Spreckels Organ Pavilion – Free concerts with holiday music.
- Casa del Prado – A historic building decorated for the season.
- Spanish Village Art Center – Art studios and galleries open with festive decor.
- International Cottages – Culturally themed cottages adorned with holiday decorations.
Parking:
- Free parking available at Balboa Park; shuttles available from nearby lots
Nearby Hotels:
- The Inn at the Park
- Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown
- The Lafayette Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Prado at Balboa Park – Fine dining with holiday specials.
- Extraordinary Desserts – Famous for extravagant desserts and holiday treats.
- Panama 66 – Casual outdoor dining with live music.
7. Encinitas Holiday Street Fair
The Encinitas Holiday Street Fair brings holiday cheer to the charming coastal town of Encinitas, just north of San Diego. This one-day event transforms South Coast Highway 101 into a festive shopping and entertainment district, with over 450 vendors offering handmade crafts, holiday gifts, and delicious foods. The market’s coastal location provides a unique holiday experience, combining the warmth of the beach with the sparkle of the season. Visitors can explore a wide array of stalls featuring local artisans, beach-inspired gifts, and eco-friendly products. The event also includes multiple stages with live music performances and holiday carolers, filling the air with festive sounds. A designated Kids’ Zone offers face painting, holiday crafts, and activities, making it a fun outing for families. With its relaxed, beachy atmosphere and diverse selection of vendors, the Encinitas Holiday Street Fair is an ideal spot to pick up unique gifts and enjoy holiday festivities by the sea. This market captures the essence of Southern California’s holiday season, blending coastal charm with holiday magic.
Address: South Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA
Dates: December 1, 2025
Opening Hours: Sunday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry; details on Encinitas website
Nearest T Stations:
- Encinitas Coaster Station
Events:
- Craft Fair – Over 450 vendors with handmade gifts and holiday crafts.
- Live Music Stages – Multiple stages with holiday music and performances.
- Kids’ Zone – Face painting, holiday crafts, and activities for children.
- Food Court – Local food vendors with holiday treats.
- Holiday Parade – Festive parade down Hwy 101 with Santa and holiday floats.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- SoCal Surf Apparel – Surf-inspired winter wear and beach accessories.
- Holiday Décor Booth – Unique holiday decor for your home.
- Encinitas Artisans – Local artwork inspired by Southern California.
- Organic Beauty – Natural soaps and skincare products, perfect for gifts.
- Holiday Hot Sauce – Try holiday-inspired flavors from local producers.
Special Spots:
- Santa’s Corner – Meet Santa and take festive photos.
- Stage Plaza – Main stage area for live music and performances.
- Holiday Food Alley – A section of the street fair dedicated to holiday foods.
- Pet Parade Zone – An area for families and pets to enjoy the festivities.
- Holiday Photo Booth – A fun spot for family photos with holiday props.
Parking:
- Limited free parking; public lots available nearby
Nearby Hotels:
- Moonlight Beach Motel
- Days Inn Encinitas
- Best Western Encinitas Inn & Suites
Nearby Restaurants:
- Pannikin Coffee & Tea – Local coffeehouse with holiday drinks.
- The Roxy Encinitas – Classic bar with seasonal cocktails and live music.
- 101 Diner – Retro diner with holiday breakfast specials.
8. Gaslamp Holiday Market
In the middle of downtown San Diego, the Gaslamp Holiday Market in the lively Gaslamp Quarter is a fun place to shop for holiday gifts. The Gaslamp Quarter is known for its lively vibe and historic charm. During the holidays, it turns into a winter wonderland with holiday shops, decorated Christmas trees, and sparkling lights. There are many unique gifts and holiday items at the market. People sell items they made by hand, old holiday decorations, and things made in the area. For more fun things to do, check out the Gaslamp Holiday Market. There’s a Holiday Tree Stroll, movie nights outside, and live music from local bands. Families can visit Santa’s Workshop, where kids can meet Santa and participate in holiday crafts. The market’s iconic Gaslamp Archway and historic buildings decorated with holiday lights add to the festive feel, making this market a popular destination for holiday shopping and entertainment. Whether you’re exploring with family or friends, the Gaslamp Holiday Market offers a memorable holiday experience in one of San Diego’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Address: Gaslamp Quarter, Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA
Dates: December 10 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily 12:00 PM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; find details on Gaslamp Quarter website
Nearest T Stations:
- Gaslamp Quarter Station
- Convention Center Station
Events:
- Christmas Tree Stroll – Walk through a trail of uniquely decorated Christmas trees.
- Outdoor Movie Nights – Family-friendly holiday films shown outdoors.
- Gift Wrapping Station – Complimentary gift wrapping for market purchases.
- Holiday Fashion Show – Festive fashion event with local designers.
- Santa’s Workshop – Kids can meet Santa and enjoy craft activities.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- Gaslamp Holiday Boutique – Handmade jewelry, art, and local crafts.
- San Diego Souvenirs – Holiday-themed San Diego items.
- Vintage Finds – Unique vintage holiday decorations and accessories.
- Eco-Friendly Goods – Sustainable gifts and holiday decor.
- Sweet Treats Stand – Holiday candies, gingerbread, and fudge.
Special Spots:
- Gaslamp Archway – Iconic entrance beautifully decorated with lights.
- Holiday Tree Plaza – Central area with a large Christmas tree.
- Historic Gaslamp District – Festively decorated buildings add charm to the market.
- Movie Night Square – Open area for outdoor holiday movie screenings.
- Santa’s Sleigh – Perfect photo spot with Santa’s sleigh setup.
Parking:
- Public parking garages nearby, starting at $5 per hour
Nearby Hotels:
- Pendry San Diego
- Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
- Andaz San Diego
Nearby Restaurants:
- Cafe 21 Gaslamp – Farm-to-table fare with seasonal cocktails.
- Gaslamp Fish House – Seafood with holiday specials.
- The Shout! House – Dueling piano bar with festive vibes.
9. Carlsbad Village Holiday Market
In the middle of Carlsbad Village, in a cute seaside setting, is the Carlsbad Village Holiday Market. With holiday-themed booths, music, and events for people of all ages, this market brings the beachside community into the holiday spirit every Sunday in December.On the fair, people can look at stands with holiday treats, handmade gifts, and holiday decorations with a coastal theme. This is a wonderful spot to discover one-of-a-kind holiday presents. “Carols in the Village,” the market’s main event, features Christmas songs sung by local groups. The music makes shopping more enjoyable. Families can also take photos with Santa and enjoy children’s activities like tree decorating workshops and holiday crafts. The Carlsbad Village Holiday Market is a great way to enjoy the season because it is in a beautiful location and has a friendly community feel. People who want to enjoy the magic of the holidays with a view of the ocean and the friendliness and kindness of a small-town holiday event will love this market.
Address: Carlsbad Village, State St & Grand Ave, Carlsbad, CA
Dates: December 3 – December 24, 2025 (Sundays only)
Opening Hours: Sundays 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; additional info available on the Carlsbad Village website
Nearest T Stations:
- Carlsbad Village Coaster Station
Events:
- Carols in the Village – Holiday carolers perform festive tunes throughout the village.
- Photos with Santa – Family photo opportunities with Santa Claus each Sunday.
- Holiday Artisan Market – Unique gifts and crafts from local artisans.
- Live Music Performances – Local bands perform seasonal music.
- Tree Decorating Workshop – Kids can help decorate mini Christmas trees.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- Carlsbad Woodworks – Handcrafted wooden toys and home decor.
- Beachy Ornaments – Coastal-inspired holiday ornaments.
- Artisan Candles – Holiday-scented candles crafted locally.
- Farm Fresh Goods – Seasonal produce and baked goods.
- Vintage Finds – Unique, vintage holiday decor and gifts.
Special Spots:
- Village Plaza – A central gathering space beautifully decorated with lights.
- Coastal Archway – A festive entrance arch with lights and holiday garlands.
- Santa’s Corner – A spot to take photos with Santa.
- Seaside Walkway – Scenic path decorated for the season, offering ocean views.
- Holiday Mural Wall – A painted mural with a holiday theme, perfect for photos.
Parking:
- Public parking available in the village; free for the first 2 hours
Nearby Hotels:
- Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort
- Tamarack Beach Resort
- Best Western Plus Beach View Lodge
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Compass – Farm-to-table cuisine with a holiday twist.
- Cafe Topes – Cozy breakfast spot with holiday-inspired dishes.
- Jay’s Gourmet Seafood – Local seafood with a festive vibe.
10. Coronado Holiday Market
At the Coronado Ferry Landing, the Coronado Holiday Market offers holiday cheer and beautiful views of San Diego’s skyline, making it a one-of-a-kind place to celebrate the season. This market is right on the water and has holiday booths with handmade gifts, seaside decor, and goods made in the area.One of the best things about the Coronado Holiday Market is the Bayfront Tree Lighting, which puts a big Christmas tree in front of San Diego Bay. A holiday show on painted boats sails along the bay during the Holiday Boat Parade, which people can also enjoy. People can also make art, listen to live carols, and get their picture taken with Santa. At Christmas, the market is a magical place to visit because the paths are lit up and it is right on the water. At the Coronado Holiday Market, you can find gifts, eat holiday treats, or just take it easy and enjoy the view. The holiday season is a great time to go with family, friends, or anyone else who loves the season.
Address: Coronado Ferry Landing, 1201 1st St, Coronado, CA
Dates: December 10 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; additional details on the Coronado Ferry Landing website
Nearest T Stations:
- Coronado Ferry Landing (ferry from San Diego)
Events:
- Bayfront Tree Lighting – A waterfront Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
- Holiday Boat Parade – View boats decorated with holiday lights along the bay.
- Live Caroling Nights – Carolers perform holiday favorites throughout the market.
- Seaside Santa Photos – Get your photo with Santa by the sea.
- Holiday Craft Booths – DIY booths for making holiday decorations.
Famous Shops/Stalls:
- Seaside Gifts – Coastal holiday ornaments and gifts.
- Coronado Chocolatier – Handcrafted chocolates with seasonal flavors.
- Bayfront Artisans – Local arts and crafts inspired by the ocean.
- Coronado Candles – Ocean-scented and holiday-themed candles.
- Winter Warmth – Cozy hats, scarves, and blankets.
Special Spots:
- Bayfront Christmas Tree – Large tree decorated for the season, perfect for photos.
- Santa’s Seaside Sleigh – Unique photo setup with Santa and his sleigh by the bay.
- Holiday Light Tunnel – A lighted tunnel walkway with festive decor.
- View of Downtown San Diego Skyline – Scenic views of the skyline from the market.
- Boat Parade Viewing Spot – A prime area to view the holiday boat parade.
Parking:
- Ferry Landing parking lot, $5 flat rate
Nearby Hotels:
- Hotel del Coronado
- Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa
- Glorietta Bay Inn
Nearby Restaurants:
- Peohe’s – Waterfront dining with festive decor.
- Coronado Brewing Company – Local brews with holiday food specials.
- Il Fornaio – Italian dining with seasonal dishes.