Winter Events to Brighten Up San Diego County

Families enjoying a winter festival in San Diego with festive decorations and activities.

San Diego County, December 10, 2025

San Diego County is set to celebrate the winter season with a variety of festive events aimed at fostering community spirit. From enchanting winter wonderlands to fashion shows supporting local causes, there is something for everyone this winter. These activities not only spread holiday cheer but also support local businesses and artists, enriching the economy while creating lasting memories for families and individuals. Join in the celebrations and enjoy the warmth of the community during this special time of year.

Winter Events to Brighten Up San Diego County

Enjoy the Holiday Spirit with a Range of Festive Activities

San Diego County is preparing for a delightful winter season, filled with events and shows designed to bring joy and togetherness to the community. As the holiday spirit takes hold, residents and visitors alike can look forward to indulging in festive activities that not only foster a sense of community but also stimulate the local economy. These varied events showcase the resilience and creativity of local entrepreneurs, providing a platform for small businesses to thrive amid limited regulation.

Winter Wonderland Festival

Dates: December 6-7, 2025
Location: 340 North Escondido Boulevard, Escondido, CA 92025
Description: Downtown Escondido transforms into a captivating Winter Wonderland, featuring real snow, festive crafts, visits with Santa, seasonal food and drinks, and holiday shopping. This beloved tradition is an ideal kickoff to the holiday season.

Winter Wonderland at Belmont Park

Dates: December 4, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Location: 3146 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109
Description: Belmont Park’s Winter Wonder returns with over one million twinkling lights, guiding visitors through an unforgettable experience of holiday cheer. The event is open daily during the specified dates.

Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon

Date: December 5, 2025
Location: The US Grant Hotel, San Diego
Description: Hosted by The Arc of San Diego, this annual event features a fashion show, boutique shopping, a silent auction, and a festive lunch. The theme for this year is “Shimmer & Glimmer,” aiming to support over 2,000 children and adults with disabilities across San Diego County.

Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden

Dates: Mid-November 2025 – January 4, 2026
Location: San Diego Botanic Garden, Encinitas
Description: The garden’s fourth annual “Lightscape” holiday light show features a mile-long trail with 15 themed light installations designed by British artist Zoe Bottrell. The exhibit enhances the holiday spirit and generates income for the nonprofit garden.

Winter Wonderland at Lakehouse Resort

Dates: November 29 – December 27, 2025
Location: 1025 La Bonita Drive, San Marcos, CA 92078
Description: Lakehouse Resort hosts North County’s original Winter Wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, festive treats, and a Frozen Fun Zone for kids featuring a train ride, s’mores, and Build-a-Buddy. Exclusive experiences such as Grand Igloo Dining are also available.

Winter Festival Events

Dates: Various dates in December 2025 and January 2026
Locations: Various recreation centers across San Diego
Description: The City of San Diego’s Parks and Recreation Department offers a series of winter festival events, including “Cookies with Santa,” “Dinner With The Grinch,” and “Winter Wonderland” at different community centers. These events provide festive activities for families and individuals of all ages.

Winter Wonder at SkyPark at Santa’s Village

Dates: January 10 – February 23, 2025
Location: SkyPark at Santa’s Village, Skyforest, CA 92385
Description: SkyPark invites visitors to experience Winter Wonderland with outdoor adventures, seasonal characters, special entertainment, and the Snow Quest scavenger hunt. Activities like ax throwing, archery, and ice skating are included.

Conclusion

With an impressive lineup of winter events, San Diego County is looking to create lasting memories for families and individuals this season. Supporting these local events not only keeps the community engaged but also bolsters small businesses, driving economic growth in the area. So gather your loved ones and join in the celebrations at these festive gatherings, where the warmth of the holiday season truly shines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the dates for the Winter Wonderland Festival in Escondido?

The Winter Wonderland Festival in Escondido is scheduled for December 6-7, 2025.

Where is the Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon taking place?

The Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon is hosted at The US Grant Hotel in San Diego on December 5, 2025.

What is the duration of the Lightscape event at the San Diego Botanic Garden?

The Lightscape event at the San Diego Botanic Garden runs from mid-November 2025 to January 4, 2026.

What activities are included in the Winter Wonder at SkyPark at Santa’s Village?

Activities at SkyPark include outdoor adventures, seasonal characters, special entertainment, ax throwing, archery, and ice skating.

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STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER

The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.

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