San Diego, January 3, 2026
This weekend, San Diego presents a variety of events from thrilling sports matches to festive holiday celebrations. Enjoy ice skating, whale watching, and music-filled nights. Whether you’re a sports fan or looking for family fun, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant local scene in San Diego.
San Diego, CA
San Diego offers a variety of events and activities this weekend, January 3-4, 2026, catering to diverse interests.
Weather Forecast
Expect mostly cloudy skies with a chance of showers. High temperatures will be around 66°F (19°C), and lows near 58°F (15°C).
Highlighted Events
Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Dates: January 1-4, 2026
Location: San Diego Zoo Safari Park, 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
Description: Experience the Safari Park transformed with festive lights, musical entertainment, and holiday-themed activities. The park remains open until 8 p.m. on these dates. Admission tickets or memberships are required. Limited wildlife viewing after 4 p.m.; refer to the Wild Holidays Park map for designated closed areas.
San Diego International Auto Show
Dates: January 1-4, 2026
Location: San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
Description: Explore the latest automotive innovations, including new models, exotic cars, and electric vehicles. The show features hands-on test drives and a comparison shop to assist in finding your next vehicle. Over 50,000 car enthusiasts are expected to attend.
San Diego Gulls vs. Coachella Valley Firebirds
Date: January 2, 2026
Location: Pechanga Arena, San Diego, CA
Description: Enjoy an exciting hockey match as the San Diego Gulls face the Coachella Valley Firebirds. The game promises fast-paced action and an electric atmosphere, drawing fans to support local teams.
Polar Plunge and 6 Mile Beach Ruck
Date: January 3, 2026
Location: South Mission Beach, San Diego, CA
Description: Start the year with a chilly ocean plunge followed by a scenic beach ruck, run, or walk. This event is perfect for thrill-seekers and fitness enthusiasts looking to kick off the year with an adventurous activity.
Del Dios Trail Race (The Race of the Gods)
Date: January 4, 2026
Location: Lake Hodges Boat Ramp, San Diego, CA
Description: Challenge yourself with a rugged 10K, 15K, or Half Marathon through the beautiful hills and trails surrounding Lake Hodges. This race offers a unique opportunity to experience San Diego’s natural beauty while testing your endurance.
Ongoing Events
Winter & Spring Gray Whale Watching
Dates: Through April 2026
Description: Witness the annual migration of over 20,000 gray whales along San Diego’s 70 miles of coastline. This natural spectacle is a must-see for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
Holidays at LEGOLAND
Dates: Through January 4, 2026
Location: LEGOLAND California Resort, Carlsbad, CA
Description: Celebrate the season at LEGOLAND with festive decorations, holiday shows, and seasonal characters. The resort features a stunning LEGO Christmas tree with over 400 ornaments, a life-size LEGO Santa and reindeer, and delicious treats, making it a family-friendly destination for holiday cheer.
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
Dates: Through January 4, 2026
Location: SeaWorld San Diego, 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego, CA 92109
Description: Experience SeaWorld’s annual Christmas Celebration with twinkling lights, holiday-themed shows, and festive performances. The event is included with admission and offers a memorable holiday experience for visitors of all ages.
Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station
Dates: Through January 4, 2026
Location: Liberty Station, San Diego, CA
Description: Glide gracefully across the ice at Rady Children’s Ice Rink, surrounded by the historic charm of Liberty Station. This outdoor rink offers a unique skating experience in a picturesque setting.
Viejas Outlet Center Ice Rink
Dates: Through January 4, 2026
Location: Viejas Outlet Center, Alpine, CA
Description: Lace up your skates and enjoy the holiday splendor at Viejas Ice Rink. This rink provides a festive atmosphere for skaters of all ages, making it a perfect spot for family fun.
Skating by the Sea
Dates: Through January 4, 2026
Location: Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118
Description: Experience a unique Southern California holiday tradition with Skating by the Sea at the Hotel del Coronado. This outdoor ice-skating rink overlooks the Pacific Ocean, offering a picturesque setting for skaters to enjoy the season.
Additional Information
For more details on these events, including ticket information and specific timings, please refer to the respective event websites or contact the organizers directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Wild Holidays event at San Diego Zoo Safari Park?
Wild Holidays is an event at San Diego Zoo Safari Park, running from January 1-4, 2026, featuring festive lights, musical entertainment, and holiday-themed activities. The park remains open until 8 p.m. on these dates. Admission tickets or memberships are required. Limited wildlife viewing after 4 p.m.; refer to the Wild Holidays Park map for designated closed areas.
Where is the San Diego International Auto Show being held?
The San Diego International Auto Show is being held at the San Diego Convention Center, located at 111 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101, from January 1-4, 2026.
What is the Polar Plunge and 6 Mile Beach Ruck event?
The Polar Plunge and 6 Mile Beach Ruck is an event on January 3, 2026, at South Mission Beach, San Diego, CA, where participants start the year with a chilly ocean plunge followed by a scenic beach ruck, run, or walk. This event is perfect for thrill-seekers and fitness enthusiasts looking to kick off the year with an adventurous activity.
Where can I go whale watching in San Diego?
Whale watching tours are available year-round in San Diego, with peak season for gray whales from mid-December to mid-April. San Diego’s 70 miles of coastline are directly in the migration path, making it an ideal destination to see this impressive parade of gentle giants.
What is the Skating by the Sea event at Hotel del Coronado?
Skating by the Sea is an outdoor ice-skating rink at Hotel del Coronado, located at 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118, running through January 4, 2026. This rink offers a unique Southern California holiday tradition with views of the Pacific Ocean, providing a picturesque setting for skaters to enjoy the season.
Event Overview
| Event | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park | January 1-4, 2026 | San Diego Zoo Safari Park, 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 | Experience festive lights, musical entertainment, and holiday-themed activities. The park remains open until 8 p.m. on these dates. Admission tickets or memberships are required. Limited wildlife viewing after 4 p.m.; refer to the Wild Holidays Park map for designated closed areas. |
| San Diego International Auto Show | January 1-4, 2026 | San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 | Explore the latest automotive innovations, including new models, exotic cars, and electric vehicles. The show features hands-on test drives and a comparison shop to assist in finding your next vehicle. Over 50,000 car enthusiasts are expected to attend. |
| San Diego Gulls vs. Coachella Valley Firebirds | January 2, 2026 | Pechanga Arena, San Diego, CA | Enjoy an exciting hockey match as the San Diego Gulls face the Coachella Valley Firebirds. The game promises fast-paced action and an electric atmosphere, drawing fans to support local teams. |
| Polar Plunge and 6 Mile Beach Ruck | January 3, 2026 | South Mission Beach, San Diego, CA | Start the year with a chilly ocean plunge followed by a scenic beach ruck, run, or walk. This event is perfect for thrill-seekers and fitness enthusiasts looking to kick off the year with an adventurous activity. |
| Del Dios Trail Race (The Race of the Gods) | January 4, 2026 | Lake Hodges Boat Ramp, San Diego, CA | Challenge yourself with a rugged 10K, 15K, or Half Marathon through the beautiful hills and trails surrounding Lake Hodges. This race offers a unique opportunity to experience San Diego’s natural beauty while testing your endurance. |
Now Happening on X
- @CityofSanDiego (January 1, 2026, 10:55 AM) Heavy rain is causing flooding in several areas across the City, with crews actively responding; report storm-related issues via the Get It Done app or by calling 619-527-7500, and call 911 for life-threatening emergencies. View on X
- @MayorToddGloria (January 2, 2026, 1:43 PM) Rain and king tides are in the forecast; City crews are preparing, and residents are urged to avoid floodwaters, use caution on coastal trails, and report issues via Get It Done or 619-527-7500. View on X
- @nbcsandiego (December 31, 2025, 3:15 PM) San Diego’s animal shelters have seen an influx of pets from an East County rescue, a suspect remains at large after allegedly stabbing three family members on Christmas, and police have identified a Bay Park woman killed by her husband. View on X
- @619SDLD (December 31, 2025, 9:09 PM) A winter storm is approaching San Diego County, bringing steady rain and possible thunderstorms through Thursday, potentially over an inch in many areas, prompting activation of inclement weather shelters. View on X
- @21SouthNews (December 31, 2025, 3:51 AM) The city is preparing for potential flooding and downed trees by cleaning storm drains and sweeping streets to reduce trash buildup, urging residents to plan ahead. View on X
- @TBOSD8 (December 29, 2025, 3:25 AM) San Diego Police deployed pepper balls to apprehend a driver after a vehicle pursuit in Pacific Beach turned into a standoff, causing major police presence. View on X
- @GrumblingsMedia (December 30, 2025, 2:03 PM) San Diego County safety update discusses the reality of cartel influence and the need for law and order amid local crime challenges. View on X
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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.
