San Diego, January 3, 2026
This weekend, San Diego showcases a vibrant array of holiday activities including Jungle Bells at the Zoo, King Tide Brunch in La Jolla, enchanting light displays at the Botanic Garden, and family-friendly events at Belmont Park. Local venues have worked hard to create a festive atmosphere, ensuring that residents of all ages can partake in the holiday spirit with unique experiences that foster community engagement. Join in the fun and create lasting memories with friends and family at these fantastic events.
San Diego Weekend Guide: Jungle Bells, King Tide Brunch, Lightscape, Wild Holidays, Winter Wonder
Discover Festive Fun this Weekend in San Diego
San Diego, CA — This weekend, January 3-4, 2026, the spirit of the holidays is alive across San Diego with a variety of engaging activities for all ages. From twinkling lights and festive meals to immersive experiences, local organizers have stepped up to create memorable events that highlight our community’s unique character and resilience. While navigating the busy holiday season, it’s a testament to local leadership that these events can come together, often with minimal bureaucratic hurdles.
As residents of San Diego, we are fortunate to have so much to choose from, showcasing the creativity and collaboration of local organizations and businesses. Such events promote community engagement, foster connections, and contribute to a vibrant civic life. This weekend, here’s what San Diego has in store.
Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo
Experience the magic of the holidays at the San Diego Zoo’s Jungle Bells celebration, running through January 4, 2026. The zoo transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with festive lights, decorations, and delightful music. Guests can enjoy the lively performances by the Jingle Brass ensemble and the Holiday Troubadour, along with an array of seasonal treats available throughout the park. Note that the zoo will remain open until 8 p.m. during this special event, except on December 24.
King Tide Brunch at The Marine Room
Join The Marine Room in La Jolla for its renowned King Tide Brunch, taking place on January 3-4, 2026. Attendees can savor a special menu while soaking in stunning ocean views. It is recommended to make reservations due to the high demand that this popular event draws each year.
Lightscape at the San Diego Botanic Garden
Visit the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas to experience Lightscape, an immersive light display that invites guests to wander through a million twinkling lights and beautifully themed installations, creating an enchanting atmosphere for all. This event will also run through January 4, 2026, making it an ideal outing for families looking to celebrate the season.
Wild Holidays at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Explore the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido during Wild Holidays, available on select evenings through January 4, 2026. The park is beautifully adorned with holiday lights, and visitors can enjoy musical entertainment and festive storytelling, alongside culinary treats. Please note that wildlife viewing is limited during this evening event, ensuring a cozy atmosphere.
Winter Wonder at Belmont Park
Experience Winter Wonder at Belmont Park in San Diego, also running through January 4, 2026. Enjoy various festive rides and attractions, including the iconic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, oversized sculptures, and holiday-inspired drinks while strolling through the Midway illuminated by a million lights.
For more details on these events and other holiday activities in San Diego, visit the respective event websites or contact the venues directly.
FAQ
What are the dates for Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo?
Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo runs through January 4, 2026. The zoo will close at 8 p.m. during Jungle Bells, except on December 24.
When is the King Tide Brunch at The Marine Room?
The King Tide Brunch at The Marine Room is scheduled for January 3-4, 2026. Reservations are recommended due to high demand.
What is Lightscape at the San Diego Botanic Garden?
Lightscape is an immersive light display at the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas, running through January 4, 2026. Visitors can wander through a million twinkling lights and various themed installations.
When is Wild Holidays at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park?
Wild Holidays at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is available select evenings through January 4, 2026. The park is adorned with holiday lights, and visitors can enjoy musical entertainment, festive storytelling, and culinary treats. Wildlife viewing is limited during this evening event.
What is Winter Wonder at Belmont Park?
Winter Wonder at Belmont Park in San Diego runs through January 4, 2026. Visitors can enjoy festive rides and attractions, including the iconic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, oversized sculptures, and holiday-inspired drinks while strolling through the Midway under a million lights.
Key Features of San Diego’s Holiday Events
| Event | Location | Dates | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jungle Bells | San Diego Zoo | Through January 4, 2026 | Festive lights, decorations, music, interactive entertainment, seasonal treats |
| King Tide Brunch | The Marine Room, La Jolla | January 3-4, 2026 | Special holiday menu, ocean views |
| Lightscape | San Diego Botanic Garden, Encinitas | Through January 4, 2026 | Immersive light displays, themed installations |
| Wild Holidays | San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Escondido | Select evenings through January 4, 2026 | Holiday lights, musical entertainment, festive storytelling, culinary treats |
| Winter Wonder | Belmont Park, San Diego | Through January 4, 2026 | Festive rides, oversized sculptures, holiday-inspired drinks, million lights |
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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.
