San Diego, November 24, 2025
Liberty Station in San Diego is set to celebrate the holiday season with its annual ‘Salute the Season’ festivities. This year, events showcase various cultural traditions while promoting local businesses and community engagement. From the enchanting Holiday Tree Lighting, featuring an 88-foot Norfolk pine, to the delightful Nutcracker Tea with the San Diego Ballet and festive markets, there are numerous activities planned. These events not only uplift community spirit but also highlight the resilience of local entrepreneurs during this bustling season. The celebrations are designed to create memories and foster new traditions.
San Diego Kicks Off ‘Salute the Season’ Festivities at Liberty Station
San Diego, CA – Liberty Station is gearing up for the holiday season with its annual ‘Salute the Season’ festivities, which highlight various cultural traditions and foster community engagement. As local businesses prepare for a busy season, these events represent the resilience and creativity that define our region’s entrepreneurial spirit.
With less regulatory burden, local entrepreneurs have the opportunity to thrive during this festive time. Liberty Station’s events not only boost community morale but also provide a platform for small businesses and local artisans to showcase their craftsmanship and ingenuity, reinforcing the connection between culture and economic growth.
Holiday Tree Lighting
The highlight of the season is the Holiday Tree Lighting, taking place on Friday, November 28, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the North Promenade and Vesper Venue. Visitors can experience the illumination of the iconic 88-foot Norfolk pine tree, enjoy live entertainment, take part in festive firetruck rides, get free photos with Santa, and watch a screening of “The Grinch.” This joyful event marks the official commencement of the holiday season at Liberty Station.
Nutcracker Tea with San Diego Ballet
On Sunday, December 7, the Nutcracker Tea with San Diego Ballet takes center stage. With two performances scheduled at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., attendees will delight in a narrated rendition of “The Nutcracker,” accompanied by delightful treats, hot cocoa, and opportunities for photos with Santa. Tickets for this enchanting event can be purchased online.
Hanukkah Celebration and Menorah Lighting
In cooperation with The Chabads of Downtown San Diego and Pacific Beach, Liberty Station will host a Hanukkah Celebration and Menorah Lighting on Sunday, December 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Central Promenade, near the Rady Children’s Ice Rink. This family-friendly gathering will feature entertainment, packaged treats, and the ceremonial lighting of the menorah. After the event, the menorah will remain illuminated each night of Hanukkah, symbolizing community unity and celebration.
Rady Children’s Ice Rink
The Rady Children’s Ice Rink is a beloved attraction open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. through January 4. This ice rink not only serves as a festive gathering place for families but also supports the Thriving After Cancer program at the Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. Special hours will be in place for the holidays, including on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
Additional Festive Activities
Liberty Station will also host the Lights & Peppermint Market on December 13 and 14. This engaging event features meet-and-greets with the Grinch, an Ugly Sweater Party complete with a DJ, caricature artists, holiday shopping, festive beverages, and seasonal food offerings from local eateries. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the holiday spirit while supporting local businesses.
For further details on these events and updates on additional holiday activities, interested individuals can visit Liberty Station’s official website.
FAQ
What is the Holiday Tree Lighting at Liberty Station?
The Holiday Tree Lighting is the main event of Liberty Station’s ‘Salute the Season’ festivities, featuring the illumination of the 88-foot Norfolk pine tree, live entertainment, firetruck rides, free photos with Santa, and a screening of “The Grinch.” It takes place on Friday, November 28, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the North Promenade and Vesper Venue.
When is the Nutcracker Tea with San Diego Ballet?
The Nutcracker Tea with San Diego Ballet is scheduled for Sunday, December 7, with two showtimes at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The event includes a narrated performance of “The Nutcracker,” treats, hot cocoa, and photo opportunities with Santa. Tickets can be purchased online.
What is the Hanukkah Celebration and Menorah Lighting?
The Hanukkah Celebration and Menorah Lighting is a public event held in partnership with The Chabads of Downtown San Diego and Pacific Beach. It takes place on Sunday, December 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Central Promenade, adjacent to the Rady Children’s Ice Rink. The family-friendly event features entertainment, packaged treats, and the traditional lighting of the menorah. Following the celebration, the menorah will remain on display, illuminated each night of Hanukkah.
What are the hours for the Rady Children’s Ice Rink?
The Rady Children’s Ice Rink is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. through January 4. Located in the Central Promenade, the rink supports the Thriving After Cancer program at the Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. Modified hours are in place for the holidays, including special hours on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
What is the Lights & Peppermint Market?
The Lights & Peppermint Market is a festive event held on December 13 and 14 at Liberty Station. It features Grinch meet-and-greets, an Ugly Sweater Party with a DJ, caricature artists, holiday shopping, festive beverages, and seasonal food offerings from local eateries.
Event Schedule
| Event | Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holiday Tree Lighting | November 28 | 5-9 p.m. | North Promenade and Vesper Venue |
| Nutcracker Tea with San Diego Ballet | December 7 | 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. | Liberty Station Conference Center |
| Hanukkah Celebration and Menorah Lighting | December 14 | 5-8 p.m. | Central Promenade |
| Rady Children’s Ice Rink | Through January 4 | 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. | Central Promenade |
| Lights & Peppermint Market | December 13-14 | Varies | Liberty Public Market |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Festive Fun Awaits: Explore San Diego’s Weekend Events
Vibrant Arts Events This Weekend in San Diego, CA
San Diego Food + Wine Festival Concludes with Grand Fiesta
Ballet and Art Collaboration in San Diego
Tom Fetter Named Mr. San Diego by Rotary Club
Weekend Events in San Diego: Art, Festivals, and More
Halloween Events in San Diego County
San Diego Offers a Variety of Events and Activities
San Diego Hosts Signal’s Island Geocaching Event
San Diego Celebrates Halloween with Festive Events for All
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.
