San Diego, December 10, 2025

San Diego has witnessed only five recorded instances of snowfall in over 125 years, with the last measurable event occurring on February 14, 2008. Prior notable snowfalls include occurrences in 1967, 1949, 1937, and as early as 1882. While snow is rare in coastal areas, the mountainous regions within San Diego County enjoy more frequent snowfall. Various holiday events have creatively incorporated artificial snow, providing residents and visitors with a taste of winter magic, as the local community continues to embrace seasonal festivities.

San Diego’s Rare Snowfall: A Look Back at Historical Events

San Diego, CA – Snowfall in San Diego is an exceedingly rare event, with only five documented occurrences in over 125 years. The most recent instance was on February 14, 2008, when light snow flurries were observed around 5:00 PM. Prior to that, the last measurable snowfall occurred on December 13, 1967, covering various neighborhoods and suburbs.

Notable Snowfall Events in San Diego

• December 13, 1967: Measurable snowfall affected areas including North Park, East San Diego, Clairemont, University City, and just above Mission Valley.
• February 14, 2008: Light snow flurries were reported around 5:00 PM.
• January 10-11, 1949: Snow was reported at Camp Miramar, Rose Canyon, Mt. Helix, East San Diego, North Park, La Jolla, Point Loma, and El Cajon.
• January 21, 1937: Snow flurries were reported at Lindbergh Field during the early morning hours.
• January 14, 1882: Snowflakes were observed, with sleet reported within the city limits.

Snowfall in San Diego County’s Mountainous Regions

While snowfall is rare in San Diego’s coastal areas, the county’s mountainous regions experience more frequent snow. The Laguna Mountains, for example, receive snowfall several times a year, providing opportunities for winter recreation such as sledding and snowshoeing.

Recent Holiday Events Featuring Snowfall

Despite the rarity of natural snowfall, several holiday events in San Diego have incorporated artificial snow to create a festive atmosphere:

• Barrio Logan Snow Day y Mercado: Scheduled for December 13, 2025, at Mercado del Barrio, this free, family-friendly event will feature 10 tons of real snow, festive activities, and local artisans.
• Seaport Village’s “Let It Snow”: Throughout December, Malibu Farm at Seaport Village will host “Let It Snow,” where eco-friendly snow falls daily at 5:00 PM, creating a wintery ambiance by the bay.
• Holiday Wonderland at Petco Park: This annual event offers dazzling light displays, a grand carousel, and nightly snowfall, providing a winter wonderland experience in the heart of San Diego.

These events offer residents and visitors a chance to experience the magic of snow during the holiday season, even if natural snowfall remains a rare occurrence in the region.

Conclusion

The historical occurrences of snowfall in San Diego highlight how unique this coastal city’s climate is. While natural snow may be a rarity, the community’s ability to adapt and create opportunities for winter fun demonstrates the resilience and creativity of San Diego’s entrepreneurs. As we look forward to future holiday events, let us embrace the festive spirit and ongoing innovations within our local economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the most recent snowfall occur in San Diego?

The most recent snowfall in San Diego occurred on February 14, 2008, when light snow flurries were observed around 5:00 PM.

How many times has snow fallen in San Diego?

Snow has fallen in San Diego only five times in over 125 years of record-keeping.

Where can I experience snow in San Diego County?

While snowfall is rare in coastal areas, the Laguna Mountains in San Diego County receive snowfall several times a year, offering opportunities for winter recreation.

Are there any holiday events in San Diego featuring snow?

Yes, events like the Barrio Logan Snow Day y Mercado, Seaport Village’s “Let It Snow,” and Holiday Wonderland at Petco Park incorporate artificial snow to create a festive atmosphere.

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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.