What to do in San Diego Events Guide

San Diego's Festive Coastal Getaway: Balboa Park, Midway Museum, and Symphony Concerts Await


Listen Later

San Diego's delightful coastal beauty and vibrant culture make it the perfect getaway for a festive week following the winter holidays. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, there's an abundance of fun and engaging events to fill your days with joy and excitement through the rest of the week and the upcoming weekend.

**Thursday, December 26th:**

Start your day with a visit to Balboa Park, where the annual December Nights celebration transforms the park into a winter wonderland. While the main festivities happened earlier in the month, this week you can still enjoy the beautiful lights and decorations. Many of the park’s museums remain open for free entry, offering a last chance to soak in some culture before New Year’s Day.

For a bit of history, head over to the USS Midway Museum. Between 10 AM and 5 PM, explore this iconic aircraft carrier and dive into interactive exhibitions that bring naval history to life.

**Friday, December 27th:**

Kick off your Friday morning with a relaxing stroll at La Jolla Cove, where you can marvel at the stunning coastal views and occasionally spot playful sea lions. Afterward, make your way to the Gaslamp Quarter for some holiday sales that continue at the local boutiques.

In the evening, catch the San Diego Symphony's New Year's Eve Concert at the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. The symphony will be playing a selection of favorites to welcome the new year with style and glamor.

**Saturday, December 28th:**

For those traveling with children, the San Diego Zoo is a must-visit. "Jungle Bells," their festive event, runs through the weekend, featuring twinkling lights, merry performances, and animal encounters sure to delight all ages.

If you're an art lover, head over to Little Italy, where the weekend market transforms the neighborhood streets into an open-air gallery with local artisans displaying their crafts. It's a fantastic stop for unique finds and tasty eats from food stalls.

**Sunday, December 29th:**

On Sunday morning, enjoy an invigorating hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The crisp ocean air and stunning vistas from the cliffs are the perfect backdrops for a pre-New Year’s day adventure.

By the afternoon, switch gears and head downtown to catch a live performance of "The Nutcracker" by City Ballet of San Diego at the UCSD Park & Market. It’s an enchanting way to round off this festive season.

**Weekend Unique Experiences:**

Throughout the weekend, don't miss out on the Holiday Market at Petco Park – a European-style market where you can shop for handcrafted gifts and enjoy seasonal treats. It’s an ideal stop for last-minute gifts or simply to bask in the festive atmosphere with a hot cocoa in hand.

Lastly, for the sporty types or those seeking a quiet beach vibe, check out Coronado Beach. It offers immaculate golden sands and picturesque warm sunsets, perfect for winding down after a week of holiday excitement.

San Diego offers an impressive array of activities to create an unforgettable end-of-year experience, whether it’s indulging your taste buds, diving into cultural exhibitions, or simply enjoying the area's natural beauty. Enjoy your time in this vibrant city!
...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

What to do in San Diego Events GuideBy Quiet. Please