The Ultimate North County San Diego Holiday Guide: Events, Lights & Festivities 2025
Updated: December 2, 2025 | By Jose Luis Tepox Jr.
The holiday season in North County San Diego is truly special. From the sparkling coastline of Oceanside to the charming streets of Encinitas, our local communities know how to celebrate in style.
Whether you are looking for a festive parade, a dazzling light display, or a local makers' market to finish your shopping, we have curated the ultimate list of must-attend events for 2025. Get your calendars ready!
1. Dazzling Light Displays & Experiences
Nothing says "holidays" like a stunning light show. Here are the top spots to get your glow on this year:
- Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden (Encinitas):
Dates: Nov 14 - Jan 4 | Tickets Required
A reimagined one-mile trail featuring artistic installations from around the world. Enjoy festive cocktails and music as you walk through a "firefly field" and other glowing wonders. - Jingle Terrace Live (Vista):
Dates: Select nights in December | Free
The Moonlight Amphitheatre transforms into a festive light show with live music, food trucks, and photo ops. A local favorite for families! - Coastal Christmas (Del Mar):
Dates: Dec 12 - 26 | Del Mar Fairgrounds
Ice skating, millions of lights, and holiday cheer right by the ocean. A perfect evening out for all ages.
| Event | Date & Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Encinitas Holiday Parade | Dec 6 @ 5:30 PM | Coast Hwy 101 (D St to J St) |
| Vista Christmas Parade | Dec 6 @ 1:00 PM | Downtown Vista |
| San Marcos Holiday Parade | Dec 7 @ 1:00 PM | Mission Rd to Civic Center |
| Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights | Dec 13 @ 7:00 PM | Oceanside Harbor |
| Escondido Jaycees Christmas Parade | Dec 14 @ 9:30 AM | Grand Avenue |
2. Tree Lightings & Community Festivals
Gather with neighbors to watch our towns light up for the season. These events are perfect for kids and often feature Santa visits!
- Oceanside Holiday Tree Lighting: Dec 4 at Oceanside Beach (5:00 PM). Watch the sunset and the tree lighting simultaneously!
- Fallbrook Tree Lighting Festival: Dec 5 in Downtown Fallbrook. A classic small-town celebration with community warmth.
- Little Italy Tree Lighting (Bonus): Dec 6. While not in North County, it's worth the drive for the 25-foot poinsettia tree and Christmas Village.
3. Shop Local: Holiday Markets
Skip the mall and support local artisans. These markets are perfect for finding unique gifts while enjoying holiday vibes.
- San Marcos "Holly Jolly" Holiday Market:
Dec 7 | 10 AM - 4 PM | North City Drive
Features 175+ artisans, live music, and Santa photos. - San Diego Made Holiday Market (Liberty Station):
Nov 29-30 | NTC Park
Over 125 local makers, food trucks, and interactive art. A bit south, but a massive event for creatives.
4. Get Active: Holiday Runs
Burn off those holiday cookies with these fun community runs!
- Oceanside Turkey Trot: Thanksgiving Morning (Nov 27). "Move your feet before you eat!"
- San Diego Santa Run 5K: Dec 13 in Pacific Beach. Thousands of Santas running down Garnet Ave—a sight you have to see to believe.
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