Get ready for the Mission Bay Parade of Lights, set to illuminate the bay on Saturday, December 9th. The festivities kick off at 5:30 p.m. with a dazzling firework display at SeaWorld. Watch the waters come alive as the parade, featuring elaborately decorated boats from local favorites including SeaWorld, begins its journey west, concluding at The Mission Bay Beach Club after a two-hour tour of twinkling delight. Don’t miss out on this highlight of the holiday season.
Free for all spectators to enjoy—including locals, visitors, and hotel guests—designated spectating areas will be set up along the parade route around Mission Bay. Each viewing area will offer special festive food & beverage menus and family-friendly activities to get into the holiday spirit, such as bonfires and s’mores, live music, a Christmas artisan market, holiday games, an appearance from Santa Claus himself, and more. Visit our website for more information on the Mission Bay Parade of Lights and all our designated viewing areas as well as VIP viewing area tickets.
Celebrate the holiday season with a touch of tropical charm at the Catamaran Hotel on Mission Bay. One of the standout attractions is the Jingle Belle Cruise, a festive one-hour sightseeing cruise running from December 21 to 25. Set sail with your loved ones, sing along with carolers, and capture magical moments with Santa and his playful elves. Children can indulge in face painting, balloon artistry, and holiday cookie decorating. Sip on hot cocoa or espresso drinks while enjoying the scenic views, and if you’re in the mood for something more, there’s a cash bar to quench your thirst. This family-friendly experience offers the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories.
Additionally, throughout December, you can groove to Polynesian-style carolers on Fridays and Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., sip holiday-themed craft cocktails at extended happy hour prices from Monday to Thursday at Moray’s, and savor delectable holiday meals with breathtaking Mission Bay views at Oceana on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve. Mission Bay truly transforms into a tropical holiday paradise at the Catamaran Hotel.
For an unforgettable holiday experience, The Dana on Mission Bay is the ultimate destination to call your home away from home. This welcoming waterfront retreat boasts breathtaking bay views and an array of on-site activities for the entire family. This holiday season promises to be filled with joy at The Dana, where guests can enjoy poolside holiday movies, watching classic festive films under the stars for a cozy family movie night. Young guests are invited to share their holiday wishes through their Santa Letter-Writing Station, ensuring their letters reach the North Pole. And after a day of holiday fun, warm up with complimentary hot chocolate in our inviting lobby, a delightful treat for all ages.
For those with furry friends, their Santa Paws Donation Event on Sunday, December 10th, is a must-visit. Capture unforgettable memories against the backdrop of their bayfront holiday decorations as your pet poses for a picture with Santa. A $10 donation to Give Kids the World ensures you’ll have a cherished keepsake for your Christmas card. Plus, let your pup’s creativity shine as they craft a paw-perfect ornament for your tree or to share with a loved one. Afterward, head to Tidal for a bayside Sunday brunch, where pets are more than welcome. Be sure to make reservations and let the holiday celebrations at Paradise Point make your season bright.
Celebrate the season at San Diego Mission Bay Resort with an array of festive dining experiences. Join Mrs. Claus for a charming High Tea on December 16th, relish a special Christmas Day Dinner with a pre-fixed menu by Executive Chef Roy Hendrickson on December 25th, and savor the Christmas Eve Dinner on December 24th under the stars. Ring in the New Year with an exquisite dinner on December 31st, or welcome the first day of 2024 with a New Year’s Day Brunch featuring champagne and a specialty bloody mary bar. Reserve your spot for these enchanting events at Covewood online via OpenTable.
Bring your family together for the eye-catching spectacles, traditions, and fun-filled surprises of SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration. The holidays are meant to be merry and bright, and that’s exactly what you’ll find as this beloved event returns with more wondrous moments than ever.
See dazzling new Christmas shows or meet Santa and Rudolph. Feel the snow falling and watch a Christmas parade. Find photo-perfect moments across acres of beautiful decorations, including a towering 30 foot, twinkling Christmas tree and a music-activated tunnel of lights. All the while, savor delicious candy-topped hot chocolate and other treats for all ages.