Holiday Cheer in Carlsbad 2025
The holiday season is a magical time in Carlsbad, where this coastal town sparkles with festive lights, joyful gatherings and community spirit. From tree lightings and local markets to family-friendly experiences, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate.
Carlsbad shines bright this season with community traditions that will fill your heart and calendar with holiday cheer.
Tree Lightings
Tree Lighting at the Ranch
Join in for a night of joyful family fun at Leo Carillo Ranch on Dec. 6. Colorful lights and a classic holiday musical performance set the stage for nonstop activities from decorating holiday cookies to face painting. Starting at 6 p.m., the celebration kicks off with a tree lighting along the pool before you have your special visit with Santa! You can also take a break from all the excitement with a holiday movie starting at 6:15 p.m. under the starry night sky. Tickets are available for purchase in advance and at the door until they are sold out.
40th Annual Tree Lighting in Carlsbad Village
Head to Carlsbad Village on Dec. 7 for the 40th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting at the Carlsbad Village Faire shopping center. Starting at 2 p.m. and ending at 4:30 p.m. this event is perfect for families with young kids that want to experience the holiday magic but need to make it home for bedtime. Santa makes his grand entrance at 2:15 p.m. in an antique fire truck with Mrs. Claus and his right-hand elf. Sing along to classic carols, make some festive crafts and sip on coffee or hot cider. Carlsbad Mayor Keith Blackburn will light the holiday tree just as the sun starts to set at 4:30 p.m.
Holiday Open House & Tree Lighting at Cape Rey
Gather your friends and family for a Holiday Open House at Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, on Dec. 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. Sip on hot cocoa or a festive cocktail as you admire the beautiful tree that will be lit promptly at 5:30 p.m. The little ones will love getting creative with a holiday craft and cookie decorating, before they prepare their gift wish list in their letter to Santa. If you haven’t managed to get all your holiday shopping done, check out the Kris Kringle Market which features local businesses selling an assortment of unique gifts and festive treats. Photos with Santa and performances by carolers and the Carlsbad High School Band will round off the evening. Reserve your spot before the event fills up!
Tree Lighting Ceremony at The Forum
Visit The Forum Carlsbad on Dec. 5 for their 23rd Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony from 6 to 8 p.m. Enjoy a night of winter wonder that includes live performances, meet and greets with Santa and Buddy the Elf and a spectacular tree lighting. Be sure to stay for the light show and magical snowfall! Guests can also visit the photo booth and delight in festive treats from local restaurants. This free, family-friendly event is a great way to kick off the holidays and maybe even check a few gifts off your shopping list.
Holiday Experiences
Stocking Full of Christmas
Get your fill of magical holiday fun with Stocking Full of Christmas at Park Hyatt Aviara. Step into a world of wonder as you journey through five immersive holiday rooms that include interactions with elves, princesses and more. You’ll get the chance to collect stocking stuffers, decorate cookies and gather for a photo on Santa’s sleigh! Perfect for any holiday enthusiast, this event offers an elevated holiday experience that is sure to get you in the spirit of the season. This event runs from Dec. 11 through Dec. 28 and tickets must be purchased in advance.
Holiday Bazaar at North Coastal Art Gallery
Become the ultimate gift giver this holiday season with thoughtful one-of-a-kind presents from local artists. The Holiday Bazaar will take place on Nov. 29 and run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., giving you plenty of time to pop by and explore the offerings from local artists. With hot chocolate and cookies to go around, be sure to save the date for this merry gathering!
Small Business Saturday
Embrace the shop-small movement and spend the afternoon perusing the vendors at Carlsbad Village’s Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Meet local business owners and find some truly wonderful treasures that will make the perfect holiday gifts. Free tote bags will be available for the first visitors, and guests can enter to win gift cards to a variety of local restaurants and shops. You will feel the Village buzzing with festive holiday energy!
Carlsbad Village Holiday Window Decorations
Stroll the streets of Carlsbad Village and admire the beautiful, creative displays in the windows of local businesses. The displays will be ready to view on Dec. 3, and it’s up to you to vote and decide the winner of the People’s Choice Award! One winner will be chosen for each of the following categories: Classic Holiday Charm, Children’s Delight, Most Creative Display, Best of Carlsbad Spirit and People’s Choice Awards. Cast your vote by Dec. 16 by scanning the QR code your favorite shop’s window and check to see the complete list of winners on Dec. 17. It’s a wonderful, relaxed holiday activity filled with community spirit and a great way to support local businesses.
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Holiday cheer is in the air! Carlsbad invites you to celebrate, support local businesses and make memories under the twinkling lights.