It’s December in San Diego, where we drink hot chocolate (sometimes iced) and still enjoy trips to the beach. Here are the top bucket list items for the holidays and Christmas in San Diego.

Balboa Park’s December Nights (Dec 2 & 3)

This crowd-drawing festival is celebrating its 39th year. All of Balboa Park will be energized with entertainment, food and holiday festivities. Get excited for:

• Entertainment (music & dance)
• Museums (FREE for 5 – 9 pm)
• International (and classic carnival-esque) cuisine

Oh – and the best of people watching!

Important to Remember: Parking at December Nights is extremely difficult. Do anything you can to make it easier on yourself. Carpool. Park a mile away and walk (it’s honestly faster). Plus, along the walking routes people often set up little stations selling goodies like hot chocolate!

Visit Julian for Christmas Activities

The charming mountain town of Julian is the perfect day getaway. Come stroll the darling downtown, pop into the shops, decorated for the holidays, and – most importantly – sit down for a slice (or 2) of pie. (My personal favorite? Mom’s Pies Strawberry Rhubarb. My my my.)

Other Julian’s Christmas activities include:

• The annual rendition of A Christmas Carol (Call 760-577-1319 for more information)
• Victorian Christmas Teas in Julian
• Breakfast with Santa at the Pine Hills Lodge (Sunday Dec. 11)

Hotel Del Coronado’s Ice Skating Rink

This beachside hotel lights up during the holidays. Best of all, it has a magical outdoor ice rink – perfect for nostalgic skating with family and friends.