NEW BLOG: DECEMBER CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA EVENTS – December transforms Cardiff-by-the-Sea into something special. The ocean air feels crisper, and holiday lights along the 101 begin to twinkle at dusk. There’s a cozy, welcoming energy in the village that’s hard to beat.
When people ask about the best things to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea in December, I always point them to seasonal markets and longtime traditions. Simple local gatherings make the holidays here feel personal and meaningful. Whether you’ve lived here for years, are visiting for the season, or hosting family, Cardiff offers a relaxed coastal way to celebrate. It feels festive without being overwhelming.
1. Cardiff Kringle Mingle – Community Holiday Market & Surfing Santa
Image via Cardiff 101 Main Street
Date & Time: Sunday, December 7, 2025, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Aberdeen Drive, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA 92007
Tickets: Free community event
Website: Cardiff 101 Main Street
Parking: Street parking in surrounding neighborhood; arrive early or walk/bike if you’re local
Kringle Mingle turns Aberdeen Drive into a cheerful holiday lane. Expect local gifts, live music, kids’ crafts, and free photos with Surfing Santa. Families and retirees love the walkable layout and relaxed pace. Arrive early for parking, grab a nearby coffee, and browse unique holiday finds.
2. Cardiff 101 Holiday Passport to Savings – Shop Local All December
Image via Cardiff 101
Dates: December 1 – December 31, 2025
Location: Participating businesses throughout Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Tickets: Free; Holiday Passport required
Website: Cardiff 101
Parking: Varies by business; most offer free street or shared lot parking
The Holiday Passport to Savings runs all month and encourages shopping local. Participating boutiques, cafés, and wellness businesses offer exclusive discounts. Passports are available at the Cardiff Farmers Market, Kringle Mingle, and select neighborhood locations. It’s an easy way for families and retirees to enjoy Cardiff, especially on quiet weekday mornings.
3. Cardiff Farmers Market – Holiday Edition Saturdays
Image via Eventbrite
Dates & Time: Saturdays in December 2025, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: MiraCosta College San Elijo Campus, 3333 Manchester Ave., Cardiff, CA 92007
Tickets: Free admission
Website: Cardiff Farmers Market
Parking: Free on-site parking
The Cardiff Farmers Market feels extra festive in December. You’ll find seasonal produce, holiday baked goods, handmade gifts, and live music. It’s a great weekly stop for families and retirees picking up ingredients or hostess gifts. Easy parking and open space make visits comfortable during the busy season.
4. Cardiff-by-the-Sea Library Holiday Programs & Storytimes
Image via San Diego County Library
Dates & Times: Select dates throughout December 2025
Location: Cardiff-by-the-Sea Library, 2081 Newcastle Ave., Cardiff, CA 92007
Tickets: Free; registration required for some programs
Website: San Diego County Library
Parking: Free public lot and street parking available
The Cardiff Library hosts special December programming like holiday storytimes, craft workshops, and small community gatherings for all ages. These quiet, meaningful events are especially loved by families with young children and retirees. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended for popular programs.
5. Cardiff 101 Holiday Window Decorating Contest & Community Stroll
Image via Carlsbad Village Association
Dates: Early December through the end of December 2025
Location: Participating businesses along South Coast Highway 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Tickets: Free community viewing
Website: Carlsbad Village Association
Parking: Street parking throughout downtown Cardiff
Local shops along the 101 decorate their windows each December. Visitors stroll the village, enjoy the lights, and vote for favorite displays. It’s a low-key tradition that avoids large crowds. Weeknights offer the easiest parking and quietest experience.
6. December Community Concert Night at Seaside Center for Spiritual Living
Image via Seaside Center
Dates & Time: One to two evenings in December 2025 (exact dates posted on monthly calendar)
Location: 1613 Lake Dr., Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA 92007
Tickets: Free community event; donations welcome
Website: Seaside Center
Parking: On-site lot and surrounding residential street parking
Seaside Center hosts free December concerts and seasonal music nights. Events are listed on their monthly calendar. These intimate evenings attract a multi-generational crowd looking for calm, acoustic performances. Seating is limited, so arriving early is advised.
Conclusion
December in Cardiff-by-the-Sea feels festive without the crowds, with favorites like Kringle Mingle, the Holiday Passport to Savings, farmers markets, library programs, and the Cardiff 101 Holiday Window Decorating Contest & Community Stroll, plus live music at Seaside Center for Spiritual Living.
As January 2026 begins, the village shifts into a calm coastal rhythm, with wellness gatherings, scenic walks, intimate art and music events, and family-friendly programs that make it easy to ease into the new year and stay connected to the community.
Whether you’re shopping local, starting traditions with your kids, or hosting visiting family, Cardiff is a beautiful backdrop. I love sharing what’s happening here and helping families experience how special this village can be. For local event ideas, lifestyle insight, or Cardiff-by-the-Sea real estate, call me at 858.784.1674 or email kelli.miller@compass.com.
