NEW BLOG: DECEMBER LA JOLLA EVENTS – As winter arrives along the Pacific coastline, La Jolla transforms into a refined holiday destination. Twinkling lights, oceanfront celebrations, and meaningful traditions fill the season. December feels warm and welcoming despite the cooler air. Coastal elegance blends seamlessly with the spirit of Christmas and giving. From candlelit concerts to luxury dining, charitable galas, and family-friendly festivities, the village offers a beautifully curated holiday experience.
To simplify your planning, I’ve selected standout things to do in La Jolla in December 2025. Each event reflects sophistication, generosity, and local charm. These experiences are ideal for families, retirees, and visitors who value meaningful, high-quality moments.
1. Annual Tree Lighting at La Valencia Hotel
Image via La Valencia Hotel
Date & Time: December 4, 2025 | 4:30-9:00 pm
Location: 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Tickets: Free admission
Website: La Jolla By The Sea
Parking: Metered street parking and paid village lots
Kick off the season with a night of holiday magic. Twinkling lights illuminate the iconic hotel while live music and carolers fill the air. Guests can enjoy themed seasonal fare, handcrafted holiday cocktails, and cozy bites. Children can visit the Letters to Santa station and share their wishes. Families and friends gather to enjoy the warmth and sparkle of the night. It’s a charming and joyful way to welcome the holidays.
2. La Jolla Holiday Christmas Parade & Festival
Image via Grande Colonial
Date & Time: Sunday, December 7, 2025 | Festival at 11:30 AM, Parade at 1:30 PM
Location: Girard Avenue & Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037
Tickets: Free admission
Website: La Jolla Christmas Parade
Parking: Street parking and nearby paid lots; arrive early
This beloved tradition brings classic small-town holiday charm to the Village. Marching bands, classic cars, equestrian units, and festive floats wind through La Jolla. The morning festival features Santa’s Workshop and local vendors. It’s perfect for families, grandparents, and visiting guests.
3. Holiday High-Tide Dinners at The Marine Room
Image via The Marine Room
Date & Time: Select evenings in December 2025 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037
Tickets: Prix fixe menus starting around $165 per guest
Website: The Marine Room
Parking: Valet parking highly recommended
These legendary dinners align with the season’s highest tides. Waves crash against the floor-to-ceiling windows during service. Guests enjoy a refined, multi-course holiday menu in an unforgettable oceanfront setting.
4. Holiday Concert Series at The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Image via La Jolla
Date & Time: Multiple December 2025 concert dates
Location: 7600 Fay Avenue, La Jolla, CA 92037
Tickets: Vary by performance; advance purchase recommended
Website: The Conrad
Parking: On-site garage and nearby paid parking
Seasonal performances include orchestral favorites, chamber music, and vocal showcases. Each concert offers a refined and festive evening out.
5. Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Dining at A.R. Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Image via The Lodge Torrey Pines
Date & Time: December 24–25, 2025 | Seating throughout the day
Location: 11480 N Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037
Tickets: Prix fixe menus; pricing varies by seating
Website: The Lodge Torrey Pines
Parking: Complimentary valet available
Celebrate Christmas with farm-to-table coastal cuisine and expansive golf course views. The seasonal prix-fixe menu features elegant California-inspired flavors.
6. Birch Aquarium Holiday Nights & Winter Exhibits
Image via Aquarium
Date & Time: Select evenings and days in December 2025
Location: 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
Tickets: General admission pricing applies
Website: Aquarium
Parking: Paid parking on-site
The aquarium becomes a peaceful winter destination with illuminated tanks and seasonal programs. Family-friendly educational activities run throughout the month.
7. San Diego Bay Parade of Lights (An Easy La Jolla Evening Excursion)
Image via San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Date & Time: December 14 & 21, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: San Diego Bay (various viewing areas)
Tickets: Free public viewing
Website: San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Parking: Paid lots near viewing areas; arrive early
More than 100 illuminated boats glide across the harbor in this iconic tradition. Many La Jolla residents pair the parade with coastal dining beforehand.
8. Santa’s Storytime Brunch at La Valencia Hotel
Image via La Valencia Hotel
Date & Time: December 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: La Jolla, San Diego
Tickets: Ticketed event; pricing varies
Website: La Jolla by the Sea
Parking: Valet commonly available
Step into a magical holiday evening where coastal elegance meets childhood wonder at La Valencia’s enchanting Santa’s Storytime Brunch. This festive experience invites families to enjoy a beautifully curated seasonal brunch while children gather for an intimate storytime with Santa himself. The atmosphere is warm, immersive, and filled with classic holiday charm—twinkling décor, refined dining, and plenty of opportunities for photos with Santa in one of La Jolla’s most iconic luxury settings. It’s the perfect blend of upscale celebration and heartfelt tradition, ideal for creating unforgettable December memories with young children and visiting family.
Conclusion
December is truly magical in La Jolla. Oceanfront beauty, holiday traditions, and charitable giving come together seamlessly. From dramatic high-tide dinners to candlelit concerts and festive parades, every experience feels elevated by our coastal setting.
As someone who has spent years helping families and retirees embrace this lifestyle, Kelli Miller is always happy to share local insights and real estate expertise. If you’d like personalized advice on living in or relocating to La Jolla, feel free to reach out at 858-784-1674 or kelli.miller@compass.com. I would love to help you make the most of your time here.
