What to See and Do in La Jolla During the Holidays

Christmas in La Jolla is an undeniably special time. Our sunny seaside town embraces the magic of the holidays with festive activities, long-held traditions, and beautiful displays throughout town. If you’re planning to stay in La Jolla during the holidays, expect a fun-filled time with no shortage of cheer. Check out our list of things to do in La Jolla during the holidays, created especially for guests of Cormorant Boutique Hotel.  

Santa is joining our rooftop for our first holiday season on December 17th, 18th, 23rd and 24th.

Bring the kids for a  fun opportunity to take photos with Santa, decorate your own pancake, enjoy a delicious menu and of course, the ocean views. There’s also holiday craft cocktails for the parents, and a full drinks menu! Our guests receive 15% off at Birdseye!

First Friday Art Walk is a fun affair no matter the season, but in Christmas it takes on a special flavor. On Friday, December 2, enjoy holiday-themed art shopping in La Jolla for your friends and family, or simply splurge with the perfect piece of artwork for yourself. More than 16 galleries participate in this event, and you’ll find a festive atmosphere with food, music, and drinks. The event is free and goes from 4 pm to 7 pm.

A yearly tradition beloved by young and old, this combo parade and festival has enchanted participants since its inception more than 60 years ago. If you’re planning to be in La Jolla for the holidays, you’ll want to add this to your itinerary. The event starts at 11:30 am on Sunday, December 4 with the Holiday Festival at the Athenaeum Music and Arts Library, which goes until 1 p.m. and then starts back up after the parade and continues from 3:30 pm to 4 pm. 

The 90-minute parade will start at 1 pm—expect holiday-focused floats and jolly paraders. The parade will take place rain or shine. Thankfully, because of La Jolla’s beautiful weather, the parade has never been canceled.

Yet again, the San Diego Bicycle Club will host its annual “Light Up A Life” Holiday Toy Ride, a 40-mile roundtrip bike ride that benefits the Salvation Army. The event starts at 8:30 am on Saturday, December 10. Each rider should bring one unwrapped toy to carry to the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, located at University Ave and 69th Street. Non-perishable food donations are welcome as well. Afterward, Santa will lead a slow and leisurely ride starting at UC Cyclery at La Jolla Village Square. Come with your bike decked out in its best holiday finery—prizes will be given to the best-decorated adult rider, junior rider, and tandem riders. Riders of all skill levels are welcome!

If you’re looking for festive things to do in La Jolla, you won’t want to miss A Festival of Christmas this year, taking place on Thursday, December 22. Watch as the San Diego chamber choir Stellarum presents a choral performance that includes holiday classics as well as new interpretations of both religious and secular songs. Audience members are invited to participate during certain carols as well. Tickets are free, but there’s a limited supply. The event takes place at St. James by the Sea; doors open at 6:30. After the performance, enjoy a donation-based cash bar.  

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At Cormorant Boutique Hotel, we’d love to welcome you to our special corner of La Jolla. Stay with us to be close to all the events above while enjoying our excellent amenities, from private balconies (select rooms) to our chic rooftop restaurant overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Plan your trip for Christmas in La Jolla today!