Holiday season is kicking into gear along the border, and both Tijuana and San Diego are rolling out festive events as Christmas, posadas, and year-end celebrations approach. Here are eight options to help you close out the month with music, lights, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Tree Lighting at Plaza Río
Once one of Tijuana’s most-visited shopping centers, Plaza Río is ushering in the holiday season with its annual tree lighting ceremony. Families are invited to enjoy the illumination and mark the start of Christmas festivities.
Where: Plaza Río
When: November 28
Time: From 6 p.m.
A Christmas Carol
A refreshed version of the Charles Dickens classic returns to San Diego at the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center in Liberty Station. The Cygnet Theatre production — now a local holiday tradition — blends original music, live performances, and a contemporary twist on the beloved story.
Where: Cygnet Theatre
When: November 26 to December 28, 2025
Showtimes: Sundays 2 p.m.; Wednesday–Friday 7 p.m.; Saturdays 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Drag Night Show
A high-energy drag showcase is taking over Avenida Revolución with performances, glam, and plenty of personality. The night promises talent, character work, and an atmosphere built for fun.
Where: Evolution Club
When: November 28
Time: 8 p.m.
Yo Ho Ho-liday Tavern
This temporary holiday tavern brings a pirate twist to the season with themed drinks, décor, food specials, and live entertainment. It’s designed as a playful hangout for visitors and groups of friends.
Where: Inside LandShark Bar & Grill at Margaritaville San Diego
When: Now through January 2
Hours: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Cookie Workshop, Santa Claus & the Grinch
Families can take part in a holiday surprise at NewCity Medical Plaza. The first 40 kids to register receive a cookie-decorating kit. The event also includes a tree lighting, carols, and visits from Santa and the Grinch.
Where: NewCity Medical Plaza
When: November 29
Time: 6 p.m.–8 p.m.
San Dieguito Art Guild’s Holiday Bazaar
Held each year in Encinitas, this community bazaar features local artists selling original pieces including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and handmade crafts. It’s a relaxed, festive stop for anyone looking for unique holiday gifts while supporting regional creators.
Where: Encinitas Community Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Dr.
When: November 29
Time: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
A Holiday in Oz
Hotel del Coronado transforms into an immersive Wizard of Oz–themed holiday experience, complete with lights, decorated trees, and a yellow-brick road guiding guests through installations. Evening light shows round out the stroll-through experience.
Where: Hotel del Coronado
When: November 21 to January 4, 2026
Hours: 5 p.m.–9 p.m. (shows every 30 minutes)
Mentiras, the Musical
The hit Mexico City musical comes to Tijuana. Mentiras follows four women—Daniela, Yuri, Dulce, and Lupita—who meet at the funeral of a man named Emmanuel, only to learn they were all romantically involved with him at the same time.
Where: El Foro
When: November 30
Showtimes: 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
