Top 5 Christmas Activities for Families in San Diego

Fun Christmas activities for families abound in San Diego. The hard part is narrowing it down to what you have time for. The following is a list of the top 5 things to do with your family in San Diego during the Christmas season.

December Nights in Balboa Park

Topping the list of cool Christmas activities for families is San Diego's largest free event. In 2009 it takes place Friday, December 4th from 5:00 - 10:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 5th from noon to 10:00 p.m. Activities include light shows, crafts, international food, and musical entertainment.

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

This Christmas activity takes place on two consecutive Sundays in 2009- December 13th and 20th from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. This year's theme is "Christmas at the Zoo." Most spectators gather at the waterfront downtown for this free event. More than 80 boats and vessels are expected to participate in the parade that starts at Shelter Island and continues into the downtown waterfront and Coronado.

Spectacular Neighborhood Christmas Light Displays

Several neighborhoods throughout San Diego have Christmas light displays that attract families from all over the county. One amazing display we witnessed last year was on Knob Hill Road in San Marcos. When you find the street, you can't miss it.

Outdoor Ice Skating at The Del

You can ice skate with the family at several locations throughout San Diego but the kids will get the biggest kick out of ice skating at the beach when you take them to the Hotel del Coronado for some outdoor skating fun. In 2009 it runs from November 25th through January 3rd, 2010.

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree Farms

The quintessential Christmas activity for families is the yearly pilgrimage to the Christmas tree farm. Take a drive out to East County San Diego to visit Pine Tree Acres, located at 620 Haverford Road, Ramona. (760) 788-5524. If you live in San Diego, check out Family Christmas Tree Farm at 300 Pepper Drive, El Cajon. (619) 448-5331. Be sure to call first to check on supply and hours.

San Diego About, http://sandiego.about.com/od/familyfun/tp/tp_holiday.htm
Sign On San Diego, http://legacy.signonsandiego.com/feature/san-diego-holiday-guide/events.html