Holiday & seasonalOutdoorsDate night

Parade of Lights Cruises

Name: Parade of Lights Cruises
Start: 2026-12-13T17:00:00
End: 2026-12-20
Location: Flagship Cruises & Events

View the annual boat parade from the water on a guided harbor cruise with options for snacks or dinner.

Tips for going

When are San Diego's holiday parades in 2026?San Diego's 2026 street parades are packed into one weekend: Coronado on Friday, December 4; Chula Vista, Ocean Beach and Encinitas on Saturday, December 5; and La Jolla on Sunday, December 6. The Holiday Bowl balloon parade is listed for Monday, December 28. El Cajon's Mother Goose Parade had not announced a 2026 return as of November 3.Are parking meters free on Sundays in San Diego?Not everywhere anymore. Since late 2025, City meters in commercial areas of Downtown, Uptown, Pacific Beach and El Cajon Boulevard run on Sundays, and Port waterfront meters run daily. Elsewhere City meters are still Mon–Sat.

It's outdoors. Check the marine layer forecast before you go; coastal mornings are often gray until late morning.

More at Flagship Cruises & Events

All dates →

Food & drinkGood for kidsDate night

Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise

Thu, Nov 26 · 1pm

Flagship Cruises & Events · Downtown & Gaslamp

A scenic lunch cruise on the bay featuring a traditional meal. This outing is suited for families, friends, or couples wanting a relaxed holiday experience.

2 tips for going

Nightlife21+

Cocktails & Countdowns: New Year's Eve Party Cruise

Thu, Dec 3 · 7:30pm

Flagship Cruises & Events · Downtown & Gaslamp

This floating nightclub event on the bay features DJs, drinks, and late-night snacks for those ringing in the new year.

2 tips for going

Food & drinkDate night

Harbor Lights Dinner Cruise

Dec 3–20 · 7:30pm

Flagship Cruises & Events · Downtown & Gaslamp

This holiday-themed evening cruise offers a three-course dinner and scenic bay views from a decorated yacht. It is suitable for couples and families looking for a festive experience on the water.

1 tip for going

Also in Downtown & Gaslamp, Sunday, December 13

Food & drinkGood for kidsDate night

Le Petit Chef

6:30pm

Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter · Downtown & Gaslamp

This immersive dining experience combines 3D animation with a multi-course meal. It is designed to entertain families and couples looking for a unique culinary show.

1 tip for going

Arts$40

Painting Party

3pm

Art Scene West · Downtown & Gaslamp

A social painting class where attendees receive instruction to create their own artwork. No prior experience is needed, making it suitable for all skill levels.

1 tip for going

Nightlife$20–$4521+

San Diego Bar Crawl

9pm

Gaslamp Quarter · Downtown & Gaslamp

Guided social outings through several clubs for those looking to experience local nightlife.

1 tip for going

Music

Live Music Saturdays

3pm

Stone Brewing Tap Room - Kettner · Downtown & Gaslamp

A recurring weekend event featuring live local musicians in a brewery garden setting.

2 tips for going

Arts

Organica: Flora to Fauna

7pm

Granger Hotel · Downtown & Gaslamp

A hotel is transformed into an immersive gallery featuring works from artists across San Diego and Baja California. The installation explores the connections between human, animal, and plant worlds.

1 tip for going

Community

Trivia Night

6:30pm

Stone Brewing Tap Room - Kettner · Downtown & Gaslamp

A weekly trivia competition hosted at a local tap room, suitable for groups looking for a casual night out.

2 tips for going