As soon as we flip our calendars to December, the city-wide clock turns to holiday party time. This year, the best San Diego holiday events range from cognac and cigar parties to holiday shopping soirees, blues music celebrations, and, of course the charitable Santa Pub Crawl.
I dare you to forget the economic stress and hop into the holiday spirit with these top ten holiday events in San Diego. Need some liquid courage? Check out the best holiday cocktails in town.
Cognac, Cigars and Claus: December 2
The Del Mar Marriott's suave restaurant and lounge, Arterra, presents a stress-free holiday shopping event guy-style. Bring your gifts and relax under the stars with cigars and cognac while your presents are wrapped by Arterra's holiday elves. 6-9pm
Toys for Tots Holiday Party: December 5
Bring a new toy to the new Pasquale Del Mar for hosted appetizers from 7:30-9pm, enhanced by the swank tunes of DJ Gage. Start off the season right by donating to children in need with the help of Toys for Tots and It's All About the Kids. RSVP here
December Nights: December 5-6
Balboa Park hosts the December Nights free holiday tradition on December 5th and December 6th. Enjoy the park scenery aglow in holiday lights, festival entertainment, and free access to most museums. In its 31st consecutive year, December Nights expects to attract over 300,000 visitors. December 5th: 5-10pm; December 6th: noon-10pm. Visit BalboaPark.org for more info, and see 2007 December Nights photos here.
Santa Pub Crawl: December 6
Now in its 3rd year, this event has everyone talking. From Santa hats to elf outfits and reindeer ensembles, grab your holiday costume and a toy for donation, and head downtown. The 2008 Santa Pub Crawl starts at East Village Tavern and Bowl at 5pm, and continues on to The Corner, JSix, and The Fleetwood. Get details here.
Holiday Wonderland: December 7
Head to Del Mar for our favorite family holiday celebration. Check out Santa Claus, horse and carriage rides, a holiday gift bazaar, strolling carolers, arts and crafts, a children's fun zone, and tastes of the season from Del Mar restaurants. Get tickets here.
Stockings & Stilettos: December 7
Appel & Frank presents a holiday shopping spectacular at The Abbey, featuring over 50 designers and gifts for everyone on your list. Noon-4pm. Enter DISCOVERSD for free tickets when you RSVP here.
BLUE Christmas: December 11
The Gaslamp is embracing the blues this holiday season with a new music inspired event. Head to participating Gaslamp clubs and restaurants for performances by blues, rock and R&B musicians. Starting at 5pm. Visit Gaslamp.org for tickets and more info.
THREAD San Diego: December 14
Everyone's favorite international urban shopping event is making a stop in San Diego for the holidays. Head to the big tent at Sheraton Harbor Island for cutting edge styles by new designers, live DJ sets, fashion shows, beauty perks and much more. 11am-6pm. Visit THREADShow.com for tickets and more info.
Jingle Bell Bachelor Bash: December 18
Ladies, seek your soul mate this holiday season at Stingaree, as 15 of the most eligible bachelors in San Diego take the stage in the name of charity. Winning bids include a date package with a bachelor and a personal shopping experience to find the perfect date night outfit. And, event tickets include a free cocktail. Proceeds benefit Junior League of San Diego. Starting at 7pm. Get tickets here.
Poinsettia Bowl Battle of the Bands: December 21
All eyes - and ears - will be on the Gaslamp Quarter as marching bands from each of the competing schools battle in a musical showdown along Fifth Avenue. The quintessential San Diego Poinsettia Bowl and Battle of the Bands are not to be missed. Get details here.
Insider Tip: For those already scheming plans for 2009 New Year's Eve in San Diego - we have you covered. Discover the
top 5 San Diego New Year's Eve parties.
