The holiday season is here, and Del Mar is ready to dazzle you with spectacular light displays that turn this coastal town into a winter wonderland by the sea. Whether you’re looking for family fun or a romantic evening out, Del Mar’s 2025 holiday lights will make your season bright.
Where the Magic Happens: Del Mar’s Brightest Spots
Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular is the main event you won’t want to miss. Opening December 12 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, this seaside celebration features millions of twinkling lights that transform the fairgrounds into pure holiday magic. Running select dates through December 26, this isn’t just a light show—it’s an entire experience.
Walk through the expanded Holiday Light Trail where every step reveals new surprises. The eco-friendly Glice skating rink lets you glide across synthetic ice that feels amazingly real, all while ocean breezes remind you that you’re celebrating California style. Tickets start at $26.98 for adults and $20.61 for kids on select nights.
The little ones will go wild in Frosty’s Fun Zone, and everyone can snap photos with Santa (he arrives nightly at 5 PM, except December 26 when his helpers take over)—looking for something extra special? Reserve a private igloo complete with your own fire pit for roasting s’mores, or book a fire pit table with personal drink service.
Downtown Del Mar Village Gets Festive
Head to downtown Del Mar Village, where the streets come alive with festive lights and garlands. The highlight? The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held on December 7 at 5 PM at the Jim Watkins Amphitheater at L’Auberge Del Mar. This beloved tradition brings the community together with carolers, hot cocoa, and appearances by the characters of Whoville.
But the celebration starts earlier in the day with North Pole by the Sea from 1 PM to 5 PM. Join the festivities for the Winter Taste & Sip event featuring 15+ tastes from local restaurants and 20+ sips from regional wineries and breweries. Photos with Santa at Del Mar Plaza, live music, and a snowman scavenger hunt round out this perfect day. Best part? Parking along Camino Del Mar is free every weekend and holiday between November 26 and January 1.
Luxury Lights at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
For an upscale holiday experience, Fairmont Grand Del Mar kicks off the season with its tree lighting on December 1 at 6:30 PM. Watch as their stunning 25-foot holiday tree illuminates Grand Social. Tickets are $25 per person (kids three and under are free), and you’ll enjoy culinary treats, Glice skating, and festive drinks.
The resort transforms into a coastal canyon wonderland with twinkling palms and dazzling seasonal decorations throughout the property. Don’t miss their Holiday Wine Walk—an expanded nightly experience for the 21+ crowd, where you can stroll through lights with a souvenir tasting cup.
Why Del Mar Does Holidays Differently
What makes Del Mar’s holiday lights special? It’s the combination of Pacific Ocean views, perfect weather, and that laid-back California vibe mixed with serious holiday spirit. Where else can you ice skate (on eco-friendly synthetic ice, no less) while feeling ocean breezes? Or sip wine while millions of lights twinkle around you?
The volunteers and local businesses who make these displays happen deserve recognition. From the Del Mar Village Association, which organizes community events, to the crews installing millions of lights at the fairgrounds, these dedicated folks work tirelessly to create memories for thousands of visitors.
Capture the Perfect Photo
Want Instagram-worthy shots? Head to the Holiday Light Trail at Coastal Christmas during blue hour—that magical time just after sunset when the sky still has color. The private igloos at the fairgrounds make incredible backdrops. In Del Mar Village, position yourself at the amphitheater with the lit tree and ocean views behind you. Golden hour works beautifully here, too.
Pro tip: Use your phone’s night mode, steady your hands (or bring a small tripod), and try different angles. The lights reflect beautifully off the synthetic ice at the skating rinks.
Ready to Experience Del Mar’s Holiday Magic?
Del Mar’s 2025 holiday lights offer something for everyone—from spectacular walk-through displays to cozy village celebrations. Whether you’re skating under the stars, sipping wine among millions of lights, or watching the tree lighting with your family, these memories will last long after the decorations come down.
Plan your visit now—get your tickets for Coastal Christmas, mark December 7 for the Del Mar Village tree lighting, and prepare to see the California coast like never before. This holiday season, Del Mar proves that you don’t need snow to make magical winter memories.
Sources: coastalchristmasdelmar.com, visitdelmarvillage.com, granddelmar.com
Header Image Source: George Ciobra on Unsplash
