Del Mar knows how to celebrate the season without relying on snow or ice. This coastal California community has developed its own special way of honoring December, blending beach-town charm with a genuine holiday spirit that brings families and neighbors together year after year.
When the Village Comes Alive
The community kicked off December with North Pole by the Sea, an afternoon celebration that filled Del Mar Village with roaming carolers, festive characters, and plenty of hot cocoa. The celebration peaked at 5 PM on December 7 when the holiday tree lit up at the Jim Watkins Amphitheater at L’Auberge Del Mar, creating a perfect moment against the Pacific backdrop. Real snow appeared at St. Peter’s Church, giving kids their chance to experience a winter wonderland by the coast.
Opening Night of Lights
Coastal Christmas at the Del Mar Fairgrounds opens tonight, transforming the iconic venue into a spectacular light display running through December 26. Families can walk through millions of twinkling lights, glide across an eco-friendly Glice skating rink, and browse the bustling holiday market.
Private igloos with fire pits for roasting s’mores offer a special touch for those seeking a cozy experience. The event runs from 4 PM to 9 PM on select evenings, including tonight, December 12, and December 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 26. Santa arrives nightly at 5 PM for complimentary photos, with his helpers continuing the magic through December 26.
Community Flavors That Unite
Earlier this month, food and drink united locals during the Winter Taste & Sip event, when more than 15 local restaurants served seasonal dishes while over 20 regional wineries and breweries poured holiday-inspired drinks. Live music filled the air as over 2,000 guests strolled through the village, making this the year’s largest community gathering. It’s the kind of afternoon where neighbors run into friends, discover new favorite spots, and support the businesses that make Del Mar special.
Traditions Still to Come
Fairmont Grand Del Mar continues their seasonal celebrations with Brunch with Santa on select Sundays throughout December and the elegant Nutcracker Tea on December 22. Families gather for Glice Skating on December 14 from 3 PM to 7 PM, and on Christmas Eve, December 24, Santa reads “The Night Before Christmas” at 6 PM. The resort also opens for special holiday dining on Christmas Eve from 5 PM to 9 PM and Christmas Day from 3 PM to 9 PM.
Making Memories by the Coast
What makes Del Mar’s holiday celebrations unique is how they reflect the community itself. These traditions blend coastal California lifestyle with genuine seasonal warmth, creating experiences that feel both relaxed and special. Whether you’re planning to catch the opening weekend of Coastal Christmas or join families at upcoming celebrations, you’re part of something that brings this beach town together.
Ready to experience where holiday spirit meets ocean breezes? Discover neighborhoods where celebrations bring people together at Del Mar Coastal Connections and find your place in this vibrant community where traditions continue to grow.
Sources: laubergedelmar.com, delmarfairgrounds.com, delmarcoastalconnections.com, granddelmar.com
Header Image Source: Jason Zhang on Unsplash
