Best San Diego Christmas Markets to Put You in the Holiday Spirit

Growing up in Germany, Christmas Markets were always part of my Holiday traditions. To this day, nothing puts me in the Holiday spirit faster than a visit to a market full of glittering lights, a cup of Glühwein, and some Christmas music playing in the background. While San Diego Christmas Markets are definitely quite different from German Christmas Markets, they are still part of my yearly must-do-in-December list.

Here is my list of San Diego Christmas Markets you should check out to shop, savor, and enjoy the 2022 Holiday Season.

Petco Park Holiday Market

Date and Time: Daily from 4 PM – 10 PM between December 1 – December 23, 2022, except December 5th, 6th, 7th, 12th, and 13th
Location: Petco Park
Tickets ($14 for adults, $10 for children 1-14)
Also read our full review here and find out if it is worth going: Petco Park Holiday Market

This San Diego Christmas Market takes place at Petco Park on Gallagher Square. For 18 nights in December, you can enjoy artisanal shops, glittering Holiday decor, as well as mouthwatering treats for the whole family. Of course, there will be a photo opp with Santa, Christmas tree lighting, and lots of activities to put you in the Holiday spirit.

It is a very instagram-able event and has stunning decor and Christmas lights. There are also some free events for kids etc. However, for my taste, this Christmas Market is too commercialized and expensive for what you get.

December Nights San Diego

Date and Time: December 2 (3 PM – 11 PM) – December 3 (11 AM – 11 PM)
Location: Balboa Park
Free Event
Also read our full article on December Nights San Diego here>>

What started as a small Christmas celebration in 1978 is now the largest Christmas Market in San Diego. With an average of 350000 visitors per year in just two days, this is a big one. Plan ahead, come early, and if possible, use public transportation and the free shuttles.

Don’t worry, though. This event is still a lot of fun and definitely worth going to. All the museums are open and free, there will be delicious food and drinks, the International Cottages will be open and sharing Christmas traditions from around the world, and so much more.

Little Italy Holiday Market

Date and Time: Every Wednesday in December 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Date Street Little Italy (where the Wednesday & Saturday Farmers Market takes place)
Free Event

During December, the Wednesday’s Little Italy Farmers Market turns into a Holiday Market and focuses on artisanal gifts, delicious Holiday treats, and beautiful decorations for yourself. From soaps, teas, unique stocking stuffers, and more make for a fun way to shop for presents. And, of course, there is no better way to support local small businesses as well.

There are also a lot of smaller, 1-day event Christmas Markets and Holiday festivities all around San Diego county, so if you miss these big ones, definitely check them out.

Last Updated on December 3, 2022 by sandiegoexplorer

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