PACIFIC BEACH – Expect rivers of red and white flowing through the streets the morning before the Pacific Beach Holiday Parade, but don’t worry — it’s all in the service of the season.

The annual Santa Run, takes place on Dec. 13. The parade, which promises to be filled to the brim with floats, bands, and dancers, follows at 1 p.m.

But that’s not where the celebrations begin. Pacific Beach’s annual holiday events feature two festive weekends of family-oriented community activities with a Candy Coated Holiday Wonderland theme, beginning the weekend of Dec. 6.

“The festivities begin Saturday, Dec. 6, with Christmas on Crystal Pier, where Santa will greet families for free photos overlooking the ocean, followed by a Holiday Market showcasing local artisans, handmade goods, holiday treats, and community spirit,” said Discover PB’s executive director, Sunny Lee. “The day concludes with the Tree Lighting Ceremony at sundown, bringing neighbors together to celebrate the season on Crystal Pier.”

Holiday Market

Saturday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free and located at 828 Hornblend St. This year, Discover Pacific Beach is introducing a new activity to its PB holiday celebrations. Shop for handmade crafts, unique gifts, and treats across the street from Mavericks Beach Club in the Diamond Parking lot.

Christmas on Crystal Pier

Saturday, Dec. 6, from 2-6 p.m. The Crystal Pier at 4500 Ocean Blvd. gets gussied up for holidays with lights, wreaths, and a Christmas tree placed at the end. With this year’s Candy Coated Holiday Wonderland theme in mind, each wreath is designed by a local business, artist, or organization. The tree lighting takes place at sunset, and during the afternoon, there is an opportunity to take photos with Santa. Professional photos will be taken and emailed for $10.

While pets aren’t permitted on the pier, they can take free photos with Santa at Noah’s Natural Pet Market, 4431 Cass St., from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Dec. 6. Donations are accepted, and a portion of the day’s profits will benefit the Frosted Faces Foundation.

Santa Run

The annual San Diego Santa Run is a holiday experience like none other, consisting of waves of runs on Garnet Avenue featuring a 5K run for everyone, from competitive runners to the families of walkers. Runners can choose between two 5K Santa Runs at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., a one-miler for kids at 11:30 a.m., or a one-mile run for dogs at noon.

Registration includes a Santa suit, sunglasses, chip timing, a custom bib, and a complimentary drink ticket. Come out in your finest (or ugliest) Christmas attire as you take part in this one-of-a-kind holiday experience. The run is directly followed by the parade at 1 p.m.

Holiday Parade

Saturday, Dec. 13, from 1-3 p.m. The parade route is along Garnet Avenue from Haines Street to Bayard Street.

“The parade marches down Garnet Avenue featuring local schools, community groups, dancers, decorated vehicles, and festive performances that capture the joyful, beach-town holiday spirit PB is known for,” said Lee.

“This season is really about bringing our community together and supporting our small businesses. Pacific Beach shines brightest when we celebrate as one, and our holiday events are a beautiful reflection of the heart, creativity, and energy of our neighborhood.

Events are sponsored by nonprofit Discover Pacific Beach, the community’s business improvement district formed in 1997. It is now the second-largest BID in San Diego with 1,300 member businesses drawn from Pacific Beach and Mission Beach.

Visit pacificbeach.org or follow @discoverpb for updates.

READ NEXT