The 48th edition of December Nights features a few new attractions and entertainment options, but one of the things that remains the same for now: free parking.
New parking fees do not take effect until January, allowing visitors to enjoy complimentary parking at Balboa Park this year, along with other annual traditions.
Here is some of the essential information needed before heading out to the 2025 December Nights on Friday from 3 to 11 p.m. and Saturdaybetween 11 a.m. and 11 p.m.
New this year
Recording artist and San Diego native Frankie J will headline and perform at the Plaza de Panama stage Saturday from 7 to 8:15 p.m.
There will also be a new illuminated holiday light show experience on the Museum of Art façade, which will take place once per hour during December Nights, according to the city of San Diego.
A new attraction for adults is the Après Tavern at Plaza de Panama. It is an ages 21 and over European-style bar that will serve holiday cocktails, wine, crepes, charcuterie boards and spiced roasted nuts. There will also be board games for visitors to partake in.
New for children is a do-it-yourself holiday arts and craft area in the San Diego Municipal Gymnasium.
Plus, Jewish Family Service of San Diego will be having an underwear and sock drive, and the San Diego Rescue Mission will collect donations for families in need.
A child stands in front of a 45-foot Ferris wheel at December Nights at Balboa Park on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 in San Diego. (Ana Ramirez / The San Diego Union-Tribune)
Can’t-miss attractions
December Nights is scheduled to have approximately 1,600 performers and entertainers across five stages, including live music, dance groups, holiday plays and school choirs.
The annual tree lighting ceremony at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion takes place on Friday at 6 p.m.
December Nights’ family zone is back with activities and attractions in the Palisades Plaza, such as a half-pipe skateboarding demonstration and free Ferris wheel rides, back for a second year in a row. Santa Claus will also be in the family zone, within the San Diego Municipal Gym, where there will also be games and activities, including face painting.
Movie nights for children return. This year, on both days, “Ice Age” short films will be shown at 6:15, 6:50 and 7:25 p.m., and the movie “Frozen” will be playing from 8 to 9:45 p.m. outside the Comic-Con Museum.
Also, Balboa Park museums will be open and free to visit during December Nights.
Visitors walk through a light display at the Japenese Gardens during Dec. Nights at Balboa Park on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024. (Sandy Huffaker / For The San Diego Union-Tribune)
Dining and shopping options
The public can choose from over 200 dining and shopping choices at vendor booths this year.
The House of Pacific Relations cottages also feature vendors selling food, drinks and gift options. This area has more than 30 houses representing various countries and people from around the world.
Also, foodies have more dining opportunities this year with a food truck alley located at the Village Place, next to the fig tree behind the San Diego National History Museum.
Parking and transportation info
There are still a few places the public can park for free in and around Balboa Park while attending December Nights. Some of the free parking areas include three San Diego City College parking garages, with free shuttle service to and from the event.
There will also be free shuttle services at the corners of 16th Street and B Street, Third Avenue and A Street and Kettner Boulevard and Beech Street.
Prepaid parking lots are available at Inspiration Point, the Federal Lot, Roosevelt Middle School and the San Diego Zoo Parking lot, ranging from $35-$37.95 each day.
For those choosing to take public transit, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System will not service any routes between Park Boulevard between University Avenue and City College during December Nights. But MTS riders can arrive at the City College transit station and take a shuttle to Balboa Park.
There are also two free bike valets available on the west entrance of the Laurel Street bridge and on the east end of Village Place near the San Diego Natural History Museum parking lot.
In addition, the ride-sharing drop-off area will be at Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street.
There is a December Nights mobile app to help attendees navigate the two-day event. For the full event schedule, maps and information on frequently asked questions, visit decembernights.org.