Best San Diego Neighborhoods for Holiday Lights

It’s that time of year again when people show off their holiday spirit by decorating their homes with light displays ranging from tasteful to Clark Griswold. If your family enjoys festive holiday lights, grab a thermos of hot chocolate and drive around San Diego County — these inventive displays will undoubtedly get you in the seasonal spirit! 

 

Belardo Lights in Tierrasanta

5306 Belardo Dr, San Diego, CA 92124

What started as a father-son bonding project for Randy and Brandon Schimka in 2006 is now entering its 16th year! The Schimkas dazzle visitors across San Diego County every year with a beautiful holiday light show. Click here to read the heartwarming story about how the display show came to be and evolved over the years. 

 

Christmas Card Lane in Rancho Penasquitos

9190 Oviedo St, San Diego, CA 92129

Christmas Card Lane is one of the most popular places to see holiday lights in San Diego, thanks to houses decorated in fun themes and the enthusiastic crowds who appreciate them. Be aware that it can get busy on weekends! 

 

Christmas Circle in Chula Vista

Mankato St & Whitney, Chula Vista, CA 91910

Speaking of popular neighborhoods in San Diego to see Christmas Lights, Christmas Circle has been perfecting the game for over 60 years! Over 50 homes will be magnificently lit each night from 5 to 10 pm through December 26th. 

 

Christmas Park in Clairemont

Jamar Dr & Lana Dr, San Diego, CA 92117

Over 40 homes off Mt. Abernathy Ave in Clairemont continue a 45-year tradition this year by going all out with the holiday splendor! 

 

Candy Cane Lane in Poway

Hickory St, Poway, CA 92064

Three cul-de-sacs in Poway go big with festive lights and beautiful displays. Lights will be bright and merry every night from 6 to 9 pm from the end of November through Christmas Eve. 

 

Jingle Bell Hill in El Cajon

Pepper Dr, El Cajon, 92021

This popular spot in East County features dozens of homes bringing their holiday A-game. Good luck trying to pick out a favorite! 

 

Luminaria in South Park

Fern and 30th Streets between Juniper and Beach, 92104

South Park’s Luminaria features lights shining from lamp posts, trees, homes, and businesses. Stop in one of the charming local shops to find a unique holiday gift!

 

Merry-tage Court in Scripps Ranch

Merritage Ct & Stonebridge Pkwy, San Diego, CA 92131

The residents of Scripps Ranch get inventive with their displays, embracing pop culture themes and creative takes on the season.

 

The Forward House in Bankers Hill

108 Ivy St, San Diego, CA 92101

This mansion was built in 1905 for Mayor John Forward Sr. and has been outlandishly decorated yearly for the holidays since 1998. Drive past to get a blast of holiday cheer right in the middle of the city.

 

For a comprehensive guide to San Diego hotspots for holiday light displays, visit this list from San Diego Family Magazine! For more fun activities in San Diego, go to our Local Activities page.