Check Out Balboa Park’s December Nights This Weekend!
This week, we’re taking a step back from national news and international happenings to highlight a very special San Diego holiday tradition. For its 39th year, the iconic Balboa Park will be hosting Balboa Park December Nights this Friday and Saturday (Dec. 2 & 3)! It’s an expansive festival that stretches from the Spreckels Organ Pavilion and International Village, to the museums and Old Globe Theater. Christmas lights, food, crafts, and free museum admission are just a few of the activities to get excited about. For this week, we’re taking a moment to point out music acts, must-see attractions, and where they’ll be located in the park.
The Entertainment
There’s certainly no shortage of musical and dance acts to see! You’ll be humming carols long into the evening. The main entertainment stages are situated at:
Spreckels Organ Pavilion
International Cottages Christmas Festival
Palisades Stage
Botanical Garden Stage
theNAT
Civic Dance Arts
San Diego Museum of Art
Click here to see the full lineup of choir and music performances. From ethnic music and bagpipe bands, to school choirs and jazz ensembles, support these local entertainers on Friday and Saturday!
Explore the Museums for Free!
My personal favorite part of the festival is the free admissions to the museums around Balboa Park. However, this free time will only be open from 5 pm to 9 pm on both Friday and Saturday night, and there tends to be lines to get into the popular ones, such as the San Diego Natural History Museum and Museum of Man. Specialty exhibits may be closed off for ticket purchases only, but a majority of the fun and exciting exhibits will be free to explore.
Crafts and Food
Just like the endless entertainment and displays that will be available, there will also be tons of food vendors and crafts for the family to enjoy. Stop by the International Village and get a taste of dumplings from the House of China; shepherd’s pie from the House of England; lumpia from the House of the Philippines; paella from the House of Spain; and so much more! More food vendors will be set up at the fountain Plaza outside theNAT, with lots of gathering space for your family and friends. In terms of crafts, there will be vendors with wood jewelry, oil and vinegars, scarves, hats, ceramics, ponchos, and of course, so much more.
Get Out to December Nights!
Celebrate the holidays in San Diego’s most beautiful landmark, with endless food, entertainment, and activities. Show your support for local choirs and musicians by attending a show, or patron a few of the International Village cottages. We’ll see you there!