SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration 2024

SeaWorld San Diego’s 2024 Christmas Celebration will combine dazzling lights, beloved characters, Santa, and seasonal treats that are fun for the whole family.

Key Takeaways

Todd Sarouhan
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration 2024
Holiday Joy at SeaWorld
New & Returning Favorites
Explore & Save
Immersive Attractions
SeaWorld Holiday Advice
Stay Nearby

Unwrap Holiday Magic at SeaWorld San Diego

Snowmen and Tree at Seaworld Christmas CelebrationTwo of Santas Reindeer at Seaworld Christmas Celebration

The festive celebrations have returned to SeaWorld San Diego in Mission Bay Park for the 2024 holiday season!

The park has been turned into a winter wonderland filled with holiday lights, shows, decorations, and an assortment of holiday-themed things to see and do in SeaWorld’s Christmas Market.

I personally really like the Christmas lights that are set up throughout the park. I’m also not against treating myself to the seasonal food and drinks. And I know that if you have kids, the holiday character meet-and-greets might be something that they will really enjoy.

Erika is Having Fun at Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Erika is Having Fun at Seaworld Christmas Celebration

An Enchanting Holiday Event with Something for Everyone!

2024 was the first time I attended SeaWorld’s Food and Wine Festival and the Howl-O-Scream event with my family and let me tell you - I was really impressed!

So, I knew I was going to make time to experience the massive and spectacular Christmas Celebration over the holiday season. This year, not only do they have several brand new shows and attractions, SeaWorld San Diego has also added new treats - along with their returning favorites - to their holiday themed dining.

I’d say that from picture perfect holiday moments with your family to the hot cocoa bar and the chance to dine with Orcas and Santa Claus - no one does Christmas quite like SeaWorld!

Entering Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Entering Seaworld Christmas Celebration

SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration Dates & Holiday Hours

SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration will be held from November 15th, 2024 until January 5th, 2025.

In terms of opening hours, the park opens at 10:00am and will close at 8:00pm the week leading up to Christmas and will be open from 9:00am to 9:00pm on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

On January 5th - the last day of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration 2024 - the park is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

I’d say your best bet is to check the official website to ensure the exact closing hours for the day you wish to attend.

Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Seaworld Christmas Celebration

SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration Prices

Some parks require special tickets for their seasonal events. Luckily, SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration is included at no additional cost with standard park admission.

With that in mind, your best bet to make sure you get the cheapest admission price is to get a Go City San Diego pass. The pass bundles admission together to San Diego’s most popular attractions like SeaWorld San Diego, the San Diego Zoo, the more than a dozen family-friendly museums in Balboa Park, one of my family’s favorite attractions in San Diego, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, and a bunch more.

And if you’re specifically looking for holiday events, you’ll get Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo 2024, Holidays at LEGOLAND California and the Knott’s Merry Farm event at Knott’s Berry Farm as well.

You can use the discount code GVSD5OFF for a little holiday gift from our family to yours as well!

Checking out the Go City San Diego pass is one of my insider tips, but don’t just take my word for it, go have a look for yourself. But if you’d still prefer a single day pass to SeaWorld San Diego, that will work as well with prices ranging from $109.99 to $122.99.

Local Tips
Stay Late for Festive Lights
Stay after sunset to experience SeaWorld's festive holiday lights and special seasonal shows—it's a magical transformation you won't want to miss.

Dazzling Shows and Magical Experiences for 2024

SeaWorld San Diego’s mission to create an unforgettable Christmas and holiday season continues in 2024, and this year should be bigger than ever!

There’s plenty of returning favorites, so you can still stop by Santa’s village, catch the Donner and Blitzen’s Lazer Light Show, and stay for the Christmas Wish fireworks finale.

But don’t forget to make time for the new events and experiences debuting in 2024 as well.

Santas Reindeer Exhibit at Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Santas Reindeer Exhibit at Seaworld Christmas Celebration

All-New Shows and Parades

Let’s go over some of the new shows and events set for SeaWorld San Diego this holiday season.

A Stocking Full of Soul

A Stocking Full of Soul, SeaWorld’s newest holiday show, is all about bringing holiday classics back.

These soulful renditions will feature appearances by popular characters and callbacks to previous holiday attractions. It’s a festive, uplifting show that’s perfect for the whole family.

The show is held daily at the Nautilus Amphitheater.

Happy Harbor Holiday

If you’re looking for a celebration of Christmas joy and friendship, then the new Happy Harbor Holiday is for you! The show combines these themes with holiday traditions and beloved characters, including the return of Sir Winston the Walrus.

I think this show is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit with your younger kids.

Mrs. Claus Christmas Parade

Mrs. Claus and Santa’s elves are all set for a brand new parade in 2024.

With decorated floats, jolly characters, and festive holiday music, Mrs. Claus Christmas Parade promises to be a magical holiday experience for guests of all ages.

Todd and Erika Posing at Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Todd and Erika Posing at Seaworld Christmas Celebration

Returning Favorites…with a Twist!

Of course, what’s a Christmas celebration at SeaWorld without seeing your holiday favorites return in 2024? Below are some of my favorite returning events and activities.

Donner and Blitzen’s Lazer Light Show

Donner and Blitzen return for nightly shows sure to delight you and your family.

You can look up in wonder at the canopy filled with sparkling lights, lasers, and color as the beams dance along to some of your favorite holiday songs.

Snowfall Throughout the Park

If you’re dreaming of strolling along a winter wonderland, you can once again experience just that with Snowfall Throughout the Park. While San Diego’s weather will likely be mild and sunny, a little Christmas magic will have it lightly snowing on you once again in 2024.

Make your way toward the SkyTower Lawn and Wild Arctic to watch the snow as it gently falls to the ground.

Explore SeaWorld and SAVE
SeaWorld San Diego
Visit SeaWorld San Diego
Check out SeaWorld San Diego for exciting rides, marine animal interactions and shows! Admission is included as part of the All-Inclusive Go City pass. Save even more when you bundle with other top attractions like the Birch Aquarium at Scripps!
Buy Now
Local Tips
What activities does the Go City San Diego pass include?

There’s a variety of activities included with the Go City San Diego pass such as: The San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, Hiking Tours, Whale Watching, Museum Tours, Speed Boat Adventures & more!

For the most popular attractions and water-sport rentals as well as the biggest discounts, consider the All-Inclusive Pass.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Immersive Attractions: From Enchanting Lights to Holiday Indulgences

Of course, if you’re looking for festive experiences and a chance to meet Santa - look no further!

SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration delivers big on treats, shows, and beloved characters to create an immersive, magical family-friendly holiday experience.

Multilingual at Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Multilingual at Seaworld Christmas Celebration

Interactive Experiences: Santa, Reindeer, and a Scavenger Hunt? Yes, Please!

Santa’s Village is back in 2024!

Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, get ready to meet the big guy, share your Christmas list, and take pictures.

The Santa Claus Photo Package

A photo package with Santa is available for purchase with digital and printed photo options.

A Santa Priority Access Photo Bundle, where you skip the lines, is also available.

Prices may change on photo products, so I recommend you check the website for the latest price info if this is something you’d like to purchase for your family.

Kids on Santas Reindeer at Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Kids on Santas Reindeer at Seaworld Christmas Celebration

Santa’s Reindeer are in town!

That’s right, Santa’s reindeer have flown from the North Pole as a special treat for guests!

You and your family can see the reindeer up close, fresh from the journey, ready to say hi. I think this experience is perfect for families with younger kids.

The Rudolph Photo Package

After your photo with Santa Claus, stop by the Holly Jolly Marketplace for your photo with Rudolph!

You can let everyone in your family test their holiday spirit and find out who will make Rudolph’s nose light up bright. Prices vary depending on what you’d like but you can also snap a picture with your phone as well to make sure you get the perfect family picture!

Snowmen at Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Snowmen at Seaworld Christmas Celebration

Snowflake Seeker’s: A Christmas Quest!

I find scavenger hunts at a theme park are the perfect activity to engage the whole family. And SeaWorld’s holiday option is a fun, cost effective way to make the most out of your visit.

Keep an eye out for winter snowflakes as you make your way through the park and then return your map for a special prize. Maps are available for purchase in The Christmas Shoppe.

A Hanukkah Celebration

Starting on December 1st, guests can celebrate Hanukkah at SeaWorld San Diego with the lighting of the menorah, Hanukkah music, and picture opportunities with the holiday decor.

There’ll be plenty of holiday cheer, the traditional blue colored sparkling lights, and more in this lovely Hanukkah celebration.

Festive Decor and Tasty Treats

The park will be filled with holiday lights, magic, and festive spirit to dazzle everyone.

From the 30 foot Christmas tree to the Christmas Wish Fireworks Show, the Lazer Light Show, and so much more, SeaWorld’s grounds really feel like a winter wonderland during the holiday season.

Holiday Lights & Magic

Even if you do nothing more than stroll across the park, you’ll get to enjoy the decor and marvel at San Diego’s tallest Christmas tree. And I can say that there is nothing wrong with this approach!

The SeaWorld’s 30-foot Christmas tree is adorned with twinkling lights that dance to holiday tunes in a dazzling display.

The tree lighting ceremony is usually held at 5:00pm daily, but can change as the sun sets earlier in the season. Check the official theme park website or park times just ahead of your visit for up-to-date information.

Festive Entrees, Desserts & Hot Chocolate

If seasonal flavors and holiday treats are your style, then you’re going to love the 2024 offerings at SeaWorld San Diego.

One of my favorites, the Churro Bar, has new and returning menu items. There is also a grilled cheese/soup combo and a turkey pot pie that has my mouth watering.

Of course, the Hot Chocolate Bar may just be the star of the show! I can say that from the Classic Hot Chocolate to the Peppermint Hot Chocolate and the brand new Baileys Bliss Bite, it’ll be hard to pick just one.

Holiday Cocktails & Craft Beer

The only thing I can think that can give the cocoa bar a run for its money is the Michelada Bar and Beer Trailer.

Adults can raise a glass of Merry and Bright Paloma, Mistletoe Margarita, or Holiday Mojito in celebration of the holiday season.

Dining Packages

If you’d like a unique holiday culinary experience, I’d recommend the Dine With Orcas & Santa package which starts at $49.99.

You’ll have a poolside chef make your meal next to SeaWorld’s world-famous Orca Whales. And the best part for families is that Santa will stop by to say hi!

Of course, if your goal is to eat and drink your way around the park, the Festive Food and Seasonal Sips Sampling Lanyard is the best investment you can make.

You’ll get to try up to 5 or 10 different combinations of any food, drink, or dessert samples.

The lanyards start at $55 for 5 samples and are available until January 5th.

Popular Hotels
Popular Hotels
Price
Comfort Inn & Suites San Diego Zoo / SeaWorld
$93
Learn More
Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle
$63
Learn More
Courtyard by Marriott Old Town
$152
Learn More
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Pacific Beach
$152
Learn More

Embrace the Holiday Spirit at SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego offers guests rides, events, animal encounters, shopping opportunities, tasty food and so much more all year round. So with the Christmas Celebrations on top of all that, I can totally understand if you don’t know where to start.

Rudolph’s Christmastown is always a hit with younger visitors and there’s something magical about strolling through the park and taking pictures with the palm tree candy canes everywhere you look.

My best advice is to grab a hot chocolate, your favorite dessert treat, watch as they light San Diego’s tallest Christmas tree, and stay for the Christmas Wish fireworks finale.

In terms of shows, character visits, the animals and rides, it really depends on your family and what interests you. But know that no matter what you choose, Christmas cheer will be all around you!

Santas Cottage with Sleigh at Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Santas Cottage with Sleigh at Seaworld Christmas Celebration

Holiday Shopping Across the Park

SeaWorld’s Christmas Market has plenty of holiday treats, Christmas Edition souvenirs, and family gift friendly ideas.

And don’t forget to stop by the Coca-Cola Market for a photo op, sparkling lights, music, and holiday themed treats and drinks.

The Holly Jolly Marketplace and Christmas Shoppe are the perfect places to find any last-minute gifts. These seasonal boutiques offer everything from ornaments, keepsakes, decor, and apparel.

Seaworld is All Lit up at Seaworld Christmas Celebration
Seaworld is All Lit up at Seaworld Christmas Celebration

A Holiday Unlike Any Other at SeaWorld’s 2024 Christmas Celebration

The theme park’s Christmas Celebration is perfect for families looking to dive into a world of holiday cheer and wonder as they stroll through the park’s sparkling lights, decorations, and shows.

And for me, a longtime local that is raising a family just up the way from the park, I think I’ll leave you with the fact that this event is an opportunity to create lasting memories and experience a holiday event unlike any other. After all, SeaWorld said it best. “Where else can you say ‘Merry Christmas’ to a sea otter or penguin?”

It’s the perfect blend of seasonal magic, holiday reflections, beloved characters, and Christmas cheer!

Featured Hotel
Paradise Point Resort & Spa
Paradise Point Resort & Spa
Bayfront
Bayfront
Beaches
Beaches
Families
Families
4 Stars4 Stars4 Stars4 Stars
The Paradise Point Resort & Spa offers its guests a 44-acre secluded island setting with five pools, yoga & meditation, a marina, local wildlife & more!
Prices Starting at $259
Check Availability
Looking to Save on Tickets?
Save on Tickets
Explore all that San Diego has to offer & save up to 55% on attractions
This Month's Forecast
51°F / 67°F
Sunny in January
Feb
53°F / 68°F
Sunny in February
Mar
56°F / 69°F
Sunny in March
Apr
59°F / 71°F
Partly Cloudy in April

Stay Nearby

Comfort Inn & Suites San Diego Zoo / SeaWorld
Near SeaWorld
3 Star Rating3 Star Rating3 Star Rating
Comfort Inn & Suites San Diego Zoo / SeaWorld
from $93 / night
View Hotel
Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle
Near San Diego Zoo
3 Star Rating3 Star Rating3 Star Rating
Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle
from $63 / night
View Hotel
Courtyard by Marriott Old Town
Family Friendly
3 Star Rating3 Star Rating3 Star Rating
Courtyard by Marriott Old Town
from $152 / night
View Hotel
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Pacific Beach
Near Mission Bay
2 Star Rating2 Star Rating
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Pacific Beach
from $152 / night
View Hotel
Show more San Diego Hotels >>
Tours & Adventures
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
Discounts Available
Learn More
Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Discounts Available
Learn More
Looking for Something Different?
More What's New >> Attractions