The Best Places To See The Holiday Lights in San Diego

Not only do we love this time of year, but we love seeing all of the gorgeous lights and decorations around town. Whether you're just visiting or have lived here for your entire life, there are a few holiday displays that you must see to get you in the holiday spirit!

This North County holiday light display started in 1988 and has grown to become one of the biggest in the county with more than 85,000 lights. It attracts over 15,000 spectators each year and even Santa comes to visit during the week of Christmas!

As if the incredible daytime views from this hilltop neighborhood weren’t impressive enough, the street becomes an equally amazing sight-to-see after dusk during December. From the homes to the trees, the neighborhood lights up and captures the spirit of the season.

From Pepper Drive to Soloman Avenue, you’ll find about 75 homes featuring an assortment of holiday themes. So many homes participate in the annual event that the area is better known as Jingle Bell Hill during the holiday season. From comic book characters to nativity scenes, there’s something for everyone on this El Cajon street.

For 60 years, the homes along Whitney Street and Mankato Circle have proudly displayed their Christmas spirit. With more than 55 homes to see, this is a hot spot for holiday lights viewing in the South Bay.

Head to Santee to view 75 homes in all their holiday glory along Tomel Court. While you can drive through the neighborhood, you may find more magic if you get out and walk. Some of the homeowners have been known to spread some extra Christmas cheer in the form of hot chocolate and other goodies in year’s past.

This must-see holiday hot spot in Rancho Penasquitos is the effort of about 200 families and features yards full of gigantic Christmas card cut-outs set against a backdrop of strings of bright lights.