Hey SD Parents! This first full weekend of 2026 is your last chance for a ton of holiday magic before it all disappears. Don't miss catching the final nights of the dazzling Wild Holidays at the Safari Park or strapping on skates at the Rady Children's Ice Rink before they close up shop on Sunday. If you need something totally fresh, check out the King Tides Hike to see the coast at its most dramatic.
Quick Picks
King Tides Hike 2026
San Diego Natural History Museum (Meetup)
See San Diego's coast at its absolute highest tide with a guided walk—super cool science nature moment!
Holidays at LEGOLAND
LEGOLAND California
It's the absolute last day for the holiday cheer and lights at LEGOLAND, so duck inside for rides if it's gloomy.
Stay and Play at the Carmel Valley Library
Carmel Valley Library
A Thursday program, but libraries often have similar drop-in sessions—check for an equivalent Saturday/Sunday program for free indoor play stations.
Wild Holidays
This is your final weekend to catch the massive light displays and festive entertainment at the Safari Park. Wildlife viewing is limited since it's an evening event, but the Bridge of Lights is totally worth the drive out!
Why we picked it: It's the absolute last chance to see the amazing light installations and holiday shows before they pack up for the year.
King Tides Hike 2026
The 'King Tides' are the highest tides of the year, and The Nat is leading a guided hike to see the impact firsthand. This is seriously cool, science-y, and only happens once a year, so grab your boots!
Why we picked it: It's a unique, free, educational outdoor activity tied directly to the natural phenomenon happening *this* weekend.
Stay and Play at the Carmel Valley Library
The search found a Thursday event, but this is a common library offering, so check the SD Public Library calendar for Saturday/Sunday 'Stay and Play' or similar drop-in fun with stations for little ones.
Why we picked it: If the weather is iffy, the library is always a reliable, free spot for quality toddler engagement.
Gray Whale Watching Tour
January is peak migration season for gray whales heading south to Baja, making boat tours extra exciting! Book with a smaller local operator rather than the big tourist boats for a better experience.
Why we picked it: This is the prime time of year to spot migrating gray whales right off our coast.
Candlelight: The Lord of the Rings
A string quartet playing the iconic LOTR movie scores surrounded by thousands of flickering candles—it’s super atmospheric and way cooler than a typical concert for your teen. Tickets are usually on sale early for these.
Why we picked it: It's a highly atmospheric, unique performance that appeals to older kids/teens who love film scores.
Toddler Time / Stay and Play (City Recreation)
These Parks & Rec drop-in times are gold for burning off toddler energy with blocks and active play, but you *must* sign up/pay on sdrecconnect.com. Call the specific center for Sat/Sun schedule!
Why we picked it: A structured play option for the under-5 crowd that isn't tied to a library event.
MLK Parade Walk/Fun Run Prep
The big MLK Jr. Parade is next weekend, but check if any local groups are hosting smaller kickoff events or fun runs this Saturday. It’s a huge local cultural moment to check out.
Why we picked it: It's the lead-up to a major cultural weekend in January, offering a chance to get involved early.
Liberty Station Stroll & Public Art
The former Naval Training Center is full of rotating public art installations and quiet promenades, perfect for a low-key morning walk with the kids. Grab a coffee and pastry at the Public Market before you explore the galleries.
Why we picked it: It's a great way to explore local art and architecture without the pressure of a formal museum visit.
SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration
If you haven't gotten your holiday fix yet, this is it—SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration wraps up Sunday. Perfect for using those slightly less crowded post-holiday park days to see the lights and shows.
Why we picked it: It's the final day for SeaWorld's holiday programming before they switch over to their winter schedule.
Rady Children's Ice Rink (Final Weekend)
Sunday is your very last chance to skate outdoors at Liberty Station this season—the rink closes for the year! It supports Rady Children's Hospital, so you're doing good while getting some fresh air.
Why we picked it: This popular charitable seasonal attraction is closing its doors after Sunday for the year.
Holidays at LEGOLAND
This is the *absolute final day* for the holiday décor, special shows, and festive atmosphere at LEGOLAND. Might be a good day to hit the rides with slightly smaller crowds before the holiday rush is completely over.
Why we picked it: It is the last day of the holiday event programming before the park returns to its regular season lineup.
Chula Vista Farmers' Market
Skip the crowds downtown and head South Bay for this large market with over 60 tents—great for grabbing fresh produce, salsa, and baked goods for the week. It's a relaxed Sunday morning vibe away from the main tourist hustle.
Why we picked it: A genuinely local, non-touristy weekend market experience that's free to browse.
Member and Explorer Pass Morning
If you have a membership, you get an hour of quiet time before the general public floods in—perfect for hitting the new 'Amazement in the Basement' exhibit without chaos. Check their calendar for equivalent free entry days if you aren't members.
Why we picked it: It offers an exclusive, less-crowded experience for members right before general opening time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in San Diego this weekend?
This weekend (Jan 03-04) there are a few great free options! You can join the King Tides Hike 2026 with The Nat on Saturday morning for a unique science lesson, or just enjoy a free browse at the Liberty Station Stroll & Public Art area. Check your local SD Public Library branch for free drop-in story times or play sessions as well.
Are there any last-chance holiday events for the kids?
Yes, Sunday, January 4th is the absolute last day for both SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration and Holidays at LEGOLAND. Also, Sunday is the final day for the Rady Children's Ice Rink at Liberty Station, so go get your final skate in!
What's a good outdoor adventure for older kids/teens this weekend?
For something unique, check out the King Tides Hike 2026 on Saturday, which is focused on a cool natural science topic. If you want guaranteed wildlife, January is peak season for a Gray Whale Watching Tour off the coast.