As winter break comes near, everyone can feel the holiday cheer. Midway through December and you may be wondering what Christmas festivities there is still time to participate in. San Diego may never have a white Christmas, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to celebrate.

There is so much to do right here in San Diego to put you in the Christmas cheer. Between some of the best light displays, holiday parades, and outdoor ice skating; San Diego makes up for the lack of winter weather to make it feel like Christmas.  Here’s some ideas to get into the winter spirit. So grab a friend, a sweater, a scarf, and some hot cocoa and check out some of the ho ho holiday fun.

Later in the month stop by the Holiday Bowl Big Balloon Parade. Known as “America’s Largest Balloon Parade”, on Dec. 27 at 10 am tons of giant balloons will float through downtown San Diego for everyone to enjoy. This features all kinds of balloons from the classic Santa Claus to a huge Mr. Potato Head.

Who doesn’t love the holiday classic “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”? I can’t think of any other way to watch this Christmas classic than live as a musical at the Old Globe Theater. Director James Vasquez brings this holiday classic to life in San Diego from Nov. 17 through Dec. 29. Celebrate the holidays at the Globe Theater fully transformed into the snowy  Whoville.

Another San Diego Christmas favorite of cold icy fun would be outdoor ice skating. Whether you go to the rink in Horton Plaza or Hotel Del Coronado’s rink they each go until the 5th and 6th of Jan., respectively. Both a great way to spend an afternoon with friends. If we can’t have New York City’s Rockefeller Center this has to be the next best thing.

Maybe spending money or driving down to San Diego isn’t how you want to spread your holiday cheer. Don’t fret, for the easiest holiday fun in your own neighborhood all that is needed is company, warm hot cocoa, and whichever method of transportation you choose. Christmas lights adorn houses all over Carlsbad. Many houses put on fantastic light displays for anyone to see. So many options to choose from, go out an enjoy this holiday season! It only happens once a year.