SeaWorld San Diego has announced the return of its annual Christmas Celebration event, running from 13 November 2026 through 3 January 2027.
This year's event transforms the park into a festive seaside wonderland complete with over one million lights, real reindeer, nightly snowfall, and four brand new seasonal experiences.
New Entertainment for 2026
The headline addition to this year's line up is Baby Shark's Christmas Adventure, an interactive musical presentation making its SeaWorld San Diego debut. Families can join Baby Shark on a journey to the North Pole featuring sing alongs, dancing, and a special holiday mission.
The park is also debuting three additional brand new offerings:
- Dolphin Island Christmas: A reimagined presentation blending Pacific Island holiday traditions and music with dolphin behaviours. The show features Solstice, the park's newest dolphin, celebrating her very first Christmas.
- Rock the Holiday Christmas Parade: A daily procession starring Mrs. Claus alongside a cast of North Pole elves, bakers, and toy makers singing and dancing on festive floats.
- North Pole Storytime: An interactive story session hosted by the North Pole's head librarian, featuring help from audience volunteers.
Returning Favourites and Nightly Illumination
Guests can look forward to the return of classic event traditions, including the Clyde & Seamore's Christmas Special sea lion show, the Toymaker Trouble stage show, and the A Stocking Full of Soul live big band musical production at the Nautilus Amphitheatre.
The park grounds will be illuminated by more than one million lights, anchored by the iconic 320 foot SkyTower Tree of Lights, San Diego's largest Christmas tree, and a synchronised 30 foot tree lighting ceremony at Wild Arctic Plaza. Visitors can also experience Donner and Blitzen's Lazer Light Show at the park entrance and nightly artificial snowfall at SkyTower Lawn and Wild Arctic.
Interactive experiences include:
- Santa's Live Reindeer: An educational meet and greet with real reindeer visiting from the North Pole.
- Photos with Santa Claus: Daily photo opportunities at the SkyTower Lawn.
- Rudolph's Christmastown: Character meet and greets featuring Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and friends.
- Snowflake Seeker's Christmas Quest: A park wide scavenger hunt where guests search for hidden winter snowflakes to earn a prize.
- Dine with Orcas and Santa: A special dining experience combining festive meals, Santa visits, and insights from animal care specialists alongside majestic killer whales.
Special holiday fireworks displays are scheduled for Saturday, 12 December, and New Year's Eve, 31 December.
Cultural Celebrations and Seasonal Food
In addition to Christmas festivities, SeaWorld will feature displays for Hanukkah beginning 1 December, including a menorah lighting, themed décor, and music. A Kwanzaa kinara display featuring a traditional Unity cup and crops will also be presented. The season concludes with a New Year's Eve countdown and fireworks event on 31 December.
Throughout the event, seasonal food items, specialty hot chocolates, craft brews, and holiday cocktails will be available across the park. Visitors can purchase a Festive Food & Seasonal Sips Sampling Lanyard valid for up to 10 food, beverage, or dessert items. SeaWorld Pass Members receive two bonus samples free.
Pass and Ticket Information
For a limited time, SeaWorld San Diego is offering its SoCal Pass with monthly payment options starting as low as $11.50 per month. Annual Passes offer unlimited admission, access to exclusive events, no blackout dates, and advance access to new park attractions.
For tickets, operating hours, and full event details, visit seaworldsandiego.com.
