SAN DIEGO -- Santa Claus was expected to arrive in downtown San Diego Friday to kick-off the Christmas season.

The jolly old man in the red suit is scheduled to arrive at Horton Plaza with a military escort at 1 p.m. to meet with boys and girls eager to share their Christmas wish lists. The shopping mall will also host a fashion show featuring the San Diego Chargers Girls at 3 p.m.

The fashion show will precede a block party being hosted by the Chargers on Fifth Avenue, between Island and J streets, in the Gaslamp District.

From 5 to 11 p.m., the Chargers will host a party that includes live entertainment on two stages, interactive games, and celebrity and player appearances. The team is touting the event, which coincides with the Chargers' 50th anniversary, as the largest tailgate party of the year.

During the party, the 50 greatest Chargers of all time, as voted by fans on Chargers.com, will be introduced.

Cost is $35 per person. Scheduled performers include Super Diamond and Fountains of Wayne.

At 5:30 p.m., the annual drive-through "Holiday of Lights" exhibit begins at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. More than 400 lighted, animated scenes line a 1.5-mile route. Tickets start at $14 per car with up to five occupants.