SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - San Diego is jumping into the holiday spirit to kick off December.
La Jolla, Ocean Beach, Chula Vista, and others will hold their annual holiday parades this weekend, ringing in the merry around the county.
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But for those looking for something a little less holiday-oriented, check out the Island Food and Beer Fest at Waterfront Park or the Doggie Street Festival going on at Liberty Station.
Here's a look at some of the events - holiday and not - happening this weekend in San Diego:
3rd Annual Stance ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championship in La Jolla
When: Thursday - Sunday
Check out world-champion surfers take to the waves in La Jolla and look to shred the competition. The ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championship is the first for surfers with physical challenges to compete and display their talents in a Paralympic-style competition.
Seas 'n' Greetings at Birch Aquarium
When: Friday - Sunday
Birch Aquarium will be transformed for the month of December and will feature exciting animal encounters, crafts, fun photo opportunities, and more. Be sure to check out Scuba Santa as he feeds sharks and other aquatic friends.
December Nights in Balboa Park
When: Friday - Saturday
December Nights will kick off the holiday season in San Diego with two nights of fun, food, and festivities in Balboa Park. The holiday event sees hundreds of thousands of San Diegans head down to Balboa Park every year to enjoy the holidays with more than 150 live performances, nearly 100 spots to grab food and gifts, and, of course, thousands and thousands of lights.
42nd Annual Coronado Holiday Parade and Open House
When: Friday
Coronado's holiday tradition returns with Santa and the lighting of Coronado's massive tree. Thousands are expected to line the streets as cars and floats head down 8th and Orange dressed in their holiday best.
54th Annual North Park Toyland Parade and Festival
When: Saturday
North Park's annual parade begins on University Ave. between Utah and Iowa Streets, bringing it's traditional creation of a "Winter Wonderland" to San Diego. Vintage cars, music, dancers, and the Big Jolly man himself will also parade through North Park.
Island Food and Beer Fest San Diego at Waterfront Park
When: Saturday
Enjoy some of the best cuisine featuring Pacific Islands flavors from local chefs and different types of locally brewed beers at the Island Food and Beer Fest this weekend. Admission includes unlimited beer tastings, food pairings, and "Island vendor village," games and raffles.
Starlight Parade and Children's Faire in Chula Vista
When: Saturday
Chula Vista's favorite parade will bring holiday magic to the South Bay with a children's fair capping off the festivities, including a bounce house, holiday story times, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Encinitas Holiday Festival
When: Saturday
Encinitas joins in the holiday spirit on Dec. 2, as their parade runs down Coast Highway 101 spreading cheer and smiles.
38th annual OB Holiday Parade Fair
When: Saturday
Ocean Beach kicks off its annual parade at Sunset Cliffs Blvd. and Newport Ave. with the theme "California Dreamin’ in the Season of Love."
Frosty Farm at Helen Woodward Animal Center
When: Saturday - Sunday
Frosty Farm features hands-on animal encounters with a variety of wintry animals for the family. Kids can even craft their own holiday gifts, meet Santa, endure an "elf obstacle course," and more fun games.
Elfin Forest 5K/10K Hike and Trail Run in Escondido
When: Sunday
Lace up your running shoes and "keep it rural" at the Elfin Forest 5K/10K Hike and Trail Run. Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to take in one of San Diego County's most diverse scenic sites. Kids can even enjoy carnival-style games. Funds raised through the event will benefit the Elfin Forest Harmony Grove Town Council.
La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival
When: Sunday
The holidays hit La Jolla during the city's Christmas parade and holiday festival on Girard Ave., featuring family-friendly activities, entertainment, and photos with Santa Claus.
Doggie Street Festival at Liberty Station
When: Sunday
Bring your friendly canine friend, enjoy music and treats, and get up close with vets and animal products at the Doggie Street Fair this weekend. Kids can enjoy a special art area and special guests are set to speak.
SoNo Fest and Chili Cook-Off at Thorn Street Brewery
When: Sunday
Forty of San Diego's best local restaurants will compete in the ultimate chili cook-off at Thorn Street Brewery - with some of the best local breweries on site to quench attendees' thirst. Live music from local bands will take over three stages, food trucks will be on hand, and kids can join in with a special "kids area" with carnival games and activities.
