Holiday cheer is in full swing across San Diego, as several events celebrated the season on Saturday.
Thousands were expected to gather in Balboa Park beginning at 11 a.m. for the second day of December Nights. The annual San Diego tradition, once known as Christmas on the Prado, kicked off Friday and will last through midnight Saturday.
View our 2013 December Nights guide
Around 300 third graders spent the day with local law enforcement during the annual Shop with a Cop event. This year the kids were treated to a private show at SeaWorld San Diego and then went on $100 shopping spree with officers at a nearby Target store.
Also on Saturday, locals got the chance to travel with Santa Claus and his elves in the North County for the eighth annual Coaster Holiday Express, a 90-minute train ride from Oceanside to Sorrento Valley. The event, put on by the North County Transit District, began at 10 a.m. and ended around 12:30 p.m.
A few parades were also scheduled for the day.
At 10 a.m., the North Park Toyland Festival and Parade kicked off along University Avenue. At around 5 p.m. the 34th annual Ocean Beach Holiday Parade and the Encinitas Holiday Parade were scheduled to take place.
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The Little Italy Association held its annual tree lighting and Christmas Village along W. Date Street, between India and State streets, at around 4 p.m.
Meanwhile, also at 4 p.m., Marine Band San Diego was set to perform a free holiday concert for the public at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in Loma Portal.
In Lakeside, the 15th annual Spirit of Christmas was scheduled to take place at 5 p.m. on Maine Avenue, between Woodside and Laurel, in Lakeside’s downtown area. A tree lighting ceremony, visits with Santa, vendors, food, music, and more were planned for the free community event which lasts until 9 p.m.
Locals who didn't head out today are in luck as a few holiday events are planned for Sunday as well.
Families that have children with special needs are encouraged to visit Fashion Valley Mall and take a photo with Santa during the mall's Caring Santa event. The special photo sessions will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. in Center Court which will be transformed to better support the children’s sensory, physical and other developmental needs.
You might score the ultimate one-of-a-kind gift at Holiday Hit List at Liberty Station where local crafters will be selling their unique creations. The shopping event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2875 Dewey Rd.
At around 2 p.m. the La Jolla Christmas Parade and Festival will be held at the La Jolla Recreation Center located at 615 Prospect St.
Finally, snow is going to fall in Eastlake for Magic Snow at the Village Walk shopping center. The snowing will take place at both 6 and 7 p.m. at 878 Eastlake Pkwy.
Did we miss your holiday event? Let us know in the comments!
