The magic of the holidays is back, and it’s lit!
Nothing quite says the holidays like cruising around in your PJ’s to check out all the neighborhood lights. Luckily it can also be one of the more socially distant activities, making it the perfect way to jump-start those holiday vibes and celebrate with loved ones. San Diego is known to bring its ‘A’ game when it comes to holiday lights, so we’ve compiled a list of six particularly spectacular spots that are definite must-sees.
1. Jingle Bell Hill
This local winter wonderland is a team effort by the whole neighborhood. Also known as the Pepper Drive Lights, it encompasses dozens of houses on Solomon Avenue, Pegeen Place and the surrounding area. Organizers ask that visitors use the Lindenwood Drive entrance off of Pepper Drive to prevent blocking of emergency vehicles and residents.
Where: El Cajon
When: December 7-26, Mon – Thurs 6 pm – 9 pm, Fri – Sun 6 pm – 10 pm
2. The Forward House
This Bankers Hill neighborhood staple has been igniting the holiday season for 22 years and counting. The historic house was originally built for former San Diego Mayor John Forward, and has since converted into an annual stop for those on the hunt for twinkling holiday lights. And not just any lights – the current owner puts on a seasonal show that could put even Clark Griswold to shame.
Where: 108 Ivy Street, Bankers Hill
When: 5 pm -10 pm
3. Carlsbad Christmas House
Carlsbad’s favorite neighborhood holiday display is back for another year. And this year the famed house has a new guest: the iconic Escondido Canterbury Gardens Santa! The display, which normally has snow machines running every night, will be drive-through only this year, but just as holly and jolly as ever. The lights will not be turned on in the event of rain.
Where: 7607 Romeria Street, Carlsbad
When: December 3-27, 5 pm – 10 pm every night
4. Belardo Lights
This holiday gem was started by a Tierrasanta local and his son. It’s a one-of-a-kind computerized holiday lighting display synchronized with 106.1 FM radio, spreading holiday cheer all across the neighborhood. This year, visitors are being encouraged to stay in and around their cars, and to wear a mask and practice social distancing if they do step outside. In the event of rain (anything heavier than a sprinkle), the lights will not be turned on.
Where: 5306 Belardo Drive, Tierrasanta
When: 6 pm – 10 pm every night through December 27
5. Starlight Circle
Starlight Circle is another neighborhood brimming with holiday cheer. Located in Santee, this community of decked-out houses includes both East and West Glendon Circle. In past years there have even been holiday goodies like kettle corn and cotton candy on sale! Check above for a helpful map.
Where: Santee
When: most houses can be seen 5:30 pm – 10 pm every night until Christmas Day
6. Candy Cane Lane in Poway
Get ready to be dazzled! There’s magic down home in Candy Cane Lane, made up of three neighboring cul-de-sacs.
It is unforgettable whether you choose to socially distance and cruise in your vehicle or experience it up close and become part of the magic by strolling down sidewalks. There are so many over-the-top light shows, state-of-the-art animated characters, old-school nativity scenes, and more Santas than you can count! There’s even a house that turnes its driveway into a Christmas theater! It’s the perfect spot to take in all the holiday cheer while watching your favorite Christmas movie. This neighborhood really goes all out. Every home is completely decked out, some as early as Thanksgiving. While the rest are lit up by the second week of December and continue nightly through Christmas Eve.
Where: Poway
When: 5 pm – 10 pm until Christams eve
[Featured image: Starlight Circle]