For 74 years, the sprawling Spanish Colonial arches of Liberty Station were closed to the general public. Starting in 1923, the site served as the Naval Training Center (NTC) San Diego, a massive military base nicknamed “The Cradle of the Navy” where over 2.75 million recruits marched through boot camp.
How “The Cradle Of The Navy” became San Diego’s favorite cultural hub
Following its closure in 1997, the grounds were dramatically reimagined into one of San Diego’s most vibrant cultural destinations. Today, the 361-acre area is a neighborhood staple. Locals flock to the bustling Liberty Public Market (housed in the former naval mess hall) for amazing food, historic barracks that now make up the ARTS DISTRICT with working galleries and dance studios, and leafy beer gardens for craft beers.
Swiss Winter Village is bringing authentic alpine charm to Point Loma
While the grounds are now beloved for weekend food runs, outdoor yoga, and sunset walks along the boat channel, this winter the South Lawn is hosting something new!
For the first time ever, the lawn will be taken over by the Swiss Winter Village. This is an authentic European Christmas market curated by the masterminds behind Paris’ iconic Noël La Villette and Zürich’s Wienachtsdorf. They’re bringing their acclaimed blueprint directly to Point Loma, dropping a storybook winter sanctuary beneath the coastal California palms.
What to eat at Swiss Winter Village: Raclette, fondue and spiced glühwein
It makes for a delightfully surreal scene: weaving through 60 rustic alpine chalets framed by swaying palm trees and an ocean breeze.
Come November 27th, visitors will be able to browse local artisan crafts, sip piping-hot spiced glühwein, and enjoy authentic alpine comfort foods like bubbling pots of fondue and freshly melted Swiss raclette.
Complete with twinkling lights, family-friendly activities, festive rides, and heart-warming entertainment, it marks the grandest holiday transformation the historic naval grounds have ever seen!
Plan your visit to Swiss Winter Village at Liberty Station
📅 November 27, 2026 – January 3, 2027
📍 South Lawn at Liberty Station (2850 Roosevelt Rd, San Diego)
You can find more information and save your spot for the winter escape here!
