The holiday spirit is already in abundance at The Seabird Resort and our sister hotel Mission Pacific. We’ve cooked up an impressive calendar of events, food experiences and activities for guests of all ages to enjoy the special season. But the festivities aren’t limited to what’s happening at the hotels. We’ve cooked up a list of fun ways the Oceanside community and surrounding areas will put their sunny stamp on the holidays.
Local Shopping
Oceanside’s collection of fashion boutiques, hip surf and skate shops, and inviting art galleries are part of what gives the town its unique character. This independent spirit is being promoted through the efforts of Shop Local Oceanside, which has launched a ’Tis the Season to Shop Local program, which includes a scavenger hunt, craft beer and wine tasting event, and a tree lighting party. Naturally, holiday shoppers will find unique gift ideas and bargains along the way. Saturday Nov. 27 through Sunday, Dec. 12.
Merry Makers Fair
For one-of-a-kind gifts that showcase the Oceanside spirit of artistry, come to this annual two-day market in downtown Oceanside. While the crafts, artworks, and singular curios are a reason to visit in their own right, you’ll find live music, beverage tastings, and other festive goings-on to sweeten the deal. Saturday, Nov. 27, 10–4, and Sunday, Nov. 27, 11–3, Pier View Way and North Tremont Street.
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
A highlight of Oceanside’s holiday calendar, Oceanside’s famous sunset market will become a yuletide fantasia for the annual tree lighting ceremony. Among the many activities: coconut tree climbing, kids zip-lining, an obstacle course, holiday train, jump houses, and inflatable slides. Adults will appreciate the live music and gourmet street eats, and the market itself will be in high gear as its eclectic vendors offer a dizzying range of gifts. Thursday, Dec. 2, 5-9pm (Santa arrival and tree lighting at 6pm).
Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights
A dazzling spectacle featuring vessels of all shapes and sizes festooned in holiday lights and ornaments, this annual boat parade is a nautical twist on Christmas traditions. The free event appeals to all and features entertainment and prizes for the best sailboat, powerboat, and small craft. Bring a blanket and warm clothing. Saturday, Dec. 11, 7pm, Oceanside Marina.
Taste of Art: A Holiday Feast with Georgia O’Keeffe
The recently reopened Oceanside Museum of Art is bridging food and art in this singular holiday event. Led by art professor and curator Robin Douglas, the ticketed evening blends elements of a painting workshop with a Southwestern-inspired holiday fête, with shared insights on the life of the iconoclastic painter. Reservations essential. Thursday, Dec. 16, 6-8pm, visitors $50, members $40.
