Balboa Park’s December Nights returns this weekend. Instead of the huge, pre-pandemic era party, this year’s version is again scaled down for COVID-19 safety. Like last year, San Diego’s biggest holiday celebration follows the drive-thru model, with festive food + good cheer. Here’s what you need to know. 🎄

Where + when?
📍 Inspiration Point South Parking Lot, on the south side of President’s Way, near the Veterans Museum. Here’s a map.
🗓️ Fri., Dec. 3-Sun., Dec. 5, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

How will it work?
🚗 According to the city, attendees will be able to slowly drive through the parking lot + buy snacks from 20 food trucks, while enjoying holiday entertainment. It’s free to get in, but bring money to splurge on treats. In its mini, food-centric form, the 2021 event is dubbed “Taste of December Nights.”

Pro tips: You have to stay in your car and masks are recommended while ordering food. The city encourages daytime attendees to pick up food + picnic in Balboa Park.

Honk if you love the holidays: a look at Taste of December Nights in 2020 | Photo via City of San Diego

What was December Nights like before the pandemic?
🎄 In its traditional form, December Nights takes over Balboa Park for two days — the first weekend of December — and attracts 350,000+ visitors to the landmark.

It’s filled with family-friendly activities, live music, arts and crafts + incredible displays of twinkling lights. There’s also a food zone over at the International Cottages offering globally-inspired treats. The biggest gift of original December Nights is that select museums will even offer free entry during the event.

So, yes, we’re honking ‘cause we love it when any version of this event can happen, but as San Diegans, we’re also wishing traditional December Nights finds its path home in 2022.