San Diego is gearing up for its 47th December Nights celebration in Balboa Park, promising to inject the festive spirit into the city with many holiday activities this weekend. Teeming with music, food, and a bevy of performances, the event is slated for tomorrow from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. It continues on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Mayor Todd Gloria invites everyone to join the revelry, stating, as per the City of San Diego, "December Nights is a cherished tradition that brings San Diegans and visitors together to kick off the holiday season in the heart of our city."
A crowd-pleasing addition to the festivities is the reopening of the Botanical Building, now sparkling after a $30 million make-over. It was closed for three years and now flaunts fully restored features and swanky technological upgrades; these include a new mister watering system, modern lighting, and freshwater features; visitors can catch an early glimpse of the renovations on Friday and Saturday during special viewing hours before returning to its usual timetable after the weekend. With over 1,600 performers from 70 groups, more than 200 food and retail booths sprawled across the park, and free museum entry in the evening, there's hardly a dull moment left in the weekend's packed schedule.
The hallmark tree lighting ceremony unfolds at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion Stage tomorrow at 6 p.m., with Councilmember Stephen Whitburn and Assemblymember Chris Ward joining the honorary proceedings, "December Nights is a cherished San Diego tradition, and it’s heartwarming to see our community come together to kick off the holiday season in beautiful Balboa Park," Whitburn said, as cited by the City of San Diego. A handy mobile website dubbed the December Nights Mobile Experience promises to aid attendees in navigating the venue, pointing out essentials like parking spots, entertainment, and vendors.
Transport has been beefed up with free shuttles, pre-paid parking, and enhanced bus services courtesy of the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), and the environmentally conscious can even avail of a bike valet service. Exploring alternative transportation due to limited parking during the event days is highly recommended. The Family Zone returns bolder than ever this year, throwing an arsenal of attractions, from diaper changing outposts to free Ferris wheel rides sponsored by San Diego Community Power at families, apart from the options to mix and mingle with Santa or engage in a host of free activities and performances.
