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8 San Diego Nonprofit Events to Attend This December

Here’s where to celebrate, connect, give back, and make a difference this month
San Diego nonprofit Designing Dreams hosting their' Hope for the Holidays Gala on December 5, 2025
Courtesy of Designing Dreams USA

Father Joe’s Villages Holiday Village at the Bayfront

Through December 8

Father Joe’s Villages is hosting its second annual Holiday Village at the Bayfront. Patrons and businesses are invited to sponsor one of the decorated trees in the Hilton San Diego Bayfront lobby to raise money to support Father Joe’s Villages’ mission to prevent and end homelessness. 

Hazard Center Barnes & Noble Book Drive for ArtReach

Through December 15

Hazard Center Barnes & Noble shoppers have the opportunity to help kids get creative this holiday season at its book drive for ArtReach. Donated books will complement ArtReach’s programs, providing art materials, and help San Diego youth create. 

San Diego food bank from local nonprofit Feeding San Diego

San Ysidro McDonalds Donation Drive

December 1

The San Ysidro McDonald’s will collect donated gifts for kids at the Nazareth Orphanage in Baja California. The children’s wish lists, clothing and shoe sizes, and other needed items can be found here

Designing Dreams’ Hope for the Holidays Gala

December 5

Designing Dreams San Diego will host its fourth annual Hope for the Holidays Gala at Liberty Station. Proceeds from the nonprofit’s largest fundraiser of the year will help the organization transform the bedrooms of children with cancer into “sanctuaries of hope and healing.” 

Arc of San Diego’s Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon

December 5

Supporters of the Arc of San Diego will enjoy an afternoon of glamour at its annual Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon at the US Grant. Proceeds from the Shimmer & Glimmer–themed event will benefit The Arc of San Diego’s programs for kids and adults with disabilities. 

St. Germaine Children’s Charity Silver Tea Fundraiser

December 9

Philanthropists Danny and Sally Lawrence will open their La Jolla home for this year’s St. Germaine Children’s Charity Silver Tea. The tea will raise money for local agencies working to prevent child abuse. 

34th Annual Poinsettia Ball at Ecke Family YMCA in Encinitas

December 13

The Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA in Encinitas will host its 34th annual Poinsettia Ball. This year’s theme is A Midwinter Night’s Dream and its goal is to increase access to the YMCA’s health and wellness programs. 

The Animal Pad’s Tinsel & Tails Holiday Extravaganza

December 19

Dogs are welcome at The Animal Pad’s fifth annual Tinsel & Tails Holiday Extravaganza at Liberty Station. The event will include a “Pawliday Market” with local vendors, festive photos, food trucks, kids crafts, and more. 

By Sarah Sapeda

Sarah Sapeda is San Diego Magazine’s Custom Content Editor. In her 15 years in San Diego journalism, she has covered charitable events, health care, education, crime, current events, and more.

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