Red Ribbon Gala
December 1
Join Impulse San Diego for the Red Ribbon Gala in honor of World AIDS Day 2024. Hosted by drag queen Chad Michaels, the evening is dedicated to reducing AIDS-related stigma, honoring those lost and living with HIV, and committing to ending the HIV epidemic. Enjoy live music, auctions, and gourmet dining, with all proceeds benefiting POZabilities.
Bucket Blitz by The Salvation Army
December 3
The Salvation Army will host a fundraising event on December 3 with the goal of raising $10,000 to support their programs. Volunteers can participate in a festive drive featuring activities and performances by the Salvation Army Brass Band. The morning event will take place at Peterson’s Donut Corner in Escondido, with an afternoon event from 12 to 6 p.m. at Belmont Park in Mission Beach.
Jingle and Mingle
Dec 5
The Jingle and Mingle event on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the Lomas Santa Fe Country Club brings the community together to support the Community Resource Center. From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., enjoy an evening of connection and purpose, raising funds to provide hope and resources for those facing hunger, homelessness, and trauma this winter.
Scripps Candlelight Ball
December 7
Taking place on December 7 at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, this always-sold-out, Black Tie event includes cocktails, dinner, and a program to support the Scripps Health Foundation.
Earth Day in the Garden
Dec 7
Join GroundWork San Diego for Earth Lab Day in the Garden on December 7 to explore the world of plants and sustainable gardening. Learn about planting, maintaining greenery, and removing invasive species with the help of knowledgeable volunteers. Attendees can also participate in hands-on projects to support the Earth Lab’s mission of environmental education and stewardship.
Queen Bee’s Gala
December 12
Celebrate community and culture at Queen Bee’s Arts and Cultural Center’s gala fundraiser: Enjoy live performances, a silent auction, and a delicious buffet while connecting with fellow supporters and artists. Proceeds will fund moving costs and the preservation of the historic building at 3925 Ohio St., ensuring Queen Bee’s remains a cherished cultural hub for years to come.
Tinsel and Tails: TAP’s Holiday Extravaganza
December 13
Get ready to jingle with your pup! TAP (The Animal Pad) is back with its 4th Annual Tinsel & Tails Holiday Extravaganza at BRICK in Liberty Station. This free, family- and dog-friendly event is your ultimate seasonal outing. Whether you’re looking for festive fun with the kids or an excuse to show off your dog’s holiday sweater, this is the spot.
Joy Drive
December 13-16
The Joy Drive is the expansion of the OB Holiday Food and Toy Drive that aims to spread more holiday spirit throughout the community. In partnership with Love Thy Neighbor, the Ocean Beach community wants you to be a part of these joyful holiday activities where you can give back by donating, volunteering, or registering for these OB holiday events.
Toys for Joy
December 14
Join the 28th annual Toys for Joy event at Southwest High School on December 14 and help bring holiday cheer to thousands in need. Volunteers will distribute free toys, groceries, and more to families lacking resources, ensuring everyone feels the love and joy of the season.
The Red Nose Run
December 14
Suit up in your Santa gear and join the Red Nose Run this December for a festive 3K or 5K. Proceeds will support two local nonprofits, Semper Fi & America’s Fund and the San Dieguito River Park, making your holiday jog a gift to the community.
Faces with Purpose 7th Annual “A Lupus Christmas”
December 15
Join an enlightening panel discussion focused on raising awareness about Lupus and educating San Diego on the impact it has on those living with the condition. All proceeds from donations, sponsorships, and in-kind contributions will support Lupus Awareness initiatives and the Inspire SD Youth Winter Camp, happening December 16–19, 2024.
Ohana Holiday Run and Toy Drive
December 21
A family-friendly 5K and 1K fun run on December 21 benefits children in need through a toy drive. The run will start and finish inside the De Anza Cove in Mission Bay.
The Salvation Army Annual Christmas Meal
December 25
This Christmas, The Salvation Army is serving warmth and hope with a holiday meal for all San Diegans in need. Volunteers are essential to make this event unforgettable, with opportunities to help prepare and pack meals, decorate, greet guests, serve, deliver meals to the homebound, and more. Can’t volunteer? Support by donating a holiday meal for a local family in need. Together, we can make the season bright for everyone.
Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade
December 27
The downtown San Diego Bay will host the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade, presented by Kaiser Permanente. This family-friendly event showcases world-class marching bands, stunning floats, energetic drill teams, and the largest collection of giant balloons in any parade. The parade kicks off with the annual Holiday Bowl 5k run/walk, and proceeds go towards helping fund economic disparity programs in the San Diego region.