Baja California has become a world-renowned tourist destination that welcomes visitors all year long, especially during the winter holidays. This region, known for its impressive landscapes, vibrant culture, and excellent gastronomic offerings, has become a rendezvous for national and international tourists alike.

During the holidays, Tijuana, Ensenada, and Mexicali welcome a high number of visitors ready to enjoy Christmas and the beauty of the beaches, mountains, and vineyards of this peninsula.

Baja California’s increased tourism during December occurs not only due to the festivities themselves, but also because of the several different activities and events that take place in the region. From traditional Christmas markets to famous New Year celebrations, the state’s cultural and recreational offerings attract families and travelers looking for new experiences.

With December finally here, these awaited holiday events are set to begin! Here is a list with some of the best Christmas events that will take place in Baja California:

Ruta del Maíz

In 2024, the Christmas celebrations at La Ruta del Maíz Tijuana are taking place for 2nd year in a row. Get ready to experience a flower garden, a show with thousands of Christmas lights, a Nutcracker, a giant Jack Skellington, a poinsettia tree, a magical house full of surprises, and the chance to take pictures with Santa Claus.

Location: Located at Bulevar 2000, next to Rancho Casian, Tijuana

Date: Open until Sunday, January 5

Price: $150 pesos - $7 dollars (Children ages 2+ must pay admission)

El Vergel

Albercas El Vergel has opened its Christmas village, an attraction full of lights and family-friendly entertainment in Tijuana. Since November 9, this place has been transformed by Christmas decor, Santa Claus figures, and a skating rink. Visitors will be able to enjoy activities including sack races, slides full of lights, and fun photo spots. Don't miss the chance to try some delicious food and hot beverages such as coffee and hot cocoa. It will be open every day from 4 PM to 10 PM. However, it will be closed on December 24 and December 31.

Location: Cam. Al Vergel 1, Alamar, 22110 Tijuana.

Date: Open until January 1, 2025

Price: $150 pesos ($7 dollars) per person

St Andrew Christmas Dream Experience

“Christmas Dreams Experience" is a Christmas event in Tijuana offering a magical experience showcasing more than 126,000 colored lights, impressive decor, and a 1-hour walking path with over 30 illumination spots. Plus, you will see firsthand a giant Christmas tree, snowmen, reindeer, and fun child activities such as meeting Santa Claus and artificial snow. Musical performances, drinks, and seasonal beverages will also be featured.

Location: Gobernador Ibarra, Colonia América, Tijuana

Price: Monday through Wednesday: $150 pesos ($7 dollars); Thursday through Sunday: $200 pesos ($10 dollars)

Date: Available until December 30

Christmas Village at Avenida Revolución

This famous, recently inaugurated tourist walkway will soon become a beautiful Christmas Village full of surprises for all visitors. For example, an ice rink for all residents and tourists will be set up. Plus, this area will become the perfect place for New Year celebrations with a classic countdown and the opportunity to try delicious Rosca de Reyes bread.

Location: Avenida Revolución, Tijuana

Date: From Friday, December 6 to Monday, January 6

Price: Not yet confirmed

Mictlán

Tijuana’s famous flower field’s first Christmas-themed edition will be taking place for the first time this year, combining flowers and Christmas magic. Attendees will be able to enjoy photo spots, food, and drinks. Lots of arts and craft, a mini farm, family activities, interactive experiences, piñatas, a Christmas tree lighting, and artistic performances will all be featured here.

Location: Corredor Tijuana - Rosarito 2000, 22725 Tijuana, B.C.

Date: From Friday, December 6 to Sunday, January 5, 2025

Price: $180 pesos ($9 dollars) per person

Festival Decembrino: "Hecho a Mano y Más"

Enjoy a unique, artistic, and family friendly festival in December! Support local entrepreneurs showcasing their handcrafted products such as textiles, jewelry, toys, food, and decor, all made with traditional and modern methods. This event is an excellent opportunity to discover and acquire new pieces from emerging brands.

Starting at 1 PM on Saturday, December 7 and 12:30 PM on Sunday, December 8, this event will also feature musical dance and song performances by Grupo de Danza Folclórica Nanahuatzin, Coro Cenzontle, Danzarte Studio, Academia JazzVi, Banda del Ayuntamiento de Tijuana. and many more.

Location: CECUT Terrace, Tijuana

Date: Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8

Price: Free

Tijuana-Tecate Tourist Train

This iconic route has been changed to reflect the Christmas season, with an amazing end-of-2024 tour. Enjoy live performances by violin players, Christmas carols, Valle de Guadalupe wine tastings, and cantarito tequilas.

Plus, when you get to Tecate you'll have the chance to explore the Kumiai community area. Also don't miss the train on December 14, as the Light Parade will also be taking place!

Location: Tijuana-Tecate Tourist Train Route

Date: December 7 and December 14

Price: Adults $550 pesos ($27 dollars)

Children (5 - 12 years) and Seniors: $520 pesos ($26 dollars)

Caravan of Lights at El Florido

Though Tijuana won’t have a Coca-Cola Caravan this year, El Florido Abarrotes y Carnes decided to organize its own Caravan of Lights! Starting at 5 PM at the Zona Río branch, it will travel all the way to Parque Morelos with an outdoor festival full of gifts and surprises.

Location: Starting at El Florido Abarrotes y Carnes, Zona Río, Tijuana

Date: Sunday, December 8

Price: Free

Christmas Boat Parade in Ensenada

The classic ""Desfile de Luces de Embarcaciones 2024" (Light Boat Parade 2024) will take place at the Ensenada Pier and Tourist Walkway. Enjoy Christmas-themed illuminated boats, perfect for the whole family, from 4:45 PM to 10 PM! You can also rent your own boat for a private ride.

Location: Ensenada Pier

Dates: Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15

Price: $100 pesos ($5 dollars) for the rides

Tecate's Light Parade

Baja California's magical town will also participate in the state's Christmas celebrations with its Light Parade! Several organizations, businesses, and people of all ages will gather here at 6 PM to take part in this unique caravan, filled with popular characters such as Santa and The Grinch, and decorated floats with dazzling lights.

Location: Avenida Benito Juárez, Tecate

Date: Saturday, December 14

Price: Free

Christmas Surfing Tournament

Established in 1998, this famous event brings surfing and the Christmas season together with sea and seashore activities by the surfing community. It will feature a bazaar, a Christmas party, and surfing competitions in the following categories: Young Male, Young Women, Sub 18, Long Board, Paddle Board, Bodyboard, Masters 40-49, Veterans 50-59, Legends 60+, Master 30-39, & DK.

Location: Ensenada

Date: December 21 and December 22

Price: $150 ($7 dollars) - $400 ($20 dollars), if you decide to participate in the competition

Without a doubt, the Christmas spirit has taken Baja California by storm! Don't miss any of the amazing events taking place all across the state that residents and tourists alike can fully enjoy during this entire Christmas season!

VIDEO: Christmas Village at Avenida Revolución in Tijuana