Your Guide to Planning Holiday Travel South of The Border
From the border city lights of Tijuana to the warm, lantern-lit plazas of La Paz, Christmas in Baja California and Baja California Sur blends Mexican tradition, coastal charm, and desert serenity into a season that feels both festive and deeply authentic. Whether you’re planning a December getaway or looking to experience Baja’s cultural side between surf sessions and wine tasting, 2025 offers a full calendar of heartwarming events.
BAJA CALIFORNIA (B.C. — NORTE)
TIJUANA
Highlights: Christmas Village, Cultural Festivals & Border City Holiday Lights
Dates: December 1–31, 2025
Why Go:
Tijuana celebrates Christmas with a vibrant mix of modern spectacle and cherished Mexican traditions. As Baja California’s largest city, it offers some of the Peninsula’s biggest light displays, concerts, food festivals, and community events—yet still keeps a warm, family-centered spirit. For cross-border travelers, Tijuana provides one of the easiest and most festive holiday experiences, perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
What to Expect:
- Tree Lighting & Christmas Village Opening: December 5 at 7:00 p.m. on Avenida Revolución — a major event with music, food stands, artisan vendors, and festive décor
- “Villa Navideña de Tijuana” (Christmas Village): December 5–25 — ice skating rink, craft market, children’s shows, nightly entertainment, and themed light installations at El Vergel water park
- CECUT Holiday Concert Series: December 6–23 — choir performances, classical ensembles, and folklórico shows held on the Esplanade and inside the concert hall
- Plaza Santa Cecilia Holiday Nights: Live mariachi, seasonal street food (buñuelos, champurrado, churros), posada reenactments, and colorful displays
- Parque Morelos Light Festival: December 10–30 — illuminated gardens, photo installations, family-friendly rides, and a Christmas train experience
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Community organizations and neighborhoods throughout the city hold traditional processions with singing, candles, and piñatas
- Christmas Eve Dining: A wide range of options—from upscale restaurants in Zona Río to traditional birrierías and neighborhood tamale stands
A Local Tradition: Borderland Christmas Shopping & Street Markets
Tijuana’s downtown markets—especially Pasaje Rodríguez and Mercado Hidalgo—come alive in December with holiday produce, Mexican sweets, artisan goods, and imported items. Visitors often stop here for last-minute gifts before crossing back into the U.S.
Seasonal Foods to Try in Tijuana
- Champurrado, ponche, buñuelos, and churros from street vendors
- Baja-style tamales and pozole served at community events
- Holiday fusion dishes from Tijuana’s vibrant urban culinary scene
- Fresh-baked pan dulce from local panaderías
Why Travelers Love Tijuana at Christmas
- Easy access from the U.S., perfect for short holiday trips
- A lively, urban holiday atmosphere filled with music and color
- Great shopping, outstanding food, and festive cultural programming
- Unique cross-border holiday energy you won’t find anywhere else in Baja
ROSARITO
Highlights: Beachfront Christmas Markets, Posadas, & Festive Coastal Nights
Dates: December 5–31, 2025
Why Go:
Rosarito offers a lively but relaxed beachfront Christmas—perfect for travelers who want ocean views, live music, easy access from the border, and great food. From illuminated piers and resort events to artisan craft markets and neighborhood posadas, Rosarito’s holiday season blends coastal charm with traditional Mexican celebrations.
What to Expect:
- CEART Rosarito: Will present the Christmas program “Navidad por el Mundo” on December 12th at 7pm featuring local choirs
- Downtown Holiday Nights: Boulevard Benito Juárez glows with decorations, music, food stalls, and pop-up artisan booths
- Popotla Posadas (Dec 16–24): In the nearby fishing village of Popotla, expect candlelit processions, piñatas for kids, and Christmas dishes served along the beachside shacks
- Nochebuena Mass: December 24 at 9:00 p.m. at Iglesia Cristo Rey, followed by fireworks visible from the coast
A Local Tradition: Ranch Posadas in the Hills
Rosarito’s ranch communities—such as Rancho Las Ilusiones and other small properties east of town—often host public Christmas posadas with music, bonfires, dancing, and homemade food. These events are warm, authentic, and welcoming to visitors.
Seasonal Foods Not to Miss
- Pozole and menudo from downtown food stalls
- Champurrado, ponche, and churros from family vendors
- Baja-style fish tacos and coastal seafood—Rosarito never abandons its roots, even at Christmas
Why Travelers Love Rosarito at Christmas
- A festive but easygoing coastal atmosphere
- Quick access from the border—perfect for day trips or weekend getaways
- Excellent artisan shopping and street food
- Beautiful beachfront lights and ocean-view celebrations
ENSENADA
Highlights: Festival Navideño del Malecón, Harbor Lights, and Coastal Christmas
Dates: December 1–31, 2025
Why Go:
Ensenada blends coastal charm with festive Baja tradition, offering a December filled with light displays, artisan markets, music, and incredible seasonal food. The malecón glows with nautical-themed decorations, local choirs perform by the sea, and food vendors serve steaming holiday classics against the backdrop of the harbor. It’s a perfect Christmas destination for travelers looking for a lively—yet still relaxed—holiday atmosphere.
What to Expect:
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: December 12 at 7:00 p.m. on the Malecón, with folklórico dancers, mariachi, and fireworks (verify date with local tourism office or hotels)
- Festival Navideño del Malecón: December 12–24 — nightly performances starting around 6:00 p.m., artisan craft booths, kids’ activities, and oceanfront holiday dining
- Ventana al Mar Holiday Market: December 14–23 — handmade ornaments, Baja crafts, gourmet treats, regional wines, and local holiday gifts
- Street Music on Calle Primera: Musical groups, carolers, and seasonal pop-up food stalls transform Ensenada’s main pedestrian corridor into a festive nighttime promenade
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Held throughout neighborhoods and parish communities, with traditional songs, candlelit processions, and piñatas
- Christmas Eve on the Waterfront: December 24 — families gather for casual seaside dinners, churros, champurrado, and Christmas lights reflected on the bay
- Nochebuena Mass: December 24 at 9:00 p.m. at Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe cathedral in the downtown district
A Local Tradition: Nautical Holiday Lights
Fishing boats and tour vessels often participate in an informal but beloved custom of decorating their boats with strings of lights. Strolling the harbor after dark is one of Ensenada’s most charming December traditions.
Holiday Flavors Not to Miss
Ensenada offers exceptional holiday cuisine shaped by both coastal and ranch traditions:
- Tamales (traditional pork/chicken and seafood versions)
- Fresh seafood dishes—sashimi, ceviche, almejas preparadas—even on Christmas Eve
- Local wines and craft beers with seasonal menus
Side Trips & Regional Holiday Highlights
If you’re spending multiple days in Ensenada, December is an ideal time for:
- La Bufadora Christmas Markets: Small, festive stalls with ornaments, snacks, and sweeping ocean views
- Valle de Guadalupe Holiday Tastings: Candlelit vineyard dinners, seasonal menus, and cozy fireside wine pairings
Why Travelers Love Ensenada at Christmas
- A scenic, walkable waterfront filled with lights and live music
- Mild winter weather ideal for strolling the harbor
- Excellent seafood and Baja-Med dining experiences
- Family-friendly celebrations combined with local authenticity
VALLE DE GUADALUPE
Highlights: Christmas in the Mexican Wine Country
Dates: Throughout December
Why Go: North America’s most exciting emerging wine region offers a quieter, elegant take on the holidays—think fireside tastings, vineyard lights, and seasonal chef’s dinners.
What to Expect:
- Christmas Lights Parade: December 6 at 5:00 p.m. in Francisco Zarco with local cars, tractors, and trucks decorated in holiday lights
- Multi-course holiday menus at Finca Altozano, Fauna, Deckman’s, and others
- Candlelit wine tastings and barrel-room concerts
- A relaxed, romantic setting perfect for couples or small groups
TECATE
Highlights: Pueblo Mágico Christmas Festival & Plaza Lights
Dates: December 6–24, 2025
Why Go: Tecate, one of Mexico’s beloved Pueblos Mágicos, offers one of the most charming and authentic Christmas atmospheres in northern Baja. Smaller, quieter, and more traditional than Tijuana or Ensenada, Tecate feels like stepping into a nostalgic holiday postcard—twinkling plazas, family-friendly events, and the scent of fresh pan dulce drifting from its famous bakeries.
What to Expect:
- Christmas Light Parade: On December 13th at 6pm, this family-friendly event will feature a parade with plenty of lights and decorations along Blvd. Benito Juarez.
- Regular cultural performances from local ballet folklórico groups and school choirs
- Food stands offering champurrado, buñuelos, and Tecate’s beloved café de olla
- An artisan market featuring pottery, textiles, leather goods, and seasonal ornaments
Bonus: Tecate Brewery Holiday Decorations
The historic Cervecería Tecate often decorates for the season, and while there’s no large official event, visitors love photographing the red-and-gold holiday accents around the brewery’s iconic façade.
Why Travelers Love Tecate at Christmas
Because it’s less hectic than larger border cities, Tecate is ideal for those wanting a peaceful holiday experience. Many visitors plan a day trip for Christmas shopping, a long lunch at one of the city’s ranch-style restaurants, or a spa day at Rancho La Puerta, which typically offers special seasonal programming.
MEXICALI
Highlights: Navidad en la Ciudad & Ferial Lights Festival
Dates: December 1–30, 2025
Why Go:
Mexicali offers one of the most vibrant and diverse holiday experiences in Northern Baja. As Baja California’s capital—and a city with deep Chinese-Mexican cultural roots—Mexicali blends traditional Mexican Christmas festivities with cross-cultural food, performances, and large-scale public events. Expect big crowds, bright lights, and some of the best winter street food in Baja.
What to Expect:
- Navidad en la Ciudad: A month-long festival with concerts, posadas, craft vendors, and nightly entertainment
- FEX Holiday Lights: Large, illuminated displays, food stalls, rides for kids, and weekend musical performances
- La Chinesca Holiday Nights: Lanterns, Chinese-Mexican holiday fusion dishes, and photo spots in Mexicali’s recently revitalized underground district
- Seasonal dishes across the city — from tamales and pozole to Mexicali’s famous Chinese restaurants offering special winter menus
A Distinctive Local Tradition: Borderland Holiday Shopping
Mexicali becomes a major regional shopping hub in December. The plazas and malls—especially Plaza La Cachanilla—run extended hours, craft fairs, and seasonal promotions. For visitors, it’s an easy one-stop destination for holiday gifts before heading south to the coast or mountains.
Why Travelers Love Mexicali at Christmas
- Warm winter temperatures compared to the rest of the Peninsula
- Incredible street food (don’t miss the carne asada and Chinese-Mexican fusion)
- A lively, urban holiday atmosphere full of lights, concerts, and energy
SAN QUINTÍN
Highlights: Coastal Christmas Markets & Community Posadas
Dates: December 10–24, 2025
Why Go:
San Quintín’s Christmas celebrations are rooted in community and tradition. Unlike the large, bustling festivals of northern cities, San Quintín offers an intimate, authentic rural-Baja holiday experience. Expect warm hospitality, locally made food, and the backdrop of red-tinged volcanoes and sweeping Pacific coastline.
What to Expect:
- Community Posadas (Dec 16–24): Neighborhood gatherings with singing, candlelit processions, traditional piñatas for children, and shared holiday dishes
- Holiday Mercados: Local vendors offering handmade textiles, carved wooden ornaments, baked goods, and regional produce—great for travelers seeking unique, non-touristy gifts
- Coastal Sunsets + Holiday Bonfires: Fishermen and families along the bay often host informal Christmas Eve bonfires (Nochebuena fogatas) on the beach
A Local Tradition: Ranch-Style Holiday Gatherings
Many ranches and agricultural communities around San Quintín host small public gatherings featuring folklórico dancers, local youth choirs, and outdoor communal meals. These are genuine, heartwarming events where visitors are truly welcomed.
Why Travelers Love San Quintín at Christmas
- Quiet, uncrowded beaches and dramatic winter sunsets
- Affordable lodging and easy access as you head down Mex 1
- A slower, more traditional Baja holiday atmosphere
- Exceptional seasonal cuisine—especially seafood and regional produce
BAHÍA DE LOS ÁNGELES (L.A. Bay)
Highlights: A Quiet, Star-Lit Christmas on the Sea of Cortez
Dates: December 15–25, 2025
Why Go:
Bahía de los Ángeles offers one of the most peaceful Christmas experiences anywhere on the Peninsula. With untouched desert landscapes, islands silhouetted on the Sea of Cortez, and some of Baja’s darkest, clearest night skies, this remote fishing village transforms December into something serene and almost spiritual. It’s a Christmas defined by nature, community, and simplicity.
What to Expect:
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Neighborhood processions, candlelit gatherings at the church, and homemade dishes shared among residents
- Christmas Eve Mass: December 24 at 8:00 p.m. at Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe mission, followed by socializing in the church courtyard
- Beachfront Bonfires on Nochebuena: Families often gather along the shoreline for informal Christmas Eve bonfires—travelers are generally welcomed
- World-Class Stargazing: The winter sky over Bahía de los Ángeles is spectacular—pack a jacket and enjoy views of Orion, the Milky Way, and Gemini meteor showers
A Unique Local Tradition: Christmas at the Bay
Because many families have deep fishing and desert-ranching roots, holiday gatherings often spill onto the beach. Expect the sound of waves, kids running with sparklers, and an atmosphere that feels personal and uncommercialized. Visitors who come with respect and warmth are typically welcomed into these small but meaningful celebrations.
Why Travelers Love Bahía de los Ángeles at Christmas
- Tranquility—no crowds, no commercialization
- Exceptional winter wildlife and birdwatching
- Warm daytime temperatures and crisp desert nights
- A rare chance to experience Christmas “Baja-style” in its purest, quietest form
BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR (B.C.S.)
GUERRERO NEGRO
Highlights: Desert Posadas & Saltworks Holiday Lights
Dates: December 12–25, 2025
Why Go:
Guerrero Negro sits on the boundary between Baja California and Baja California Sur, known for its massive saltworks and as the gateway to Scammon’s Lagoon. While whale season won’t start in earnest until January, December offers a surprisingly charming holiday atmosphere: community celebrations, neighborhood posadas, and festive lights strung through worker housing districts. It’s a perfect Christmas stopover if you’re driving the transpeninsular highway.
What to Expect:
- Festival Navideño: December 13–23, with nightly performances from local schools, folklórico groups, and music ensembles
- Street Food & Artisan Stalls: Pozole, tamales, buñuelos, local seafood plates, handcrafted ornaments, leather goods, and salt-inspired souvenirs
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Small but heartfelt neighborhood processions, especially lively in ESSA worker colonies where families decorate homes with lights
- Christmas Eve Mass: December 24 at 8:00 p.m. at Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe
- Nochebuena Fireworks & Bonfires: Quiet, family-style celebrations—bonfires are common along the dunes just outside town
A Local Tradition: Saltworker Christmas Displays
ESSA, the world’s largest saltworks, often contributes lights and decorations to the town’s celebration. Worker neighborhoods frequently create their own displays—homegrown, colorful, and community-driven—making evening walks a highlight for visitors.
Holiday Traveler’s Note: Early Signs of Whale Season
While official tours begin in January, by late December it’s not uncommon for locals to mention the first gray whales sighted entering Laguna Ojo de Liebre. You won’t be able to tour yet, but it adds an exciting sense of seasonal anticipation.
Why Travelers Love Guerrero Negro at Christmas
- A friendly, small-town holiday vibe
- Cool desert nights ideal for posadas and bonfires
- Affordable lodging and a perfect overnight stop between Cataviña and San Ignacio
SAN IGNACIO
Highlights: Mission-Style Christmas in a Desert Oasis
Dates: December 12–25, 2025
Why Go:
San Ignacio is one of the most magical Christmas destinations on the Peninsula. Centered around its 18th-century Jesuit mission and nestled in a date-palm oasis, the town celebrates the holidays with reverence, warmth, and deep-rooted cultural traditions. At night, soft lights illuminate the mission façade, the plaza fills with music and laughter, and the scent of woodsmoke and winter dishes drifts slowly through the oasis. It’s a Christmas experience that feels timeless.
What to Expect:
- Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: December 12 at 7:00 p.m., a major celebration with a procession, traditional dance, and fireworks in front of the mission
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Daily reenactments of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, moving from house to house with singing, candles, prayers, and piñatas for children
- Nightly Plaza Gatherings: Community food stands selling tamales, pozole, buñuelos, and date-based sweets made from the local palms
- Christmas Concert in the Mission: December 22 at 8:00 p.m. (choral music and classical guitar, open to visitors)
- Nochebuena Mass: December 24 at 9:00 p.m., followed by fireworks and socializing in the plaza
- Oasis Bonfires: Families often gather in the palm groves on Christmas Eve for informal bonfires and outdoor meals—visitors are welcomed if respectful
A Local Tradition: Date-Sweet Christmas Treats
San Ignacio’s oasis produces some of the best dates in Baja, and many families prepare dulce de dátil, date empanadas, and warm date pudding during the holidays. These treats often appear at posadas and community stands—don’t miss them.
Why Travelers Love San Ignacio at Christmas
- One of Baja’s most beautiful and historic mission settings
- A peaceful, authentic, and reverent holiday atmosphere
- Mild winter days perfect for exploring the lagoon, canyon, or petroglyphs
- A memorable overnight stop on a southbound Christmas road trip
SANTA ROSALÍA
Highlights: Historic Mining Town Christmas & French-Mexican Holiday Traditions
Dates: December 8–25, 2025
Why Go:
Santa Rosalía is one of the most visually unique towns in all of Baja. Its wooden architecture, French mining heritage, and iconic Iglesia Santa Bárbara—designed by Gustave Eiffel—create a holiday setting unlike anywhere else on the Peninsula. Add in Christmas music echoing through narrow streets, colorful lights strung across historic buildings, and the smell of fresh pastries from Panadería El Boleo, and you have a deeply atmospheric Christmas season rooted in both history and community warmth.
What to Expect:
- Feast of Santa Bárbara: December 8 at 7:00 p.m., a major town celebration honoring the patron saint of miners, with processions and fireworks by the church
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: December 10 at 7:00 p.m. in Plaza Benito Juárez
- Festival Navideño: December 12–23, with folklórico dance, school performances, music groups, and artisan stands throughout the historic district
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Processions through the old mining neighborhoods, where residents decorate historic wooden homes with warm lights
- Holiday Food Stalls: Tamales, pozole, churros, and the town’s famous pan dulce and French-influenced pastries from El Boleo bakery
- Christmas Eve Mass: December 24 at 9:00 p.m. inside the Eiffel-designed church—one of the most memorable holiday services in Baja
A Unique Local Tradition: Miner’s Lanterns & Historic District Lights
In homage to its mining past, parts of the historic district decorate with lantern-style lights or metalwork displays inspired by the old El Boleo operations. Evening strolls during Christmas week feel nostalgic, intimate, and deeply tied to the town’s heritage.
Why Travelers Love Santa Rosalía at Christmas
- Beautiful wooden architecture illuminated by soft holiday lights
- Unique cultural blend of French and Mexican traditions
- Excellent bakeries offering seasonal treats
- Easy access as a stop between San Ignacio and Mulegé
MULEGÉ
Highlights: Riverside Posadas & Mission Christmas Under the Palms
Dates: December 12–25, 2025
Why Go:
Mulegé feels like it was made for Christmas. The oasis of date palms, the soft curves of the Sierra de Guadalupe, and the stone façade of the 18th-century mission create a peaceful, magical setting for the holidays. December evenings bring cool breezes off the river, twinkling lights around the mission, and a warm sense of community that makes visitors feel instantly at home. It’s a Christmas celebration that blends natural beauty, historic charm, and heartfelt local tradition.
What to Expect:
- Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: December 12 at 7:00 p.m., featuring a town procession, traditional dance, and music in front of the mission
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Candlelit reenactments winding through the oasis neighborhoods and historic town center, complete with songs, prayers, and piñatas for kids
- Seasonal Night Market: December 17–23 in the town plaza with tamale vendors, pozole stands, sweet breads, date desserts, and handmade crafts
- Mission Concert: December 21 at 8:00 p.m. inside Misión Santa Rosalía, featuring local choirs and guitarists—intimate and beautiful
- Nochebuena Mass: December 24 at 9:00 p.m. followed by fireworks, music, socializing, and late-night holiday food
- Beach & Bay Gatherings: Travelers and locals often gather at nearby beaches along Bahía Concepción such as Playa Santispac, Playa Los Cocos, or Playa El Burro for relaxed Christmas Eve dinners or small bonfires
A Local Tradition: Date & Coconut Christmas Sweets
Mulegé’s oasis produces exceptional dates and coconuts, and local families prepare holiday treats like dulce de dátil, coconut candies, and date empanadas during the season. These appear at posadas and plaza stalls—don’t miss them.
Why Travelers Love Mulegé at Christmas
- One of the most picturesque missions in Baja
- Easy access to Bahía Concepción’s stunning turquoise beaches
- Great seasonal dining—especially seafood plates and traditional winter dishes
LORETO
Highlights: Mission Christmas, Seaside Posadas, and a Pueblo Mágico Holiday
Dates: December 12–25, 2025
Why Go:
Loreto may be the most enchanting place in Baja to experience a traditional Mexican Christmas. As the first Spanish mission in the Californias, Loreto has celebrated Navidad for more than three centuries, blending mission heritage, community pride, and seaside beauty. December in Loreto is filled with lights twinkling through palm trees, soft music drifting across the plaza, and a warm, welcoming spirit that embraces visitors as if they were locals.
What to Expect:
- Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: December 12 at 7:00 p.m. with a major procession, indigenous dance groups, music, and fireworks around the mission
- Annual Tree Lighting: December 13 at 7:00 p.m. in the historic plaza
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Traditional nightly reenactments where families, children, and community groups process through Loreto’s colonial streets, stopping at decorated homes and businesses for singing, prayers, and piñata festivities
- Mercado Navideño: December 18–23 along the plaza—artisan crafts, Baja jewelry, regional sweets, local wines and liqueurs, and seasonal dishes
- Mission Concert: December 21 at 7:30 p.m., featuring choral and instrumental performances inside Misión de Loreto—a highlight for many visitors
- Nochebuena Mass & Fireworks: December 24 at 9:00 p.m., followed by music and celebrations in the plaza
- Seaside Gatherings on the Malecón: Informal community gatherings, food stands, and evening strolls under palm-lit Christmas decorations
A Local Tradition: Christmas “Pastorelas” in the Plaza
Loreto hosts lively pastorelas—traditional Christmas plays reenacting the shepherds’ journey—performed by local theater groups and schools. These take place on the plaza stage several nights during Christmas week and are beloved by families.
Seasonal Foods to Look For
Loreto’s culinary traditions shine in December:
- Tamales (chicken, pork, pescado, or sweet)
- Pozole with fresh garnishes
- Buñuelos fried crisp and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar
- Chocolate caliente and ponche navideño made by local families
Why Travelers Love Loreto at Christmas
- One of Baja’s most charming and historic plazas
- Beautiful mission architecture illuminated for the season
- Walkable town center filled with music, food, and lights
- Perfect weather and calm seas ideal for whale watching, fishing, or island excursions (though blue whale season usually begins in January)
LA PAZ
Highlights: Fiestas Navideñas on the Malecón
Dates: December 1–31, 2025
Why Go:
La Paz offers one of the most beautiful Christmas settings in Baja—an illuminated waterfront, palm trees wrapped in lights, nightly music drifting along the malecón, and a welcoming community spirit that makes visitors feel instantly at home. With warm days, cool desert evenings, and spectacular sunsets over the Sea of Cortez, La Paz blends traditional Mexican festivities with laid-back coastal charm.
What to Expect:
- Fiestas Navideñas on the Malecón: December 1–31 — nightly cultural events, food stalls, artisan vendors, light displays, and family-friendly entertainment
- Holiday Plaza Evenings: December 12–24 in Plaza Constitución, featuring choirs, folklórico groups, craft booths, and seasonal foods
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Neighborhood processions throughout central La Paz; expect singing, candles, prayers, and community gatherings with piñatas
- Christmas Mercado: December 15–23 along the malecón, with handmade crafts, ornaments, Baja sweets, jewelry, and artisanal food products
- Christmas Parade: December 21 the family-friendly Christmas parade will take place along the malecón with floats, music, costumes, and lights.
- Nochebuena Mass: December 24 at 9:00 p.m. at Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de La Paz, followed by fireworks and festive crowds by the water
- Waterfront Strolls & Light Displays: The malecón becomes the centerpiece of the season—twinkling lights, themed sculptures, and quiet seaside promenades
- Holiday Dining: Many La Paz restaurants offer special menus, from seafood feasts to traditional Christmas dinners
A Local Tradition: Christmas on the Malecón
Throughout December, La Paz hosts a nightly promenade where families, couples, and visitors walk the waterfront to enjoy light displays, seasonal music, and warm coastal breezes. It’s one of the most beloved holiday rituals in the city. December through mid January, from 5pm to 3am daily, the waterside lane between 5 de Mayo and Antonio Rosales will close to cars so everyone can stroll, dine, shop, and enjoy the holiday vibes.
Seasonal Food Highlights
La Paz is a culinary gem, and Christmas brings a blend of festive dishes and local seafood traditions:
- Tamales (pork, chicken, pescado, and sweet varieties)
- Pozole rojo and verde
- Fresh ceviche, chocolate clams, and Gulf seafood—yes, even at Christmas
Holiday Adventures Around La Paz
December is a near-perfect time for outdoor activities:
- Whale shark excursions (season typically active through winter)
- Beach days at Balandra or Tecolote
- Kayaking and paddleboarding along the coast
- Isla Espíritu Santo tours (mild weather and clear water)
Why Travelers Love La Paz at Christmas
- A festive but peaceful seaside atmosphere
- Family-friendly plazas and lively malecón events
- Wonderful seasonal markets and warm hospitality
- Close proximity to world-class beaches and marine wildlife
TODOS SANTOS
Highlights: Artistic Christmas Traditions in a Pueblo Mágico by the Pacific
Dates: December 12–25, 2025
Why Go:
Todos Santos blends old-world mission traditions, a thriving art scene, and the cool, bohemian energy of a Pacific surf town. December transforms its historic streets into a warm, lantern-lit maze of galleries, craft shops, live music, and seasonal food vendors. It’s quieter and more intimate than Cabo, but still full of creativity, culture, and coastal charm—a perfect holiday destination for couples, families, and travelers seeking a soulful Christmas experience.
What to Expect:
- Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: December 12 at 7:00 p.m., with a beautiful procession from the mission through the historic streets
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: December 14 at 7:00 p.m. in the Plaza de Armas
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Community-led processions, children singing villancicos, piñatas, and candlelit gatherings—intimate and very local
- Art District Holiday Events: December 18–23, galleries host open houses with seasonal exhibits, live music, mulled wine, and artisan gift sales
- Mercado Navideño: December 19–23, featuring handmade Baja crafts, organic products from local farms, baked goods, and holiday desserts
- Christmas Concert: December 22 at 8:00 p.m. at Misión Santa Rosa de las Palmas, with choral groups and guitar ensembles
- Nochebuena Mass: December 24 at 9:00 p.m., followed by fireworks and social celebrations in the plaza
- Christmas by the Beach: Travelers often gather at Playa Los Cerritos or La Poza for surf sessions, sunset picnics, and relaxed holiday dinners
A Local Tradition: Christmas at the Hotel California Plaza
The iconic Hotel California often decorates its courtyard and hosts small holiday performances, adding a touch of whimsical charm. Its lights and seasonal music contribute to a festive but relaxed evening atmosphere.
Seasonal Food & Drink Highlights
Todos Santos has outstanding eateries, many of which offer Christmas specials:
- Farm-to-table holiday dinners at Jazamango, Duna, or The Green Room
- Traditional dishes from street vendors during posadas
- Baja wine and craft cocktails with seasonal twists
Why Travelers Love Todos Santos at Christmas
- Artistic, bohemian atmosphere with mission-town charm
- Beautiful plaza and historic center illuminated for the season
- Excellent dining, galleries, and boutique shops
- Proximity to Pacific beaches for surf-friendly holiday days
SAN JOSÉ DEL CABO
Highlights: Historic Plaza Christmas, Art Walk Holiday Nights & Coastal Celebrations
Dates: December 1–31, 2025
Why Go:
San José del Cabo offers one of the most elegant and atmospheric Christmas seasons in all of Baja. Centered around its beautifully restored historic district—cobblestone streets, adobe buildings, warm café lights—the town celebrates the holidays with art, music, gastronomy, and deeply rooted community traditions. While Cabo San Lucas leans festive and high-energy, San José delivers a refined, cultural Christmas experience perfect for families, couples, and travelers seeking an authentic holiday in a vibrant but laid-back pueblo.
What to Expect:
- Christmas Concert Series: December 8, 15 & 22 (7:30 p.m.) featuring choirs, mariachi groups, and local ensembles on the plaza stage
- Art Walk: Holiday Edition — Every Thursday in December (Dec 11, 18, 25), 5:00–9:00 p.m., with galleries offering mulled wine, special exhibits, meet-the-artist events, and seasonal décor
- Posadas (Dec 16–24): Community groups stage traditional processions from the church through the historic streets—expect singing, candles, and piñatas
- Seasonal Mercado: December 17–23 along the pedestrian streets leading into the plaza, featuring artisanal ornaments, handmade textiles, Baja pottery, gourmet local foods, and festive baked goods
- Nochebuena Mass: December 24 at 8:00 p.m. at Parroquia San José, followed by music and dancing in the plaza
- Holiday Dining: Many farm-to-table restaurants in the nearby Animas Bajas corridor (Flora Farms, Acre, Tamarindos) offer special Christmas menus—reservations essential
A Unique Local Tradition: Christmas Lantern Nights in the Plaza
Several evenings in mid-December, Plaza Mijares hosts “Noches de Faroles,” where children and artisans display handmade lanterns, illuminating the square with warm, flickering light. The event blends Mexican, mission-era, and artistic influences—a beautiful, very San José tradition.
Coastal Celebrations at Puerto Los Cabos
The marina area hosts small boat-decorating contests, live evening music, and pop-up holiday dining on the waterfront. It’s quieter than Cabo San Lucas but beautifully lit and perfect for a Christmas stroll.
Why Travelers Love San José del Cabo at Christmas
- Walkable historic center full of lights, music, art, and seasonal food
- Excellent dining and boutique shopping
- Warmer winter weather than northern Baja—ideal for a beachside Christmas
CABO SAN LUCAS
Highlights: Marina Boat Parade, Resort Festivities & a High-Energy Holiday by the Arch
Dates: December 1–31, 2025
Why Go:
Cabo San Lucas delivers a lively, sun-splashed Christmas full of color, music, and nonstop activity. The marina becomes the heart of the celebration—lined with lights, bustling with restaurants, and home to Baja’s most spectacular holiday boat parade. If you want a festive Christmas by the sea, complete with dining, nightlife, boat tours, and incredible sunsets over the Arch, Cabo is unmatched.
What to Expect:
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: December 6 at 7:00 p.m. on the Marina Boardwalk, followed by music and fireworks
- Holiday Boat Parade: December 13 at 7:00 p.m.—yachts, fishing boats, and tour vessels decked in elaborate light displays cruising past thousands of spectators (the biggest Christmas parade in southern Baja)
- Festival Navideño: December 10–23 at Pabellón Cultural (Cultural Pavilion) with folklórico groups, concerts, kids’ performances, craft stalls, and food vendors
- Daily Marina Entertainment: Carolers, mariachi groups, seasonal cocktails, pop-up artisan markets, and roaming performers
- Beachfront Celebrations on Medano Beach: Christmas Eve dinners at toes-in-the-sand restaurants, lantern-lit tables, and fireworks reflected on the bay
- Posadas in Local Neighborhoods: More authentic, community-centered posadas occur in barrios like Las Palmas, Lomas del Sol, and El Médano—visitors are welcome but should attend respectfully
- Holiday Dining: Resorts and fine-dining restaurants (El Farallón, Sunset Monalisa, Mareva, Don Manuel’s) offer Christmas tasting menus with advance reservations
A Local Tradition: Christmas “Paseo de Luces” Along the Marina
Throughout December, the marina walkway transforms into a Paseo de Luces—a mile of illuminated palm trees, star-shaped lanterns, and nautical-themed decorations. Evening strolls are one of the best ways to soak in Cabo’s Christmas spirit.
Adventure & Ocean Activities in the Holiday Season
Winter brings perfect conditions for boat excursions, snorkeling in Chileno or Santa Maria Bay, and whale-watching kick-off tours (gray, humpback, and blue whales are often spotted starting mid-December).
Why Travelers Love Cabo San Lucas at Christmas
- Huge, lively holiday energy with nightly entertainment
- Stunning marina lights and the peninsula’s best boat parade
- Warm, beach-friendly December weather
- Resort-level comfort combined with Mexican holiday traditions
Traditional Baja Christmas Experiences (Don’t Miss These!)
Las Posadas (Dec 16–24)
Reenactments of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Most towns host nightly posadas with music, candles, and hot drinks.
Nochebuena (Christmas Eve)
The main celebration night in Mexico—expect fireworks, family gatherings, late dinners, and community events across the peninsula.
Seasonal Foods to Try
- Tamales (pork, chicken, fish, or sweet varieties)
- Pozole rojo or verde
- Buñuelos dusted in cinnamon sugar
- Ponche navideño, a warm fruit punch
- Rompope (Mexican eggnog)
Holiday Travel Tips for Christmas in Baja
1. Book Early—Especially for Baja Sur
Flights to La Paz and Los Cabos fill quickly for late December. Hotels in Loreto and La Paz often hit capacity around Christmas week as this is one of the busiest times of year for tourism to the region.
2. Expect Cool Nights
Baja’s desert climate means warm days and chilly evenings—pack layers, especially for outdoor events.
3. Border Crossing Timing
If driving over the border into Mexico, avoid northbound crossings on:
- December 26–27
- January 1–2
Border crossing lines are notoriously long on these dates. Cross early morning or late evening for fastest passage.
4. Reserve Rental Cars Early
Loreto, La Paz, and Cabo have limited fleets that sell out around the holidays.
5. Cash Is Helpful
Most small food stalls and artisan markets may not accept credit cards. Bring pesos for smoother transactions.
6. Drive Carefully at Night
Livestock and unlit sections of road are common. Plan holiday outings so you’re back before full dark when possible. Take an Uber where available but be patient during peak demand times.
7. Respect Local Traditions
Many Christmas events are community-centered—dress modestly for church events and follow local customs. Long pants are and dresses that cover the knees are recommended for entering churches.
8. Plan Well for Christmas Even and Christmas Day
In Mexico, Christmas is celebrated on Christmas Eve (December 24th), with various festivities, church masses, and family traditions running throughout the day and well past midnight. If open at all on Christmas Eve, most businesses will close by noon so workers can spend time with family and friends. Don’t expect ANY business to be open on Christmas Day — December 25th — this is a sacred day of rest in Mexico where any activities are limited to the family at home. Unless you are staying in the biggest of resorts that offer dining and services on Christmas Day (call to verify and make reservations), you’ll want to plan to stay at your hotel or campground and cook your own meals on Christmas Day; don’t forget to do your grocery shopping and fill up the gas tank on or before December 23rd. While you might plan an outing for Christmas Day, don’t expect businesses (restaurants, gas stations, markets, grocery stores, etc.) to be open at all on December 25th.