Hotel del Coronado to Celebrate 2026 Holiday Season with “A Holiday Through Time”

Hotel del Coronado recently announced its 2026 holiday theme: A Holiday Through Time, celebrating more than 135 years of holiday memories through the eras that shaped The Del’s legacy.

The season will see the return of the two-story Christmas tree in the lobby, as well as holiday experience favorites including Skating by the Sea, Frostbite Lounge, traditional holiday dinners, the Lightshow Spectacular, Beachside Igloos and more. New activations for this year include the Holiday Lodge, in the historic 1919 Laundry building.

Here’s a closer look at everything on offer:

Skating by the Sea

The scenic ice rink welcomes skaters of all ages. A portion of the proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish San Diego. Tickets are $35–45 for general admission, with a $5 discount for hotel guests, military and first responders; each session is 90 minutes.

© Hotel del Coronado

Frostbite Lounge

Cozy fire pits and lounges surround the ice rink on an elevated platform with holiday drinks and gourmet bites on offer.

Beachside Igloos

Unique Beachside Igloos feature a cozy living room, a fire pit, ingredients for s’mores and a dedicated server.

Lightshow Spectacular

A dynamic, complimentary, 10-minute light show takes place on Founders Lawn every 30 minutes, 5–9 p.m. nightly.

© Hotel del Coronado

Holiday Lodge

On select dates, the historic Laundry building transforms with glittering lights; festive décor; a family-friendly, pub-style menu; holiday shopping; and children’s activities including cookie and stocking decorating.

Thanksgiving Dinner

The Thanksgiving buffet is in the beautifully restored Crown Room beneath sugar pine ceilings and ornate chandeliers designed by Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum.

Holiday Movies on the Beach

On Friday and Saturday nights, this theater under the stars plays a selection of holiday family classics. Upgrade to include a private bonfire with s’mores and plush daybed. Reservations required.

Jingle Roast

Private roasts at The Del are a longstanding tradition and, in December, the rexperience gets a touch of holiday magic with Santa hats and holiday-themed s’mores. Reservations required, with one pit accommodating up to 10.

© Hotel del Coronado

Holiday Festival

On Dec. 2, Join The Del for its annual community Holiday Festival, including photos with St. Nick, performances by Coronado school children, a “skydiving Santa” parachuting in and a fireworks show.

Photos with Santa

On select dates, guests of all ages can capture a classic photo with Santa and receive a professionally printed image.

Elf Deliveries

On select dates, Santa’s elves deliver personalized themed bags to guestrooms filled with holiday goodies; available to overnight guests only.

Victorian Tea

Dec. 18–22, a classic Victorian Tea for the holidays will be held in the Crown Room with teas, finger sandwiches, sweets, beautiful music and a special kids’ plate.

Gingerbread House Decorating

On select dates, guests can decorate their own gingerbread house; the Del’s culinary team pre-assembles the houses.

Christmas Eve Dinner

A Christmas Eve buffet dinner full of traditional favorites will be offered in the Crown and Coronet rooms.

Christmas Day Brunch

Gather around with loved ones for an elegant buffet with all the trimmings.

Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Party at The Laundry

The Laundry will feature a live band, full open bar, tray-passed bites and a dessert bar.

Most festive celebrations kick off Nov. 20, and run through Jan. 3, 2027. The Del recently completed a more than $550 million restoration.