Petco Park is home to our beloved San Diego Padres, but what happens during the off-season? It goes from walking the bases to “walking in a winter wonderland.”
The Park hosts many non-baseball events, but none shine as brightly as the Holiday Market. From now until Fri., Dec. 24, guests can enjoy holiday decorations, artisan vendors + a visit from Santa in Gallagher Square.
If we had to recommend three things to bring with you, they’d be your shopping bag, appetite + camera.
🛍️ Shopping
Still need to get some gifts? The European-inspired market features local and internationally inspired goods like succulents, gingerbread house kits, wool socks + accessories for those chilly San Diego nights. Of course, you’re still in Petco Park, which means you’ll also find plenty of brown and gold Padres merchandise.
🥨 Food + Drink
Looking to taste the season? You’ll find four bars and flavors from all over the world. This celebration is reminiscent of a German holiday market known as a Christkindlmarkt — why not celebrate with a German sausage? If that’s not your style, you could get a Bavarian pretzel, Mediterranean gyro, or a spicy BBQ bowl. We recommend ending your meal with something sweet, whether it be hot cocoa, a churro, or a French croissant.
Lights abound at Petco Park | Photo via @shreyroy
📸 Sights
Of course, the Holiday Market is a dazzling event with three worlds that need to be photographed.
- Winter Wonderland featuring plenty of trees and “snow.”
- Candyland with a a tunnel of lights + sweet decorations.
- The Classic Christmas scene is home to the 30-foot tree. Nearby you’ll see the lights of a carousel — of course you can actually ride it.
No holiday festival would be complete without rockin’ music and a visit from Santa himself. Be aware — if you’ve been naughty you may also see The Grinch.
Interested in joining the holiday fun? Tickets range from $10-$20, for kids + adults.