San Diego January Events 2026: Parades, Festivals, And Winter Fun
San Diego January events 2026 start the new year with parades, festivals, concerts, sports, and family fun all across the county. From waterfront celebrations to mountain marathons, something is happening almost every week for residents and visitors to enjoy.
New Year Celebrations And Winter Fun
San Diego January events 2026 begin with classic holiday wrap up activities. Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station continues through early January, giving families a chance to enjoy outdoor skating before the season ends. At the same time, the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade and the 46th Annual Holiday Bowl game bring the fun. From bands, balloons, and college football energy to downtown streets and Snapdragon Stadium.
Festivals, Expos, And Big Shows
Several major festivals anchor San Diego January events 2026. The San Diego International Auto Show at the Convention Center showcases new models, exotics, and automotive technology for car fans of all ages. Twelve Days of Festivities at the Community Park in Escondido offer wellness talks, craft sessions, music, and family programs that honor local seniors and build community.
Later in the month, the 2026 San Diego Brew Fest at Liberty Station gathers more than 70 breweries and dozens of food trucks for an afternoon of tastings and lawn games.
The Oddities and Curiosities Expo at Del Mar Fairgrounds highlights unusual art, vintage pieces, taxidermy, and collectibles for shoppers who love something a little different.
Outdoor Races And Active Events
If you want to start the year with movement, San Diego January events 2026 offer many races and fitness challenges. The San Diego Resolution Run at Mission Bay features 5K, 10K, and half marathon options along scenic waterfront paths. A little later, the Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K treat runners to coastal views while supporting charitable causes on Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend.
The San Diego Cat Show at Del Mar Fairgrounds and the Fan Favorite BIG Salsa Festival in Mission Valley create energetic weekends with dancing, classes, and performances. These events make it easy to mix fitness, culture, and fun in one trip.
Community Days, Rodeos, And Local Favorites
Community-focused San Diego events include Martin Luther King Jr. Parade along Harbor Drive, honoring Dr. King’s legacy with floats, bands, and a Run and Festival. In Santee, SanTree Day invites volunteers to plant trees and learn about environmental stewardship at Town Center Community Park.
For a taste of Western culture, the San Diego Rodeo at Petco Park brings professional rodeo action, live music, and family entertainment into the heart of downtown. Meanwhile, Monster Jam at Snapdragon Stadium thrills crowds with monster trucks, stunts, and high-energy shows on select January weekends.
Markets, Conventions, And Everyday Adventures
There are plenty of San Diego events that also highlight the local food and creative scene. San Diego Restaurant Week lets diners sample special menus at participating restaurants across the county for a fixed price, making it a great time to try new spots. BizBaz San Diego Mini Convention celebrates anime, comics, games, fashion, and local makers in Mission Valley.
Throughout the month, San Diego County Farmers Markets operate on different days in neighborhoods such as Escondido, La Mesa, Little Italy, Chula Vista, Hillcrest, Poway, and many more, offering fresh produce and handmade goods. These markets and conventions keep weekends full even between the larger festivals and races.