Enjoy festive holiday lights, tree lighting, crafts, and Santa visits at Leo Carrillo Ranch in Carlsbad on December 5, 2026. Find ticket links and parking tips.
Overview
Experience a classic North County holiday tradition as Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park transforms into a festive winter wonderland for Holiday at the Rancho. Hosted by the City of Carlsbad on Saturday, December 5, 2026, this family-friendly evening features festive lights, decorations, classic holiday musical performances, creative crafts, train rides, an outdoor holiday movie, and a special visit from Santa Claus.
What You Need to Know
- Cost: All activities and entertainment are included with general admission. Food, beverages, and souvenir photos with Santa are an additional charge.
- Hours: Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Where: Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park — 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane, Carlsbad, CA 92009
- Schedule: Holiday tree lighting at 5:45 p.m. on the sand near the pool. The outdoor holiday movie begins at 6:00 p.m.
- Tickets: Available for presale until 5:00 p.m. on the Friday before the event or at the door if not sold out.
- Parking: Parking is located at Carrillo Elementary School (2875 Poinsettia Lane) with access to Carrillo Rancho through the school campus.
- Weather: The event may be modified or canceled in the event of inclement weather.
- Contact: Rachael.shay@carlsbadca.gov
- Official Info: carlsbadca.gov
Event Highlights
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Tree Lighting & Holiday Movie: Watch the holiday tree light up at 5:45 p.m. on the sand near the pool, followed by a cozy outdoor holiday film screening on the outdoor screen starting at 6:00 p.m.
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Family Entertainment & Activities: Enjoy a 'plush' snowball fight, decorate holiday cookies, train rides, face painting, and classic holiday musical performances throughout the ranch.
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Visit from Santa: Santa Claus makes a special visit to the ranch, with souvenir photos available for purchase.
Good to Know
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Buy presale tickets early. Presale tickets are available online until 5:00 p.m. the Friday before the event. Tickets will only be sold at the gate if the event does not sell out in advance.
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Park at Carrillo Elementary. Do not attempt to drive directly into the ranch entrance for parking. Use the lot at Carrillo Elementary School (2875 Poinsettia Lane) and follow the connected access path to the park.
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Budget extra for treats and photos. Entry covers all activities, crafts, and the movie, but food, drinks, and Santa photos are sold separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Holiday at the Rancho held?
At Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park in Carlsbad (6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane).
What time does the tree lighting happen?
The holiday tree lighting is scheduled for 5:45 p.m. near the pool.
Where do I park for the event?
Parking is available at Carrillo Elementary School at 2875 Poinsettia Lane, which offers direct walk-through access to the ranch campus.
Are activities included with admission?
Yes, all entertainment, crafts, train rides, and the movie are included with entry. Food, drinks, and souvenir photos with Santa cost extra.
Looking for more? Our Carlsbad neighborhood guide covers living here, Encinitas vs. Carlsbad weighs the two beach towns, and The Flower Fields in Carlsbad is the spring version of this kind of day. For afterward, Little Oaks Bakehouse and Herb & Sea are both close by.
